Midfield marksmen guide United to victory

Some games appear scripted for the strikers. This was one such, providing a trio of protagonists with interweaving tales. There was Wayne Rooney, Everton's teenage prodigy turned Manchester United's talisman; Michael Owen, the boyhood Evertonian alongside a Scouser in the champions' forward line; and Louis Saha, a byword for unfortunate injuries at Old Trafford, but a man who has outscored both Owen and the missing Dimitar Berbatov after being rehabilitated on Merseyside.

Yet, in a welcome development for Manchester United, all three were overshadowed by more irregular scorers. "Everyone was talking about the lack of goals from midfield," said Sir Alex Ferguson after the game. The conversations can continue, but the subject can change to the calibre of the finishes after Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick and Antonio Valencia scored. The men in the middle determined the game with Ryan Giggs and the substitute Paul Scholes each creating a goal. As a result, the reliance on Rooney, even if only temporarily, was eased and the memories of Cristiano Ronaldo, perhaps, were tinged with rather less nostalgia.

He averaged 30 goals a season in his last three years in Manchester, even if some were spot kicks and quite a few came when he operated in attack rather than on the flank. Yet, as this season is proving, goalscoring has to be a team effort. There were times when Ronaldo's magnificent megalomania obscured that, when everything was about him and when he struck so frequently it scarcely mattered that others barely contributed.

Now it is an issue. Unflattering comparisons could have been drawn with both Chelsea, where Frank Lampard invariably musters 20 goals a season from the centre of the pitch, and Arsenal, where Cesc Fabregas threatens to do likewise. Even, perhaps, with Liverpool, where Dirk Kuyt and Yossi Benayoun offer the potential to reach double figures from the flanks.

If none of United's myriad of midfielders are as prolific, there are indications that a settled unit are beginning to produce a return in front of goal. Earlier in the campaign, Ferguson's policy of permanent rotation produced an entirely different midfield for the matches against Burnley and then Wigan. Each of his preferred quartet today started at Chelsea, and three of them found a finish against Everton.

Fletcher's was first and finest. United had been enterprising, but failed to penetrate until Valencia displayed the awareness to head Patrice Evra's cross towards the Scot. His stunning volley flew into the top corner. "Unbelievable," said Evra. "A quality finish," added Ferguson. "It was a goal you wouldn't expect him to score."

Recognition outside Old Trafford is no longer elusive. Fletcher is arguably the Premier League's most improved player over the last 15 months. Ferguson added: "You see his performance level each year for the last few years has gone up and up. He is extraordinary like that."

Carrick's form this season has been rather more ordinary. There is a sense, however, that such a talented technician should be on the scoresheet more often. His second of the season was placed beyond Tim Howard after Giggs' perceptive pass.

Valencia had arrived at Old Trafford with an unenviable scoring record at Wigan, where he struck seven times in three years. A fourth of the current campaign followed Scholes' pass, requiring a deflection off Leighton Baines but justifying United's pre-match instructions. "We have been saying to him to shoot because he has power in his shooting," Ferguson explained.

Rooney had clipped the crossbar against his former employers during a spell when Everton threatened an equaliser. The offside Marouane Fellaini had a goal chalked off, Tim Cahill was denied by Edwin van der Sar and Yakubu shot narrowly wide. David Moyes' half-time reshuffle, when he introduced the Nigerian and moved to a two-man attack, almost succeeded.

Instead Everton were condemned to defeat for the fifth time in seven matches. Injury-ravaged as they are, they have become unaccustomed to such bleak times. A depleted side prospered last season, helped in no small measure by the efforts of their goalscoring midfielders. They are, as United can testify, useful players to possess.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Darren Fletcher - "A great player," according to Evra. Such a statement would once have invited ridicule. Now, plenty would concur. Besides a glorious goal and an all-action display in midfield, Fletcher finished the game at right-back where he was competent.

MANCHESTER UNITED VERDICT: This was their biggest home win of the season and perhaps their most convincing, but nervy moments have become a feature of matches at Old Trafford. There were plenty in Everton's revival after the interval but the impressive Evra and the returning Nemanja Vidic helped keep a clean sheet. In attack, Owen couldn't quite make the most of the opportunity Berbatov's absence afforded him.

EVERTON VERDICT: Moyes' injury problems never seem to abate. As Ferguson noted in his column in the programme, that accounts for their position in the lower half of the table. Yet Everton displayed spirit, first in their defending and then in their search for a leveller. With Liverpool, Tottenham and Chelsea coming up, they will need to be similarly determined again.

RUGBY FOR RAFAEL: The oval-ball game probably doesn't have a huge following in Brazil, but it does seem to include the Da Silva twins. Fabio attempted a rugby tackle against Wolves two months ago and now Rafael, in a bid to halt Tim Cahill, emulated his brother.

Obertan eyes regular place, Nani have to begin!!

Manchester United's £3 million summer signing Gabriel Obertan has given himself a year to become an Old Trafford regular and it could be at the expense of Portuguese flop Nani.

The France Under-21 joined United from Ligue 1 club Bordeaux on the recommendation of former Red Devil and current les Girondins coach Laurent Blanc but knee surgery sidelined the winger soon after he arrived in England.

After almost four months out injured, Obertan finally made his debut in the Carling Cup victory at Barnsley last month and has since gone on to make two more appearances for Sir Alex Ferguson's men - both as a substitute.

The Manchester Evening News report that Obertan's progress is already putting Nani's future at United in doubt and the Frenchman is eager to force his way into manager Sir Alex Ferguson's starting line-up on a regular basis.

"I wanted to feel part of the squad and be involved in the games, so I am feeling really good right now," said the 20-year-old. "At first I just want to be part of the squad, be in the group that travels to all the games, and get a few minutes on the pitch.

"But I have ambition. If I keep working hard and show what I can do, why not aim to be a regular in the team? I might need a year to achieve that, but I hope I can do it."

Portuguese international Nani has struggled to establish himself at United since his £18 million move from Sporting Lisbon in 2007 and now Obertan aims to leapfrog the winger in the pecking order.

Manchester United Debate: Where Now For Wounded United?

The lessons learnt from the Chelsea clash should shape the rest of the season...

As the dust settles after another damaging setback for Manchester United, the challenge is on to pick up the pieces and push forward.




The bitter pill of outplaying Chelsea on their own patch and coming home empty handed is a hard one to swallow. Sir Alex Ferguson is an expert at pulling his troops through the tough times and his revitalising skills will have to be at their sharpest once again.

No matter the result, United are still right in the race for the Premier League title. The lessons learnt from yesterday’s loss could prove critical in nudging them ahead by the time May comes along.



Ginger Meastro plays his last tune

Time's up | Scholes' has been usurped

Paul Scholes’ place in the pantheon of United greats is already set in stone, but another run out in a top of the table clash is beyond his reach.




Time catches up with everyone and the sharpness of mind remains, but his legs can no longer keep up. United’s dynamism was their greatest weapon in London but its absence was the architect of their downfall in Merseyside.



Scholes cannot compete against the bulldogs guarding the patches of the ‘Big Four,’ but Darren Fletcher, Owen Hargreaves and Anderson can bare their teeth at the best of them.



Two up top no more against ‘Big Four’



Bullied at Anfield but dominant at Stamford Bridge, the difference was in the detail for United. A flimsy 4-4-2 was replaced by a solid 4-5-1, and the result was a display rarely seen in the last year.



No matter the twin talents of Dimitar Berbatov and Wayne Rooney, too much is sacrificed against the Premier League elite with both utilised as centre forwards. A central midfield over-run when reduced to a pairing found its lungs as a triumvirate.



Control is key in the top-end clashes and this proved much harder to attain in the previous guise. With Hargreaves set to return in the coming days, United will now be able to punch their weight in the midfield battleground.



Fletcher earns his stripes

Braveheart | Fletcher is United's talisman

As the old guard makes way for the new, Darren Fletcher’s position as the standard bearer should be rewarded with the captain’s armband.



The Scot fought for every inch of the Stamford Bridge turf and deserved recognition as the man of the match honours were handed out. Such a performance didn’t deserve to end in defeat and he almost dragged his team-mates along with him to claim a share of the spoils.



Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney have long been considered as the heirs to Gary Neville’s throne, but United’s miracle man's transformation from pariah to platoon leader has seen him move to the front of the line.



Nani Ober-taken



In little over 30 minutes of football, Gabriel Obertan has exhibited he has the credentials to overtake Nani in the fight for the left-wing spot.



The former Bordeaux man excelled again in his cameo performance yesterday, adding flair and a final ball to the United push for parity. An understanding has already been formed with countryman Patrice Evra, and this pair has added another weapon to Ferguson’s armoury.



Nani’s infuriatingly inconsistent output stands as a stark contrast. It’s still early days, but the successor for Ryan Giggs could finally have been found.



Evans in ascendancy

Proven performer | Evans is ready to face the best

Karate kick aside, Jonny Evans didn’t put a foot wrong against Chelsea. Any doubts existing after a shaky performance against CSKA Moscow were answered in emphatic fashion.



The Blues’ deadly duo of Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba held no fear for him as he defiantly kept out the home side for 76 minutes.



Centre-backs are a combative bunch and Evans’ boldness as the game drifted away fired up his team-mates and supporters. With Ferdinand caught in a spiral of never-ending injuries, the Ulsterman proved he is the man to step in to the fray.



Matt Monaghan, Goal.com UK

Ferguson to escape action for ref comments

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Fergusonwill not face any action from the Football Association for comments he made about referee Martin Atkinson following his side's 1-0 defeat to Chelsea.

Ferguson condemned the decision to award the free-kick that led to the goal as "absolutely ridiculous'' and said he is losing his faith in refereeing.

It is understood however the FA are not planning to take any action against the United manager as he did not question the referee's integrity or claim there was any bias.

Atkinson awarded a free-kick for Darren Fletcher's challenge on Ashley Cole and Wes Brown appeared to be impeded as Frank Lampard's delivery was turned into the net by John Terry.

Ferguson said afterwards: "Clearly, Darren Fletcher's won the ball - Ashley Cole's never touched and has jumped up in the air - and then [Didier] Drogba's pulled Brown to the ground for the goal.

"The referee's position to make the decision was absolutely ridiculous - he can't see anything. He's got a Chelsea player [Joe Cole] standing right in front of him - and he doesn't even move.

"It was a bad decision, but there's nothing we can do about it. You lose faith in refereeing sometimes, that's the way the players are talking in there - it was a bad one.''

Atkinson has suffered criticism from Ferguson before; the United boss branded him a "disgrace" after he awarded Portsmouth a penalty that proved to be their winner in United's FA Cup quarter-final defeat at Old Trafford in March 2008.

Sir Alex also declared after that game that Atkinson's performance "should not be accepted in our game" and then rounded on referees' chief Keith Hackett for "not doing his job properly".

Ferguson was charged with improper conduct but was cleared after the FA decided they could not appeal against the independent Regulatory Commission, which found that the charges levelled against him could not be proven.

Ryan Giggs Is The Best Premier League Player Ever - Manchester United Boss Alex Ferguson

The evergreen Welshman's achievements have put him at No.1, argues Fergie…

Manchester United manager Alex ferguson believes Ryan Giggs is the best player in Premier League history. The 36-year-old Welshman continues to play an influential role for the Red Devils this season, despite his advanced years.




"We have had a lot of top-class players in this league – and some have probably made more of an impact than Ryan – but nobody can boast the same sort of longevity and consistency," Ferguson said, according to Press Association.




"He was there when the league started and he is still there now. I think you would have to say Ryan is the best."




And it is the Welshman's versatility and professionalism that particularly impress his manager.




"We have played him out wide in a few games recently because he is fresh at the moment," Ferguson added.





"It's the beginning of the season so he has got plenty of running in him and he can do a lot of damage in the wide position.





"But I think you will find as the season progresses he will move back into the middle of the park where he can dictate the games."

Better late than never

Do you know any United fans who persist in leaving games at Old Trafford early? Surely by now they would have learnt their lesson.



Yes, an early dart has its advantages. You can avoid the bad traffic that’s inevitable when 75,000 people all leave at once. And the tram is nowhere near as crowded. But early leavers this season would have missed the incredible drama at the end of the Manchester derby and another chunk of heart-stopping action against Sunderland on Saturday.




One of Sir Alex’s great legacies at United will be late goals. Somehow, he infuses into his players a determination to keep going – a refusal to accept defeat. Let’s be honest though, United were poor by their very high standards on Saturday. Have you ever seen so many passes go astray? There was no fluency or thrust about United’s play. And yet, despite all those deficiencies on the day, United still emerged with a point from a game they probably should have lost. It’s not just luck – it happens far too often for that.




Steve Bruce knows that all too well. His two late headers against Sheffield Wednesday in ‘93 probably began the legend of late goals at Old Trafford. In the tunnel after the game on Saturday, Brucie looked dejected. Before the game he would have gladly accepted a point. But he left his old stomping ground unhappy at not getting all three and finally getting one over on his old boss.




Perhaps timekeeping duties should be taken away from referees. They’ve already got enough on their plates. On Saturday, a minimum of four minutes were added on at the end. During those four minutes United scored a goal so surely at least another 30 seconds or so should be added on. How much additional time did Mr Wiley allow for the United equaliser? 2 seconds. How on earth did he work that out?

Sir Alex admires Rooney's drive

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Wayne Rooney is driven to score goals regardless of trying to fill the gap left by Cristiano Ronaldo.

The boss tells the new issue of Inside United: “I don’t think he looks at it that way (replacing Ronaldo's goals). Wayne always wants to do well and play well.

“The boy’s got a real hunger and drive. He has so much energy that sometimes he overdoes it in the sense that he wants to use it all; he’ll drop into midfield or go outside left. But he’s young, and young players sometimes want to spend all their energy on the pitch.

"If he concentrates like he did (in the match) at Wigan and spends more time in the central areas rather than the wide positions then he will get goals. There’s no doubt about that.”

Sir Alex picks out a volley against Newcastle in April 2005 at Old Trafford as his favourite Rooney goal so far, now that the striker has scored more than 100 for the Reds.

“His volley against Newcastle takes some beating," says Sir Alex. "It came totally out of the blue. He should have had a foul a minute before and the referee didn’t give it, so the anger in him was so high that he tried to burst the ball!”

Although Rooney has notched his first century for the Reds, Sir Alex is not sure he will overtake Sir Bobby Charlton’s club record.

“It’ll be very tough. Sir Bobby’s record is 249, so at this stage of Wayne’s career he’ll have to do very well to get anywhere near it.”

Gill feels insulted by Le Havre's Pogba slur

Manchester United chief executive David Gill has criticised Le Havre for their public condemnation of his club's transfer tactics over the signing of teenage star Paul Pogba.

Gill said that the Premier League champions will not allow themselves to be insulted by the Ligue 2 club over claims which he insists are completely unfounded and false.

"It's not intimidation but they can't insult us," Gill said at a meeting of the European Clubs Association. "We are not intimidating Le Havre, we have no intention of intimidating Le Havre, they can take whatever action they fell appropriate.

"We have done everything by the book, we are confident in that, they can take whatever action, we won't be insulted by Le Havre.

"It's an insult by Le Havre to suggest that Manchester United and employees of Manchester United have paid the parents and bought the player's parents a house.

"We will not accept the good name of Manchester United being trawled around Websites and the press saying we have done these things we are not allowed to do.

"If they want to take action, they can take action, we will defend our case in the football bodies, we are very comfortable about doing that."

Le Havre this week claimed United had offered the player's parents a number of inducements to get the player to sign for them. And United hit back by threatening legal action of their own should they continue to make such claims.

"Manchester United has written to Le Havre to put it on notice that action will be taken if such allegations are repeated in relation to the transfer of Paul Pogba," United said in a statement.

Reds suffer Nani blow

Nani may miss the start of the Barclays Premier League campaign after sustaining a shoulder injury in United's Community Shield defeat to Chelsea on Sunday.




The winger, who scored and impressed on the left wing, was forced off in the second half after landing awkwardly following a tackle from John Terry. The Portuguese will have a scan on Monday morning to discover the full extent of the injury.




It comes at the most inconvenient time for Nani, who had hoped to cement his position as the heir to Cristiano Ronaldo's position as winger-in-chief at Old Trafford.

He'd made a good start in putting in his application with a stunning long-range goal after ten minutes of the entertaining Community Shield clash on Sunday.




Nani is added to an injury list that also includes Nemanja Vidic (calf), Wes Brown (thigh), Edwin van der Sar (hand) and Gary Neville (groin) ahead of the new league season.

Carlo Ancelotti Acknowledges Manchester United's Threat To Chelsea

They may have beaten them to win the Community Shield, but the Blues boss remains convinced that the Red Devils will be his side's main rivals this season.

Chelsea beat Manchester United on penalties at Wembley today after a 2-2 draw in the Community Shield, giving them an early boost as they look to reclaim the title from the Old Trafford giants.



However, Blues manager Carlo Ancelotti is attaching little significance to today's result, and thinks that Sir Alex Ferguson's men will still prove to be his side's main rivals over the course of the coming campaign.



"Manchester (United) will be the most important opponent in the Premiership because they are a great team and have great experience," Ancelotti told The Guardian.



The Italian does feel that his side can improve further, but was impressed with plenty that he saw from his players in today's Wembley outing.




"Naturally, we still have to improve because we've changed a little bit the play of the team," he added.




"But I like the players' mental attitude and the organisation of the club, and I think we are ready to start a very important season for us."

Player Ratings: Chelsea 2-2 Manchester United (4-1 pens)

The Blues denied United a third successive Community Shield, with yet another being decided on penalties. Goal.com's Sulmaan Ahmad rates the players.

CHELSEA




Petr Cech - 7 - Guilty of poor positioning and letting Nani's good shot look a little too great as United took the lead, but made three good saves from Park, Berbatov and particularly Fletcher thereafter, to keep Chelsea in the game.


Branislav Ivanovic - 5- Was run ragged, particularly in the early stages, by a combination of Nani, Evra and even Rooney. Certainly had his work cut out, and when the ball broke for him at the other end from a corner, he couldn't quite get past the man on the line.


Ricardo Carvalho - 8 - Was a solid, if not occasionally cynical figure, at the back and was in the right place at the right time with a cool head - in every sense of the word - to draw Chelsea level just when they needed it.


John Terry - 7 - Made a series of strong last-ditch challenges and looked a man fully focused on the season ahead, with the weeks of Manchester City transfer speculation firmly behind him.


Ashley Cole - 6 - Wasn't always at his best with the ball at his feet going forward, but manned his flank well enough to avoid United getting too much joy.


Jon Obi Mikel - 5 - Overrun from early on, struggled to contain United's fast-moving forward runners. As time went on, he got better adjusted to getting his foot on the ball and easing the pressure on Chelsea, but he's not quite looking like Makelele just yet.


Michael Essien - 7 - Energetic as ever and looked to be first to every ball. As the game progressed, he certainly played a vital part in closing down United's passing game and ensuring Chelsea were the stronger side in the second half.


Florent Malouda - 6 - Had a big miss on the volley and was otherwise tidy, without being particularly impressive in possession. Never really able to penetrate the United defense either on a run or with a cross.


Frank Lampard - 7 - Shadowed by Fletcher in the early stages but grew into the game in the second period, kept his head to score the goal that put Chelsea in front and also scored in the penalty shootout, albeit not with one of his best efforts.


Nicolas Anelka - 7 - Showed good movement and energy, not to mention a willingness to shoot and shoot well. Perhaps deserved more for his efforts.


Didier Drogba - 6 - Was his usual physical presence up front and showed glimpses of his powerful shooting ability and clattered into Ben Foster which led to Chelsea's first. Good penalty as well - and the cliched question is: would he have done the same in Moscow?


Substitutes

Jose Bosingwa - 7 - Showed in the second half why he is a better right-back than Ivanovic. His pace and more natural positional sense made him a lot more difficult to beat.

Michael Ballack - 6 - Didn't do a whole lot after coming on, other than cause controversy. First for going to ground a little too easily and winning a foul, then for bodychecking Patrice Evra and not being disciplined for his trouble, as Chelsea went down the other end and scored. Put away his penalty, of course.

Deco - n/a.

Salomon Kalou - 7 - Didn't do a lot in open play, but scored the winning penalty in sensational style.






MANCHESTER UNITED


Ben Foster - 5 - Shaky all round. Perhaps could have claimed under threat from Drogba and almost certainly should have done better to prevent Lampard putting Chelsea in the lead.


John O'Shea - 7 - Showed good touch early on and confidence up and down his flank.


Jonny Evans - 7 - Looks like carrying on his impressive form from last season into this one. Very solid and dealt with the threat of Drogba quite well.


Rio Ferdinand - 7 - A bit off the pace, but didn't let it show too often in what was generally a comfortable performance.


Patrice Evra - 7 - The center of attention. He was outstanding for the majority of the game, and was controversially fouled after which he was down and out and Chelsea went on to score. Played an eventual part in United losing the encounter with his penalty in the shootout, which made Gareth Southgate's look like vintage Zidane.


Ji-sung Park - 5 - Quite simply lacked finesse when it mattered. He missed a chance under difficult circumstances early on, but from then on, as United played their deft touches going forward, far too many of his were misplaced.


Michael Carrick - 6 - Not bad, but not good enough. There will be a vast amount of onus placed on Carrick's shoulder's to be United's heartbeat from center midfield all season, and while he enjoyed a fruitful and fairly carefree opening 25 minutes, when Chelsea began to squeeze, he struggled to make an impact.


Darren Fletcher - 7 - Tracked Lampard well early on and had a good shot of his own when at his most confident. A solid outing.


Nani - 7 - Certainly did his best Cristiano Ronaldo impression on the afternoon, full of running, skill, goal-threat and, for good measure, a sweetly struck opening goal from outside the area. He did, though, let Carvalho go to head home the equalizer.


Dimitar Berbatov - 7 - Showed great touch and more work rate than he is often credited with, but never quite hit top gear or got into the box to really make his classy touches count in front of goal.


Wayne Rooney - 8 - Already looks a little more like the Rooney of which every England fan has been dreaming. A relentless forward free role, always classy in possession and perhaps his only flaw was a lack of a consistent goal threat. Just to prove a point, then, he showed quite incredible composure to latch onto a Giggs throughball and stick a left-footed effort past Petr Cech at the death to take the game to penalties.


Substitutes


Luis Antonio Valencia - 6 - The new signing looked short of pace and ideas. Certainly had the work rate to put in a solid shift down the right flank, but not a lot more beyond that.


Ryan Giggs - 7 - Played a delightful through ball for Rooney, from which he equalized, but disappointed with an abysmal penalty at the beginning of the shootout.


Michael Owen - 6 - Certainly eager - maybe a little too eager - to prove himself in his first competitive game for United. A couple of inches away from potentially heading home from a Giggs set-piece, though.


Paul Scholes - 6 - Some good distribution, as always, in his brief cameo.


Fabio da Silva - 7 - Looked full of running and smart in possession, though not overly involved during his short appearance.

Chelsea 2 United 2 (4-1 on pens)

The Community Shield was prised from United’s grasp in an enthralling clash at Wembley, a game that required a penalty shoot-out to separate two evenly-matched sides. Despite this defeat, 4-1 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in normal time, the Reds' performance provides plenty of promise for the season ahead.





Nani had given United the lead with a long-range effort after just ten minutes, then Ricardo Carvalho equalised shortly after half-time. But in a competition that used to be called the Charity Shield, there was little charity in Chelsea’s second. As Patrice Evra lay prostrate on the ground after a bad Michael Ballack challenge, referee Chris Foy neglected to stop play and Frank Lampard scored what everyone thought was the winner. That was until substitute Ryan Giggs picked out Wayne Rooney’s run, and the Reds forward expertly finished to send the tie to the lottery of spot-kicks.




New Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti experienced his first match at Wembley and in English football, but he has plenty of recent practice in facing Sir Alex Ferguson. In four Champions League games with AC Milan - Ancelotti’s last club - the Italian won three, twice knocking United out of the competition.




However, in 2004/05 the Reds were mid-transition, while 2006/07 was perhaps the final phase in the Reds’ European education. In many ways this was a different United to the one Ancelotti faced back then. With significant differences even from last year, this would undoubtedly be the first major test of how the champions can cope without Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez. The signs are promising.





As expected, Rooney played further forward and right down the middle, with Dimitar Berbatov starting just behind his strike partner. Elsewhere, Jonny Evans deputised for the injured NemanjaVidic while Ben Foster was favoured over Tomasz Kuszczak in place of the also sidelined Edwin van der Sar.





Foster is a bright, young hope (young in goalkeeper terms, at least) and he was immediately called to showcase his talents after two minutes, as Didier Drogba’s long-range effort was well-held by the England shot-stopper. Chelsea went even closer when, from a corner after six minutes, Branislav Ivanovic’s poked shot forced Evra to head the ball onto the crossbar and away from danger.





But it was United who broke the deadlock after ten minutes of this high-tempo contest. Nani received Fletcher’s raking pass out on the left wing, and Evra’s overlapping run created space for the Portuguese winger, who cut inside and let fly with a fierce low drive that nestled into the far corner of the net. Cristiano who? Not quite. But it was certainly a fine start in the season curtain-raiser for Nani, and for United.





The Reds were clearly in the ascendancy and Park almost made it two on 16 minutes when Berbatov’s deep cross was headed back across goal by Rooney, but unfortunately the Korean couldn’t get enough on his hooked volley. Two minutes later, Berbatov’s one-two with Park unlocked Chelsea's defence, but the Bulgarian striker's dinked finish was well stopped by Petr Cech. United continued to threaten – as did Chelsea, although more intermittently so – and the nearest either side came to the game’s second goal in the rest of a highly-entertaining first half was Fletcher’s turn and curling shot, acrobatically tipped over by Cech two minutes before the break.





The second half didn’t start at the same breakneck speed as the first, and it was Chelsea who looked sharpest. Indeed, they got an equaliser seven minutes after the restart. Play pin-balled around in the area and United couldn’t clear it,and when Foster’s attempted punch lost its power due to a collision with Drogba, Carvalho dived in and headed home. And the Reds were dealt another blow when the impressive Nani was forced off, arm in a makeshift sling made from his shirt, after a tumble following a tackle from John Terry. He was replaced by Antonio Valencia, making his first competitive appearance for the Reds.





Things got worse when Chelsea took the lead in the 70th minute in controversial circumstances. Ballack clearly blocked Evra’s run, putting his arm to the Frenchman’s face. Referee Chris Foy played advantage, but when United lost the ball he failed to stop play for a head injury. Chelsea, perhaps unsportingly, carried on with three forwards against two Reds defenders, the move ending with Lampard’s shot going in via Foster’s hand and a post. Ballack wasn't even booked after the event. Sir Alex responded with four substitutions. Park, Berbatov, Fletcher and O’Shea were replaced by Ryan Giggs, Michael Owen, Paul Scholes and Fabio.





United still rightfully felt aggrieved, particularly Evra, who earned a yellow card for a strong challenge on Ballack, one in which he got the ball, but that reeked of revenge. There looked as though there'd be no revenge in play as the match entered a third minute of added time, but then came Rooney’s intervention to take the tie to the lottery of penalties.





Lampard, Ballack, Drogba and Kalou all scored a spot-kick for Chelsea, while only Carrick did so for United with Giggs and Evra both unable to beat Petr Cech with tame efforts. And so the Blues won 4-1 from 12 yards, avenging their 2007 defeat in this competition, although not their loss in Moscow just over a year ago.





Defeat, as always, brings disappointment, but the Reds can certainly be heartened by the overall display.

Community Shield: The Season Starts Here

As we segue from pre-season to new season, Manchester United and Chelsea begin as they mean to end: competing for silverware.

Previously...

Chelsea pick up where they left off last season: on a high note at Wembley, where they beat Everton to lift the FA Cup and collected their first trophy since 2007. On the other hand, Manchester United's season ended in misery, as Barcelona knocked them off their European plinth by winning the Champions League final. Before that, however, it was business as usual, including the FIFA Club World Cup, Carling Cup and a Liverpool-equaling 18th league title.

The Community Shield is more often than not a cagey affair, but there just might be a bit more needle and an early power struggle this time around.

Blues' Clues

The punters are going mental for Chelsea in the lead-up to the new season, forking over their paper money to bookmakers all over the country and fully expecting to see a big return on their investment come the end of the new Premier League season.

The reasons for this are simple: Chelsea have managed to come out of a period of turmoil with a solid, well-balanced squad. They have match-winners and are full of belief, after enjoying a resurgence under last season's temporary gaffer Guus Hiddink. Now, still hungry after several high-profile 'close but no cigar' tournament conclusions, they've appointed a born winner in Carlo Ancelotti.

Add to this promising situation the fact that their rivals have taken something of a beating during this ultimate transfer market silly season, and you can see why the 'smart money' is on the Blues.

United They Stand

Manchester United certainly know how to put that Shield in the cabinet; for the last two seasons, the curtain raiser has kick-started what would become successful seasons. In 2007, the Red Devils beat Chelsea on penalties following a 1-1 draw, before doing the same to Portsmouth last term, after a goal-less stalemate.

Going back in time to assess United's record in the show-piece, we can see that they've gone through spells of negotiating the game with ease, followed by droughts. For example, they won it four times between 1993 and '97 but lost four on the trot from '98 to 2001. Still, they have the last two years on their side.

Now, they come into the new season without their free-scoring centerpiece Cristiano Ronaldo, who finally made his long-touted move to Real Madrid for mega money, and they are also without that little Argentine battler Carlos Tevez. The game against Chelsea is United's first chance to show that, with the rest of their squad in tact and a few modest signings added, they're still able to set the standard for the rest of the 'Big Four' to aim for.

FORM GUIDE

Chelsea

18 July: Seattle Sounders W2-0 (Friendly)
22 July: Inter W2-0 (Friendly)
25 July: Milan W2-1 (Friendly)
27 July: Club America W2-0 (Friendly)01 Aug: Reading D2-2 (Friendly)

Manchester United

18 July: Malaysian XI W3-2 (Friendly)
20 July: Malaysian XI W2-0 (Friendly)
24 July: FC Seoul W3-2 (Friendly)
26 July: Hangzhou Greentown W8-2 (Friendly)
29 July: Boca Juniors W2-1 (Audi Cup)
30 July: Bayern Munich L0-0 (pens) (Audi Cup)
05 Aug: Valencia W2-0 (Friendly)

TEAM NEWS

Chelsea

Ancelotti's squad is still far from 100% fit, with Joe Cole and Paulo Ferreira crocked and new signing Yuri Zhirkov doubtful. Michael Ballack has also been struggling but could recover in time. Ross Turnbull and Daniel Sturridge could play their first competitive games for the Blues.

Possible Starting XI (4-4-2): Cech; Bosingwa, Terry, Alex, A.Cole; Mikel, Essien, Lampard, Malouda; Anelka, Drogba.

Manchester United

Ferguson is not without his pre-game headaches either. Nemanja Vidic, Edwin van der Sar and Gary Neville are all out of action, meaning that Ben Foster or Tomasz Kuszczak will start between the sticks.

Newcomers Michael Owen and Antonio Valencia are poised to make their official debuts.

Possible Starting XI (4-4-2): Foster; O'Shea, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra; Valencia, Fletcher, Carrick, Giggs; Rooney, Berbatov.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Chelsea will likely look to Didier Drogba, who loves doing the business at Wembley, to spearhead their front-line. The Ivorian will relish being bereft of injury woes at this stage of the summer and will look to start strongly. That's not to say that most eyes won't be on skipper John Terry, who rebuffed Man City to stay at Stamford Bridge, after a brief flirtation with the moneybags club.

Manchester United, meanwhile, will hope that Wayne Rooney can make a similar impact. 'CR7' has morphed into 'CR9' and has relocated to Madrid, and many feel that this season could be the making of Rooney. He's set to be the attacking focal point; he's likely to play more centrally; he has a World Cup to start thinking about. Can he live up to the expectations?

PREDICTION

With six substitutions available to both gaffers, this one could be stop-start. In recent times these have been tight affairs, so I'll plump for Chelsea to exact some minor revenge for their penalty shoot-out loss to United in the 2007-08 Champions League final.

Chelsea 1-1 Manchester United

Ferguson insists Rooney will fill Ronaldo's boots

Sir Alex Ferguson will hand Wayne Rooney a centre forward role this season after backing him to replace Cristiano Ronaldo at the top of Manchester United's goalscoring charts.

Rooney has been deployed in a variety of roles in recent years, with the England international often shifted out wide or into a deeper position.

But with Ronaldo having moved to Real Madrid, Ferguson needs to find another regular source of goals and he believes Rooney will relish the challenge.

The United boss said: "I don't think the responsibility of getting more goals will affect Wayne at all.

"He's got the mental strength for all that kind of thing. He's proved that time and time again.

"He will be used as a central striker this season. He goes on these bursts of goals.

"Last season I think he hit seven in a row at one point - but if he can do that more consistently over the season, he will get to 25 and above.

"But Wayne is a totally different type of player to Ronaldo.

"I don't think you can compare them, they are such different types."

Ferguson Braces Fans For Man United's 'New Berbatov'

Sir Alex has warned other teams about his new and improved Bulgarian hitman.

As Sir Alex Ferguson begins to embrace the prospect of winning a very unique fourth Premier League title in a row, the boss has claimed that the public should ready themselves for a more confident Dimitar Berbatov.




Having shrewdly snapped up Michael Owen on a free transfer during the summer window, Fergie faces the task of picking a striking pair out of a possible three: Berbatov, Owen and, of course, Wayne Rooney.




With Rooney being continually tipped as the gaffer's top pick and Owen playing exceedingly well during United's pre-season friendlies, Sir Alex is aware that he must be careful with his squad rotation so as to get the best out of Berbatov, who has been struggling for confidence since his move to the club from Tottenham Hotspur last year.




"I've never met a player who has not been affected by a lack of confidence at times, even Eric Cantona," The Daily Mail quote Ferguson as saying.




"Strikers are the worst. They feel that only scoring goals counts for them because that is what they are judged on.




"But we were a bit unfair to [Berbatov] last season because we asked him to play too deep. We thought that suited him because of how he played at Spurs, but we were wrong.




"We realize now he is at his best in the final third of the pitch, where he's a real threat. We know how to use him this season and he won't change from that.

Report: Hargreaves In Munich To Save Manchester United Career

The midfield crock is back in Germany as he attempts to find a cure for his crippling injury problems.

Owen Hargreaves is undergoing specialist treatment in Munich as doubt grows over his long-term future at Manchester United, the News of the World claims.



It was reported recently that the England midfielder had flown to the United States to recuperate under the guidance of Dr. Richard Steadman, the world-renowned knee surgeon.




Hargreaves has been out of action since going under the knife for a tendinitis problem last year, an operation that was later followed up by a similar prodecure on his other knee.




Sir Alex Ferguson had said that the player could return this September at a "conservative estimate", but it now looks likely that the Canadian-born star will remained sidelined until
Christmas.




In Germany, Hargreaves has sought the advice of Dr. Hans Muller-Wolfahrt, who has ruled out the possibility of the former Bayern Munich man returning to the field this year.




Interestingly, it is claimed that the nature of the 28-year-old's injury is almost identical to that of Rafael Nadal, the Spanish tennis champion, as both athletes put extra strain on their knees by moving in short sprints from stationary positions.




There is real concern now that Hargreaves may never recover fully and will be forced into an early retirement. Although Ferguson has declared that he will be patient, many believe that one more setback will spell the end of the player's stay at Old Trafford.

John Terry : Its time for blues.....

'JT' can't stand seeing the Red Devils rake in the honours while the Blues go without.

As Chelsea and Manchester United prepare to square off in the 2009 Community Shield, there is one man who would love nothing better than to get one over Sir Alex Ferguson's men.




"I'm fed up with seeing United win trophies," said John Terry, according to the News of the World.




"It's killed me personally as I'm ambitious. I want to push on as a player and win so many more things for Chelsea."




With the men from Old Trafford edging Liverpool last season to claim their third straight Premier League crown, the Blues of west London are yet to add to their tally since winning back-to-back titles under Jose Mourinho.





And although he is eager to make amends for his infamous slip in Moscow in May 2008, Terry stressed that bringing domestic success back to Stamford Bridge was top priority.




He said, "I want to win the Champions League. I swear to God, I'm desperate to win it. But I'm desperate to get the title back. Going three years without the Prem isn't where we want to be."




Having resisted the advances of Manchester City this summer, Terry will lead Chelsea out on Sunday afternoon as the FA Cup winners take on the league champions at Wembley.




And while he knows that the traditional curtain-raiser is not exactly a win-at-all-costs affair, the England captain is nevertheless hoping to kick off the season with a big win.




He added, "We've got the Community Shield, which will be great to win. OK, it's not the be all and end all, but it would be so nice to beat Manchester United."

Mourinho eyes up United job when Sir Alex quits

Jose Mourinho has thrown his hat into the ring to replace Sir Alex Ferguson when he finally leaves Old Trafford.

The Inter Milan boss says he would jump at the chance to fill the Red Devils' hot seat when 67-year-old Ferguson calls time on his glittering managerial career.

After 23 years at United, Ferguson shows no signs of slowing down, but Mourinho says he would love the chance to continue his love affair with English football, if United chief executive David Gill and the board decided he was the right man to take over.

"I would consider going to Manchester United but United have to consider if they want me to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson,'' he told the Daily Mirror. "If they do, then of course.

"I like England, where the fans are very passionate and make the game a beautiful occasion with such an incredible atmosphere.''

The Portuguese coach isn't lacking in confidence and believes he has the right credentials to take one of the most high-profile jobs in world football.

And he took the opportunity to point to his success with Inter Milan, who retained their Serie A title this year, as a contrast to Chelsea's failure to recapture the Premier League title since his departure in 2007.

"I had many conversations before Chelsea and I decided on a divorce,'' he said. "It was difficult for me because we loved each other but the relationship went in one direction and it was best for everyone.

"Since I left I became champion again but they have not been champions again. I keep on winning and they don't.''

Valencia to face Boca

Sir Alex isn’t in the habit of announcing his team too far in advance, but the United boss has confirmed Antonio Valencia will start against Boca Juniors in Munich on Wednesday.




The Ecuadorian winger will pull on a Reds shirt for the first time when United kick off the two-day Audi Cup competition against the Argentinean giants.




“Valencia didn’t join us in the Far East because he was behind the rest of the squad in terms of his fitness,” Sir Alex said.




“He’s been back at Carrington doing his endurance and speed work, catching up with everyone else.”




And although it’s unrealistic to expect Valencia to step straight into Cristiano Ronaldo’s shoes, the United manager is confident he’s found a player who will go from strength to strength.




“We lost Ronaldo in the summer and he’s someone who gave us 26 goals last season. It’s going to be hard to replace him and we hope we can find an answer to that.




“We’ve signed Valencia, who has a lot of potential – he’s young, very athletic and possesses good power. At 23 years of age I think he can develop at our club.”

Anderson: Manchester United Want To Get Owen Back To His Best

Michael Owen is the "pride of the country", according to stocky midfielder Anderson.

Manchester United midfielder Anderson advocates the free acquisition of diminutive goal poacher Michael Owen, and today declared that one of the club's primary intentions is to ensure the former Real Madrid and Liverpool striker returns to his exemplary best.

The burgeoning Brazilian explained to the club's official website, “I am certain that he will help us a lot. He is a player who has played a big part in the history of English football.




“I hope he has more success in Manchester and helps us repeat the excellent season that we had last year.




“Owen is more than just an athlete, he is the pride of the country. Our intention at United is to help him get back to his best.




“We want to have the player who enchanted the world at the beginning of his career.”





It is believed that Owen has taken a drastic pay-cut in order to sign for Sir Alex Ferguson, but partnering Wayne Rooney in attack could help the ageing forward play his way into contention for Fabio Capello's next England squad. The Italian manager has always maintained that the door is open for an Owen return.

Michael Owen Eyes England Role

The new Manchester United striker has a 'burning desire' to get back onto the international bandwagon...

Michael Owen believes his move to Manchester United could re-ignite his international career under England manager Fabio Capello.




The former Liverpool and Real Madrid striker has been starved of opportunities to represent his country, as his injuries have largely coincided with the Italian's reign.




But Owen, who signed for The Red Devils on a free transfer on Friday after his contract at Newcastle United expired, is eager to break back into the international fold with his new club.




"Obviously, if I am fit and playing well, then I have got a better chance of getting back into the England squad and I am sure my team-mates, with their quality, will help me to do that," he told Sky Sports News.




"If I play well, then I'd like to think I can force my way back in. There are internationals coming up and I'd be a fool to say I wouldn't want to be a part of it.




"I think I have 89 caps for England and it would be great to add to that. There is a burning desire to do well for whatever team I play for."




Owen is one of the top goalscorers in England international history, scoring 40 goals in 89 games for his country.

Owen Will Be Better Than Tevez For Manchester United – Glenn Hoddle

Michael Owen will bag more goals for the champions than Tevez ever did, claims the former Tottenham midfielder...

Former England manager Glen Hoddle has insisted that Michael Owen will be a better attacking option than Carlos Tevez for Manchester United.




Owen went from Newcastle United to Old Trafford on Friday in a move that has taken the football world by surprise.




However, Hoddle insisted the transfer would suit Owen perfectly and he tipped the striker to thrive at his new club.




“The way United play will suit Michael down to the ground,” Hoddle told the Sunday Mirror.




“Possession football and a lot of chances. It couldn't be better for him.




“At United, he won't be the focal point of the team. He will have the likes of Rooney, Berbatov and Valencia around him. They are match-winners as well. He will thrive at United.”




Hoddle also insisted that Owen would outscore Tevez, who rejected the chance to stay on at the club and now looks set to move to Manchester City instead.




“It is a superb bit of business by Sir Alex Ferguson. I'm convinced it could be the shrewdest signing of the summer,” he added.




“If Michael can stay relatively fit and be involved in 30 or so games, he can be better for United in front of goal than Tevez.”

I Knew I Would Sign For Manchester United Last Year – Antonio Valencia

Manchester United’s new signing Antonio Valencia has revealed that he has known for some time that he would be moving to Old Trafford.



The winger swapped Wigan Athletic for the English champions last month but, according to skysports.com, he admitted to Ecuardorian television that he had spoken to manager Sir Alex Ferguson about a deal as long ago as last December.



“I knew last December I would be going to United,” the 23-year-old reportedly revealed.




“I had a conversation with Alex Ferguson and he told me once the season was over, he wanted to have me in his squad - I felt honoured.




“What he said was as good as having signed a contract - he does what he says.”




Indeed, United had long been linked with a move for the Wigan man and subsequently paid the Latics £16 million to secure his services.




Valencia has signed a four-year deal at the club and will be joined by fellow new signing Michael Owen, who completed his shock move on Friday.