Duo dangerous striker the red devil increasingly sharp

Robin Van Persie and Wayne Rooney

 Undoubtedly Robie V Persie since moving to Old Trafford playing increasingly taken into account opponent
Robin van Persie has scored five goals at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League, which equals the best of any visiting player in the competition.
Wayne Rooney has scored five goals in his last six appearances in all competitions against Chelsea.

More about → Duo dangerous striker the red devil increasingly sharp

Manchester United have Premier League edge, says Asmir Begovic

Manchester United have the edge over Chelsea and Manchester City in this season's Premier League title race, says Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic.

By Shamoon Hafez BBC Sport

The Bosnia international is well-placed to judge the contenders' relative merits, having already faced all three in a tough start to Stoke's campaign.

After holding City, and losing narrowly to Chelsea , Begovic's side were beaten 4-2 at Old Trafford last weekend.

"United have impressed me the most this season," he told BBC Sport.

"Going forward, they have so much talent and flair. The whole front four of that team, including Danny Welbeck and Antonio Valencia, are so dangerous."

For Chelsea, Juan Mata and summer-signing Eden Hazard - conjuring up five goals and 10 assists in seven league starts together - have particularly impressed Begovic.

His international team-mate Edin Dzeko - who scored both of City's goals in their 2-1 victory over West Brom last weekend after coming off the bench - was singled out as City's major threat.

He added: "City have so much talent in their squad so it is a tough team to break into but Edin's performances speak for themselves. If he continues to do that on a regular basis, he should be starting in the first-team. I believe he is one of the top five strikers in the world."

Pace-setters Chelsea host Manchester United on Sunday in a clash of the top two, which also sees the league's top goalscoring teams come head-to-head.

The Blues are unbeaten in the Premier League, with United four points adrift after losing to Everton and Tottenham.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men face a tough task, having won only one of their last 12 trips to Stamford Bridge in all competitions.

But United strikers Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie have contributed three goals and five assists in only two league starts together, and Begovic feels the pair are now forming a potent partnership.

Having been beaten twice by Rooney and once by the Netherlands forward last weekend, Begovic said: "Playing against them anytime is difficult but now it looks like they are getting their mojo together and gelling. Any mistake we made was punished by them."
On-form Chelsea midfielder

But while the Red Devils are a potent attacking force, their problems lie at the other end of the pitch.

In their eight league games, United have shipped 11 goals - five more than Chelsea and two more than City.

Ferguson has opted to rotate goalkeepers David de Gea and Anders Lindegaard, but former Atletico Madrid man De Gea is likely to keep his place in the starting line-up as a result of the Dane injuring his hand in training.

Begovic - who came close to joining Chelsea in 2010 - has now established himself as Stoke's number one, but recognises the frustration suffered by United's two shot-stoppers.

"It is funny for a goalkeeper when you are in a rotation process. It is difficult but when you are playing you feel settled. It makes you play better," said the 25-year-old.

"Last year when De Gea was number one, he played his best football. It is important to know as a goalkeeper that you're number one as it enables you to perform well and you have the confidence to do that."

More about → Manchester United have Premier League edge, says Asmir Begovic

Man United buy out £40m training kit deal in a bid to generate more cash

Big deal: DHL had paid £40m to sponsor training kit

By Sportsmail Reporter

Manchester United have bought back the sponsorship rights to their training kit.

When United announced they ahead done a deal with DHL in 2010 worth £40million over four years, most experts were astonished at the sum as it exceeded all the actual kits deals of all their Premier League rivals outside of the elites group of present and past Champions League qualifiers.


 Since then though, United have done the eye-boggling £559m shirt deal with General Motors, who are paying a world record sum to replace AON as shirt sponsors in 2014.

And the Glazer family have taken the unusual step of buying out DHL, so certain are they of gaining even greater revenue.

'We have successfully negotiated an early buy-out of our training kit agreement with DHL effective 30 June 2013,' the club confirmed this evening.

Usual step: The Glazer family

'DHL will then continue as our global logistics sponsor.

'The significantly increased value of agreements concluded since entering into this agreement, such as our recent £559m world record shirt sponsorship with General Motors, leads us to believe that there should be strategic opportunities to further optimize the value of these rights.'

More about → Man United buy out £40m training kit deal in a bid to generate more cash

“The level of the game in England and Europe now is so high that making yourself unpredictable is going to be a strength”

Wayne Rooney role key to Man Utd's 'diamond revolution'

 Sir Alex Ferguson admits he is going against his own managerial history - and that of Manchester United - by introducing what he calls a "revolutionary" diamond formation.

Width is so ingrained in Ferguson's football DNA that it is almost hard to imagine him walking around his own home without being flanked by two wide men.
Continue reading the main story   

And yet in recent weeks, Ferguson has moved away from the formation that has been his tactical template throughout 26 years at Old Trafford.

Ryan Giggs, David Beckham and Andrei Kanchelskis are among the stellar names to have fulfilled the role Ferguson loves - but the modern game requires versatility and adaptability and, even as he approaches his 71st birthday, the Scot is prepared to move with the times to maintain success.

His new system may mean a natural winger has to be sacrificed, against all Ferguson's instincts. He will ponder all his options before Sunday's visit to Premier League leaders Chelsea, with another visit to Stamford Bridge in the Capital One Cup and a meeting with Arsenal at Old Trafford also on the horizon.

Former Tottenham manager David Pleat believes Ferguson's change of heart is simply a reflection of the manner in which the modern game is evolving. He also makes the valid point that a team's width does not have to be provided by a natural flank player.

He told BBC Sport: "Using the diamond does mean that a winger may be sacrificed but the game is changing.

"You have to have width but you do not necessarily need wingers to provide it. It could come from full-backs or perhaps players such as Robin van Persie, Danny Welbeck or Javier Hernandez pulling wide.

"And of course if the manager feels the opposition has a full-back who is a poor player or is struggling then he can introduce a winger."

Ferguson used the diamond formation successfully against Newcastle in the Premier League and Capital One Cup and against Romanian champions Cluj in the Champions League.

It was also in evidence against Braga in the Champions League at Old Trafford on Tuesday, with Wayne Rooney at the tip, Darren Fletcher at the base, and Shinji Kagawa and Tom Cleverley as wide men. But it was swiftly abandoned after United gave the Portuguese a two-goal start and Ferguson needed to adjust things to stop Braga's flow of possession.

Cleverley moved right and Rooney left - and it is the natural gifts of the England striker that will prove pivotal to the ploy's future success.

He celebrated his 27th birthday on Wednesday and Ferguson's change of tack suggests he increasingly sees him as the fulcrum of his side, the player with the talent to spearhead the diamond formation and provide the crucial link between midfield and attack.

Statistics show Rooney, who has been used deeper on occasions this season, has so far played almost 10% fewer passes in the attacking third than in 2011-12 and 9% more in the midfield and defensive thirds combined - a fact that could also be regarded as an indicator of his versatility.

With the arrival of Van Persie, the development of Welbeck and the return to form of Hernandez, Ferguson has a wider range of striking alternatives. Using Rooney in a slightly deeper role means the United boss can improve his side's supply line while also allowing this avowed lover of attacking football to get more of his most dangerous players into his starting line-up.

United's failure in Europe last season may have also prompted Ferguson to re-examine his approach but a more likely explanation is that he has simply studied the resources currently available and is seeking to use them to best advantage.

Ferguson said: "If it turns out we play the diamond consistently it would be revolutionary because it is going against our history.
Analysis
Image of Phil McNulty Phil McNulty Chief football writer, BBC Sport

"Hernandez has the ability to make more than one movement in the same passage of play, hence his ability to find space in the most congested of penalty boxes."

"The level of the game in England and Europe now is so high that making yourself unpredictable is going to be a strength. Teams will have to think whether we're going to use two out wide or the diamond because we have players capable of doing both.

"Kagawa and Cleverley can play really well in the type of game a diamond offers, while in Nani, Ashley Young and Antonio Valencia we have very good wide players."

It also relies heavily on full-backs who are prepared to provide width - which carries risks, as shown by the less-than-convincing defensive displays of Rafael and Alexander Buttner against Braga.

Rooney's importance to the system is inescapable but Pleat believes he can fulfil those responsibilities, saying: "It is a position that almost suits Wayne Rooney better because he can drift into the box for shots and headers like Paul Scholes has done and it doesn't negate his excellent work-rate.

"Rooney also has a great sense of team responsibility. He can link with the attackers around him but, if and when United come under pressure, he is such a hard worker and a natural player that he will come back to help retrieve the ball as well."

Former Manchester United striker Lou Macari believes Ferguson is simply practising sound management by knowing his squad, knowing his opposition and tailoring his tactics accordingly.

Macari told BBC Sport: "I think the manager has said playing Wayne at the tip of a diamond is an option for him but I don't think Sir Alex sits in his office devising systems. He will decide what he does by the players at his disposal and the opposition United are playing.

"If he has everyone fit such as Ashley Young, Nani and Valencia, I don't think he will hesitate to use them. It is all about the personnel he puts out on the pitch - it is them he believes in.

"He loves wide players but maybe at this time he doesn't feel he's got wide players available. Young has been injured and Valencia has had one or two knocks as well.
Play media

"It also depends on the opposition, but [his own] players are the important thing. The secret of success is playing to the strengths of your players and Sir Alex has a squad now that does give him flexibility.

"When you have players of the quality he has, you can change them from week to week without any damaging effect on the team.

"I actually don't think Sir Alex would hesitate to go with three strikers if he felt the team could cope with that."

And with United heading for the knockout stage of the Champions League after beating Braga, Ferguson will have plenty of chance to exercise United's adaptability.

More about → “The level of the game in England and Europe now is so high that making yourself unpredictable is going to be a strength”

Injury blow for United as the Kagawa sidelined until months with knee injury

Shinji Kagawa feels the pain of an injury against Braga

Manchester United midfielder Shinji Kagawa faces three to four weeks on the sidelines of the premier league season with a knee injury.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the news at a press conference on Friday.

"Kagawa is out for three to four weeks with a knee injury. Playing on Tuesday (against Braga in the Champions League) does not help. It's disappointing," said Ferguson.

Sir Alex Ferguson is disappointed to have lost a star man

 
On a positive note, Ferguson reports that defender Chris Smalling is back in training after a broken metatarsal.

"It was a big bonus for us," added Ferguson. "Phil Jones should start (training) a week on Mondays, too."

Jones suffered a knee injury in training last month.

Meanwhile, Ferguson also welcomed the decision of United defender Rio Ferdinand to issue a statement, along with his brother Anton, on Wednesday night in which they explain their positions on the issue of racism in the game.

Jumping for joy: Chris Smalling is back in the fold after a lengthy lay off

Both players refused to wear a T-shirt to support the Kick It Out anti-racism campaign group before their club matches each, with Rio's decision to boycott the first campaign drew an angry reaction from Ferguson.

The joint statement they praised the 'fantastic job' done by Kick It Out, but still expressed their disappointment at the FA action in relation to the handling of the case of John Terry. Chelsea defender given a four-match ban for racial abuse of Anton Ferdinand.
"Rio and Anton has done the right thing with that statement," said Ferguson. "It has been bubbling along, and the issue of racism has not completely disappeared. PFA I am sure are doing their best. FA, UEFA and FIFA need to do more."

More about → Injury blow for United as the Kagawa sidelined until months with knee injury

Anzhi longing Rooney! Megabucks Russian line up a sensational swoop for United star

Wayne Rooney launched his new book at the Trafford Centre in Manchester on Thursday

By Sportsmail ReporterWayne Rooney is the target for mega-rich Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala, the director of the team and the Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos reveals.Dagestan club are bankrolled by Russian billionaire Suleyman Kerimov power and Carlos had a warning for Manchester United fans hoping to see Rooney remains at Old Trafford, said: "If the owner has the intention Anzhi want to buy someone, he would go and do it."

Anzhi have tempted some big name players to make the step into the northern Caucasus outdated with great reward. Samuel Eto'o get a whopping £ 250,000 a week at Anzhi and any bid for Rooney would be equally eyewatering.

Carlos said: "He's one of the best players in the world and any team would love to have him in their squad. He's still a very young player."Of course I can not say when, and if, it will happen. Anzhi's not only possible to buy it.
"There are many teams in Italy and Spain, all over the world, who are eager to have a player like Rooney."If the owner of Anzhi have a desire to buy one, he would go and do it. But we are trying to change the image of the club.'s Not just about money."Of course we are going to buy a good player but not only international players. We wanted to sign a good Russian players are not expensive."

Rooney, 27, a loved one at Old Trafford and remains a key part of the plan though Sir Alex Ferguson dropped to the bench earlier this season.But the England striker flirted with leaving the States to rivals Manchester City two years ago, claiming the Red Devils did not match his ambitions. Anzhi certainly does not lack in that department, to build themselves into superpowers Russia of beginning a bit.Anzhi manager Guus Hiddink, but played down the prospect Rooney moved to Russia following the defeat of his team's Europa League limp at Anfield on Thursday night.He said: "It is nice to sometimes talk out of the blue without any reality."For all the hype that has surrounded Anzhi and massive buying power, they are very disappointing in a 1-0 loss at Liverpool, with Brad Jones not bothered once in the Liverpool goal.Anzhi's first shot did not come until stoppage time and even then the effort was good and Fedor Smolov widened, spelling out the need for a creative force like Rooney.There is little question, however, that Anzhi will soon be a force in Europe, given the astronomical wages they can pay.

More about → Anzhi longing Rooney! Megabucks Russian line up a sensational swoop for United star

Skipper Roo: Hodgson hands England armband to Rooney for San Marino match

The Manchester United striker will lead out the Three Lions in the absence of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.

Sport Football News England football team
Skipper Roo: Hodgson hands England armband to Rooney for San Marino match

The Manchester United striker will lead out the Three Lions in the absence of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.

Captain Wayne: Rooney will lead England at Wembley on Friday night
Scott Heavey
Wayne Rooney will captain England against San Marino tomorrow night.

The Football Association confirmed this afternoon that the Manchester United striker will lead the England team out at Wembley in the absence of regular skipper Steven Gerrard, who is suspended, and vice-captain Frank Lampard, who has been ruled out with a knee injury.

With Lampard and Gerrard out it was seen as a straight fight between Rooney and Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart for the honour, and the Football Association has now confirmed Rooney is the man.

Rooney said: "it's a very proud moment for me, a great honour and I just hope we can win the game in style.

He has captained England just once before, in a friendly against Brazil in Doha in 2009.

"Hopefully we can reward the fans with a good performance and make it a good night."
England boss Roy Hodgson added: "I've enjoyed working with Wayne, we had a good Euros and I enjoyed working with him there.

"I was disappointed when he got that terrible gash and I was even worried it could rule him out of not only the September games, but also the October games.

"Luckily he's made a very quick recovery and now he's available for the games, and he'll certainly captain the team in the first one."

Hodgson was unwilling to offer any further insight into his team-sheet for tomorrow's meeting with the joint lowest-ranked team in the world, with speculation in some quarters that key men such as Ashley Cole could be rested ahead of Tuesday's clash with Poland.

"I haven't spoken to the players about the team," he said at the televised briefing.

"I guess Wayne Rooney realises he's starting the game because he's sitting alongside me as captain of the team.

"But I haven't told any other players who'll be playing and who won't be. Although I've got a pretty good idea in my own mind what I'm going to do, I can't divulge that on television until I've spoken to the players.

"It might be a question of utilising the squad in a different way because we have a very important game in Poland on Tuesday.

"Knowing that whatever team I choose at Wembley is likely to be able to win that game, how many players do I spare and keep fitter and fresher for the game on Tuesday? That's been the decision to be made."

More about → Skipper Roo: Hodgson hands England armband to Rooney for San Marino match

Hernandez quiet on United exit rumours Manchester United news: Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez won't comment on transfer talk.

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez was tight-lipped when asked about his
future at Old Trafford and whether he was set to leave.

Hernandez has been linked with moves to Real Madrid and Porto over recent weeks, one as a makeweight for Kaka, the other in a swap for young Colombian star James Rodriguez.

Chicharito refused to comment on the speculation, instead insisting he would not be thinking about Manchester United for the next week, as he is away with the Mexico national team.

“This is always mentioned; you have to keep the due respect for the national team and when we are here, my head is here 100 percent,” he is quoted as saying by ESPN.

“I am grateful that I am being kept in mind for these two matches and I am going to take them with the same seriousness.

“You are going to hear the same thing always, but I am with the national team and my club is not my priority now, my head is in the match versus Guyana.”

Hernandez’s future at Old Trafford has been questioned since Manchester United paid £24million for Arsenal captain Robin van Persie in the summer, limiting his chances up front.

Since the Dutchman joined Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, the 24-year-old has started just one Premier League game and has only featured in four out of Manchester United’s first seven games.

More about → Hernandez quiet on United exit rumours Manchester United news: Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez won't comment on transfer talk.

United starlet hints at Old Trafford exit Manchester United transfer news: Joshua King keen to play first-team football.

Manchester United youngster Joshua King has revealed he's happy to stay at Old Trafford for now, but hinted he wants to play regular first-team football.

The Norwegian international made his Norway debut last month after coming through the academy at United but he is yet to make a first-team Premier League appearance.
And the Manchester United striker is hopeful that he remains at Old Trafford past the January transfer window, but he does want more minutes on the pitch.
Speaking to Norwegian newspaper VG, and quoted on talk SPORT, King said: "I do not want to waste energy to comment on these things.

"I prefer to work. Currently, I am a Manchester United player and I hope to remain so even after January, but I need to play at a high level."

King has spent time on loan at Preston North End and Bundesliga club Borussia Monchengladbach. The 20-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Hull City, scoring one Championship goal in 18 appearances.

Manchester United forward King has represented Norway at every age level from under-15 to under-21, before making his debut for the full national team against Iceland in last month's World Cup qualifiers.

Manchester United have lost several of their top academy talents over the past two seasons, and are likely to be reluctant to lose another. Former-United starlet Ravel Morrison left for West Ham after struggling with disciplinary problems while Paul Pogba joined Serie 'A' champions Juventus.

But King is yet to make an impression on the Manchester United first-team squad, and unless he breaks through soon, a move away from Old Trafford could be his best bet for first team football.

More about → United starlet hints at Old Trafford exit Manchester United transfer news: Joshua King keen to play first-team football.

Germany international hints at future United move Manchester United transfer news: Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels open to move abroad one day.

Manchester United transfer target Mats Hummels has revealed he's open to a move away from Germany - but only when the time is right.

The German international has emerged as an option for United, who have struggled with injuries to key defenders, but the 23-year-old only signed a new five-year Dortmund contract in June.

Hummels helped Jurgen Klopp's side to back-to-back titles and a German Cup last season. And his excellent performances led to speculation that Manchester United or Barcelona could move for the centre-back.

Hummels put that speculation to bed by signing a new deal in Germany, but he has since revealed a move abroad is not out of the question.

On Four, Hummels said: "One day I will say that I am keen on a transfer. To play football in a new country would be flattering.

"I already had offers and one enquiry from these offers was really one of interest for me. But I told myself that that time is not right for such a move.

"In the Bundesliga it would just be about Bayern Munich, but this club has no shortage in my position. In Europe there are just about four to five clubs that would really interest me."

Due to their current injury crisis, Manchester United do have a shortage in Hummels' position. Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Jonny Evans and Nemanja Vidic have all spent time on the sidelines this season, and Rio Ferdinand does not have the best injury record.

Hummels is one of the most talented defenders in the Bundesliga and already has 22 caps for Germany.

The former-Bayern Munich academy graduate left for Dortmund in 2009 and has flourished under Klopp but Sir Alex Ferguson could yet tempt him to join Manchester United at Old Trafford.

More about → Germany international hints at future United move Manchester United transfer news: Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels open to move abroad one day.

Vidic agent clarifies United exit speculation

Manchester United transfer news: Nemanja Vidic’s agent clarifies transfer speculation
The agent of Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic has responded to reports that the Serbian could be leaving Old Trafford.

The centre-back has been linked with a move to Serie A champions Juventus and La Liga side Barcelona, but his agent has moved to clarify his position.

Vidic is currently sidelined with a knee injury and is not expected back for another month, but this has not stopped the speculation persisting over whether he could be departing.

Sir Alex Ferguson had to endure the second half of last season without his captain following a knee ligament injury in the clash with FC Basel, which saw them crash out of the Champions League at the group stages last season.

Now his agent, Silvio Martina, has spoken to the Italian press to insist that the 30-year-old is not thinking about a move away from Manchester United, but is only concentrating on getting back on the pitch.

“Vidic is not playing at this time because he had an operation and is thinking only for his recovery,” Martina told ITA Sport Press.

“Barcelona? Vidic is already part of a big club, there is no negotiation.”

More about → Vidic agent clarifies United exit speculation

Hart backs Rooney for captaincy

Wayne Rooney might have labelled Joe Hart as the best goalkeeper in the world last week - but if Roy Hodgson needs another captain on Friday, the Manchester City man knows who he thinks will get the call.

With Steven Gerrard suspended and vice-captain Frank Lampard troubled by a knee injury picked up on Chelsea duty at the weekend, Hodgson might be picking a team for the World Cup qualifier with San Marino without his captain and deputy.

Of the alternatives, Rooney and Hart are the most plausible candidates given Ashley Cole will not be considered. However, Hart said: "I've no idea who is going to be captain but I am pretty sure it will fall to Rooney. He is our star man with 10 million caps at the age of whatever he is, 26? I imagine he is a little bit further up the queue than me."

More about → Hart backs Rooney for captaincy

Rooney handed England captaincy Manchester United news: Wayne Rooney will be England captain on Friday.

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is set to captain England tomorrow in the Brazil 2014 World Cup qualifier against San Marino.

The FA have confirmed that the Old Trafford star will take the Three Lions armband for only the second time – the first was for a friendly against Brazil in 2009.

Rooney also has experience of captaining at club level, having previously worn the armband for Manchester United.

England manager, Roy Hodgson, has picked Rooney due to regular captain Steven Gerrard serving a suspension for picking up two bookings in the previous qualifier against Ukraine, while vice-captain Frank Lampard misses out through injury.

Rooney will lead the side out at Wembley in a game where England are expecting to win comfortably, as San Marino are the lowest ranked international side in Europe.

It is not the only piece of good news for the Old Trafford favourite to come in the last 24 hours, he recently revealed that he and his wife, Colleen, are expecting their second child.

More about → Rooney handed England captaincy Manchester United news: Wayne Rooney will be England captain on Friday.

City star wants United frontman to captain England Manchester United & England news: Joe Hart wants Wayne Rooney as captain.

Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart wants Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney to captain England, according to Sky Sports.
England's number one has been in sensational form for City this season, and has been rumoured to be in contention for the captaincy himself.

But the 24-year-old believes his Premier League rival Rooney deserves the armband against San Marino.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Hart said: "I've not thought about it at all. How the captain is chosen is the manager's decision. I've got a big responsibility to keep my place in the team for club and country.

"If I do get the nod, I'll try and give as much as I can in terms of helping the team. But I think it's between Wayne Rooney and Wayne Rooney if we are going to go on experience and how captain have been chosen in the past."

Regular England captain Steven Gerrard is suspended for the Group H game against San Marino on Friday, and there are doubts over the fitness of next-in-line Frank Lampard.

Manchester United forward Rooney has captained England once before, and the Old Trafford striker has 76 caps for his country, despite being still just 26 years old.

The United forward is expected to link up with Manchester United teammate Danny Welbeck for England, as Roy Hodgson's side look to get back to winning ways after their 0-0 against Ukraine last month.

Manchester City keeper Joe Hart has been one of the stars of Roberto Mancini's team this season, and was particularly impressive against Real Madrid in the Champions League. But the England goalkeeper has been called into action more than Manchester City would like, as their normally-watertight defence has wobbled in recent weeks.

More about → City star wants United frontman to captain England Manchester United & England news: Joe Hart wants Wayne Rooney as captain.

Rooney handed England captaincy

Manchester United news: Wayne Rooney will be England captain on Friday
Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is set to captain England tomorrow in the Brazil 2014 World Cup qualifier against San Marino.

The FA have confirmed that the Old Trafford star will take the Three Lions armband for only the second time – the first was for a friendly against Brazil in 2009.

Rooney also has experience of captaining at club level, having previously worn the armband for Manchester United.

England manager, Roy Hodgson, has picked Rooney due to regular captain Steven Gerrard serving a suspension for picking up two bookings in the previous qualifier against Ukraine, while vice-captain Frank Lampard misses out through injury.

Rooney will lead the side out at Wembley in a game where England are expecting to win comfortably, as San Marino are the lowest ranked international side in Europe.

It is not the only piece of good news for the Old Trafford favourite to come in the last 24 hours, he recently revealed that he and his wife, Colleen, are expecting their second child.

More about → Rooney handed England captaincy

Pressley reveals Man United's Lithuanian defender link Manchester United transfer news: Hearts captain Marius Zaliukas almost moved to Old Trafford.

Hearts captain Marius Zaliukas came close to signing for Manchester United, reveals former Tynecastle star Steven Pressley.

The Lithuanian international first moved to Edinburgh in 2006, and recently broke the club's record for appearances made by a foreign player, having established himself as a Hearts fans' favourite.

But, it could have been a very different story for the 28-year-old defender, had Manchester United followed up their initial interest in bringing him to Old Trafford.

"Prior to him going to Hearts, Manchester United watched him on seven or eight occasions and they were very close to signing him," explained Pressley - himself a former Tynecastle captain - in an interview with sport.stv.

"I think that shows the level of player he can be. On his day I think there's no better centre back in Scotland than Marius."

His impressive performances in the SPL over the past six years will have been duly noted by Sir Alex Ferguson, after the Red Devils decided not to make an official offer for the former FBK Kaunas stopper.

"When he's fully focused and determined he is a terrific player," added Pressley, who, like Zaliukas, lifted the Scottish Cup as a Hearts player.

"He's proved over the course of his time at Hearts that he's been an excellent player and a very good captain."

With a number of injuries in central defence at the moment - most notably to captain Nemanja Vidic, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling - United are currently short on numbers, with Jonny Evans and Rio Ferdinand the first-choice pairing.

A January move for Zaliukas would seem unlikely, but the fact that he's approaching the end of his contract, means he could be available for a knockdown price when the transfer window reopens next year.

More about → Pressley reveals Man United's Lithuanian defender link Manchester United transfer news: Hearts captain Marius Zaliukas almost moved to Old Trafford.

Neymar hails 'legendary' Manchester United transfer target

                                                                  Neymar
                                                             He's a legend

Manchester United transfer news: Kaka is a 'legend' says Santos star Neymar
Manchester United target Kaka has been hailed as a 'legend' by Brazil teammate Neymar.

The Santos star is set to team up with Kaka for Brazil a head of their international friendlies against Iraq and Japan, and Neymar paid tribute to a player he loved to watch growing up.

The 30-year-old Real Madrid star has not been selected for Brazil since the 2010 World Cup, but won a recall to the squad after a series of impressive performances for the La Liga champions.

And Neymar can't wait to play in the same team as Kaka.

"He's a legend," Neymar told reporters. "Kaka led the national team for many years and I hope that we can play together many times.

"Playing alongside him is going to be very special, because he's a role model for this generation of players."

Kaka emerged as a transfer target for Manchester United this summer, after he reportedly fell out of favour with Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid.

Sir Alex Ferguson was believed to be exploring the possibility of bringing the 2007 Ballon d'Or winner to Old Trafford, but the Madrid star has recently begun to work his way back into the Bernabeu first-team.

Manchester United have been linked with a number of centre-midfielders, most recently Kevin Strootman, and it seems unlikely that United would resurrect their interest in Kaka.

More about → Neymar hails 'legendary' Manchester United transfer target

Manchester United's back line Fantastic Tom Cleverley judge did not concede a goal in the away games is a wonderful thing.

Tom Cleverley:
Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley praised his team's back line when conquering Newcastle United in the Premier League match yesterday (7/10).

As is known, managed to silence Newcastle United at the Sports Direct Arena by a score of 3-0.

"We all knew this would be a tough match," said Cleverley.

"Starting the way we did is fantastic, not just a goal but we played very well. I think it took them 20 minutes to compensate us and we were already 2-0 up and controlling the game. We hit them on the counter-attack and I think we dominate in the second half. "

"Far from home, a clean sheet will be very huge. Besides the success of Newcastle through the penalty box, four defenders and the goalkeeper was fantastic and well worth grabbing a clean sheet."

"We know we have a sharp striker in the team and we have players who can provide feedback from anywhere. Welbeck and Wazza (Rooney) are the two main scorers last season and they still have not scored a goal, so when all the players are united I'm sure we'll keep going. "

More about → Manchester United's back line Fantastic Tom Cleverley judge did not concede a goal in the away games is a wonderful thing.

Sir Alex Ferguson: Wayne Rooney Soon 'Explode' Manchester United manager believes his favorite player will return to peak performance.

Despite failing to score a goal in five games grain first season for Manchester United, Wayne Rooney figure did not necessarily doubt his greatness.

Furthermore, the skipper United as Sir Alex Ferguson even admitted he would look at the statistics in question because it can not describe the whole story about Rooney.

Responding to 'infertility' flagship player early in the season, Ferguson believes he will be back 26 years to peak performance and present the goals for the Red Devils.

"I think Rooney will be scored instantly as soon as he found some game," Ferguson told The Telegraph.

"We know that, the track record tells you that each year he got better with the final settlement.

"I think Rooney will explode again, soon. This is just the beginning of the season, "said the Scottish manager.

More about → Sir Alex Ferguson: Wayne Rooney Soon 'Explode' Manchester United manager believes his favorite player will return to peak performance.

Manchester United Enjoy New Formation Tom Cleverley said he was happy start to score goals for Manchester United.

Tom Cleverley

Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley claimed to enjoy the new formation employed by Sir Alex Ferguson on his side.

Cleverley assess diamond formation adopted by Ferguson in recent games produced positive results.

"We played [the lineup] facing Newcastle in the League Cup and Cluj and we won three games [plus face Newcastle yesterday]. This is a great system and other things that we could use an opponent. We have lots of plans B and C, "he said.

"Two of my goals are all in Newcastle, but in general, I thought I'd get into position now goalscorer. At the beginning of the season, odds can not enter. I have swept opportunities at the goal line against Everton and in the national team, lucky me can now score goals and I hope to continue to do so. "

More about → Manchester United Enjoy New Formation Tom Cleverley said he was happy start to score goals for Manchester United.

Alan Shearer: Wayne Rooney Has Back!

Alan Shearer assess Wayne Rooney has rediscovered his best performance.

Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer assess the Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney was back to his best.

The Sun, Shearer said that while Rooney has not scored, the former Everton player is a great contribution to the victory over Newcastle United at the Sports Direct Arena.

"Wayne Rooney is a very classy game show yesterday to announce that he is back fully," said Shearer.

"He became the center of Manchester United's best game in a 3-0 win at Newcastle. This season he started with a very bad, bad play against Everton, reserved, and injury."

"Star game is Robin van Persie and Rooney's future at Old Trafford in the spotlight. But you can not restrain the ability of players like him too long."

"He came back looking fit, he was everywhere at St James Park. Helping the defense, took a pass from behind the line, is in the wings for sending a cross and Van Persie behind right in the middle."

"When he is in this mode, for me he remains one of the best in Europe. Touch, bait and energy to make Manchester United live."

"Maybe backed up against Fulham and the absence through injury to make it back in focus."

More about → Alan Shearer: Wayne Rooney Has Back!

Rooney: United Conceded Too Easy

New Castle. - Wayne Rooney says Manchester United's goalkeeper too easily conceded. According to him, this will be one of the key when the Red Devils try to win back the Premier League title this season.

United's back line is in the spotlight. The storm that hit the injury to make the squad Sir Alex Ferguson was left to live Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans to fill the position of central defender.

Previously, the United goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard and escorted David de Gea also conceded too easily when meeting with Tottenham Hotspur and CFR Cluj. That means the Red Devils had to work hard to improve the back line.

It is of concern to Rooney. "It's disturbing because we are always behind our first intrusion first goal," said Rooney, before the match against Newcastle.

Keep in mind, of the six Premier League matches this season, Ferdinand et al had conceded nine goals. Number of goals intrusion was only one goal difference from the 2001-2002 season, the then United conceded 10 goals in six games.

However, Rooney requested a bad habit is stopped. "It's something we have to stop because we can not continue to let the first miss," said the former Everton striker.

"I hope this time it does not happen against Newcastle," he said, as reported by the Times of India, Sunday

More about → Rooney: United Conceded Too Easy

Fergie: 20 Minutes United Perfect

The Red Devils retainer. (Photo: Reuters)
New Castle-Playing at St James' Park, home of Newcastle United, Sunday (07/10/2012) night local time, Manchester United were Digdaya. Tim made ​​by Sir Alex Ferguson was successfully netted three goals without reply, with Jonny Evans, Patrice Evra, and Tom Cleverly.

The coach, Sir Alex Ferguson admitted happier, the article of his team managed to secure the points perfectly in the cage opposite. "The way we have showed in the 20 minutes of the first half it was perfect," said the coach who is familiarly called Fergie, as reported by Sky Sports.

"It does feel weird because we have played good football and made ​​a lot of good things early in the game. However, two goals that we print that just came from the dead ball, "said the Scot.

Host Red Devils, The Magpies not without resistance. Through a loose ball outside the penalty box, Jonas Gutiérrez trying to penetrate the United defense, but his effort just thin on the right corner of goalkeeper David De Gea.

So even in the second interval, the team made Alan Pardew seeks to raise the intensity of the attacks. As a result, Newcastle made ​​a breakthrough in cooperation Demba Ba and Papiss Cissé, in the 50th minute, though the results are not perfect.

Based on the victory, United remain in second place with a score of 15 points, the difference of four points from the top standings while the Premier League, Chelsea. While Newcastle stuck in 10th position, which stood at nine points.

More about → Fergie: 20 Minutes United Perfect

Two-Piece Set Goals United Fruitful Twins

New castle - Manchester United's confidence soared when Newcastle United's visit to the cage tonight. In the first 45 minutes, United already 2-0 results similar procession and conversion of two defenders headed United, Jonny Evans and Patrice Evra.

Although acting as a guest team, United install first strike on the host. Seventh minute, Robin van Persie (RVP) try to take advantage of Mike Williamson guard blocking the view keeper to kick off. Lucky Steve Harper still eager to confront a chance RVP.

However, the goal of The Toon finally shake well a minute later. Jonny Evans was able to open the scoring with a header, after the use of corner posts of the RVP. Harper was originally able to achieve a flow of the ball, but his hard header Evans, continued to force the ball lodged. Score 1-0 to the Red Devils excellence.

Entering the 13th minute, United again won another chance to double the lead through Danny Welbeck feet when there was chaos. But alas, foundered after sontekannya chances wide of goal.

Newcastle have not had time to sigh, United regained the lead when the time entered in the 16th minute. Born again from a corner kick, this time released Wayne Rooney, Patrice Evra coming from the second line and escorted Demba Ba failed. Hard back header goal tore Harper and change the score 2-0 to the visitors.

Alan Pardew's side were only able to sting back, two minutes later. From a situation of a loose ball outside the penalty box, Jonas Gutiérrez efforts try which was still on the thin right of United's goalkeeper, David De Gea guarded.

The game started to seem harsh and rude, even referee Howard Webb brandish a yellow card five times, three for United (Shinji Kagawa, Rio Ferdinand, RVP) and two more pieces for the host (Cheikh Tiote and Jonas). Until the period of the break, the score remained 2-0 to excellence Fergie Boys.

More about → Two-Piece Set Goals United Fruitful Twins

Red Devils beat Magpies

Newcastle United vs Manchester United
Red Devils beat Magpies

United won a landslide 3-0 victory over Newcastle
Newcastle. Newcastle United failed to complete his revenge against Manchester United in the Carling Cup and the Premier League matchday seven last night. In fact, the host battered beaten United, three goals without being able to retaliate.

First Round
United's first terror gave the hosts early in the first half. Even the Newcastle goal is torn when a new enters the 8th minute. Jonny Evans was able to open the scoring with a header, after the use of post corner kick from Robin van Persie (RVP). Score 1-0 to the Red Devils excellence.

Newcastle have not had time to sigh, United regained the lead in the 16th minute. Born again from a corner kick, this time released Wayne Rooney, Patrice Evra coming from the second line and escorted Demba Ba failed. Hard headed goalkeeper Steve Harper tore back and change the score 2-0 to the visitors.

The host was only able to sting back, two minutes later. From a situation of a loose ball outside the penalty box, Jonas Gutiérrez efforts try which was still on the thin right of United's goalkeeper, David De Gea guarded. Prime interval was ending 2-0 to the Red Devils.

Second Round
The host tried to get up and give greater resistance in the second round. When the time of entering five minutes after the break, the Magpies struck through the action of harmful and Papiss Cisse Demba Ba.

Starting from Ba hard kick in the penalty box hit the post, Cissé seeks butting a loose ball that led to it. David De Gea tried to save the ball and the flow of the ball has crossed the goal line true when viewed back from reruns. But the linesman and the referee did not see and Newcastle failed to minimize the position.

Precisely 21 minutes later or at the 71st minute, Newcastle increasingly battered due to United's third goal with a beautiful born by Tom Cleverley. After capturing the short feedback Rooney, Cleverley wonderful kick off to conquer Harper. Absolute score 3-0 belong to the Red Devils.

Alan Pardew as Newcastle captain, try to make some changes in order to increase the power on his team through a number of substitutions. But to no avail. After a 3-0 lead, United slowed the tempo up to 45 minutes both completed. United's victory was melonjakkan position to second place, while Newcastle glued to the residence to-10 standings.

Lineup
Newcastle United: Steve Harper, James Perch, Mike Williamson, Davide Santon, Shane Ferguson / Vurnon Anita (63 '), Hatem Ben Arfa, Yohan Cabaye, Jonas Gutiérrez, Cheikh Tiote / Gael Bigirimana (80'), Demba Ba, Papiss Cissé / Shola Ameobi (63 ')

Manchester United: David De Gea, Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra, Jonny Evans, Rafael da Silva, Michael Carrick, Tom Cleverley, Robin van Persie / Ryan Giggs (87 '), Wayne Rooney / Paul Scholes (79'), Shinji Kagawa / Antonio Valencia (55 '), Danny Welbeck.

More about → Red Devils beat Magpies

Van Persie accused Judge Cabaye

Newcastle - Manchester United's new striker Robin van Persie accused of unsportsmanlike actions while defending his team to face Newcastle United on Wednesday. RVP has been accused retainer elbow to the Magpies.

This accusation leveled Newcastle manager Alan Pardew after his team was defeated 3-0 at the Sports Direct Arena headquarters on Wednesday. In the game, the Dutch striker Pardew accused intentionally committed the act of unsportsmanlike his players, Yohan Cabaye.

To that end, Pardew urged English football authorities (FA) to investigate the events that eluded the match referee, Howard Webb.

"He (Van Persie) is seen Yohan and he intentionally elbowed. Honestly, I think this incident deserves to be seen again, "said Pardew Tribalfootball quoted on Monday (10/08/2012).

"There's a little story from last season (when United lost 0-3) and I do not know if Robin is involved in it. But clearly the action is quite disgusting, "he continued.

"I believe, Yohan will not fall if he did not get any. I did not see it directly, but I watched it in reruns and it looks he (Van Persie) intentionally lifted his elbow, "he concluded.

More about → Van Persie accused Judge Cabaye