Rafael: I've become a man for Manchester United this year

Manchester United defender Rafael feels he has become a "man" a breakthrough 2012.

The 22-year-old Brazilian has been a regular feature of the United side at right-back throughout the calendar year.

Aside from an aberration at Reading earlier this month, when he was substituted after just 31 tortured minutes, Rafael has been one of the side's most consistent performers.

Rafael told the club's website, www.manutd.com: "It's been a great year for me.

"I feel like I have grown up a lot and that I am maturing.

"My daughter was born this year, which has helped me a lot in that way, and on the pitch I have been able to play a lot of games.

"So I've had a lot of good moments, not just in football, but in life this year.

"I feel more experienced and like I am growing as a player and a person.

"I was only 18 when I first came here, I was just a boy. Some people may think I am still young and still a boy but now I feel like I am man.

"Playing games week-in, week-out helps you feel more comfortable and confident on the pitch and I'm pleased I've been able to do that this season."

United lead the Barclays Premier League by six points heading into the Christmas fixtures and the team are safely through to the knockout stage of the Champions League.

Rafael, who signed a four-year contract last summer, said: "My target for 2013 is like every player - we want to win trophies.

"When you're at this club that has to be your focus - we all want to win.

"And personally I want to play as many games as I can and be consistent in my performances.

"When you get into January you know the really important time in the season is not the far away and there will be big game after big game.

"Of course, every game is important but after Christmas they become massive matches."
 
Source:man utd.com

Fergie prepares to welcome back Smalling, Young and Jones

The injury crisis crippling Manchester United will end soon with Ashley Young and Chris Smalling preparing to make welcome returns to the side.
And there's more good news for Sir Alex Ferguson as Phil Jones is on course to make his comeback after missing the start of the season due to a knee injury.
United have been beset by a huge number of injuries this term with Fergie having to field a number of makeshift defensive line-ups.

And while captain Nemanja Vidic will remain sidelined for another four weeks, it seems the club are turning a corner.
Sir Alex will be able to add Smalling and Young's names to the team sheet for the visit of Stoke on Saturday.
Smalling returned to full training last week and Young's knee complaint has now been resolved after missing the last five league meetings.
Jones underwent a knee operation last month, another setback after the back problems he suffered throughout the summer.
HIs rehabilitation has been successful and is on course be back in time to face Arsenal on November 3.
The good news comes after the United boss brought Darren Fletcher and Antonio Valencia back into the squad after spells on the sidelines.

source:Daily Mail

Nemanja Vidic urges Manchester United fans to show Liverpool respect

Nemanja Vidic has called on Manchester United supporters to set an example at Anfield on Sunday by being on their best behaviour and paying respect to the 96 Liverpool supporters who lost their lives at Hillsborough 23 years ago.
Referring to the Munich air disaster in 1958, as well as the Hillsborough tragedy, the United captain stressed "football is never more important than any life" and said it was time for both clubs to respect one another on what is sure to be a highly emotional occasion.
In the first match to be played at Anfield since the Hillsborough Independent Panel report was published last week, Vidic and Steven Gerrard, the two captains, will release 96 red balloons before kick-off as a tribute to the victims. The report cleared Liverpool fans of any wrongdoing and exposed the full scale of the police cover-up that prevented the real reasons behind the disaster from coming out before.
Sir Alex Ferguson has empathised with the families and promised Liverpool unqualified support on Sunday, although with the rivalry between the two clubs so fierce and a minority of United supporters singing anti-Liverpool songs during last Saturday's game against Wigan Athletic, there have been fears that the enmity could resurface.
Vidic, however, is confident that will not be the case. "I am aware of the sensitivity of the day. Everybody is. There is a lot of talk in the papers and the media. I think our fans will respond well," he said. "The whole country is on test in this one. All over the world they will be watching this game. It is probably the biggest derby in the world and we have to show we are capable of keeping a good atmosphere and being a good example to the kids.
"There is a lot of history with these two clubs. I think we should respect each other because we are big clubs and clubs that are respected in the world. We have to be on top of the bad situation and behave well and, I would say, be an example.
"I've been here for seven years and I think our fans always behave well and I think they will do it again. It is difficult to control all the fans but I think most of them are aware of the responsibility. On the pitch we have to take responsibility and play football. After this game everyone should be talking about the football and that's all. I hope that will be the case."
Having grown up in war-torn Serbia, Vidic said that he knows the importance of keeping things in perspective. "Football is important but it is never more important than life, any life. It doesn't matter if it's in England or Serbia or any part of the world. I think most important is that we have to respect any life and I think that we will do it on that day. We have our history and we have some tragedies as well, and we love people to respect the players [that lost their lives in Munich]. Obviously people from Man United have had tragedy and I don't think it will be different for Liverpool fans."
In an unwanted sideshow to the Hillsborough tribute and the game itself, Luis Suárez and Patrice Evra will come face to face at the ground where the Liverpool striker was found guilty of racially abusing the United defender 10 months ago.
When they came up against each other at Old Trafford in February, Suárez was widely criticised after he refused to shake Evra's hand, although the early indications are that there will be no repeat of that snub at Anfield on Sunday.
"To be fair, I don't want to think about that," Vidic said. "Obviously we want to focus on the game. We have a theme, what happened in history about the fans and we have to respect that day. Obviously we cannot come with any other issues, we just come there play football.
"If they shake hands, they shake hands – I don't think it's the most important thing in the world. I think it's important to not do any stupid things in the game, to go there and play football – what we dream of, to play that derby and to be all about the football, not about the fighting or any other things."
Kenny Dalglish will return to Anfield on Sunday for the first time since being sacked as manager in a show of support for the 96 Liverpool supporters who died at Hillsborough and the families who fought for 23 years for the truth of what happened on 15 April 1989.
Dalglish was Liverpool manager at the time of the disaster and was closely involved in the club's response afterwards, attending many funerals with his wife, Marina. The emotional toll eventually led to him stepping down as manager in 1991.
The Anfield legend has not returned to the club since his departure in May but will be in the directors' box against Manchester United as Liverpool mark the findings of the Hillsborough Independent Panel with a mosaic around three sides of the stadium and recognition of the tireless work conducted by the campaign groups.

Source:the guardian

Angelo Henriquez ready to 'improve physically'

New Manchester United signing Angelo Henriquez has stated that he will have to “improve physically” in order to stake a claim for a regular place in Sir Alex Ferguson‘s starting eleven.

The 18-year-old striker arrived at Old Trafford with a burgeoning reputation in his native Chile, where he has scored 11 goals in 17 league appearances for Universidad de Chile and 14 goals in 9 games at Under-20 international level this calender year. 

But, despite a promising start to his career, Henriquez admitted that in order to cope with the rigorous demands of the Premier League, he will have to be at the top of his game both technically and physically.

He told Radio Bio Bio: "I won't ask to be given some minutes and nor will I pretend I'm better than I really am."

"I have to go step by step. I have to adapt and improve physically."

"I'm training and looking to get an opportunity.

"There are many things I have to improve to reach the level of Manchester United."


Source:Goal.com

'He has it all' - Young hails Manchester United team-mate Valencia

Manchester United winger Ashley Young has spoken in glowing terms of team-mate Antonio Valencia, claiming that the Ecuadorian "has it all".


The 27-year-old, who arrived from Wigan in 2009, enjoyed arguably his best season at Old Trafford last term - winning the club's fans' and players' player of the year awards.

And Young has insisted Valencia fully deserved the accolades and hailed his professionalism as the reason for his success.

"Last season he had everything," he told the club's official website.
"He attacks, he defends, he can shoot, he can cross, he can pass... he has it all and that's why he scooped up everything at the end-of-season awards. It's why the players voted for him and it's why the fans voted for him.
"He's fantastic to play with. Antonio, like every other player, knows how to look after himself as well – he knows what to eat, what to drink and he works closely with our fitness coaches."
Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson was also was full of praise for the wideman and backed him to further improve this season.
"Antonio is always very professional and a great human being. I'm very happy with him," he said.
"He’s one of those players who is constantly maturing. Without doubt, his best position is wide right – he’s fantastic there."


Source:Goal.com

 

Fulham sign berbatov

Dimitar Berbatov has ended his four-year Manchester United career by signing for Fulham.
The Bulgarian striker, who arrived at Old Trafford for a club-record fee in September 2008, went on to net 56 times in 149 United appearances but found first-team opportunities increasingly limited in the past 12 months.
An artist as much as a sportsman, Berbatov delighted in making football beautiful. He took as much pleasure in setting up goals as he did scoring them, although he will probably be best remembered by United fans for a historic hat-trick against Liverpool – the first by a Red in 64 years – in 2010/11. That same season he finished joint top scorer in the Barclays Premier League.
The emergence of Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck impaired Berbatov's progress, however, and he made just half as many appearances (21) in 2012/12 as he did the previous term.
Speaking on Friday morning, Sir Alex told journalists that the striker fell foul to United's change in playing style.
"He's a very talented player and his contribution was good, particularly in home games," he said. "But when we changed our game, it didn't suit him. We started to play with more speed and teams were getting organised very quickly against us.
"Therefore, we had to change the way we wanted to play and it didn't suit Dimitar but he's a very talented player. Wherever he goes, he'll do well."

source:manutd.com

man utd 3 : fulham 2

Manchester United made hard work of victory against Fulham at Old Trafford where Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa opened their Reds accounts.

Damien Duff put the visitors into a shock early lead before a cracking volley from £24m man Van Persie drew United level.

The dominant Reds roared into the lead through Kagawa's tap-in and Rafael's header before the break, but anyone who thought a victory stroll would follow was mistaken.

A mix up between David de Gea and Nemanja Vidic led to an own-goal from the defender, and De Gea had to save sharply from Moussa Dembele to secure the three points.

And there was a late worry for United when Wayne Rooney sustained a nasty-looking cut to his leg late on.


source:mirror

Rooney out for 4 weeks.

Wayne Rooney faces four weeks on the sidelines after the England striker needed hospital treatment on a nasty leg injury suffered during Manchester United's 3-2 win over Fulham on Saturday.

Rooney was stretchered off in the closing minutes at Old Trafford with blood pouring from a deep thigh gash sustained when the United star collided with Hugo Rodallega's boot as he tried to a block a shot from the Fulham striker.

Television pictures showed a severe cut down Rooney's right leg and United manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the injury was serious enough to keep him out for at least a month.

"It was a very bad one. He has gone to hospital. It looks like he will be out for four weeks," Ferguson said.

Unless Rooney makes a quicker than expected recovery, the forward will miss United's Premier League games against Southampton, Wigan and Liverpool, as well as the club's opening Champions League group fixture.

The injury is also a blow for England manager Roy Hodgson, who will have to plan without Rooney for his side's opening two FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Ukraine next month

source:fifa.com

Boss: Reds showed both sides

Sir Alex Ferguson felt Manchester United gave a Jekyll and Hyde performance in registering a first win of the new Barclays Premier League campaign.
The boss was delighted with the way his players responded to going 0-1 down to Damien Duff's early strike and swept into a comfortable 3-1 lead at half-time with the threat of more goals to come. But the second half was a let-down by comparison, especially after the visitors reduced the advantage when Matthew Briggs' left-wing cross appeared to be knocked in by Nemanja Vidic. And had David De Gea not denied Bryan Ruiz deep into tense injury time, two points would have been dropped.
"I think we saw the two sides of Manchester United," Sir Alex admitted on MUTV. "After cruise control, we made a terrible mistake for the second goal and it became a match. It should never have been a match, some of our football was fantastic. But we lost that second goal when we should have been in easy street.
"Fulham tried to slow the tempo of the match down. They do it very well because they've got several players over 30 years of age, they're a very experienced team. After their second goal, we struggled."
As for the positives, Sir Alex saw plenty in the opening 45 minutes when home debutants Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa - working in tandem with the latter playing off the former Arsenal striker - both scored their first goals for United.
"I was pleased with both of them," said Sir Alex, "It's early doors and they'll have a better understanding as time goes on.
 "It's normal for us to play one up front with one in behind, whether it's Wayne who plays in that role or Danny Welbeck. Ashley Young can play there too, Ryan Giggs can... we've got options that way.
"The first-half performance was fantastic. The intensity of our game was terrific. It was a fantastic goal by Robin van Persie and by half-time we were leading 3-1, it could have been four or five."

source:manutd.com

Welbeck signs new four-year contract with Man United

Danny Welbeck has signed a new four-year contract at Manchester United which keeps him at the club until at least June 2016.
The Longsight-born striker, 21, has made 64 appearances for United, scoring 17 goals since his debut against Middlesbrough in the League Cup in September 2008.
Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted to have secured the striker's services for another four years.
"Danny has been with the club since he was eight years old and has made fantastic progress in the last couple of years – first out on loan and last year as a regular in the first team," the manager told ManUtd.com. "He has become an important player at international level as well, as the maturity of his performances at the European Championships showed. This year is another important one for him. He has a bright future ahead of him.”
Welbeck himself added: “Playing for United is all I’ve ever wanted to do – it’s the club I’ve supported all my life. I can’t wait for the challenge of the new season to play my part in helping the team compete for trophies. I’m learning all the time from the best manager in the game and I’m keen for that to continue alongside the world class players in the squad.”

source:man utd official website

Alexander Buttner joins Manchester United

Manchester United have bought the left-back Alexander Buttner from Vitesse Arnhem.
Buttner, 23, has been bought by Sir Alex Ferguson as cover for Patrice Evra, with Fabio Da Silva on loan at Queens Park Rangers.

Buttner told Dutch regional TV station Omroep Gelderland he was thrilled to be making the "dream" move to United.
"This is really a dream come true," he said. "It was all arranged very quickly and of course I am very delighted. Happily everything is coming to an end."

Buttner said: "I'm travelling to Manchester this evening [Sunday] and I'm very delighted that such a big club bought me."

Mourinho: Matching Fergie is mission impossible

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho says that following the success of Sir Alex Ferguson with the La Liga champions would be very difficult.

The veteran Scot has been in charge of the Red Devils for over 25 years, however, the Portuguese does not believe that he will match his counterpart's record while at the Spanish capital.

Asked about his personal aspirations, the Portuguese said that he was focused on the next four years at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"Copying Ferguson is difficult. Mission impossible. That is because I won't be here for 79 years. I signed here for four years, and if we signed it, we signed it to do so," he explained to AS.

sorce:goal.com

Man Utd face defensive crisis

Manchester United faces defensive crisis as Rio Ferdinand out for atleast one month due to groin injury.Which means the manager use Michael Carrick as centre back alongside Nemanja Vidic.

The former England captain is understood to have suffered the injury during training on Friday. United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is already stretched in defence for the trip to Goodison Park, as he is without Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans.

Evans has not played all summer after ankle surgery, although he is close to a return. Smalling is out until mid-October following an operation on a broken metatarsal, while Jones - who has been troubled by back spasms - has been told by United's medical team to rest for a month.

Manchester United officially completed van persie deal

 

Robin van Persie has completed his £24m move from Arsenal to Manchester United.
The Dutch striker, 29, has signed a four-year deal and could make his debut at Everton on Monday.
He said: “It’s an honour to sign for Manchester United.
“I am looking forward to following in the footsteps of so many great strikers, bringing my experience and playing my part to help the team compete for the biggest trophies in the game. I can’t wait to get started.”
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said: “Robin is a world-class striker with a proven record in England and in European football.
“His talents need no introduction to our fans. He has scored a number of goals against us in some classic battles with his former club. His movement, finishing and all-round ability are outstanding.”
SOURCE: BBC

Official:United agree van Persie deal

Manchester United is pleased to announce it has reached agreement with Arsenal Football Club for the transfer of Robin Van Persie.
The deal is subject to a medical and the agreement of personal terms. A further announcement will be made in due course.

source:man utd official website

Henrique want united success.

Manchester United's latest signing Angelo Henrique insist he is determined to make the most of his opportunity on such a grand stage.

The 18-year-old successfully completed his medical at Old Trafford on Tuesday and was scheduled to meet with Sir Alex Ferguson to sort out his short-term future.
There are several options available to Ferguson, who could allow the teenager to remain with the Red Devils, loan him to an English club or send him back to his present team Universidad in Chile.
United are yet to confirm the full details of their swoop but Henriquez has admitted to being surprised by the speed of the deal.

"I am super happy to get to Manchester United. I'm fulfilling a dream," he said.
"I am going where I wanted. You look on television and see the outstanding players, scoring spectacular goals. I cannot waste this opportunity. It is not clear what will happen with my future.
"I want to play in the first team of Manchester United. That's my first thought.
"If they decide to send me on loan, I would prefer to continue at Universidad, although I will do whatever United deem appropriate."

Why the future of England national team depend on Manchester United.?

Manchester United is the only club in the premier league that is giving more importance to the england players.Unlike the big spenders like manchester city and chelsea,manchester united are dedicating talented young players to the england national football team.

United have talented young players come from their academy such as tom cleverly,danny welbeck,will keane,michael keane etc.And the manger bring the likes of nick powell(the future prodology),chris smalling,phil jones to man utd.

On the other side,they have experienced players like Wayne Rooney,Michael Carrick,Ashley Young,Rio Ferdinand and Paul Scholes.

This will be a great season for tom cleverly without a doubt.He is one of the youth product and performed well in the start of the 2011-12 season.Due to the bad injuries,he lost the further season and playing time with the club.But he return in style with Great Britain in Olympics and showed a consistent above average performance with the team.This will be a huge boost to Manchester united Midfield this term.We are awaited to see the next Paul Scholes in action soon.

Danny Welbeck is next future england striker after Rooney.He showed his potential at man utd last term and england in the euro 2012.And also he is developing very faster and making very good striking partnership with wayne rooney which will surely benefit the club and the national team.

Chris Smallling and Phil Jones will play a huge role in the defence of the team.Smalling proved that he is a good central defender who can replace Rio Ferdinand in the team.Phil Jones is a versatile player who can play in defence and midfield according to the likes of the manager.The former fulham players will have excellent future in the club.

If we look into teenage players,man utd have nick powell,will and michael keane in the club.Nick powell is just 18 year old but is proved as a great midfielder in the crewe alexandra.The manager worked hard and beat the likes of manchester city,arsenal and everton to bring him to the club.Will keane is the next Wayne Rooney who represented england in under 16,under 17,under 19and under 21.Michael Keane is the Reserve team player of the year 2011-12 and is a good defender and played a part role in the pre season friendly.

Hope these establishing young players will benefit Manchester United for further success and England National Team.

Arsenal and Manchester United making progress over Robin van Persie transfer

United indicated that they were ready to improve their initial bid of around £12 million, which was rejected, and, while the two clubs remain apart in their valuations, they were locked in talks on Tuesday night.

United are understood to be Van Persie’s preferred destination but they are reluctant to spend more than £15 million on someone who is 29 and has a mixed injury record.

Arsenal have made it clear that they want at least £20 million for their captain and star player but there is now a hope that, with add-ons, agreement could be reached on a compromise deal.

Van Persie, meanwhile, has been warned that he can expect to be booed at the Emirates on Saturday if he has not been sold by Arsène Wenger before their Premier League opener against Sunderland.

Although there are doubts about his match fitness, the expectation is that Van Persie will be included in the Arsenal squad if no deal has been completed

It would be a tense and awkward occasion, however, after Van Persie openly criticised Wenger’s strategy earlier this summer in publicly outlining why he would not sign a new contract.
Samir Nasri played in Arsenal’s first home game of the season in similar circumstances last year but, even though he did eventually join Manchester City, he did not first go public with his desire to leave.
“There will be elements that will boo Robin van Persie at times and the boos do overwhelm everything else,” said Mark Brindle, a spokesman for the Arsenal fans’ group Red Action.
“I think the reaction will be varied and it will be interesting to see what is now said in the captain’s notes in the programme. I think his statement was objectionable.
"I can’t understand people who are disloyal, especially when people have been loyal towards them, but gone are the days when I worry about any one individual player.
"I think most players are mercenaries. If he plays and scores I will cheer because he is scoring a goal for Arsenal.
“If he does go to Manchester United, I’m afraid he will always be seen in the same bracket to most Arsenal fans as Ashley Cole and Samir Nasri. I couldn’t understand his statement.
"He suggests he wants more signings, but who? They have spent this summer on three good players. Does he think we can get Messi?”
Van Persie can expect to more than double his salary at Arsenal if he does move to Manchester United.
Manchester City also retain an interest but Roberto Mancini, the manager, has been told that he must ease the wage bill before signing another striker.
“He’s a great player,” said Vincent Kompany, the Manchester City captain. “He’s proved it so many times last season and any team he would play for he’d make it stronger.

source: the telegraph

Manchester United Complete £4m Deal to Sign Chilean Hot-Shot Angelo Henriquez

Long term Old Trafford target completes medical.

Chilean striker Angelo Henriquez has completed his medical ahead of a move to Manchester United.
The deal to take Henriquez from Universidad de Chile to Old Trafford has been in place for some time and the 18-year-old is set to seal the switch.
Sportsmail revealed in June that he was closing in on a switch to Old Trafford.
The teenager spent around three hours at Bridgewater Hospital in Manchester on Tuesday and the transfer will cost in the region of £4million.
SOURCE: Daily Mail

Sir Alex Ferguson has apparently been monitoring Henriquez for a few years now and have now won the race for his signature.
18 year old Henriquez is considered by many as one of the hottest prospects in South American football and his introduction to the Universidad de Chile first team would appear to suggest that the young Santiago born forward has a bright future.
Henriquez netted 11 goals in 17 league outings for Los Azules and this has led to a number of Europe’s ‘elite’ scouting the starlet and Man United may well have stolen a march on their competitors.
Ferguson has made picking up young talents from around the globe something of a habit in recent seasons, perhaps feeling that such a transfer policy is more cost effective and sensible than splashing huge sums on established stars.
The Man United boss has brought in the likes of David de Gea, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Javier Hernandez and seen them make instant first team impacts and may well look to Henriquez to do likewise if a deal can indeed be completed.

Rocking Roo happy with pre-season, but uncertain if United can land title

Wayne Rooney hopes to put the heartache of losing the Barclays Premier League crown on the final day to rivals City behind him, but refuses to speculate on the destination of the title this term. 
United had the title wrestled from their grip by City last season, with Sergio Aguero's last-gasp goal sealing the top-flight crown for Roberto Mancini’s side.
Rooney is pleased with the new additions to the squad at Old Trafford and was impressed with his team-mates performance in the 4-3 friendly win over Hannover.

But predicting United lifting their 13th Premier League title in May is too much to ask at this early stage.
He said: 'I don't know. Obviously everyone has their opinions. Some people think City, some people think United, some people think Chelsea.
'I'm not really going to get into that but we're working hard to try to win the title back anyway so hopefully we can do that.
'Obviously it's (last season) not something you want to look back on, when we've won leagues in the past we've looked forward to the upcoming season and if we haven't won it then we’ve been looking forward to the season coming up.
'It's a big disappointment but we have to move on.'
Sir Alex Ferguson’s side completed their pre-season schedule in Germany with Rooney playing in a deeper role along with new signing Shinji Kagawa and Tom Cleverley - who was restricted to just 15 appearances last season due to injury.
Rooney was pleased with the result, his performance and heaped praise on Kagawa and Cleverley. 

He said: 'It was alright. Obviously it's nice to score but the most important thing is the 90 minutes and the game, so that was good for me. At times we played some great football and sometimes we were a bit sloppy, but I think that's always going to happen in pre-season games.
'I played with Kagawa and Tom Cleverley in there as well and the three of us linked up really well I thought, at times anyway. Tom was a big miss for us last season. Obviously now with the Olympics he's up to speed, he's got his fitness and he will be an important player for us this season.
'Kagawa's been great. He's a great signing for us and I'm looking forward to playing with him in the season. I feel good. A lot of hard work in training, obviously it's the games what count and it was nice to have the 90 minutes.
United begin their Premier League campaign away at Everton on Monday evening, hoping to avenge last season’s stunning 4-4 draw between the sides which massively dented United’s title challenge.

He added: 'Obviously a big disappointment for us that game and you can argue that that was the game which cost us the title. But it's a new season and it's important to start well and it’s always a tough game so we will have to be at our best to beat them.
'It's a big game for us. It’s important to try to get off to a good start in the first game so it will be a good time to do that. I still have connections with Everton but the most important thing is for Man United to try to go there and get three points. That’s what we’re aiming to do.'

Cleverley ready

Tom Cleverley relished his chance to start in Manchester United's 4-3 friendly win over Hannover after returning from the Olympics with Team GB.


The 23-year-old missed long stretches of last season due to injury problems after breaking into the United first team in a promising start to the season, and was pleased to get some games over the summer.

"I've been away for a few weeks now but to come back into a good game in a good stadium and be playing with the world-class players we've got only helps your game, so it's good to be back," the midfielder told MUTV.

"I think the Olympics has been good for me. I've got six games under my belt including the two friendlies so I feel 100 per cent. I'm happy and looking forward to the season."

United's assistant manager Mike Phelan in turn praised his performance against Hannover, and highlighted the benefits of featuring Cleverley in the match alongside fellow Team GB member Ryan Giggs.

"I thought Tom looked very, very sharp," he commented.

"He's played quite a few games for the GB team so he's probably ahead of schedule in some respects.

"Ryan probably needs to feel his way through it a little bit more, but Tom played a very, very good game for us." 

Mancini: Manchester United are the favourites for the title

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has stated that he think rivals Manchester United are the favourites for the Premier League title going into the new season.

The two clubs went head-to-head for most of last season and took the race right down to the final game of the season, with Sergio Aguero's 95th minute winning strike against QPR deciding the destination of the league crown.

However, ahead of the new term, the Italian boss believes Sir Alex Ferguson's side will be the team to look out for.

"I think United are the favourite team this year,” he told reporters.
“I am confident with my players because we won the league and also because last year we beat a fantastic team like United“But you do need to improve at every level. We are a young team and we need to get better, every month, every year."With the season's traditional curtain-raiser against Chelsea in the Community Shield just days away, Mancini is nursing a few selection headaches ahead of the game, with the likes of Mario Balotelli and David Silva still requiring rest and Gareth Barry and Micah Richards consigned to the treatment table.

"Mario [Balotelli] and David [Silva] have had a busy summer, they need more time. They will probably be on the bench," he added.

"[Micah] Richards, I think will be out for just this game, he has a small ankle problem. Gareth [Barry], I don’t know. I hope that maybe three or four weeks, or one month, but I don’t know.

Michael Carrick: David De Gea keeps improving

The 21-year-old shot-stopper moved from Atlético Madrid to the Red Devils in a reported £17m deal last summer, with Sir Alex Ferguson viewing the Spain Under-23 international as a long-term replacement for Edwin van der Sar.
De Gea, who had made 84 appearances for Atlético before his move to England, made an indifferent start to his career at the Old Trafford, with a string of high-profile errors resulting in plenty of criticism for the United goalkeeper.
However, Carrick has been impressed by De Gea’s strong character and noticeable improvement and is backing the Spaniard to continue his progression over the coming months.
“David just keeps getting better,” Carrick told United’s website. “We knew he would. The manager has shown great faith in him and he’s getting stronger and stronger.
“His distribution is fantastic and he makes saves at good times. I’m sure he’ll continue to do that.”
Carrick was omitted from Roy Hodgson’s England squad for Euro 2012, me
aning the former Tottenham midfielder was able to participate in a full pre-season campaign for the Red Devils.
“I’ve had four games and now that half a game so it’s lot of minutes under my belt,” he added. “I’m feeling really good.

Olympic experience 'amazing' for Rafael

Manchester United full-back Rafael hopes his Olympic experience helps Premier League audiences look at him in a slightly different way.

The 22-year-old has helped drive Brazil towards a Wembley showdown with Mexico tomorrow.

Victory will earn the world’s most successful international side their first Olympic title and confirm Mario Menezes is on the right track towards a triumphant 2014 World Cup, which Brazil will host.

After his performances over the past fortnight, Rafael should be part of those plans.

“This is an amazing experience for me,” said Rafael.

“It is good that the coach will maybe think about me for the 2014 World Cup.

“Also, maybe the people in England will think about me differently if we win the tournament.

“It is always good to win medals. This tournament is good for my career.”

Rafael’s problem is the current Brazilian squad defend in the same manner as they have always done; slightly erratically, concentrating more on exerting pressure on their opponents rather than worry about keeping them out.

It doesn’t quite translate onto the Premier League stage, which is why the youngster has not been able to properly build on an outstanding first full season at United, which ended with a starting spot in the 2009 Champions League final defeat to Barcelona.

Sir Alex Ferguson remains convinced Rafael can reach the top. And he is one of those who has been in touch during the competition.

“I have spoken with Anderson a few times and I have also spoken with the boss. They both wished me good luck for his competition,” said Rafael.

Brazil’s march to the final means Rafael will not be involved in any of United’s pre-season games.

Indeed, even after tomorrow’s game he has an additional international commitment, against Sweden in Stockholm on August 15.

After that though, it is back to the Premier League, when he might be needed to shore up a United defence for the opening trip to Everton already looking like it will be badly affected by injury.

“There are only a few days between the final and the first game of the season but this is normal for football players,” he said.

“You often have to switch between competitions.

“I enjoy my life more like that. I like to play football. It is good.”

Rooney warned City

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has told Manchester City that defending the Premier League title is more difficult than winning it.

City pipped their derby rivals to last season's title in dramatic fashion, winning their first league championship since 1968.
United have won four Premier League titles with Rooney, twice as defending champions, and the England star has warned Roberto Mancini's men they will be the team everyone wants to beat this season.
"It'll be a different situation for them, something they've never experienced before but we know about it," Rooney said.
"We know all about it when you're trying to defend your trophy. We know that over the years, everyone has tried to raise their game when they play against Manchester United.
"Now obviously City are champions they'll have to face that. Sometimes it can be more difficult."


City's last-gasp victory over QPR meant United ended a season empty-handed for the first time since 2004/05.
But Rooney is confident United, who start the season against his former club Everton on 20th August, can put that final-day disappointment behind them and regain the Premier League crown.
"I'm not sure we need any more motivation but to lose that way was difficult for us to take," he said. "It's a good chance for us now to bounce back from that.
"We know how hard you have to work to try to win it back but hopefully come the end of the season we'll have it back.
"City have got some great players. Chelsea have spent a lot of money, so it'll be a close-run thing.
"But this is our chance to show everyone we are a good team and we're capable of winning the league. That's obviously our aim this season.
"Ending the campaign without a trophy is a rare thing for United. But we felt we were unlucky in the league.
"We know we let ourselves down in Europe. That's something we've had to think about. I'm sure we'll be a lot better this season.
"Our first aim will be to improve on last year and we can do that. It's a big season for us after last season and we all need to be ready for it."

Wayne Rooney would welcome Arsenal striker Robin van Persie at Manchester United

United are leading the race fo sign the Holland international and Rooney would welcome him at Old Trafford.

"Of course he's a player that I admire," Rooney said in the Daily Mirror.

"He's a fantastic player. He's been amazing for Arsenal over many years. Last season was probably his best season of all. He scored a lot of goals. If he does come here he would be a great addition to the squad."

Asked if he and Van Persie could play together, Rooney added: "I'd like to think so - but you'd have to ask the manager about that.

"There's a lot of forwards here already with myself, (Danny) Welbeck, Chicharito and (Dimitar) Berbatov, who's still here. So there's a lot of forwards fighting for a place

United ready for flotation

Manchester United will be confirmed as one of the world's most valuable sports teams when they kick off their stock market flotation on Thursday.

The club, bought by the Glazer family in 2005 for about £800million, will offer 16.7million shares, equal to a 10 per cent stake, which are set to price at between 16 and 20 US dollars (£10-12) before listing on the New York Stock Exchange on Friday.
United, who claim to have a global fanbase of about 660million and have won a record 19 English league titles, would be valued at £2.1billion at the top range.
The US-based Glazer family, which is set to make about £90million from the flotation, failed to garner sufficient demand in previous efforts to sell shares on exchanges in Hong Kong and Singapore.
Analysts at data provider Morningstar told the Financial Times that 10 US dollars (£6) a share would be a fair value, adding: "Shares could trade at a significant premium to our fair value estimate if the market values the soccer team in line with other successful sports franchises."
The remaining proceeds raised in the initial public offering (IPO) will be used to pay down some of the 134-year-old club's debt, which was last reported to be around £423million.

Sir Alex awaits response.

Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted that Manchester United’s attempts to sign Arsenal’s Robin van Persie have stalled
The Gunners skipper has just 11 months left on his contract at the Emirates Stadium and has publicly refused to sign a new deal.
Manchester United, Manchester City and Juventus have all seen bids rejected for the Netherlands striker, 29, but City and Juve have since pulled out of the race leaving the Old Trafford club as front runners.
“We’ve made a bid, they [Arsenal] have been trying to negotiate with other clubs,” United manager Ferguson told the BBC.
“I don’t have a gut feeling about it. We can’t get a breakthrough with Arsenal.”
Ferguson did not say if United had increased their original offer but it is understood that Arsenal are holding out for in excess of £20m for Van Persie, who scored 30 Premier League goals last season.
“I don’t know what Arsenal’s thoughts are because they’re not giving anything away,” continued the Scot.
“It’s difficult to say why they’re operating this way. I can’t give you any more information. We just have to persevere.
“We are trying our best and hopefully it will come our way but there’s no progress at this moment in time.”

Another target missed.....

United miss out on Brazilian wonder kid.

Manchester United have missed out on the signing of Brazilian sensation Lucas Moura after PSG completed a £35m for the 19-year-old.
Lucas will make the move to Paris is January 2013 after his current club Sao Paulo’s Copa Libertadores campaign.
United have been linked with the winger all summer but baulked at Sao Paulo’s £35 million valuation and their highest bid of £27.5 million was rejected by the Brazilian outfit.
The Ligue 1 club have already signed Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva from AC Milan and Ezequiel Lavezzi from Napoli, with Lucas’ acquisition taking their summer spending to over £120 million.
PSG said in a statement: “Paris Saint-Germain and Sao Paulo FC have reached today an agreement for the definitive transfer of Lucas Rodriguez Moura Da Silva.
“The player and Paris Saint-Germain have also signed an agreement from January 2013 to July 2017.
“The player will join Paris Saint-Germain and his new teammates in January 2013 for the second half of the season 2012/2013.
“By signing a young talent of the quality of Lucas Rodriguez Moura Da Silva, Paris Saint-Germain is already preparing the future.”

No Moura medical request

The highly-rated 19-year-old has attracted the attention of several clubs in Europe this summer and it is understood that Manchester United are in pole position to secure his signature.
However, Brazil's FA (CBF) has dismissed reports of Moura being given permission to undergo a medical with United.
"We haven't received any request from an English club regarding that," the CBF told Globo Esporte.
"In case we do receive such a request, we won't allow the player to leave Brazil's training to undergo the medical."
Moura's agent, Wagner Ribeiro, has also insisted it is too early to talk about the player completing a transfer anywhere.
He said: "I don't talk about factoids. This news about the selling of Lucas is not true."

Sao Paulo maintain that no talks are currently taking place over a proposed move as they look to hold on to the winger, although they admit it would be wrong to rule out a departure. Vice-president Joao Paulo de Jesus Lopes told Lancenet: "He will certainly return to Sao Paulo.
"There is no negotiation going on. As we have already said it's very hard for him to leave during the current transfer window.
"We have no interest in selling him but Sao Paulo are not stupid. We know that in certain situations you can't say no.
"But such kind of offer hasn't come yet."

Mancini cools RVP talk

Van Persie, who will celebrate his 29th birthday on Monday, has told Arsenal he will not sign a new contract leading to a three-way battle for his signature between City, United and Serie A champions Juventus.
Juve have already suggested that Van Persie is out of their reach, and with Mancini also distancing himself from a deal for the Netherlands international it could be that, as reported by the British press on Sunday, he will sign for United this week for a fee in the region of £20 million.
When asked about a move for Van Persie, Mancini told Sky Sport Italia: "Van Persie? No, I don't think he will come here."
Lucas Moura is tipped to join Shinji Kagawa and Nick Powell as United's summer signings, and if Van Persie arrives too boss Sir Alex Ferguson will consider it a productive summer in the transfer market.
Sir Alex did not travel with the United squad for the pre-season match against Valerenga on Sunday, suggesting he was keen to stay at home and finalise transfers. He has always been keen to add the personal touch to make sure he gets his targets.
Mancini also said it was unlikely striker Edin Dzeko would get his wish of a move away from the club, who has been linked with Juve himself.
"I'm pleased, as this means we have good players, but it's pretty unlikely he will leave," said Mancini. "He is right to say it's no fun being on the bench, but when you join a big club then competition is normal."

Rafael and Fabio:The Full Back's of Future

Rafael and Fabio da Silva both made their debuts for Man United on the 4th of August 2008 in a friendly against Peterborough. Both were equally impressive to fans, neutrals and critics alike. Since then Rafael has gone onto establsih himself as United’s first choice right back while Fabio move temporarily to QPR on season long loan to gather more first team experience.

In the first few games I watched with both Fabio and Rafael playing it was clear to see that they were both very talented, full of energy, good defensivley and, as expected from Brazilians, loved to join in the attack too. I made up my mind early on that Fabio was the more talented of the two. I felt that only a few things seperated them, they are identical twins after all, but for me Fabio seemed a lot more composed on the ball and more importantly didn’t dive in as quickly as his brother.

However, Rafael has so far made 63 appearances but Fabio has only made 22. The question I want to explore is this because of talent or situation? Rafael came to United at a good time. Gary Neville was struggling with injuries. Wes Brown and John O’Shea were performing well but lacked the same vim and vigour that Rafael possessed in joining the attack. This season all 3 have been blighted by injuries and Rafael has made the position his own with some excellent performances and is well and truly establishing himself as one of the Premier Leagues best right backs.

Fabio though has been playing quite regularly for the Reserves. He is being deployed sometimes in midfield as well. His class is there for all to see. He gets stuck in, passes well and chips in with a few goals too. In fact even if he is playing left back it is not a rare sight to see him ending up in the centre forwards position looking to score. This is never an issue positionally as both he and Rafael have a boundless energy supply that means they could nearly sprint for the full 90 minutes!

Rafael has had an excellent season in 2011-2012. He has cemented his position in the team and twice kept the supposed “amazing” Gareth Bale quiet.The only bad note was his sending off against Tottenham but this was a bad decision from the referee rather than a fault against Rafael. Rafael, at this point in time, would go into the team before his brother as he now has a lot more experience. He has taken advantage of injuries and his performances merit the right back spot that he is making his own.

Hopefully we will see a lot of them in future years!

Cleverley and Sturridge will benefit from Team GB Olympic experience - Pearce

Stuart Pearce has claimed that Daniel Sturridge and Tom Cleverley will benefit from the experience they gained with Team GB at the London Olympics. 

The duo played key roles in Great Britain's run to the quarter-finals before being knocked out on penalties against South Korea on Saturday.

However, Pearce has been impressed by the youngsters and feels they have a big future on the international stage with England.


"I certainly think they'll be around the squad," Pearce told Sky Sports News.
"The way [Tom] Cleverley can handle the ball and with [Daniel] Sturridge's eye for goal, they're two individuals who can be in and around the senior England team. That's my opinion.
"They've both benefited from this tournament and they'll go back to their clubs, Man Utd and Chelsea, with something to prove.
"The more time you spend at tournaments and the more games you play, the more experience you pick up.
"It's been a fantastic experience to be fair. The more experience these players have, the better.
"In two years' time, the likes of [Jack] Butland and Sturridge could be in Rio taking a penalty or facing a penalty, so there's that experience straight away.
"It's been great for all of us and for the likes of Steven Caulker and Tom Cleverley, they've put themselves in the shop window, both for their club and for their country.
"These are just one or two individuals who have benefited from the tournament, but I think all 18 will have done in different ways."
 

Valerenga 0-0 Manchester United

Manchester United played out a 0-0 draw against Valerenga at the Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo in a match notable for the return of Nemanja Vidic to the Red Devils' defence.

 Danny Welbeck was twice denied by goalkeeper Gudmund Kongshavn in the first half, while Antonio Valencia drove a shot narrowly wide after the break.

Sir Alex Ferguson (who was not at the game) will have been most pleased, however, to see his captain come through an hour of football unscathed after several months on the sideline with a knee injury sustained in December.

United named a strong side for the clash as Mike Phelan took over first-team duties, with Rio Ferdinand reunited with Vidic at centre-back. Valencia and youngster Michael Keane started in the full-back positions, while Wayne Rooney partnered Welbeck in attack.

Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick quickly took control of the ball in the centre of the park, frequently seeking to send the ball into the wide areas where, on the right, Valencia and Nani were linking up to good effect.

Valerenga, though, went closest in the opening 20 minutes, with Serbian midfielder Bojan Zajic releasing a 25-yard shot that swerved across goal and narrowly wide of Anders Lindegaard's left post.

United looked more penetrative after Ashley Young moved to a central position behind Welbeck around the 20-minute mark, with Rooney retreating to the left of midfield. The former Aston Villa man latched on to Nani's cut-back cross but saw his low shot blocked.Space continued to open up on the wings but the Red Devils could not take advantage of the crossing opportunities presented to them, with two deliveries aimed at the back post by Young the closest Ferguson's team came to breaking the deadlock.

Rooney found the space outside the box to pick out Welbeck's dash across goal with a cross as half-time approached, but the striker could not keep his flicked header down.

The pair combined once more to engineer a neat one-two on the edge of the box only for Welbeck to lose control of the ball as he advanced towards Kongshavn, who rushed out of his six-yard box to smother.

The goalkeeper was to deny Welbeck on two more occasions before the end of the half with a couple of outstanding individual moments. First, he produced a stunning reaction save to beat away the striker's powerful first-time shot from Nani's reverse pass, repeating the feat to palm away a shot to his right after Welbeck had been sent through on goal.

Ahmed Suleiman almost gave the Norwegian team the lead against the run of play on the half-time whistle, beating Valencia to an unpredictable cross that bounced to the back of the penalty area, but the Nigerian sent his header just wide.

Substitute goalkeeper Lars Hirschfeld was immediately called into action after the break, bravely, and successfully, diving at the feet of Nani after the winger had rushed behind the Valerenga defence.Rooney, quiet for much of the match in Oslo, peeled off his marker to meet Valencia's cross a short time afterwards but could not get over the ball and headed beyond the crossbar.

Phelan introduced Anderson and Shinji Kagawa in an attempt to liven up proceedings around the hour mark, with Welbeck and Vidic making way.

United should have had a penalty when Martin Pusic fouled Nani just inside the box, but the referee judged the offence to have taken place outside of the area and Anderson's free-kick was easily claimed by Hirschfeld.

The two substitutes, Kagawa in particular, certainly added some extra impetus to United's attacking play but Anderson was left rueing his own caution when Young pulled a driven cross back across goal that the arriving Brazilian could not quite reach.

Valerenga counter-attacked on occasion and after Chuma Anene's shot was deflected wide, Rooney preserved his team's clean-sheet by clearing off the line when the forward took advantage of Lindegaard's collision with Carrick to head towards an empty goal.

It was Valencia who came as close as any United player to finding the match's opening goal, bursting forward from right-back to take on Scholes' pass before shooting just wide of the post in a manner reminiscent of his brilliant goal against Blackburn Rovers during the previous campaign.

Kagawa went on to slide a pass just beyond the reach of any of the red shirts lining up in the penalty area before substitute Javier Hernandez failed to get proper contact on Valencia's cross as Valerenga held on to deny the Red Devils victory ahead of Wednesday's marquee friendly against Barcelona.

VIDEO: Nick Powell scores first goal for Manchester United

Nick Powell has netted his first goal for United against Scunthorpe in a pre-season friendly. An impressive performance was capped with this fine finish and with SAF in attendance, it would have done his confidence the world of good as he settles in at United. The 18-year-old was bought for £4 million from Crewe this summer and looks all the part like he is going to mould into a great player. He may not be ready for first team football just yet but if there is a footballing school that is great at nurturing talent, Carrington must be it.

Giggs hails GB youngsters

eam GB lost 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw against South Korea on Saturday night, with Daniel Sturridge the unfortunate man to see his spot-kick saved at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.
The defeat saw Stuart Pearce's side eliminated at the quarter-final stage but captain Giggs, who came on as a late substitute, believes it was a positive but disappointing campaign for the team.
"Of course, it's disappointing," he said.
"Ultimately we just weren't quite good enough.
"They were well organised, and made it hard for us to play our football. Overall though, it's been a fantastic experience, one the players and the staff have enjoyed.
"It was a pleasure to play with so many talented young players. Some I knew, some I didn't, but there's a lot of talent in that dressing room.
"Hopefully they can take it back to their clubs now and have good seasons. They deserve it, because their attitudes have been brilliant.
"It's been a pleasure to play with them, to be around them, and to train with them."
Giggs identified Swansea midfielder - and reported Liverpool target - Joe Allen as someone who can use this experience to help him kick on in his career.
"I think they're all talented players, and they can all step it up even more," he added.
"Hopefully this tournament can provide that stepping stone.
"Joe is someone I took a close interest in because he's Welsh. He's such a talented player, and the way Swansea played last season was great to see. He'll go on to have a good career."
The Manchester United veteran is adamant Britain should field a football team in Rio 2016, despite coach Stuart Pearce suggesting the Olympic team is unlikely to have a future.
"I would want young players to experience what I experienced here at this Olympic tournament, and to play against good, organised teams," said Giggs.
"It can only be good for players' development and their experience. I've never experienced it before, and I'll cherish every moment of it.
"It's going to be hard, because there are a lot of sceptics out there, but within, you'll get the same answer from all the players."

Fletcher returns to training

Manchester United received welcome news with the return of midfielder Darren Fletcher for training after a prolonged absence from a bowel condition, according to The Sun.

The 27-year-old Scotland international was out of action from March to September with a viral illness.

It was later revealed that Fletcher has been suffering from ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel condition.
United gave Fletcher what they termed "an extended break from the demands of training and playing in order to afford the best chance possible of achieving full remission once again."

Fletcher is what Xavi is to Barca and was sorely missed last season, possibly costing United the title.

United were forced to recall retired great Paul Scholes to fill the vacuum.

But the heartening news for United fans is that Fletcher did some light running and ball work last week in a bid to resurrect his career, the report added.

Fletcher signed a new four-year deal with United last March, securing his place with the club until 2015.

Giggs and Cleverley out

Ryan Giggs and Tom Cleverley's hopes of an Olympic medal ended on Saturday night as Great Britain lost 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out to South Korea in the quarter-finals.
After the game finished 1-1, both United players converted their spot-kicks but Chelsea's Daniel Sturridge missed the decisive ninth penalty as Korea progressed to a semi-final against Rafael's Brazil.
Rafael earlier played the full 90 minutes as his country twice came from behind to beat Honduras 3-2 at St James' Park and book their place in the last four.
The Reds full-back will play at Old Trafford on Tuesday (19:45 BST) as Brazil take on Korea for a place in the gold medal final against either Mexico or Japan.
Korea took a deserved lead in the 29th minute against GB when Sunderland striker Ji Dong-won's swerving shot from range deceived keeper Jack Butland.
Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey equalised from the penalty spot seven minutes later following a handball, but then missed a second spot-kick before the break.
Cleverley once again looked sharp in midfield and played the entire game, while Giggs assumed the captain's armband when he replaced Craig Bellamy in the 85th minute, but couldn't conjure up an extra-time winner for Stuart Pearce's side.

Report:Manchester United Agree £30m Deal for Lucas Moura

Manchester United have agreed a sensational £30 million deal for Brazilian phenom Lucas Moura according to a report on the Daily Mail.
It is no secret that Sir Alex Ferguson is chasing the attacking midfielder's signature, but it seems he may have gotten his man after all.
"Lucas Moura will have a medical in Manchester today after travelling down last night from Newcastle for Brazil's Olympic Games quarter-final against Honduras at St James' Park," the story claims.
It also reveals that the United boss remained behind after United travelled to Norway for an upcoming friendly to complete the deal.
The news, if proven accurate, will come as a massive relief to many United fans, who have followed the long-running transfer saga with bated breath.
Although Moura still has a way to go before one could call him "world class," his potential is off the charts.
Long considered one of the finest young prospects to come out of Brazil in recent years, he is sure to play a part in his nation's home world cup campaign in 2014.
In the same report, the Mail reveals that United are not yet out of the race for Arsenal striker Robin van Persie, with a £20 million transfer mooted.
However, The Mirror are currently claiming that the Dutchman is set to perform a U-turn over his decision to leave, and is set to sensationally remain in North London.
With all of the rumours and reports surrounding United building to an inevitable climax, fans of the club will be keeping a close eye on the transfer news in the coming few weeks.
And with the start of the Premier League campaign almost upon us, the moves United make are sure to define their success this season.

Cleverley delivers for Team GB as defining Manchester United season awaits

 

Midfielder endured a hugely frustrating 2011-12 campaign, but has enjoyed a fine summer with Great Britain's Olympic side and will be looking to kick on at Old Trafford

 A year ago, Cleverley returned to Manchester United after a year at Wigan ready to be integrated into the Old Trafford first team and on the brink of making his senior England debut.

Twelve months down the road and that Three Lions cap still eludes him, while foot and ankle injuries saw his progress stutter after an exciting start to United's 2011-12 campaign.

However, Cleverley has proven his worth on the international stage this summer with Stuart Pearce's side and, with fitness on his side and the Red Devils' pursuit for a central midfielder still ongoing, the 22-year-old could yet prove pivotal this season.

Many youngsters have been given an opportunity by Sir Alex Ferguson and not many have managed to grasp it. The 70-year-old has great faith in Cleverley, backing him to eventually take the place of Paul Scholes, as he was supposed to last season before the succession of injuries limited him to just 15 appearances in all competitions, forcing the veteran playmaker out of retirement to plug the gap.

There was also misfortune for the midfielder. Called up to Fabio Capello's England squad to face Netherlands, and expected to feature, the friendly was called off due to the London riots. He was denied a debut and then failed to make it onto the pitch on the only other occasion he was called to the squad, for European Championship qualifiers against Bulgaria and Wales.

Cleverley has now returned to fitness, however, and has quickly gone about building his reputation back up with a string of fine performances for the Olympic squad.

Despite an unimpressive showing, along with the rest of the team, against Brazil in Team GB's friendly opener, the 22-year-old has come on in leaps and bounds during the tournament phase.

Other than perhaps Craig Bellamy, none have shone at the Games like the midfielder, operating as the driving force in the middle alongside cuter technicians such as Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen.

After finding his feet in the choppy waters of a midfield battle against Senegal, Cleverley was instrumental in Team GB's win over UAE, playing a part in two of the three goals and agonisingly seeing an effort rebound off both posts without crossing the line.

An instantly controlling first touch, expansive passing range and a keen sense for when to arrive in dangerous positions, Cleverley has looked energised at the Games, already displaying his attacking talents that were sorely missed from a static and clunky midfield at United last season.

Sir Alex has acted to remedy that in the transfer market, again jeopardising Cleverley's route to stardom with the Red Devils, by bringing in Shinji Kagawa and targeting Brazil's own Olympian, Lucas Moura.

There has always been a need for locally produced talent in United's side, however, and with deeper positions in midfield up for grabs, the 22-year-old may be hoping to sit behind Kagawa next season, possibly taking the place of the metronomic Michael Carrick, who is now 31.

If Cleverley can continue his current vein of form, he may return to United as the man of the moment, and 2012-13 could see him establish himself at Old Trafford to finally take his mantle among the finest ever produced at the 19-time English champions.

For now though, adding to Britain's medal tally will be the only thing on his mind 

Man United In Talks to Finally Complete £30m Signing of Brazilian Wonderkid Lucas Moura

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson clearly has his heart set on signing impressive young Brazilian international Lucas Moura this summer and the fact that the Sao Paulo man is in England competing in the 2012 Olympics gives the Scot a window of opportunity he is keen to utilize.
Having failed with earlier bids for the teenager the Old Trafford clubs are looking to try one last time to sign the attacking midfielder and this source claims that talks between the two sides are set to get underway.
The 19 year old starlet is considered one of the hottest prospects in South American football and with 15 national team caps to his name and over 100 senior appearances for Sao Paulo, Lucas Moura has already achieved a great deal and may feel the time is right to make what is something of an inevitable move to Europe, a move that most notable talents from the region will make at some point in their careers.
Though Ferguson has brought in Shinji Kagawa he may still feel the need to bring in more creativity to a midfield that is perhaps a little too rigid.
Man United lack a goal-threat from this area and Moura could well help provide a natural link between midfield and attack that perhaps Michael Carrick, Paul Scholes, Anderson and Darren Fletcher, who is still to recover from illness, are unable to provide.
That said £30m is a high price to pay for a teenager, especially one who has no European footballing experience and it seems unlikely that Ferguson will further increase his bid if Sao Paulo demand he do so.

Europe tour squad confirmed

De Gea, Lindegaard; Evra, Ferdinand, Jones, M Keane, Vidic; Anderson, Carrick, Nani, Powell, Lingard, Scholes, Valencia, Young; Berbatov, Hernandez, Kagawa, Macheda, Rooney, Welbeck
The big news is that Nemanja Vidic will soon be playing first team football once again following his full recovery after a terrible cruciate injury last season.
After the break following Euro 2012, Manchester United have plenty of familiar faces back in the squad for this leg of the tour.  Wayne Rooney, Ashley Young, Phil Jones and Danny Welbeck have all returned as well as Patrice Evra and Nani.
David De Gea will also take part in this leg of the tour after Spain were unceremoniously knocked out of the London Olympics 2012 tournament earlier than expected.
Youngsters Jesse Lingard and Michael Keane have managed to keep their places despite the return of the full squad. Lingard in particular impressed on the South African and Chinese legs of the tour, so he will be looking to build on his successes so far and try to sneak himself into the squad for next season.
The European leg of the tour will kick off tomorrow against Valarenga in Oslo.

Man United Reach Agreement to Sign Borussia Dortmund Forward Robert Lewandowski

Italian reports state that Old Trafford side have made a deal with Bundesliga side.

Italian source Tutto Mercato are reporting that Man United have reached an agreement with Borussia Dortmund to sign Polish international Robert Lewandowski next summer ahead of the 2013/14 season.
The 23 year old striker had been strongly linked with a move to Man United in the run-up to the Euro 2012 finals but no deal was reached and it appears that Lewandowski will remain at his Bundesliga side for the coming campaign. The powerfully built forward netted 30 goals last term as he helped Jurgen Klopp’s side to a domestic double.
Sir Alex Ferguson may well feel the need to beef up his attacking options having released Michael Owen and seen Dimitar Berbatov plead for a Man United exit. With Javier Hernandez struggling for form after a successful first season at the club a move for extra firepower makes a great deal of sense.
Perhaps the knowledge of having Lewandowski ‘in the bag’ is behind Ferguson’s apparent reticence at allowing Bulgarian international Berbatov from leaving this summer. The former Tottenham man will see his contract come to an end next summer, which would therefore allow further room to be made to theoretically welcome Lewandowski to Old Trafford.

Source:CaughtOffside

Premier League announces U-21s competition

The Barclays Premier League have confirmed the creation of a new Under-21 competition to bridge the gap between the academy and first team.

The first national showcase for Under-21 players will launch on August 17 when Chelsea host Manchester City and Reading visit West Ham.

Teams from 17 Premier League and six npower Championship clubs - effectively all those who applied for category one status - will be divided into three groups.

From January the sides will then be placed into three pools based on their performance, leading to a knockout stage and final.

The emphasis will be on playing Under-21 players with each team limited to just three over-age outfield players and one over-age goalkeeper.

"Each stage of a player's development is tailored to ensuring they have the best possible chance of progressing," Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore said.

"The new Barclays Under-21 Premier League addresses one of the most critical points - the transition from academy football to the highest standards in the first team.

"We believe this competitive environment, where fans can also come along to watch the next generation of Premier League and international players, will help deliver more talented home grown boys to that next level."

* National Group 1 - eight teams: Arsenal, Blackburn, Bolton, Everton, Norwich, Reading, West Brom, West Ham.
* National Group 2 - eight teams: Aston Villa, Manchester United, Newcastle, Southampton, Stoke, Sunderland, Tottenham, Watford.
* National Group 3 - seven teams: Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Fulham, Liverpool, Manchester City, Middlesbrough, Wolves.

Steven Pienaar urges Everton to resist United move for Leighton Baines

Steven Pienaar has urged Everton to resist any move from Manchester United for Leighton Baines as he looks to rekindle his potent partnership with the England international at Goodison Park.
The South Africa international returned to Everton this week for £4.5m from Tottenham Hotspur, 18 months after moving in the opposite direction for £3m as he approached the end of his existing contract. He enjoyed a successful loan spell back on Merseyside in the second half of last season and was David Moyes' priority for this summer. "I told the manager at the end of last season that I would come back if I had the opportunity and he promised me he would do whatever it takes to make it happen," said the midfielder.
Pienaar is Everton's second signing of the summer, following that of Steven Naismith on a free from Rangers, and he hopes Baines, who has been linked with United since the end of last season but is yet to be the subject of an official approach, is not among any departures required to balance the books.
"It's not up to me. It's up to the club to keep their best players but hopefully he'll stay and so will the rest of the guys. It will be important for the team," said Pienaar. "We had a good understanding in the last couple of seasons so, if he stays, it will just make everyone happy as well because we know how important he is to the entire team. He can score goals from set pieces and it's not just me who benefits from playing
alongside him. He's a vital player for the club – everyone knows it from the manager to the supporters. Let's hope and see if we can hold on to him."
Pienaar and Baines have undergone a role reversal in the past two years. In 2010 Baines repeatedly asked Pienaar to ignore Tottenham's overtures and sign a new contract with Everton; now Pienaar is appealing to the left-back to stay.
He added: "Leighton texted me a few weeks ago asking me what was happening with me but I didn't ask him about his future. I know he's had some great seasons at the club and, if he does get the opportunity to move, I think everyone will respect it. But for the club it's important to keep your best players and we all want him to stay and he knows it. It's not in our hands, though."

Man United to receive $559M from GM

Manchester United will receive $559 million under its seven-year shirt sponsorship agreement with General Motors Co.'s Chevrolet division.
Chevrolet takes over from the insurer Aon starting with the 2014-15 season. Manchester United said it will receive $70 million during the first season of the new deal.
The agreement was signed July 26 and announced Monday. The financial details were disclosed by the club on Friday in a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission as part of Manchester United's planned initial public offering of stock.
United said the payment will increase 2.1 percent annually during the deal, which runs through the 2020-21 season. In addition, the club said the agreement calls for them to receive about $18.6 million in fees in each of the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons.
General Motors announced the resignation of its chief marketing officer, Joel Ewanick, on Sunday night. Ewanick had been involved in negotiating the deal.
''Mr. Ewanick failed to meet the expectations the company set for its employees,'' spokesman Greg Martin said Friday, declining additional comment.

Juventus confirm Pogba deal

Juventus have completed the signing of Paul Pogba from Manchester United, the Serie A club announced on Friday.

The 19-year-old had already featured for Juventus in the club's 1-1 friendly draw against Benfica, prior to the official deal being confirmed.

Frenchman Pogba has signed a four-year deal which will keep him at Juventus until 2016 after his contract with the Red Devils expired at the end of last season.

"I am very happy to be here, it is a real honour," he told Juventus' website. "I have been told that there is a very good standard of play and the fans support their favourites.

"I hope they take me and support me in the same way."

Pogba, an Under-19 international for France, is a product of the Le Havre youth academy, but left the French side for Manchester United in 2009.

He made his Premier League debut against Stoke City in January 2012, but found playing opportunities limited and only lined up in three top-flight games for Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

Rio hails Scholes influence

Rio Ferdinand marvels at the enduring influence of Paul Scholes and believes United’s youngsters will have learned much from him on the DHL tour so far.

Scholes has featured in all three games and his presence in training will have benefitted the likes of Ryan Tunnicliffe, Davide Petrucci and new signing Nick Powell enormously.
The 37-year-old reversed his decision to retire in January and, having signed a new deal in May, he’ll continue to impart his experience on the side for at least another season.
Ferdinand told DHLTour2012.com: "'Sat Nav' Scholes has it all – it's a great opportunity for the young players to learn from someone who has honed his craft for years and can still do it at the top level.
"To think he had a period out and can still come back and play is phenomenal. He's a shining light for all the players to look up to. Long may he continue playing!"
Sir Alex is also thrilled still to be able to count on the midfield maestro’s services, but knows he can’t go on for ever.
"A year ago, he was coaching my Reserves team," the Reds boss said. "Now he's back playing and everybody attached to United is absolutely delighted because he's such a fantastic player.
"In the long term, trying to replace Paul is a different issue all together. It's going to be very, very difficult. To replace a great player like that would be hard for anyone."