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CONFIRMED LINE UP: United vs West Ham

Lindegaard, Rafael, Jones, Smalling, Buttner, Valencia, Anderson, Giggs, Nani, Rooney and Chicharito.






 

168 Comments

  1. WeAreUnited says:

    Rafael Smalling Jones Buttner;

    Our future back four??? or fabio in it?

    Love the line-up.

    CMON !

    PS: can’t wait to see Ando, Nani and Rooney back, also Valencia playing together with Nani. BRILLIANT. this is what we need.

    CHCIHARITOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

    11 goals in his last 13, can he continue it? can Nani become the player again.

    cmon Nani!

  2. kelvinchanpw says:

    strong line up

  3. Indian Devil says:

    Subs please

  4. woodsie says:

    like it would like raf to have a rest but

  5. ( . )( . ) says:

    Subs: Amos, Ferdinand, Carrick, Scholes, Kagawa, van Persie, Welbeck.

  6. Andromeda says:

    Strong lineup, glad to see both Nani and Anderson starting.would love to see Fletcher as well, the lad was really unlucky, I miss his warrior like spirit.

  7. Mikael says:

    We’ll probably concede a few with that back pairing but we have a good enough team to finish them off, great energy in the team i think.

    GET STUCK IN LADS!

  8. lawman10 says:

    hope nanI has now sorted his head out,
    having nanI with his head sorted will be like a new signings

  9. FletchTHEMAN says:

    Bench: Amos Carrick Rio Scholes Kagawa Welbeck van Persie

    West Ham XI Starting XI
    Jaaskelainen, Spence, Tomkins, Reid, Potts, Diarra, O’Neill, Diame, Taylor, Vaz Te, C Cole
    Bench: Spiegel, Nolan, Jarvis, Collison, Demel, Lletget, Lee

    SAF makes 10 changes from the team that faced Liverpool
    Big Sam makes 6 changes from the team that faced Sunderland.

  10. Andromeda says:

    Hope the lads stay fresh enough for white heart lane.

  11. parryheid says:

    Like I thought not particularly bothered one way or tother no risks with the players who matter

  12. alfREDo says:

    Given we’ve made 10 changes, our starting lineup doesnt half look strong.
    Good bench too in case we need to change up.
    Forza Utd!!

  13. Robbo2Keano says:

    Giggs in the middle of the park is where my attention will be, especially since he is next to ando who is just returning from injury

  14. Red4ever says:

    Hope to see the real man u now ,,,,real pace in the side which makes us deadly ,,would love to see cleverly alongside ando

  15. Andromeda says:

    BTW this formation is flexible enough that can at times be a typical 4-4-2 or more balanced 4-2-3-1..if Nani and Rooney are on the mood, then we should batter them.

  16. Indian Devil says:

    Thanks ( . )( . )

    We will win 4-1 :cool:

  17. redyank@work says:

    am i the only one who is a bit concerned? three players returning from relatively long injury breaks (ando, nani and rooney) a winger looking in poor form + other CM who is better at being an impact sub. add to this a back two pairing that hasn’t played together all season.
    don’t get me wrong, i believe we should have enough quality and but might be more nervy than we were hoping for?

  18. WeAreUnited says:

    it’s amazing to see a line-up with both Nani and valencia together , it has been a while

    My only question is, how will Nani cope the left wing? we know his thing with the right wing.

    Anyway, I have my trust in him, like always, cmon NANI!

  19. WeAreUnited says:

    @redyank

    I think you’re the only one, I see it positively, cause they have trained now really hard and have rested, so the ywill be ready.

    OF course maybe not 90 minutes, but no less than 75minutes, that’s why we have our subs, that will bring us the width.

    no problem with it.

  20. dannysoya LOVES USAIN BOLT says:

    Great to see Rooney, Anderson and Nani back. The central defence is looking a bit suspect especially Jones. It’s been AGES since he last played Centre back for us. Hopefully he does well. COME ON LADS!!! WIN THIS!!!!

  21. ididnotzeeit says:

    Love the line up. Great opportunity for Nani, Rooney and Ando to get some minutes after injury. Jones/Smalling/Buttner will be relishing the opportunity at home to defend their hearts out.

    Giggs and Rooney to pull the strings, Nani and Valencia to provide the lil’ pea’s service. 3-1 to United. Chicharito with a brace and Rooney with a penalty converted….you heard it here first 8)

  22. Arthur "Two Sheds" Jackson says:

    @ parryheid

    “Like I thought not particularly bothered one way or tother no risks with the players who matter”

    So the players in our starting XI today don’t matter? Really?

  23. Red4ever says:

    Dont worry fellas about the back 4 ,,jones is the future united captain for sure give him some time as a central defender he has been shifted far too much and injuries last season has put him back ,,,,but that guy will be world class

  24. gfunk says:

    strong line-up this, if we dont win tonight we want fuckin!

  25. Andromeda says:

    Given the strength of our frontline, wouldn’t contemplate the slightest prediction that Robin goal should come out off the bench and be our savior.a warm up game for Wayne before Tottenham clash.

  26. Dela says:

    This is about what I expected! RvP waiting on the bench to pounce if it should come to it, of course!

  27. WeAreUnited says:

    It has been a while lads, when I have anticipated a FA-cup game.

    wow, I am full of emotions for a cup.game.

    It’s like a new feeling, it has been a while.

  28. Costas says:

    Best lineup under the circumstances. Shame that Fletch has missed out once again.

  29. Red4ever says:

    What do u say guys luke shaw to replace p.evra that guy is 17 and already looking like mirror of bale ,,we should deffinately buy this guy he can be world class player we are looking for

  30. Costas says:

    Oh and welcome back Nani.

  31. parryheid says:

    Arthur Two Sheds Jackson.

    Quite a few of them yep that’s right.Bother you does it?

  32. WeAreUnited says:

    at one point this was our best line-up

    Valencia, Anderson, Giggs, Nani, Rooney and Chicharito.

    we have gone forward and our depth is crazy.

  33. Andromeda says:

    I agree with some of you regarding our weak backline but come on, give of a break!we are at oldtraford, its FA cup, we have already a magnificent attacking formation on the pitch and a very strong subs, last but not the least we have an important game on Sunday at WHL..so no worry.

  34. Always Be Closing says:

    Any links? Can’t turn the TV on here!

  35. Only1Manchester says:

    Cleverly should of at least been on the bench after that goal he scored in the first leg.

  36. Red Rooney says:

    Anyone got a working stream? Thanks guys!

  37. Andromeda says:

    @Only 1 Manchester
    There is on need to make a tradeoff gambling here, Cleverly is reserved as we need more fresh legs.as I said an eye on Sunday!!

  38. Andromeda says:

    Its a shame that I am having a night shift working time, trying to enjoy the text commentary though every now and while.

  39. santaClaus says:

    Wow , what ball to hernandez by ando ,, brilliant pass

  40. FletchTHEMAN says:

    Think this is the typical United Cup team. With an eye firmly on Spurs game.

    ROOOOONEYYYY 1-0

  41. Daniel88 says:

    BOSS GOAL

    Great pass to Chich,
    Unselfish from Chich
    Roo gets a goal

    STUNNING GOAL

  42. Costas says:

    So unselfish Chicha. Nice one.

  43. belfast red. says:

    The only thing im dreading in ths game is having to listen to andy fuckin belend for another 80 odd mins! What a h8ful abu cunt!

  44. Parry says:

    Ando’s pass to Chico, was just unbelievable. And the touch was quality too.

  45. WeAreUnited says:

    Chicharito the complete player, 15 or 90 minutes, it’s either a goal or an assist

  46. FletchTHEMAN says:

    Wayne Rooney scores his 190th career goal for Manchester United.

  47. FletchTHEMAN says:

    9th goal of the season for WR10!!! Wazzzzzaaaaaa!

  48. cruserer says:

    I case someone needs steam- http://activepl.tv/stream3.html , with English comment.

  49. OJM says:

    Fantastic goal!

    What a ball from Anderson to Chicharito. I always thought this could be a big season for Ando, but after his injury I was worried if he would show his early season form … no need to worry – take a bow lad!

    Andy fuckin Townsend questioning if it was offside – he loves a dig doesn’t he?

  50. Andromeda says:

    No way those Madrid cunts get their filthy games on our precious Mexican gem.

  51. Dela says:

    Andy Townsend saying that Chico could have been given offside, then said “would be interesting to see how it would have went if it was the other way.” or something like that. What a twat.

    Good goal :-) welcome back ando and wazza.

  52. belfast red. says:

    Wazza with knew shooting boots on to. :) . Perfect start back for him. I hope we rout these fucks! C,mon United!

  53. naroca311 says:

    How many assists does Chicharito have this season?

  54. OJM says:

    Wayne pointing to the sky after his goal – a nod to his late little sister-in-law?

  55. Hans says:

    Well done Chicharito! a perfect example of unselfishness and playing for the benefit of the team!

  56. Andromeda says:

    Anderson will be crucial to our title credential and Nani could be the missing ingredient for the second part of the season.

  57. belfast red. says:

    What a fuckin clearance! Unlucky nani! I hope he gets 1..

  58. WeAreUnited says:

    @andromeda my friend, having those two back is crucial and liek having two new signings.

    the most crucial part is that we have 3 great strikers that always when the yhave the chance scores or assists-

    just look at heir RVP rooney and chicha’s stats on scoring and assisting

  59. WeAreUnited says:

    FOUL for Nani

  60. santaClaus says:

    For our supremacy we shoud be kiiling them soon .. bit wasteful in the final third

  61. WeAreUnited says:

    that Nani-Ando combo is amazing

  62. Mick says:

    Hey any you Reds in India or round that way be aware it’s bloody freezing here! Where about 15 miles from OT and its – 3 outside!!

  63. WeAreUnited says:

    Buttnerr is doing very well, it has been a while since that amazing Wigan game, today he looks composed.

    Nani coming good, and Anderson pulling the strings. Rooney playing well and Chicha is amazing, that’s why he is a starting material in every game.

    Giggs is playing well, but those passes are bothering me, he always tries for the ace-pass, should keep it a bit more or pass it normally. Valencia doing good also, but still he seems to freeze though he is double.upped, anyway he’s playing well.

    back four is my great, I am likening, our future is granted!

    second half 2 more goals and it’s over.

  64. Costas says:

    As it turns out, it’s a good thing we have this replay fixture. It’s a good chance for Rooney and Nani to shake off their rustiness.

  65. Mick says:

    Hands up if you hate Adrian Giles…..

  66. WeAreUnited says:

    @costas

    exaclty! I think this does good for the players that haven’t played or were subs in the last game.

    I’m the happiest for our back four, that is I think for the first time with full our future stars. That pleases me the most.

    Also having Ando, Rooney and Nani back!

  67. Arthur "Two Sheds" Jackson says:

    @parryheid

    Yes, it does.

  68. RedBorneo says:

    Welcome back Nani..! Our lads playing well in first half..
    I hope our lads killing them immediately in second half.

  69. WeAreUnited says:

    I think

    we should sub Valencia, put Nani to the right and Kagawa or Welbeck to the left

  70. domunited says:

    listening to the game on siriusxm whilst at work (and following BBC commentary)… as usual our boys are putting the squeak in squeaky bum time. west ham is good value this second half.

    cmon united – and chichairto i need you to put away these easy ones, lad!

  71. belfast red. says:

    Seriously both of these commentators are a fucking joke! Its so anti United its ridiculous!

  72. Mick says:

    Time to firm up the midfield.

  73. belfast red. says:

    Sir Ryans passing has been a joy to wotch. The man is a living legend! Carrick will settle it in the middle for us. R.v.p for Rooney maybe??

  74. Phil Jones' Birdshit Streaks says:

    It’s like Nani’s never been away! *sigh*

  75. santaClaus says:

    what has happened to valencia ? will real valencia please stand up

  76. dannysoya LOVES USAIN BOLT says:

    COME ON LADS!! Finish this fucking game off FFS!!!!

  77. Mick says:

    We don’t make it easy do we?

  78. Mick says:

    FFS…..

  79. domunited says:

    a penalty at OT – bring on the conspiracy theorists….

  80. domunited says:

    ….. FFS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  81. Phil Jones' Birdshit Streaks says:

    Unfuckingbelievable

  82. dannysoya LOVES USAIN BOLT says:

    FUCK ME WAYNE!!! At least put it on target. Fucking hell.

  83. santaClaus says:

    wow that was some miss

  84. WeAreUnited says:

    It wasn’t meant to be

    because then West ham would have been robbed, let’s be honest.

  85. domunited says:

    i wouldn’t be surprised if teams start to do the “hack-a-shaq” on us and just give us penalties because we apparently are allergic to scoring from the spot.

    at least soton came back from 2-nil down to earn a draw at Stamford Bridge.

  86. belfast red. says:

    C,mon United! Shut these fucking abu commentators up please! Itv should sack these two cunts. Biased fucks!

  87. Phil Jones' Birdshit Streaks says:

    come and claim the fucking ball Anders…

  88. belfast red. says:

    Giggsy m.o.t.m has to be! Fucking immense!

  89. Phil Jones' Birdshit Streaks says:

    After all these years Paul….

  90. Phil Jones' Birdshit Streaks says:

    Yeah Giggs has been great tonight

  91. evisu says:

    Giggs should’ve taken that pen after the tearing it up..

  92. domunited says:

    final whistle – thank the lord.

  93. dannysoya LOVES USAIN BOLT says:

    Rooney must never take Penalties for us again. I think that’s three he’s missed this season alone? CHRIST.

  94. zigoo says:

    rooney shdnt take pens wen rvp is playing…he is the only penalty taker we have had in recent years includin rvn and ronaldo where i feel nervous in the run up and u know that theres a 60 percent chance he’ll miss…

  95. Arthur "Two Sheds" Jackson says:

    I agree about Gibbs, both about him being motm for us and that he should be taking our penalties from now on.

  96. Costas says:

    Wish Carrick didn’t have to come in, but we squeezed through in the end. Next round’s tie should be a cracking one.

  97. WeAreUnited says:

    @zigoo

    yeah same feeling, always been with rooney and it was also with Ronaldo and RVN. amazing isn’t it.

    Giggsy was great, Buttner was great Chicha was great and Rafael was great. I think these players stood up.

    It is understandable that Rooney, Nani and Ando didn’t perform to the fullest, but they did good.

    What do you think, how our future CB duo did? It was the first time them playing together in a long time for us, have they btw ever played together for us as a CB-duo?

    good game, Spurs here we come.

  98. Hans says:

    This was pretty dire against second West Ham team!! Lets hope we play better at WHL!

  99. FletchTHEMAN says:

    That will do nicely. It’s Fulham in the 4th Round. Ryan Giggs MOTM! Well deserved!

  100. Dela says:

    Great game for Giggsy. Wasn’t surprised to see Wayne miss penalty, he’s been on a poor run of them but he scored tonight and he worked pretty hard, not a bad showing for a first game back. Bring on White Hart Lane!

  101. Xyth says:

    The best thing about tonight was Chelsea dropping points!!!

  102. parryheid says:

    Arthur Two Sheds Jackson

    I really wish I could say that bothers me,Hah.

  103. domunited says:

    If you have a German or a Brazilian on the filed, that player should take the peno. There I said it. [was ando on at the time?]

  104. WeAreUnited says:

    @dela

    “not a bad showing for a first game back.” exaclty, and the same you could say about Ando and Nani.

    They lost some posession here and there, but who didn’t even the MOTM Giggs did it.

    But quoting you again “not a bad showing for a first game back.” this also includes for me Ando and Nani, who brought flailr to oru game. They have that extra edge that can break oppositions. We witnessed it with the assist to Chicha.

    a win..checked, 3 great players back..checked

    very happy.

  105. Rd5454 says:

    Same old Anderson fake talent choose the wrong carrier (not only for football,I think he can’t make it at any sport items)

  106. Dan-young says:

    No xyth the best thing tonight was us going through to the next round of the f.a cup… Not chelsea falling behind city. Its much harder to concentrate on catching up to first when your constantly looking over your shoulder at 3rd.

    Great defensive performance our future back line! Great to see smalling absolutely dominate his opponent. As for giggs, im going to invest a million pounds into developing the first ever cloning machine

  107. Dan-young says:

    Rd5454 are you fucking blind! Ando was a beast in the middle, never gave theball away and was vital for the first goal… WHAT MORE DO YOU FUCKING WANT!?!?!

  108. RedBorneo says:

    We should won this game with more goals. But Our back four is fantastic today, Buttner really have great skills and i like his perform tonight. It will be hard for Fabio when he come back.
    And special credit to our Giggsy, he played like he was young..

  109. samuel - united WE stand says:

    Smalling was a collossus at the back. Pace, power, aerial dominance, he’s got everything to be the complete defender. Jones impressed too, couple of nervy moments from him but he complimented his partner with his robust no nonesense defending. Some bang on about him being a midfielder, i don’t think so, he jusr needs to keep learning and improving, he’s a centre back all day long with the ability to motor up the pitch with his driving runs.

    Giggs, rolled back the years tonight. 39? You wouldn’t think so with the way he twisted his opponents into knots, has had a new lease of life on the wing.

    Nervy performance due to a lack of cohesion and players returning from injury looking rusty but glad to see anderson (what a brilliant pass), nani and rooney back. Key and important players.

  110. Mr C says:

    Shut the fuck up Sam! Can’t believe these ABUs on the telly. ‘Let’s talk to the manager who came second…’. FFS Chiles…you and your mates aren’t even subtle.

    We won comfortably enough but worryingy eased off again second half…but much needed game time for those coming back from injury etc

  111. samuel - united WE stand says:

    Rd5454 says:

    Same old Anderson fake talent choose the wrong carrier (not only for football,I think he can’t make it at any sport items)”

    I think you will find he actually made it and is earning the bucks whilst you stay bitter. I would have thought he’s played well this season and has just returned from injury. What were you expecting? A couple of maradona runs?

  112. fergie is the boss says:

    samuel – for me it is positives, and it was a key game seeing more of united’s weapons get a game out, hernandez continues to improve, nani had a run out, and rooney gets a goal. The backline is a hell of allot stronger, and the third best midfielder in anderson gets a game, which takes the load off carrick and cleverly. In a few weeks time, united will have gained much of their former strength, and the thought of rooney and RVP fully fit coming for everyone, is a scary thought

  113. samuel - united WE stand says:

    Dan-young says:

    Rd5454 are you fucking blind! Ando was a beast in the middle, never gave theball away and was vital for the first goal… WHAT MORE DO YOU FUCKING WANT!?!?!”

    He’s part of the brigade that have something against the likes of anderson, not one mention of his fantastic pass but the non existent negative comes out.

  114. zelh says:

    Giggs will play another season.

    Dunno if that’s good or bad.
    Can’t forget his performances against Spurs etc.

  115. fergie is the boss says:

    Mr C – old sam clearly has not watched unite this season, does he remember shitty away, swansea away, readuing away, livepool at home, and a few more games where united have had some god awful decisions at OT.

  116. TheCANTONA says:

    @Rd5454:
    It was Ando’s pass who led to Rooney’s goal in the first half. Are u really watching game? Neither Ando & Nani had bad game considering this is their first time apparance after long injuries.
    Anybody here know what was wrong with Valencia? His form has been very poor this season, i wonder why??

  117. Dan-young says:

    If half of these negative cunts (daniel88,rd5454 to name a few) said half the stuff they say on here at old trafford on a matchday they would get floored. Good news for them is they probably havnt ever been, probably good news for the team too, they wont want you around when all you do is slate their teammates

  118. samuel - united WE stand says:

    F.i.t.b – absolutely spot on. The performance won’t be memorable but getting key players back and giving them game to get back in the grove. The back line had its moment but looked solid and players are improving as you say. It’s all positive.

  119. Frankie says:

    I think that Smallings and Jones at the back were oustanding. For the first time in ages we defended properly.
    As for Giggs, we are not worthy!

  120. Red Robin says:

    Guardiola to Bayern Munich this summer. Does it mean Fergie stay for mor years? (If ever the rumor that Guardiola is Fergie succesor istrue).

  121. lawman10 says:

    Lindegaard did not have a save to make the whole game, well done to our future back four.

  122. fergie is the boss says:

    samuel – when I think about it, the replay was a blessing. As I thought united needed this replay, for me when a few players have their first game back its not going to be pretty, in 3 weeks time united should be a full strength

  123. Anthony says:

    I must be watching a different game to a lot of people. Thought giggs and rafa had great games with chicarito not far behind in performance looking dangerous all game. Other than that thought carrick were effective with his cameo. Still don’t look as compact as I’d like defensively but it were quite a strange game.

  124. Arthur "Two Sheds" Jackson says:

    @parryheid

    Considering the source, I can’t say I’m surprised.

  125. david says:

    if giggs’s touch is always this sweet, no wonder so many birds want to ‘feel’ him.

  126. Voice of reason says:

    Big worry is the pitch – it is awful – at least 10 maybe 15 games left on it – very hard to run with the ball or play close passing , shoot or cross when it’s that bobbly

  127. Dela says:

    @Red Robin –> Yep, that’s exactly what it means I think. Pep going to Munich for 3 years but made it clear he wants to manage in England, and it would appear he has snubbed Abramovich so I’m thinking that in their many meetings over the past year, Fergie told Pep he is not retiring.

  128. zigoo says:

    basicly peps will win a few titles in germany and will come to united in 3 yrs wen fergie calls it a day at say 75…
    thts what i think anyway

  129. Sushi says:

    I’m curious If all this criticism being levelled at Nani, ando, do you play professionally? If
    Not please do shut the fuck up. Whatever they are their better than you or I will or could
    Be so get behind ur fucking team. Nani and ando are both coming I’m after a prolonged absence and no amount of training can prep u proper for an actual game. I should think peope would
    Be a bit more fucking thankful given the results we haves pulled in. I hate to fathom how some will react should we find united in a rough patch such being experienced by arsen or god forbid Liverpool….be grateful of the good times.

  130. GC says:

    I nkow that with our schedule we all thought the replay was far from ideal, but in hindsight it was a blessing in disguise. With Nani, Ando and Wayne coming back from injuries, and with some of the other squad players due a game, this was the perfect occassion to let them play. We just snuck on through to the next round, but we didn’t exert our first team and had our non-regulars play, so a win, narrow as it was, was perfect for me. Disappointed about Rooney’s pen, but who wasn’t?
    As for Büttner, I say let’s give him time. He was/is reportedly “the fourth best left back in the Netherlands”, but remember Evra? He could hardly get a game in the French squad with Abidal and Gallas there, and his (and Vidic’s, for that matter) start to life at Old Trafford was a bit shite, but he then settled in and has been, overall, amazing. Hope this is Büttner’s settling in period, just like with Paddy.

  131. Marq says:

    Ugly win, ugly pitch, precious game time and through to the next round, nothing more to ask for. Take one game at a time, and lets see where we are come end of the season.

    Off topic, the media having a field day about Guardiola going to Bayern, making it sound like they signed Messi. Safest possible choice for him whilst keeping himself in the good books, and the closest thing to the EPL, lets see what he is made of now.

  132. Dela says:

    @Marq –> Yep this is Pep’s real test. Barcelona have such good players that any of us could be the manager and still be successful, so this really is a big test for Pep.

  133. Ash says:

    I have to admit I have been a big critic of Giggs but off late he has been playing tremendously especially in the left wing. Wish he still had the same speed he had years ago. He would have terrorized the opposition. Valencia should learn a trick or two from Master Giggs. I still have full faith in Tony V. Maybe he should put back his #25 ;)

    Speaking of #25 where has Nick powell gone. I hope the boy is ok. It would have been better if he was sent on loan. He is just 18 so he is till very much Raw.

    Overall it was decent display from the boys. Like I said after the Pool game I am happy to see the boys playing professionally unlike last season where we conceded goals even after taking lead (Everton). It is very clear that Sir alex is very motivated this season. Like Evra said he will be so mad that he will sack everyone if we lose the tittle again. That is Why he is SIR alex . I am happy he will stay next season also. Atleast One more european success is needed in his reign.

    What the fuck has happened to the Old trafford pitch. It looks Pathetic. I hope groundsman improves it at least by the time we face Madrid here. All the Money earned from FA cup should go to pitch revamp :lol: .

    Overall quite happy with the results. Glad RVP was rested and happy to see rooney , Nani and ando Back. Kudos to Jones and Smalling for defending bravely.

    3 points at lane should be the focus now.

  134. Rd5454 says:

    Fxxking pls watch the game detail the most problem of ando was his attitude of defense ,every time when we loss the ball,he just jogging on the pitch he didn’t really chase anyone and just waiting the ball leave him faster and far away,pls check us lose 2-6 to shitty for reference and his energy level just 60mins ,so if sir Alex didn’t put him off we must pay the price

  135. Goat Peticoat says:

    Yay Rooneys back. Taps in a sitter that my dead grandma rising in a zombie appocolypse could score after the hard work by Chico and then misse his ?th penalty of the year. The forward line looked somewhat lethargic and disjointed but atleast we got our talisman back.
    Who want deft finnishing, great control and imaculate passing, fluid play and goals goals goals when we can all sing to our overweight hero Rooney Rooney Rooney like a bunch of red top reading chavs.
    Nice touch by Rooney with the shirt comemorating his dead sister in law, very sad. Maybe next week after he scores another sitter when somebody else does the hard work he can have a t shirt comemorating his dead career. No hang on the 0.09% of votes by coaches in the UEFA poll voting for the best player in European football will find a place for him.

  136. Marq says:

    @Dela

    Yep, look at Barca now, they are breaking records with Vilanova, and even after he is out, they still keep winning. So you could almost say they don’t need a manager.

  137. gd says:

    Decent game. Should have finished off the numerous chances we managed to create. Giggs MoM, Smalling second.

    With Young out, wonder if Nani’ll start on the right v Spurs?

  138. Ash says:

    Goat

    Yeah you are Right sell rooney and Buy Heskey or Crouch. ;)

  139. FletchTHEMAN says:

    Sir Alex knows what he’s missing in spot kicks. Wayne Rooney needs to improve!

    “I don’t think it’s one of these things, I think we have to improve on that.”

    Then he gives a history lesson that suggests Fergie is still sharp as a tack!

    “There was talk about the boy [Rickie] Lambert at Southampton who has scored 31 out of 31. That’s what penalty kick taking is all about.
    “There are several great examples over the years. [Matt] Le Tissier, 47 out of 48. There was a player in Scotland played for Rangers [Johnny Hubbard], 57 in a row. Your penalty kick is your opportunity to take an advantage – whether it’s a foul or a handball – of scoring a goal.”

    http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1302158/manchester-united's-alex-ferguson-fumes-over-wayne-rooney-miss

  140. drv3011 says:

    wow 57 penalties scored in a row.hows that for a record.lets see messi beat that.

  141. Bobby Charlton's combover says:

    @goat – funny stuff man as always. Not entirely in agreement with regard to the content but you should be in stand up mate.

  142. FletchTHEMAN says:

    Is Wayne Rooney the worst penalty taker ever for Manchester United?
    28 attempts 10 misses.

    Certainly lowest conversion rate of the recent designated pen takers. But actually a bit better than anyone else on the team.

    From manutd.com
    Wayne Rooney 13 out of 20 – 65%
    Javier Hernandez 1 out of 2 – 50%
    Robin van Persie 1 out of 2 – 50%
    Paul Scholes 1 out of 3 – 33%
    Michael Carrick 0 out of 1 – 0%
    Nani 0 out of 1 – 0% Hmm (didn’t he score in the CL final v Chelsea? couple others as well)

    Wonder why Giggs doesn’t take them. Giggs has never missed 100%!

  143. Marq says:

    @Fletch

    The sample size does not do justice to the rest, so you can’t say Rooney is better. That said, I do wonder what other option do we have as penalty taker. I do feel that Giggs have a decent record even though I do not have the numbers, but other than him, I don’t think we have much other choice do we? Rvp’s style from what I remember is the smash as hard as you can type, so its pretty much hit and miss.

  144. NBI Red Onion says:

    @ Fletch – those are not statistically significant percentages for RVP or Pea. You need a larger number of penalties for statistics to have any relevance e.g. factor in other RVP penalties at Arsenal.

    @redyank – you called it right it was nervy and the players coming back were feeling their legs at then end. Nani looked tired, so did Ando, Rooney was a non-entity second half. But it was great to win, good first half performance, poor finishing.

    The key downer for me is Valenica, I am increasingly giving up hope he will be the player he was. Ever since his leg injury he is not the same he decision making in the final third is appalling and he offers very little other than cover for Rafael who is a better crosser, dribbler, passer and has better shot selection. He should be at his peak, he has had a run of games and no pressure on his position and he is poor. Really bad.

    Giggs was frigging fantastic today, you look at his salalom runs and vision and then you look at the wingers we have and want to cry. Valencia and Young are squad players, I think they start as they cover our more talented attacking full backs. Without Evra we would have little creativity and penetration on the left, Rafael makes the difference on the right, only good cross came from him.

    For me, Giggs is still our best LW and I think Nani once he is in form needs to be stuck on the RW. Nani has all the tools but his shot selection is suspect. Valencia did not have all the tools but he was reliable in terms of decision making, now he is not and he is slowing attacks, his passing is unbelievably bad, he cannot cross or flick a shot, if he does not hit the ball on the ground its wasted.

    Pea had no real service. Rooney clearly bedding in, I was pleased he was keeping possession reasonably, not the ball bouncing off shin of last season but did nothing of note.

    Anderson I found impressive, he is the only MF who really runs forward with the ball. His passing was excellent. His fitness is not but I am beginning to really see the player he can be emerge. Why can’t he bloody stay fit.

    Rooney should NOT take ant more penalties: Giggs – RVP – Pea.

  145. FletchTHEMAN says:

    Marq, I actually am not a fan of giving the job to Giggs. I do feel there should be at least 5-7 that practice pens every week. Especially as the Cup season pushes on, Spot kicks could be crucial.

    The data I put up were from man utd. com, but are incomplete. They don’t have Nani’s or Andos CL etc.
    Don’t know where they are from actually. Rooney has 28 pen attempts for us. The table says 20?!

    For me, the forwards should do it unless there is a very special tallent, (Like Irwin was)
    But the lads need to practice it. But even van Nistelrooy and Cantona missed on occasion. As Matt LeTissier said, it is a skill that can be learned. You need to practice!

    United need to put together a practice room with 3D SOUND and images of Liverpool or the CL final that will put a cold sweat on em! HA that will sort it! ;)

    They should go a rip up the grass a some crap ground like Portsmouth as well so the lads don’t expect some perfect run up. Wet it down with a hose as well :twisted:

    For me, Rooney is the man but I think Javier deserves a chance as he takes them for Mexico.
    Robin, Nani, Giggs, Ando, Carrick, Valencia, Tom all need to be practicing as well.
    Heard Büttner used to take them for Vitesse, he should be in the rotation as well.

    The day will come, mark my words.

  146. Goat Peticoat says:

    FletchTHEMAN
    Regarding penalty takers.
    I remember Giggs missing a penalty when he was a youngster. FA cup game against Southampton, early to mid 90′s. Memory is old, no doubt you can look it up. Incidently his miss knocked us out the cup.

  147. FletchTHEMAN says:

    Goat, Cheers mate. Yeah, everyone misses from time to time.

    Giggs has been spot on for years though. His conversion in the final v the Chavs was crucial. Nani and Ando especially, coming after Ronaldo’s miss. Problem with all of them is they arn’t on the pitch every game.

    The forwards have to take the responsibility, If Rooney, Robin, Pea and Danny would work on them week in and week out, we would be ok.

  148. Goat Peticoat says:

    Ash says:
    Goat
    Yeah you are Right sell rooney and Buy Heskey or Crouch. ;)

    No need fella. Im glad to go with Wellbeck, Chico, RvP and Rooney for this year (dont sell him now as we are in contention for all trophies still. In the summer is another kettle of fish. We have the young Chillien lad, we have youngsters and after selling Rooney we have 50 million plus to buy who we sodding want.
    Look if Rooney was a youngster (I know hes not old) still learning his trade and IMPROVING every match like we see Chico and Wellbeck doing AND he was earning slightly north of £100000 and he wasnt a disgrace off the pitch THEN I’d say hes worth a team spot. BUT he demands north of £200000, hes late 20′s, he isnt improving with every game, he no longer puts fear in the opposition and if he comes off the bench should we be 1-0 down he is no saviour i.e. Chico or RvP. He sulks and if we lose with Rooney on the pitch it was due to poor tactics not super Roon. Hes atroubled fellah of the pitch and certainly no ambassador. His control is lacking at times, he thinks hes a wandering play maker when his tight in passing is poor and not up their with the European greats. His goal scoring record isnt the best even though to his credit he is assisting more (according to some stats nerd). I find he is too intrusive on others and demands the ball too often needing to be the diva rather than a team mate (ala Gerrard), and I very much doubt he listens to Sir Alex much any more in regards team tactics and discipline. Oh and he commands 50 million in transfer funds because of his red top shirt selling ability. Him and Coleen the new Posh and Becks.
    Personally I see Wellbeck is twice as valuable to United as Rooney, we just dont need him but 50 million is 50 million. Take th emoney and run. Life goes on. City didnt win the league with Rooney and Barcelona and Spain didnt win with him nor did Madrid or Dortmund. So Rooney doesnt mean success, he doesnt guarantee it. Hes a luxury we could do without.

  149. parryheid says:

    Arthur Two Sheds Jackson.

    Yet another educator of the posters on here Oh Wow Underwhelmed

  150. Goat Peticoat says:

    FletchTHEMAN
    Giggs has been pretty consistant granted but whatever discussion goes on here has to have some sort of longevity about it. Giggs is 40-ish and doesnt play all that often. I would still give RvP the job. A goal keeper often trains against a right footed penalty taker in practice as essentially left footers are rare. That in itself is a kind of handicap for the keeper to work out. RRvP is a great set piece hitter of the ball whether it be free kick or corner and his miss was just 1 and the sample size to make a clear judgement of his penalty taking abilities isnt fair. What was his percentage for Arsenal.
    What is clear is Rooney as a striker and so called dead ball specialist is woefull. Bring back Steve Bruce.

  151. Marq says:

    Of course Giggs should not be the main penalty taker, he shouldn’t even be in the team most of the time! (Purely for succession purposes)

    Forwards must be able to take them in my opinion. How can you call yourself a forward if you don’t even know how to take a proper penalty!

    Maybe its my opinion, but I do feel those players who have a very high conversion rate are those who try to send the keeper the wrong way rather than trying to beat him by sheer power and direction. RvN never really blasted the ball, and Lambert, he has always mixed it up where he puts the ball. Whereas for Rooney, I’d be interested to know how many times he took a penalty by trying to hit the bottom right corner of the goalkeeper, any statistics gurus dare take up the challenge? =p

  152. samuel - united WE stand says:

    Already read the same dull articles written by the same incompetent hopeless cunts for the same useless news outlets. “talk of zaha must worry nani”, anyone would think they haven’t magnifying glasses over the portuguese and Goat’s predictable lash out at rooney is as funny as if it is an actual analysis and not a long standing personal issue with the scouser, it’s as funny as sheeps racing each other in order to see who has the tiniest waist to fit into used tampons, It really is that funny.

    Navigate through the usual rubbish later, same old wankers writing senseless article and highlighting everything within the confines of oldtrafford, the predictable rollercoastet hits usual speed.

  153. Bobby Charlton's combover says:

    @goat – I remember that one goat. He walked up to the penalty spot doing keepie-uppies and he looked like a lad that could have kncoked it into the back of the net with his knob but ended up hitting it straight at the keeper. Brought back so many memories that I’ve found it here
    http://www.talksport.co.uk/magazine/features/2011-04-13/ryan-giggs-worst-moments-hes-human-after-all

    No point appointing him as a spot kick taker now though as he isn’t on the pitch that much.

  154. andromeda says:

    @We are united said at 21:36

    @andromeda my friend, having those two back is crucial and liek having two new signings.

    the most crucial part is that we have 3 great strikers that always when the yhave the chance scores or assists-

    just look at heir RVP rooney and chicha’s stats on scoring and assisting

    Hello my friend and sorry for the late response, I left the ROM early last night.

    I agree BTW on our strike force, the situation is pretty straight froward.all our three main strikers can score, make assist and selflessly contribute for best of the team, that is a big bonus for us.

  155. samuel - united WE stand says:

    Thankfully, regardless of the ramblings made on blogs and the often circus that is the media, it is slightly safe to say fergie ultimately decides who stays or goes.

  156. Goat Peticoat says:

    For all those on here that think I have a personal vendetor against Rooney Id just like to confirm your suspisions. I do. I think hes massively overated and basically a sack of old footballs. I dont hate Rooney the person as he is an arsehole just like the rest of us, Im indifferent to the celebrity or the person that is the footballer and couldnt give a shit. I see them as employees. I have no real love for RvP, Chico, Wellbeck etc as they would turn coat as soon as they sat on the bench for 6 months or didnt get the money they wanted. Im not blinded by pre match interviews of undying love for Manchester United or badge kissing. They are proffessionals. They got where they are through being ruthless, maybe even sometimes stabbing a friend in the back or injuring someone intentionally so they get seen by the scout rather than someone else. Its a dog eat dog world. My dislike for Rooney is solely playing ability and what he brings to the TEAM. What happens outside does reflect on Manchester United so it does form my opinion or have a part of it but I look at the whole picture. Best was a boozer and I had I been around would have forgiven him that because when it came time to play he was phenomenal, strong, good passer, team player, proffessionally agressive. Rooney has lost my respect as a player not only the damage he does to the clubs name which some on here believe is my motive.
    Again time without Rooney since the signing of RvP has shown we play better football and are a better team without him. But he is our Gerrard so we must endure the twonk untill he decides to retire, and no doubt at £200000+ a week thats not for another 12 years.

  157. FletchTHEMAN says:

    ManUtd on form to poorest penalty conversion rate since the 2003-04 season.

    2012-13 . . . 2/5 (40%).
    2003-04 . . . 1/4 (25%).

    EPL stats only.

    Anyone want to hazard a guess at what the forwards will be practicing this week?

  158. samuel - united WE stand says:

    He’s massively overrated but yet he continues to do the business for the club in the biggest of games, that’s a fact. I don’t know what people count as overrated, because he hasn’t fullfilled the frankly strange expectations of winning a major tournament for a nation that’s been abysmal at the sport it invented for decades, i don’t get it but i accept everyone can form their view on how good or bad a player is, his record as a footballler stands more ground than the ideology that he’s “crap” though, open to debate and all.

    Rooney, for all the reasons to hate the man (which again deflects from football for most) has been the engine and force behind the attack since he arrived, he has dragged the team by the collar and has been a talisman on the pitch. RVP this and that, rooney has out-performed him in this league for several years, fact is, he’s having a great season (long may that hopefully continue) but to discard and deny rooney hasn’t got just as much of an important role as the dutchman is laughable in itself. Like i said, what wayne does off the pitch is irrelevant and i couldn’t give less of a fuck but i’m an observer and will base my judgement on footballing contributions and as long as he makes a difference, which he often does, i won’t have a reason to doubt his productivity on the pitch.

  159. Goat Peticoat says:

    samuel – united WE stand
    Respect your opinion. But theres a wider picture. Did Rooney drag this team as you mention or was the team the platform on which Rooney performed. Would he have been as prolific playing for West Brom or Stoke. No of course not. RvP has been out performed as you say by Rooney all these years but surely you recognise hes in a better team now and his performances clearly show that. HHow would Rooney fair at Arsenal. Not as well I guess.
    Im not saying Rooney is crap, or if I do write that its a relative thing. He is no 50 million pound player, yet he commands that transfer figure. You could say hes Englands Ji Sung Park. He is the shirt seller of the English and to be honest I believe thats why hes still with us.

  160. Voice of Reason says:

    Interesting how Giggs become good at pens – between that Southampton shoot out in 91-92 and 2008 shoot out where he was our 7th taker remember ahead only of VDS, Rio, Evra, and Carrick if I remember he never took another competitive penalty for us. Since then he has probably notched 4 or 5 in match time (inc 2 against Spurs I remember) and a couple in shoot outs

  161. Goat Peticoat says:

    Voice of Reason
    Maybe he just doesnt fancy it. Maybe he thinks the praise of scoring one is far outweighed by the humiliation and vilification of missing one.
    You would hav ethought Sir Alex has no problems with him taking them as he has been given corner taking duties for years. I believe it has more to do with bigger and stronger personalities talking control at the spot rather than his unwillingness to score.

  162. Voice of Reason says:

    Goat something in that -Bruce was the taker at that time then Eric arrived later that year, then in the treble team Denis Irwin took over, then Ruud, then Ronaldo, only since Ronaldo left this problem arisen.Was a period where we got fuck all pens as well over a number of years

  163. WeAreUnited says:

    @andromeda

    no problem mate :)

  164. samuel - united WE stand says:

    Goat – “shirt seller like park” – even for you goat, i wasn’t expecting that. You’ve brought up a lot of hypotheticals, IFs and Buts but the main point is, his “overrated” talent has brought him to this club and his impact has meant he’s revered all around the world. Van persie has played with great players throughout his time at arsenal and he had the platform to more than match rooney as arsenal do play great attacking football yet rooney still out performed him most of the time. I think rooney would easily fit into arsenal, he’d be the fulcrum of their attack and only a naive person would think the arrival of wayne for arsenal won’t give them the lift and renewed hope for a challenge, you are basically underestimating rooney and he has that knack of proving people wrong and may well do so again. I don’t think he’s worth 50mill but with the way players are bought these days, i would argue the glazers can demand more but he’s not for sale.

  165. LonestarRed says:

    One question: Does Lindegard have ANY idea how to distribute the ball from the back? I grew tired of counting his turnovers.

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