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The Redemption of Eric Cantona: The Double Double of 1995-96 Part II

Cheer Up , Kevin Keegan

On course, for United to now go on to win the Double, having secured their place at Wembley, much depended on how Newcastle handled the pressures of the league run-in.And we got a very significant clue only a few days after the semi-finals, in one of the all-time great Premiership matches, on 3 April, 1996. This was a passionate end-to-end encounter in which the lead repeatedly changed hands before Liverpool finally beat Newcastle 4-3 with virtually the last kick of the match, from Stan Collymore. The Toons had been leading 3-2 with only 20 minutes to go, and it was no wonder that Kevin Keegan was seen slumped over Anfield’s advertising hoardings in despair at the end. ‘Kevin Keegan hangs his head, he’s devastated’, cried the commentator, knowing Newcastle had just thrown away one of their two games in hand, leaving United still at the top of the Premiership, three points clear. Mind you, with my capacity for pessimism over United I had a horrible fear at this point that Liverpool’s dramatic winner would be just the boost they’d need to overhaul United and win the league. Worse, as FA Cup Finalists the Double was now suddenly a possibility for them too. What a nightmarish thought.

To read this story in full, purchase Red Matters from Amazon.






 

168 Comments

  1. King Eric says:

    Just bored at work till dinnertime and hardly any new comments to read. Thank you Sir Giles!! This will pass twenty minutes or so.

  2. King Eric says:

    Regarding the opening paragraph, that cunt Collymore is STILL dining out on that goal even now, 15 years later.

  3. Manchuchu says:

    Goal reports Sneijder stating to City that he wants to join us. But with him sticking to his 200,000 a week demands, we are only willing to offer Inter 24 as opposed to their 35 mill valuation.

    It doesn’t bode well, and I don’t see Nike kicking in 11 mill to sell more than a years supply of shirts made in Chinese sweatshops.

    Such a pity Gascoigne isn’t around any more. We could have sent him 4 containers of Venky’s undead chicken.

  4. King Eric says:

    A fantastic read as usual Giles. You have had a really intersting life. I love the way you mix the football up with the topics of the day. You really MUST put them all into a book of some form.

    Remember the Boro game like it was yesterday. Was in the local pub with my old man and remember going mad when May scored. The pub was full of Leeds fan and we used to get so much shit. “Scum”. “Munichs” etc. Thats the price I pay with living in Yorkshire I suppose. Giggsys was a belter. This season was one of my favourites as we really saw the kids enter the fray.

  5. King Eric says:

    And to think many rate Bergkamp or Henry as the greatest foreign imports. Great players but not in the same league as Eric Cantona.

  6. King Eric says:

    Really looking forward to the Barca test tonight. A decent result will breed so much confidence despite it being a pre season. Both teams will take it seriously. They really are not the same without Messi and Xavi which is pretty obvious so am looking forward to seeing how we fare.

  7. King Eric says:

    Where is every cunt?

    So I see Vucinic has “snubbed” United. Oh fuck off. As if we were ever interested. I really loathe the way the rags make out certain players have snubbed us despite us never being interested.

    Right back to work for an hour.

  8. mikekelly12 says:

    Jack Barmby bagged another for the youth team last night. On the wrong end of a 5-1 thumping though!! He’s had a good tournament the lad. Think he’s scored about 6 or 7.

  9. xol says:

    Thanks Giles, for bringing it all back. We forget what a great story it was when Cantona redeemed himself after the press barrage and ban. I loved the way he joined in the Kid’s celebrations. It was plain to see how much they looked up to him.

    He had a special way of avoiding the cameras (and the ball) during games. I lost count of the times I’d comment that Cantona’s quiet, only for him to pop up and light the game up with a drag back or turn which would lift the crowd and change the match.

    @King Eric – Is that true about xavi not playing? I’d heard only Messi isn’t playing, but that was a few days ago. We’re missing players too. I’d like to see more possession this time.

  10. CedarsDevil says:

    Cunt reporting in! hahaha

    Loved reading part 2, thanks Giles

  11. CedarsDevil says:

    Morning mikekelly12

  12. dazbomber says:

    @mikekelly12 – We need to sign the lad who scored a first half hat trick.

  13. dazbomber says:

    Call me mad but i think we should sign wesley sneijder .What do you think.

  14. CedarsDevil says:

    dazbomber

    Not a bad idea, I would assume you are the first to bring that one up here! By the way what was that all about with the plane crash? lol

  15. mikekelly12 says:

    Morning Cedars, how ya doin pal?

  16. CedarsDevil says:

    Hiya mike, I am all good buddy……… I asked this on another thread, you do post sometimes with a capital M at the start of your name right?

  17. Costas says:

    Hadn’t comment on Giles’ threads as of yet, because I only wanted to post about his articles and nothing else.

    All I can say, is thanks for these amazing recollections sir. I like how you tie United’s 95-96 title march with your personal experiences at the time. Can’t believe it’s been 15 years!

  18. mikekelly12 says:

    Cedars – Yeah I think so. For some reason I think it changes depending on whether I’m posting from my laptop or my phone?

  19. CedarsDevil says:

    Cheers for that mike/Mike, for a minute I thought I was corresponding with 2 different people!

  20. smartalex says:

    Cunt reporting in, present and accounted for.

    CedarsDevil always brings a smile, and usually a guffaw or two as well!

    Sneijder? Crash?

    Thanks Giles, for more wonderful memories well written!

  21. rewind123 says:

    Guys, what time is the game tonight against Barca??

  22. smartalex says:

    mikekelly12, your cookies differ. They have recorded how you typed your username, and fill in the blanks for you. Just change the one to match your choice the next time you submit a comment from the deviant machine.

  23. dazbomber says:

    @CedarsDevil – A light aircraft hit a house two streets away, no one was killed but the two on the plane were injured.There is a small airport near by they fly over all day long ,you never think they will crash. I walk my dog with a safety hat now lol.

  24. mikekelly12 says:

    Cedars – No, just lil ol me I’m afraid. Sooooo, not much happening this morning. Thought I’d wake up to a transfer merry-go-round!?

  25. smartalex says:

    @ dazbomber – How do you keep the safety hat from slipping off your dog’s head?

  26. united.george says:

    Cant wait to go to the game tonight…temperatures are very hot and humid. I think the players will be pretty fit after the last few preseason games and workouts in this heat.

  27. sigmundv says:

    What an excellent read! Enjoy this paragraph towards the end:

    That was part of his educational role too, showing the younger players by example how to make use of space, how to offer angles, when to quicken the tempo, when to slow it down, when to hold back, when to push forward, when to get under the keeper’s nose, when to hang back at the edge of the area.

    Amazing Giles! Looking forward to the third part about the cup final, which is my first real memory of a United match (being 13 at the time; in contrary to most people on here I didn’t watch football during my early childhood). That volley is playing in my head as I’m writing this.

  28. dazbomber says:

    @smartalex – That made me laugh my fucking head off, nice one.

  29. marshall says:

    what times the game 2nite?

  30. Kings says:

    Giles – Fantastic read. Really enjoyed it. Looking forward to part 3.

    King Eric – This fucking cunt is here, all present and correct sir!

  31. King Eric says:

    mikekelly – Jack Barmby has been top drawer. Did you see that goal where he took it to the byeline, rounded the keeper, beat a defender then placed it in the corner? Superb. That Matts Dahli looks a composed midfieder too and by all accounts has been a crowd favourite out in Ireland.

  32. King Eric says:

    xol – No its not true mate I am just assuming that as he didnt play or feature against Munich in the audi cup.

  33. King Eric says:

    Kings – Nice one. Cheers mate.

  34. dazbomber says:

    Why dont we buy a forward ,use the long ball and miss out the midfield . Wimbledon United lol.

  35. King Eric says:

    rewind – 1200am GMT mate.

    dazbomber – Hello mate. Yeah heard about that light aircraft crash on news yesterday. Saw your post yesterday but thought you was taking the piss. Dont know why you would! How close was it?

  36. SirAlex'sSon says:

    Rite here @King Eric.

    Fantastic read sir Giles.Rite here @King Eric.

    Fantastic read sir Giles.

  37. King Eric says:

    sigmundv – Yeah I also liked that paragraph about him helping the young ones and was gonna mention that myself. Just little things that we take for granted. Fine details.

  38. dazbomber says:

    @King Eric – It was close two streets away, it hit the house next to my mate.

  39. xol says:

    http://www.darkroomdemons.com/072811_whitehouse/

    Some of these White house visit photos are hilarious.

  40. The Fly says:

    Sneijder isn’t demanding 200k. And we’ve agreed to pay 35 million. That is fact. Once we’re back in England the deal will be wrapped up.

    Good read again Giles.

  41. xol says:

    @Marshall I think the game’s at Midnight. Could be wrong.

  42. The Fly says:

    Kick off is at 1am I think. MUTV programme starts at midnight.

  43. xol says:

    myp2p’s saying 12:00 but they got it wrong for the last game. 1:00 makes sense.

    Judging by the Whitehouse photos, Berba stayed outside. Rio gets clocked showing his phone pics off. Sir Alex chats up the Cook, who gives him a box of cookies. The players get hungry and once outside, raid the Boss’s box of cookies.

  44. wayne says:

    kick off is 7.00pm eastern that’ll be midnight in england

  45. mikekelly12 says:

    King Eric – yeah saw that goal, it was in the quarter final if im thinking of the same one.

    The Fly – Loving your optimism

  46. coomy says:

    come on the fly
    the wee wes crew rule

  47. WHAT ??? says:

    Afternoon lads – really looking forward to this game tonight.

    Giles – even though its nearly been two decades the Cantona years never feel that long ago. I guess his impact, his goals, and that kick, will always make the 90′s feel like yesterday for me. I haven’t even started reading part II yet, but your style of writing is engrossing my friend. Great Read.

  48. Costas says:

    “But according to Gill, that deal never got off the ground. Asked about Sneijder, he said: “We didn’t progress that one. I’m not doing anything on anything at the moment, so they are all dead.” ”

    http://www.espn.co.uk/football/sport/story/103335.html?CMP=OTC-RSS

  49. GoatinaUnitedShirt says:

    Dont hold the yanks to a timed kick off, bloody canadians either. I watch hockey during the season and when they say the match starts 7 they actually mean sometime after 7.15 but generally when we get round to it after adverts on tv of course. Pain in the cocking neck. So another 2am start for me.

    How come kettle neck is thinking about Inter, I thought he wanted to move back to south america to be closer to his family. Maybe just an excuse to leave city.

    I would like to know if when we play city we can boo at Aguero. Booing at a kun may seem a little too Madrid like. Is this an under cover ploy to stop the crowd booing and turning their back on the match (poznan) by playing a slightly elaborate race card. Fuck City are desperate. It came as a big surprise to me that they paid 40 odd million for the Argie as there is a player playing in Ghana called Bigfat Rubberlips Hanging Fromatree and he could have been got for less that £100000. Bloody transfer fees gone through the roof. No value in the market.

  50. willierednut says:

    Loved it Giles. Bloody long, but bloody good!

    Just seen Gill interviewed on Sky.

    He’ says, the moneys there, if Fergie requires it.

    A month left, so we’ll see.

  51. WHAT ??? says:

    Quick Saturday Rant

    As long as opposition show Nani more respect than a lot of our supporters I’ll always defend him to the hilt. Cutting inside to shoot or going outside to cross, we all know he’s dangerous, but at times we did look predictable with most of our attack going through him last season. The number of goals he managed to score and assist while double marked speaks for itself. As a Squad, we did lack cutting edge away from home on occasion, and I blame that on our predictability, because all teams had to do was stop Plan A and we’d often have no response. But the thing is lads, as much as we bang on about our midfield we should be realistic – there is more than one way to win a match.

    With Young as our top signing, name another Club with left and right Wingers as gifted as ours? Tony is a brilliant blunt-object when teams wanna play ugly, and he can get you 10+ goals and assists each season. But Young and Nani have the added benefit of two great feet, and a Strikers eye for goal, so playing both players in the same team changes everything. People forget that Berbatov is a Vodka drinking smoker, so the reason he’s under appreciated at United is because we’ve always had him running into the box trying to catch the cross. The fact he won Gold Boot sums up his class, but give him space and options to touch and go and thats when Berbatov is most dangerous.

    Imo two creative wingers looking to cut inside will create space and options for our Fullbacks and Strikers. As far as central midfield goes, we just need bodies there to apply pressure, distribute the ball, keep it tidy and provide cover for the defence. Young can come inside and put the ball on a coin, and when he’s not predictably pinned to the wing Nani’s ability behind the Strikers ain’t bad either. Both players can nick the ball from opposition and both can bury the ball from long distance. With our existing options in midfield, those two can dominate the centre of the park at will.

    Cannot wait to see how we line-up tonight, I just hope our central midfielders stay switched on and keep it tidy. Half of Barceonla’s recent success if keeping it tidy, because player for player I don’t think we’re far apart. True, Sniejder would be a top signing for the right price, I’ll never deny that, but if Gibson stays I really wouldn’t give a flying monkeys if theres no fourth signing. Imo Young will prove to be signing of the season, and with Nani given more freedom to get off the wing, I think we’ll batter teams away this season.

  52. xol says:

    Goat – I think it’s Kun pronounced like Cunt, as opposed to Kun pronounced like, erm Moon.

  53. The Fly says:

    Have we sold Kusczack yet

  54. WHAT ??? says:

    Apparently he’d rush round to her flat, burst in and shag her against the wall in a frenzy, calling out ‘What a cunt! What a cunt!’

    hahaha, brilliant.

    Laters Reds.

  55. The Fly says:

    Have we sold Gibson yet

    PIG and Gibbo are surely on their way out, as well as Diouf. Seriously what are they going to offer us this season? Gibson is a good enough lad but as a footballer he’s painfully average. Carrickinho, Fletcherinho, Sneijderinho, Cleverleyinho, all ahead of him in the pecking order, I’d even rate Pogbainho ahead of him.

    On Pogba, just been watching some YouTube clips of him. What a beast, that boy don’t do tap ins.

  56. King Eric says:

    Sorry just seen this comment on the mailsite and nearly spat my cuppa out. World class midfield? Where? Gotta love the dippers:

    “It’s obviously a huge blow to lose a player of Stevie’s calibre, but King Kenny is putting together a world class midfield – players like Jordan, Alberto, Charlie, Stuey and of course Big Dirk out on the right will have no problems stepping up to the plate. Indeed that bunch cost the club over £70 million so I should think that would be the case! The fact is I can’t see anything stopping the Mighty Red Men marching on to their 19th title – I just can’t wait for the season to start. YNWA. IKKWT.
    - Kathy, Kent, 30/7/2011 13:00″

    Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2020475/Liverpools-Steven-Gerrard-injured-September.html#ixzz1Tb0ThI8s

    Oh and Stevie Me is fucking finished.

  57. xol says:

    Paul Scholes was talking about 4 Strikers being enough, so I’d not be surprised if any loans happen. He also said he thinks Young will do very well as a goal creator and scorer. Let’s not forget this is the man that said this time last year, “Chicharito will get 20″.

  58. Costas says:

    Charlie Adam world class. Delusion has spread over to Liverpool. :lol:

  59. willierednut says:

    Not true Costas.

    He’s a world class plonker!

  60. King Eric says:

    Costas – Hello mate. You well? Delusion has been in Liverpool for two decades! Not forgetting that top player herman munster Henderson. Oh and Downing. Fucking jokers mate.

  61. Costas says:

    In other rivals’ news, Chelsea fans are celebrating on twitter because Torres finally scored in a friendly. :lol:

    @King Eric

    I am good mate. Hope you are well too. You know, about 2-3 years ago I kind of understood the scousers hailing their midfield of Alonso, Gerrard (at the time) and Mascherano as world class. But this bunch? Like willie said, world class plonkers perhaps.

  62. Lloyd™ says:

    We need to kick barca in the butt today,i know it’s a friendly but i really want us to win that match so bad,at least to reassure the lads that we still can beat a barcelona(whether it’s team B or not),i don’t want this to turns into some kind of metal block.winning this match will prepare the lads incase we meet in the CL again this season.l prepare the lads incase we meet in the CL again this season.

  63. The Fly says:

    Proposed Sneijder deal- 35 million

    Superstar Andy Carroll- 35 million

    Which would you choose?

    David De Gea who is tipped to be the next number 1 for Spain and ‘potentially world class’ OR……..Doni the mug who we smashed 7 past. Again a very difficult choice…

    Our striking options are Rooney, Berbatov, Hernandez, Owen, Macheda, Welbeck. The scouse have the frightening options of Carroll, Suarez, Ngog, Kuyt.

    If you look at it, even from a neutral point of view, we actually are stronger than them in every position. And with Gerrard now slowly becoming a crock, they haven’t a chance.

  64. The Fly says:

    Did you see the flukey shite for Torres goal. Scuffed shot, maybe offside, rebound tap in. Standard Chelsea goal then

  65. Kings says:

    King Eric – Hello mate. I laughed so hard and pissed myself. Fucking deluded cunts. With players like the aforementioned, you have to say this is definitely their year!

  66. Kings says:

    The Fly – Hello mate. That Carroll is just a fat gypo cunt.

  67. The Fly says:

    Hello Kings

    Carroll for what he is, a target man, is a good player. But 35 million for him is ludicrous, stupid money. Likewise with 20 million for Jordan Henderson. They cannot justify those prices and are destined to fail.

    I wouldn’t believe Goal.com for anything. They claimed two weeks ago that Sneijder had agreed terms AND a fee was agreed. Here we are now still debating it. The facts are he is keen on a move, Inter have now said they are looking to sell him, he isn’t after money at United because we simply wouldn’t pay him. If he was after a paycheck he’d stay at Inter or whore himself at City. I think it’ll be done this week, conveniently when the two clubs are within an hour away. The only way it doesn’t happen is if we don’t pay Inter what they want, but Gill’s comments suggest we will. (Inter are on Sky Sports 2 now if anyone is interested).

    But on the topic of King Eric Cantona, I’m off to watch some YouTube clips of him. Might start with THAT volley at Selhurst.

  68. 16 says:

    Fantastic !!!

  69. CedarsDevil says:

    straws

  70. willierednut says:

    Clutching.

  71. smartalex says:

    @

  72. CedarsDevil says:

    Reality

  73. smartalex says:

    word

  74. willierednut says:

    Bites.

  75. King Eric says:

    Kings. Cheers mate. Truly pathetic.

    The Fly. Hello mate. Yeah texted exactly that to someone after the tranny scored. He fucking misskicked it. Anyway have you ever seen so much hype over a two bob cup? Saying how they now have their first trophy and how viyash boash has claimed his first silverware. It was a fucking nomark tournamnet. Didn’t stop tiny tears celebrating like he was back in Moscow though. Calm the fuck down you arselicking scum. Also raving about that lanky cunt Mceachran. Presenter said is he pushing for a place in Ingerlund team. Fuck off. Just ask him how Ryan Tunnicliffe is. Ryan absolutely owned him in the youth cup semi and crunched him two or three times. They keep saying how viyash boash is gonna play the youth. Aside from the aforementioned it was the same old shit a la lampard terry etc.

  76. CedarsDevil says:

    King Eric

    To them its a trophy nonetheless, give them a break, probably will not touch any more silverware for another year.

  77. willierednut says:

    Kooky.

  78. CedarsDevil says:

    Cedars

  79. The Fly says:

    Youth Cup final Tunnicliffe had McEachran in his pocket.

  80. TonyBee says:

    bollocks

  81. TonyBee says:

    This cunting cunt late on parade

  82. King Eric says:

    Cedars. Hello mate. Hope you are well pal. Yeah too right. Once that avb cunts honeymoon period is over and Fergie has eaten him for breakfast the media will soon turn on him. At present they are affording him far too much respect. It will be the only thing they win this season as you correctly say.

  83. TonyBee says:

    Going to look forward to this year…. Stevie-me all washed up and fatty Lampard too busy shagging his fame hungry slapper…..Captain Wonderful, the best friend who fucks your girl, will be found out finally this year to be a no pace over the hill cheating fuck pig…..

  84. The Fly says:

    United vs Chelsea is September time. Hopefully AVB tries some mind games with Fergie and then gets taught a lesson. Sir Alex can and will drive any manager mental with his mind games, should put Chelsea out of the picture by October. If AVB gets put a ‘facht’ sheet then all is well.

    Watching these Cantona clips is getting me buzzing for the Scholes testimonial. The King will put on a show for sure.

  85. CedarsDevil says:

    King Eric

    I am well thanks buddy…… Thing is if the media turn on the rent boys then it will be a new found love for Arsenal, Liverpool etc….. Whilst they do that we will be grinding out results as Sir Alex keeps putting them hateful cunts in their place as he does best….

    TonyBee

    How’s things?

  86. CedarsDevil says:

    The Fly

    Too right re Sir Alex……….. a certain FSW comes to mind!

  87. King Eric says:

    The Fly. Not being pedantic mate but it was the semi final as I said when Tunni had McEacran in his arse pocket. I seriously cannot believe that prick in the studio was saying he is ready to step up to Ingerlund side. Based on what ?

  88. The Fly says:

    aaaahh Benitez, bless him. Reading from a ‘fact’ sheet which later turned out to not be ‘facts’ at all, merely his personal ‘opinion’. That was a wonderful weekend. We smashed Chelsea 3-0 the day after Liverpool drew to (I think) Stoke.

    I’m sure this Villas-Boas is a talented man, but with Ultimate Cunt John Terry as their ‘leader’ he hasn’t got a chance of making a real impact.

  89. Zibbie says:

    Andy hair products by Carroll.
    Liverpudians, pud in the US means seaman heheheheheehe Puds, hahahahahahaha
    Liverpulltilltheypudians.

  90. The Fly says:

    Semi-Final then

    Tunnicliffe, Pogba, Morrisson. If they don’t make it at United them no one will. Quality players.

  91. kiccha says:

    United had indicated in negotiations with Inter that they were willing to meet the Italian club’s £35m valuation of the playmaker.

    But Sneijder is holding out for £200,000-a-week, which is beyond the £170,000 wage United want to offer, and the Old Trafford club have told the Serie A giants they can now only pay £24m if they are to offer a package attractive enough to capture the 27-year-old.

    Talks have stalled as all three parties maintain their stances, although sources in the UK and Italy have told Goal.com that the deal is still alive.

    City also enquired about the Holland international but were told that he wants to go to their bitter rivals.

    “Sneijder wants to play for Manchester United because of their prestige and tradition, which meant City never really followed up their interest,” a source close to the situation told Goal.com. “City were also put off by Inter’s asking price, which is also a problem for United because of his salary expectations.

    “United have told Inter they will pay £24m for Sneijder. Inter have said they want £35m although they could be willing to sell for £30m.”

    Goal.com revealed earlier this month that Nike, who sponsor Sneijder, Inter and Manchester United, could be prepared to make up the shortfall in wages, but it is unknown whether they will go ahead with such a venture.
    http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/222/transfer-zone/2011/07/30/2597143/wesley-sneijder-tells-manchester-city-he-wants-to-join

  92. Zibbie says:

    Roman is a young George Stienbrener for the Yankees, good baseball people’s hard work fucked up by George.
    Roman does the same thing, as long as he believes he knows best, The Rent Boyz will never reach their best,

  93. kiccha says:

    wee wes cliche are gonna like(^^) this news :P

  94. SirAlex'sSon says:

    Really loving the comments on here…thumbs up lads.

  95. Kings says:

    CedarsDevil – Thanks for the link my friend. Never tire of watching that. He really is a fucking comedian.

  96. The Fly says:

    One of the best rants ever. I’ll always remember Sir Alex’s post match interview after the Chelsea win. He was asked about Rafa’s rant and said something like “yes I saw that, it was quite strange, I think he’s quite a disturbed man”. Masterful words from a psychological genius. Those words got into Rafa’s head and never left.

  97. CedarsDevil says:

    Kings – Pleasure buddy…. It was hilarious, mind you he was only talking about facts! lol

  98. Zibbie says:

    RoM has prompted me to use the tools of U-Tube and Google more often. I have seen Best, The Busby Boys, The King, Robbo, Sir Matt, SAF first trophy with an assist from Cedars. Your RoM regular links are great, then I watch a couple more why I’m There. It helps this FNG of 8 going on 9 years to get some type of grasp for this great club. I’m so glad the Glazzers stayed out of SAF and Gills way of running the club.
    WRD 19/20!

  99. The Fly says:

    Goal.com don’t have a clue.

  100. Zibbie says:

    Rafa loosing it…….. hahahahahaha

  101. The Fly says:

    Just had another look at our fixtures. Really some of the worst games possible to start the season.

  102. Zibbie says:

    @Fly cool Goal.com not cool thanks.

  103. Zibbie says:

    Careful of any thing that could cause anal leakage as a side effect.

  104. Zibbie says:

    Time to go I see my last post. Fuck I hate when I crack myself up. Time to go shopping and get ready for the game tonight!!!!!!
    GLORY GLORY MAN UTD!!!!!!!!!!!!

  105. Kings says:

    CedarsDevil – It’s the way he pulled out that piece of paper that made me laugh. Clown. Never a dull moment with dippers eh my friend?

  106. Zibbie says:

    @Costas or anyone who like Lamb, I’m having a leg tonight with Elk backstraps. UUMMMMM. Kebabs for all!

  107. CedarsDevil says:

    Kings – Too right about the dippers. I was slightly upset when Roy took over as I actually respect the man, but once dog leash got the job, normality was resumed!

  108. Kings says:

    CedarsDevil – Absolutely mate. I think Roy is a decent bloke and them scum bastards showed him nothing but contempt. But the return of Dog leash means normal service has been resumed. I bet Fergie was pleased, knowing that he has someone to laugh at again!

  109. Kings says:

    CedarsDevil – Forgot to say, I loved Fergie’s response to Rafa’s comments about ‘facts’ after the Chelsea game, when he called him disturbed. He is in his own zone!

  110. CedarsDevil says:

    Wonder if Sir Alex still says to him ‘Hey Kenny, remember the Keane deal’

  111. Indian Devil says:

    Awesome read Giles mate. I spent more than half an hour reading both parts in the loo :lol:

    BTW are we going to get tonights match live in India?
    I can’t watch online my internet is down :(

  112. rohitvarkey says:

    http://www.darkroomdemons.com/072811_whitehouse/images/aon_darkroomdemons_manchesterunited%200024.jpg
    can sm1 pls tell me hu the other guy is with de gea….is it phil jones?

  113. Manchuchu says:

    Overheard: Sir Alex saying, “Midfield? Tell them to get the fuck off the pole smoke, my new team plays 5-0-5. And tell that Dutch smurf that he can look for a sky blue bunghole across the street if he really wants to do some dumb bugger up the poopknot for 200 thousand a week.”

  114. marshall says:

    @rohitvarkey Its ben amos

  115. CedarsDevil says:

    Ben Amos is next to De Gea in that photo

  116. smartalex says:

    CedarsDevil

    Kenny is probably on egg-shells in Fergie’s company, knowing that ownership has long been decided. Sir Alex will just keep him simmering, with the comments on ice, ready to use but never required. I reckon that Sir Alex has such a hold over most Premiership managers, past and present. Yet I’d imagine that most absolutely love the company of our earthy manager.

  117. scan74 says:

    off topic see the u17′s come a cropper in the milk cup final lost 5-1 still the barmby lad looks a good un scored a fuckin peach against the monkey hangers earlier in the tourenment hopefully a few of these boys will push n all for the future

  118. CedarsDevil says:

    smartalex

    Great use of words as ever…. I think besides an extreme minority (Wenger among them) I have constantly heard nothing but praise for Sir Alex from other PL managers, especially British ones, they always mention how is he always available to give advice when needed and always returns their calls…

  119. smartalex says:

    Barmby scored in every round, including the final.

  120. scan74 says:

    Smartalex did u see his goal v hartlepool fuck me that was a beauty shame about the final still young uns done well to get there keep an eye out for Barmby Jnr

  121. smartalex says:

    CedarsDevil

    That is a big part of Sir Alex’s great strength. He is a big softy.

    He is compassionate, empathetic and solicitous. He wants to help you.

    These qualities are tempered with others, of course!

  122. smartalex says:

    Here’s a 2 minute video of United beating Hartlepool 4:0, including the Barmby goal referenced by scan74
    http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/northern_ireland/14324626.stm

  123. scan74 says:

    dont wish 2 piss on the parade did anyone see gills comments friday in the gaurdian sorry if refrenced before chaps

    says nasri and wes deals are offically dead and wont progress no suprise with nasri but if not wes

    then who 4 the midfield ??

  124. willierednut says:

    Don’t tell Cedars I’m here.

  125. CedarsDevil says:

    scan74

    Answer is simple, no one………… Makes Cedars very happy

  126. CedarsDevil says:

    Got ya

  127. willierednut says:

    Too slow Pippy. :lol:

  128. FletchTHEMAN says:

    Milk cup final a bridge to far again. Bit sad for the youngsters as they were playing great.
    Sounds like the Qataries have some players. Proud of our lads nonethe less.

    here is a good video that give all the goals.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa1X8g_zovM

  129. smartalex says:

    What a hysterical merry-go-round!

  130. RedevilzAdvocate says:

    Hey STR any live blog for the Barca game?

  131. willierednut says:

    Do you want popcorn with that?

  132. keano99 says:

    Did u c the empty stadium in dublin when city played today? When we played there last year we filled it. City are a massive club

  133. CedarsDevil says:

    Will take a break, all this thread jumping has left me breathless and almost pissing my self with laughter…….

    Catch you guys later

  134. scan74 says:

    Glad ur happy cedars mate makes me a touch concerned thought we would be nailed on 2 sign a midfielder this summer

  135. King Eric says:

    Keano99. No mate didn’t see the stadium. What was the attendance? Smalltime cunts.

    Scan74. Hello mate. Yeah Barmby looks quality as does matts Dahli. Rudge aint too shabby either. These under seventeens coupled with the reserves will hopefully make it at United. Some serious talent in there.

  136. scan74 says:

    Evening King Eric yeah be good if a few of these boys step up Barmbys kid must have a good shout his old man must know what it takes 2 play at the top level

    yeah looks gd at the moment pogba ravel keane and the lad Tunnicliffe hope hes spell gos well at posh looks a good un mate

  137. King Eric says:

    Scan. Yeah mate Tunnicliffe is my favourite. Not as naturally gifted as Pogba and Morrison but has the heart of a lion. When Pogba got sent off at Anfield Ryan ran the show. A hard little bastard who had McvEachran in his pocket. Tough well timed tackler

  138. Whiteside says:

    WTF is up with those qataris? I wouldn’t expect United’s u-17s to get gubbed like by their senior national team!

  139. King Eric says:

    Fucking hell. Didn’t mean to submit that comment as hadn’t finished.

    Yeah tough tackler, superb engine, box to box, makes surging runs and chips in with goals. A young player in the Keano mould.

  140. REDHEART says:

    Can anybody tell at what time the match will start in uk?

  141. keano99 says:

    King eric
    I would sell my soul to have another roy keane

  142. giggs12gerrard0 says:

    Great read Giles really enjoyed that…..

    @Keano99 – indeed mate another Keano like player would be a dream! His header in Turin is one of my favourate all time goals, 2-0 down skipper already out of the final should we get there when he latched onto Becks cross.

    For any match going fan in 99 i dont think anyone would say we have seen a better United team although my old man might disagree with 68.

  143. The Fly says:

    Anyone mentions Keano’s header and I get goosebumps.

    “In towards Keane, CAPTAIN’S GOAL FOR MANCHESTER UNITED”

    Can’t beat it

  144. willierednut says:

    My hero, Keano. Love the guy. Not ashamed to say it lol.

  145. smartalex says:

    ‘at Nike WHQ, the Manchester United squad were put to the test with the intensive all-round training sessions that underpin a season.’ 6 minutes
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kihXSLFIzzU

  146. CedarsDevil says:

    Seems the Barton rumors are surfacing again

  147. willierednut says:

    I wonder if Fergie will barter with Barton? ;)

  148. smartalex says:

    Maybe he’ll jump at Joey.

  149. willierednut says:

    Got those WMDs right here right here!

  150. FletchTHEMAN says:

    Willierednut,
    Just saw that piece on Goal.com. Strange that no one else has it.
    Seems even the Ginga-Ninja had his moments of prideful arrogance. Amazing how many tidbits and gems are coming out of the previously silent Paul!

  151. smartalex says:

    I’m playing the last episode season 3 right now.

  152. willierednut says:

    FletchTHEMAN – A moment of madness from the wee man. I always connected it to the Veron signing. We tried to accommodate Seba into the midfield and pissed off the ginger prince at the same time. A moment of weakness, but we’re all allowed one.

    @smartalex

    I knew you’d get that lol. Essential viewing.

  153. DKB07 says:

    GHTT I don’t know if you’re reading this but David De Gea just tweeted Emily Jane’s video on Twitter, even he watches her!

    http://twitter.com/#!/D_DeGea

  154. CedarsDevil says:

    I wonder who will be our hit player this season…….. Consistency will be expected from the old guard such as Vidic, Rio and co………. I am just wondering who will shine out for us over the course of the season. I do not buy into this second season syndrome crap so I am hoping the Little Pea will take off from where he left, Berba will as ever be class on the pitch and I do not give a shit if he scores them in fucking batches of 3′s or 5′s……… My money is on Rooney, 2 seasons ago he was excellent till his injury in March, last season he had a terrible start… My feeling is this will be the season when Rooney will unleash the beast in him over the course of the whole season and in turn along with Hernandez scare the living day lights out of PL defenders

  155. Costas says:

    Line up:

    De Gea; Rafael, Vidic, Evans, Evra; Nani, Cleverley, Anderson, Young; Rooney, Welbeck

    Berba can never start a game against Barca, lol.

  156. King Eric says:

    Cedars. Hello mate. I think Vidic will be as solid as ever. His first pre season for two years. Evra will be back to his best after the world cup debacle of last year summer and his loss of form. Rooney will be on fire. He looks sharp as fuck and appears to have put all the shit behind him. Also said the same of Hernandez. He won’t suffer second season syndrome. Yes defenders will take more notice of him but he has the pace and movement to lose them in a split second. May not see him till September or so though.

    Saw De Gea being interviewed. Seems a decent lad. Said its amazing to be here. Said Hernandez is incredible and helps him out all the time.

  157. The Fly says:

    De Gea has stated he intends to learn English immediately which I think is great news. But in the mean time I suppose it’s good he can chat with Chicharito.

  158. CedarsDevil says:

    King Eric

    I will have a drink to that thought my friend. I cannot bloody wait for the season to start, its been a dreadful wait……… Hopefully kick starting the campaign having put them scum bitters in their place first

  159. King Eric says:

    Costas. Hello mate. Cleverley and Anderson against Barca? A big test and chance to prove themselves tonight.

  160. King Eric says:

    Cedars. Oh cannot wait for it to start. Losing next week is not an option. Just seen a video of uniteds training sessions and meulensteen and strudwick has got them doing some good stuff. All possession football and one touch and shitloads of combinations. Rooney looks top drawer in that video.

  161. StatesideAussie says:

    Giles … thanks for the wonderful post. I like the way you add context of what was occurring in the wider world around those times. The anecdote about Barwick was interesting.

    But what really struck a chord with me was the closing description of Cantona and his role within the team … Eric Cantona “had such a tactical grip over the team from his central position it was almost like having a second manager, on the pitch. That was part of his educational role too, showing the younger players by example how to make use of space, how to offer angles, when to quicken the tempo, when to slow it down, when to hold back, when to push forward, when to get under the keeper’s nose, when to hang back at the edge of the area.”

    For mine, that is why I am hoping SAF will be able to bring in a player of the caliber of Sneijder or De Rossi or someone like that — not just because such a player would be a great asset by himself, but because our youngsters can only benefit from having someone like that leading by example on the field. We’ve still got Giggs for the next year, and Fletcher sets a fine example as well, but bringing these guys through will be a process over several years. It’s easy, when looking back over the years from a distance, to believe that Giggs, Scholes and the other “kids” just burst onto the scene and did it all themselves without any help. Thanks for reminding us there was more to it than that.

  162. StatesideAussie says:

    Gee … Berbatov not starting today? Bet he comes on from the bench.

  163. smartalex says:

    Is it too late to take that bet?

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