Back in April 2005, who would have one day predicted we would be talking about Rio Ferdinand playing in his tenth season at Manchester United. Less than three years after joining the club, the then 26-year-old defender was spotted in restaurants with Chelsea chief executive, Peter Kenyon, on two occasions that month. Both the player and club insisted they were “chance” meetings and there was nothing in it but it’s fair to say the fans were fairly dubious.
The following month, Rio was booed by fans at the Charlton game, with him still failing to put pen to paper on our latest contract offer.
“We met last week and things were going reasonably well, so hopefully it will be speeded up in the coming days,” said Rio. I do want to stay at Manchester United. I have said that from the beginning. I am happy here and I want to sign, but sometimes these things take time.”
The whole affair brings back memories of a depressing time, with United supposedly in decline, nowhere near as good as Chelsea, the Glazers days away from buying the club, and our best players apparently talking to rivals behind the club’s back.
Rio’s apparent betrayal was particularly painful, given that just the year before he had spent eight months out for failing to attend a drugs test at Carrington. The club and fans stuck by the defender yet the feeling was he was eager to leave us.
The relationship between Rio and the fans has improved since then, with him generally being a more popular figure now, although there are still plenty who haven’t forgiven or forgotten the defender for messing us around. He’s won five league titles and captained us to European Cup success in 2008, making sure his name is in our history books forever.
However, with Rio turning 33 next month, his body seems to have almost packed in and injuries are getting the better of him. A couple of years ago, the thought of this happening was fairly terrifying but now we are much better equipped to deal with his absence. Phil Jones has been incredible and is already a fans’ favourite, Chris Smalling just gets better and better and is eager for a stint in the centre of our defence and Jonny Evans has started to rediscover the form he enjoyed before last season, which was a year to forget for him.
This isn’t to say Rio doesn’t still have a part to play and I would prefer him alongside Vidic for any big game. He has the experience of playing against the best sides, against the best centre forwards, and there’s no amount of young, fresh talent that can make up for that.
Unlike so many players, Rio doesn’t take time to settle after returning from an injury. He comes back ready to play, as if he’s been in the team for weeks, meaning his frequent injuries aren’t as damaging as they could be.
However, when the press claimed this week that Chicago Fire were interested in signing Rio, I’ll admit I was intrigued to hear how much they would offer us for him. The American club has since played down the rumours, claiming that despite “admiring” our defender, “there is no substance” to reports linking him with a move to their club.
Rio’s representative, Jamie Moralee, was singing from the same hymn sheet, insisting that the only place he wanted to be is United.
“I understand the reasons why someone like Rio would be attractive to them,” he said. “There is an appeal on and off the pitch because he could help retain the global status provided by Beckham and Henry. But I must stress, these stories are nothing to do with Rio. We have never discussed anything beyond life at Manchester United because that is all he cares about.”
Rio is on £120,000 a week and if he was honest, he would have to admit that he doesn’t deserve to be up there with the likes of Wayne Rooney as our top earners. He played 19/38 league games last season and 13/38 the season before that. It would be foolish to think he will now suddenly rid himself of all injuries and return to the player who would always play 40-50 games in all competitions.
So, is it time to cash in? I think so, yes. His contract expires in 2013, meaning we would have to be negotiating a new deal between now and the summer. Now over the age of 30, he would be offered just a one year deal at a considerably lower salary than he is on now. Before asking whether the club would offer him a good deal, you should consider whether Rio would be willing to accept it. He could be offered a big money deal on a three or four year contract elsewhere, whether it was in the States or somewhere in Europe. Is he really going to stay at United, earning less, waiting to see if we will offer him another extension every summer? I doubt it and I wouldn’t really begrudge him for that.
You also have to consider whether his ego could stand being on the bench. Jones and Smalling are only going to get better and even when fit, surely it can’t be too long until he’s not first choice anymore. Would he want to spend the last years of his career winning trophies that he knew he hadn’t really contributed to? I can’t see it.
You imagine Rio would buzz off living in LA or New York for a while. Movies, magazines, clothing ranges, record labels… it would be foolish to think that football was the one, true love of his life. If the Red Bulls or Galaxy came in with a great offer would the club or player want to reject it?
Rio is a great player and can still do a job for us but I genuinely think this summer would be a good time to say goodbye, from the perspective of both the club and player. He can have his testimonial and his place in our history, but he isn’t a Giggs or a Scholes, willing to take a pay cut and job insecurity for the sake of being a United player, and why should we expect him to be? He’s been excellent but now it’s probably time for him to leave.
Man Utd News 24/7
Nice write up Scott… Personally I would say cash in on Rio. As good as he was for us he has lost that bit of magic and now would be a good time for him to get a new challenge in a less demanding league. Either way Sir Alex will not keep him around if there was no benefit
With Brucie’s decline all too apparent at Sun’lun, can we bring him back for centre half duties? With the condition that he doesn’t take spot kicks away at Sheffield United…..
Seriously though, it’s like one of those amazing nights out that goes on a bit too long although I still reckon Rio is mustard. 2007/8 he was fucking imperious- I would never write him off because he is absolute class, him and Vida at the heart of the defence is still our strongest pairing.
Bionic leg/ back replacement?
Another thing on Rio, I never really warmed up to him as a United player… Do not get me wrong, I do not dislike or hate him but over the years you tend to develop a certain liking to some players, Rio was never one of those for me.
As much as reading this saddens me, I agree. Rio is one of my favourite, if not my favourite Man United player, but in football we cannot let our hearts rule our heads. I also doubt that he would be content sitting on the bench and watching us play.
If he does go this summer I hope its not to another Prem side (i.e. Spurs), I hope he does a few years in Europe then finishes in the USA, similar to Henry.
ClaytonBlackmoresTan
Haha, you still remember that miss by Bruce? First game in the premiership for us was it not? Or was it in the FA cup?
Cannot disagree with you in the Rio / Vida partnership though, however I doubt it will ever be as good as it was…
It’s a squad game. With Smalling/Jones covering the fullback positions because of all our bad luck with those positions, and Evans having good days and off days, there should always be back up for the CB position. Vida and Rio are still the #1 CB pairing for me.
Selling Rio would be like selling Maldini. How can you want, with an apparent straight face, the tortoise Berbatov in the team, but one of the worlds best center backs to leave? You are a true red, but thank god you aren’t the manager ;D Sir Alex won’t sell him.
I can see all sides of this . I’ll leave it to SAF to decide .
I agree Scott! Let’s cash in on Rio. I feel his time @ United is quickly coming to an end soon. He’s def not the player he once was. He’s consistenty plagued with injuries and and lost his pace in a big way. I’ve really become fed up with Rio to be honest. He’s never fit and imo, Smalling and Jones are doing a better job than what he’s doing for us at the moment – that’s when he plays. I reckon this could be his last season for us and to be honest, I’d be surprised if he stays with us next season…
Cedars,
I’m pretty sure it was the cup in the green and gold shirts- Giggsy got a belter of an opener, then we went 2-1 down- step up Stevie B…..oh dear….what he was doing taking pens in the first place with his ten-to-two canoe feet is anyone’s guess.
You’re right of course, about the partnership- I think it hit heights, plateaued- then the only option is gradually down- sad as it is to admit it.
I remember the Scousers away we won one nil in 2008 thanks to the troll, but Rio and Vidic were like some celestial brick wall- y’know- “thou shall not pass or I shall mercilessly stick thoust in row fucking Z thine verminous cunts” I just remember being in total fucking awe of the way they defended. That’s not to say we don’t have the makings of three new class centre halves in Johnny, Chrissy and Jonesy.
(In Glasgow drawl) “It’s the nature of our crub to bring these young pwayers through to chawwenge the first team, it’s how Manchest’ Uneytud have awways done thungs”
Sir Awex knows, course he does.
Cheers Rio- you have my blessing to go and knock that bellend Kanye off his fucking perch.
Nice one, see you down Peckham bruv. Swear down.
ClaytonBlackmoresTan
Brucie did have a decent record at penalties though! Now that you’ve mentioned it, I always hated ‘that’ kit, remembering Newton Heath they said at the time, still ugly as fuck though!
Let’s be honest. The players who get a positive write up on this blog and the players who the blog argues we should keep are predominantely the ones who say the right things in the press and suck up to the fans. Even if they aren’t the most essential players.
The second any player threatens to leave they are labeled as disloyal. These are often the best players like Roy Keane or Wayne Rooney. This blog wants them to leave.
Rio Ferdinand is clearly getting on but I don’t see what a controversy from many years ago has to do with it.
I don’t advocate an approach of expecting absolute loyalty, selling anyone who doesn’t fit that profile or complaining about them. We need to be more mature about it and realise that there is a lot of money in football and many of the players in the team aren’t homegrown. Some will be more loyal than others.
If Ferguson followed the whims of people on the blog we’d be midtable.
brett1985
Much rather we were a mid table team with loyal players then constant winners with dick heads as players and fans …….. no?
I still see Rio as one of the best in the business when fit, but when is that? In the past our success has been backed up by a stable back 4. Therefore I’d like to see some of the younger lads take over and build up an understanding and solidity. I also don’t think we can pay 120k per week for a bench player. Also currently he is valuable if he goes to one of the sugar daddies which could fund a replacement like Rodwell. We also need a couple Fullbacks and Rio’s wages could pay the wages of 2-3 quality young players. Either way, i’ll be happy if he stays or if he leaves and we get a future star.
Brett,
You must be looking fresh today my man- what with your elevated status on top of that soap box.
‘This blog’ is the most sweeping generalisation of a multitude of opinions I have ever seen.
I don’t want Rio to leave, it’s merely that sooner rather than later it makes sporting and economical sense for him to leave.
With 25 years managing our club I doubt he will follow the opinions, not whims, of this blog. It is a series of opinions on how we, the fans, see it, which we are entitled to.
The fact that you’re named after the Hitman Hart from WWF fame only leads me to conclude that you’ve been busting the roids a bit too heavy and you’ve got a bit of a cob on because to be honest, you condescended us all which is slightly unfair before lunchtime.
Blimey I posted a post on the last blog post and to my shock their is a new post on Rio’s post the master of the twitter post
I shall not cut and paste suffice to say if anyone wants to read my post they may do so on previous blog post
Hey I’ll stand up for my brett
Long time no read man
It’s a long season , we are struggling with injures already . The first time we could sell him would be at Christmas what’s the point . He still is the best center back in the league
ClaytonBlackmoresTan
Not often I use this word but I have to now……. OUCH
Great post!
Rio should stop playing for England because if he didn’t get the hint before he should now
He done all he could – that generation is now finished – time for a new one to come in…
MG
Read that post my friend, as inspiring as ever…
A new generation of losers?
I disagree, we need Rio’s experience on and off the pitch. Defensively on the pitch he is a leader and off the pitch he is a mentor. Liverpool did something similiar with Hyypia and when he left they were all over the place.
If we were to cash in on Rio, then we must have a strong and reliable defender to take his place. Actually just one defender won’t do, we will need two. One to play and another to spare. At the current moment, United’s defense is sloppy. Vidic’s return from injury does not guarantee that our defense will be better if he does go off form/ recovering his form after month of injury. Besides, there is also partnership problem. Many thinks that we have the best partnership between Rio n Vidic. What will happen if the new defenders or his replacement could not form a good partnership (just like our current midfield crisis)? There is much to consider, if Rio and Vidic could still work together to form a solid defense when Vidic return, I don’t see that we need to cash in on Rio, unless we could get someone who is more than capable to step up for the job.
Cedars
Smalling Jones Wellbeck Cleverley
Then possibly:
Cole Morrison Keane Tunnicliffe
I kid you not the future in England is Red
Red is good but sadly for England never great!
If you add Wilshere – England could possibly have five world class players by 2014 – of course United supply most of the team
Though not England mad – the second coming of United players into the England squad has the nerve and determination to outshine the previous generation.
Very interesting times ahead – though as always United
England
Since the contract saga in 2005 i think he has been one of our most dedicated players… !!!
He deserves a better write up than this anyway, absolute rock for the last 6 years with vidic.
He is first to celebrate us winning, or scoring and you can see how much it means to him!
Yes we have amazing talent coming through and he knows it, but it can only be good for the
team… in my opinion we cannot afford to lose him at all… and the bit about jonny evans finding
his old form??? WTF?? am i watching different games? He is still well below parr for our defence!
Rio 5 = LEGEND.
Cash in? No chance. His experience is invaluable and is still needed in huge games. Instead of talking about selling our loyal servant hows about a post on Robbo?
Might aswel sell him, hes old and dont play much but gets a shitload of money! Doubt he could sit on the bench like neville, scholes an giggs done after 10yrs of being first choice, wil be sad to see him go
Well I remember Rio as captain in 08 and the way he lead from the front
Injuries have hurt him but he still is a leader
Plus he doesn’t want to leave for Barca or Madrid or city
we should keep him. if he can pass on the experience to the younger lads, helping them out in training, that’s good contribution for me. still got a feeling he can play for a season or two albeit irregularly.
No ‘this blog’ is 99% of people agreeing with scott.
Rio won’t be sold, He’ll see out his contract and then probably move on. I doubt SAF will sell him at the end of the season. Two more seasons – this season inclusive and that will be that. Its no biggie, Its about that time and he’ll be 34. Then again if his injury problems subside he easily play till 36. We’ll just have to wait and see. Non story this really. The scourge of international football in the 21st century. lol. Papers and media have fuck all to talk about. To be honest i don’t mind them, hell sometimes i like them. Young players get playing time with their country , Will Keane and Pogba squared off against each other yesterday with England VS France. Fletch in line to play against Spain. Danny and Rooney hopefully show England how it done United style. Not so bad
brett1985 – Good post mate.
ClaytonBlackmore’s Tan – “ten to two canoe feet”. Quality.
Cedars – I agree about warming to Rio….He’ll never be a Scholes, Giggs, Ole type of fans favourite for a lot of people…..
On selling him…..I think we’d be gettin ahead of ourselves if we think about cashing in on him…with all the injuries we’ve had over the last few years I don’t think the gaffer would risk it. Besides, if Rio is fully fit….he’s a guaranteed starter. There’s been no better pairing than Rio and Vida.
Interesting point STR made about the contractual issues that could occur though….I agree Rio may not want a rolling one year contract on less money….
Rai – Hows the young one coming on mate? Had much sleep?
We should absolutely not cash in on him for several reasons.
1) What he did in 2006 was forgivable. He was a young man looking for a large pay deal to suit his undeniable talent. Since this time he has grown to obviously love the club as much as any fan does. From 2006-2009 he was in a league of his own as a centre-back. As much as I love Vida, he doesn’t have the same natural ability as Rio and is often too keen to dive into reckless challenges.
2) If Rio can maintain fitness, which admittedly has been a problem in recent seasons, he can go on playing at the highest level for 5 more years. His positioning and timing is so good that he does not have to rely on pace except against the very top strikers. No-one would have thought Giggsy would have continued to this age when he was getting all his hamstring injuries when he was younger and when he spectacularly lost form from 2002-2004. He got over it all and there is no reason by Rio can’t do that either.
3) Rio is now a senior member of the squad and a leader. Losing Nev, Scholesy, JOS, Wes and VdS over the summer has reduced the number of experienced pros that the younger players need for guidance and advice. With the temptations and foolishness of youth growing every day, the importance of having dedicated, loyal old pros at the foundation of the club cannot be over-stated.
4) Playing with Rio can only help Phil Jones, Smalling and Evans improve. Much in the same way that Danny Welbeck recently praised Michael Owen for helping him on the training pitch, Rio can be a mentor for the young defenders we have, in particular Smalling, who appears to be Rio mark II but lacks the consistency required at the moment.
If Owen is still on the books Rio won’t go anywhere unless he chooses to.
KE – Fuck all sleep mate been staying in hospital since the little one was born…awaiting some test results to see if we can go home little one had a spout of jaundice. Good kid though just gets on with it. Little lady version of Scholes!
I have an idea
Sell Rio
Buy old French Defender about to retire for one last hurrah
Wait didn’t we do that once upon a time?
Gopher Brown – Sorry mate totally disagree with your first point. You can’t do what he did and expect people to just accept it. No chance. When fans pay top fuckin money that helps towards the wages they should be treated better than that…as should the club who stood by him when all the test shot was going on.
As for Vida, I think out of the two I’d take Vida anyday…
But that’s just my opinion….I expect a backlash
## Test shit
Echoing my thoughts a few of us discussed this on a older thread
I hope we wont do “the arsenal”, they offload their experince players and still suffers to this day… kids give us energy, but the experince ones give calmness under pressure…
I don’t agree on this. I know there’s a lot of love for our young defenders but they are nowhere near Rio’s level and one season won’t bridge that gap. Rio has at least another two good seasons in him and that should be perfect for the development of Smalling/Jones/Evans.
What our club need to do is help Rio improve his fitness (it can be done, look at Giggsy. He used to tear his hamstring every season) and really impress on him the need to quit England games.
As for the idea of ‘cashing in’ may I remind you that Manchester United is not a selling club. We don’t depend on revenues from player sales. Ronaldo would still be a United player if he hadn’t wanted to go so badly. He left because he wanted to go, not because we wanted the money. We didn’t exactly ‘cash in’ on Wes Brown and John O’Shea did we?
Besides, I need Rio for my blog so he’s going nowhere.
http://agentoffergie.blogspot.com/2011/10/sweet-treats.html
Never looked upon it as cashing in don’t think the transfer fee would be huge even if Utd did sell,just that circumstances are beginning to dictate Rios days as first choice are numbered.
I know its mental but his last contract negotiations left a bad taste always had a detachment since then.
I think this a very eloquent and well argued piece, but I don’t agree with the conclusion.
For my money, Rio Ferdinand is world class. Yes, our deputies are excellent. But let them be excellent deputies for a couple of seasons more. It’s all about the strength of the squad. Whether Rio plays twenty or fifty games a season he brings a lot to the squad on and off the field, and as a mentor to lads like Smalling there’s no price on that.
If we need the money, if we’re really strapped for cash, then we could maybe survive losing him. But I would say unless we need to cut the wage bill he, and also Berbatov, are worth having just on principle.
like STR i also think Rio more so than some players would be into moving to the states
Sell rio play berba at centre back
Cash Rio? We’ll have to ask Sir Alex.
Injuries have been a problem but even when he comes back he is solid. Plus u cannot ignore his importance in the dressing room and on the training pitch. The trio of young defenders have the world’s 2 best defenders to learn from.
Its only natural he will start less and less games, his high salary may be a concern. Eventually it will come down to him and Sir Alex.
He still is an important member of our squad and will be for another year or two after this.
Sell Rio buy Sol Cambell
haha, Afternoon lads, I was gonna have a right old rant on this topic but Brett1985 has summed it up perfectly, so theres no need to say too much…
i’ll just add that our beloved Club may be involved in loads of charity work but we are still a business – If we can pay 50% less for a player who warrants £250K a week we’ll do it without blinking and call it good business. So when contract negotiations are happening, and both sides are seeking the best deal at the other’s expense, I don’t begrudge players who hold out, I really don’t. Both parties have to get as close to the line as possible without crossing it, and to my mind Rio has never crossed that line, or questioned the Club in the gutter press.
True, in 10 years time he may not be mentioned up there with Giggs, Scholes and Neville by *some* supporters, but nobody can deny he’s been the best CH in the world for years and he’s won everything there is to win at Club level. He hasn’t been a passenger during the most successful period in our Club’s history, he’s been right there on the front line alongside everybody else. Kinda fucked up when a player like Ferdinand is under appreciated by his own fans, but honest RIVAL fans will tell you hes been the best CH our leagues seen in the last 10 years. He’s always been a much better player than Carragher or Terry, and truth be told, our bright prospects of Evans, Jones and Smalling would do amazingly well to even MATCH what Rio has done in his career, let alone still be playing at the very top at 33! He’s still first choice when fit ffs! Talk about some fans getting GIDDY, you gotta laugh.
Fryers looks like the next home grown defender to come into 1st team. Read on the official site the coaching staffs are focusing on him, has played 18 games already this season in 3 different teams. He certainly looked confident in the league cup outing. Maybe next season he will be in the team along with few other promising youngsters.
What do u guys think? What about Tom Thorpe?
Whatever happened to players retiring at this club? You don’t have to be a Scholes, a Neville or a Giggs to have that privilege right? If Rio decides that he has 2-3 years left before he retires, why not keep him until then? His experience will always come in handy and if he retires from England, we are guaranteed 15-20 games from him every season. Not bad. However, if Rio sees himself playing on as long as Maldini did, then that changes everything. Can’t keep him at the club for 6-7 more years.
His best destination would be PSG as we all know how big love is between French s and English people
Rai – A young version of Scholes? You are blessed! Enjoy my friend
OK heres the deal. ABUs try anything to upset the United cart. Once ole Fabio left him out I knew the press etc would follow this path. Unfortunately some fans buy into this crap. Rio is still the man. His presence instils confidence in the team. Mark my words….we will look back at this episode later this season and wonder what we were thinking about. Sell Rio now?…plleeaase….I dont thinks so.
Costas
Such an honor is there for true United players, i.e. those who have the club in their heart… Not many of them around anymore I am afraid, that is a fact we have to accept. Rio is far from that accolade
Rio can be a legend if he quit England now. Stay another year at MU and leave gracefully for the USA. I still remember Craig Bellamy and that goal against Citeh.
Can’t wait for the “Time to cash in on Rooney thread” That should be a corker! Fergie won’t sell him now. People are assuming Jones and Smalling are the finished article already. They’re still young. Still learning. As we’ve seen with Evans, you can hit a rocky patch. Vidic is picking up injuries. Unless we buy a replacement, that’s the only way I can see Rio leaving. Rio might not be on the same level as RedNev, Scholes and Giggs, but who is these days? Those 3 lads grew up supporting United. So, not a valid argument imo. As ever with these kind of decisions, I’ll be guided by the manager. If he says Rio’s time is up, then so be it. Like with Berbatov, if he wants to stay(and agrees a suitable contract) then I don’t see the problem with him staying for another 2 years at least.
Nice rumours, but as a MLS observer (Toronto has a franchise in the league, but not enough success to tell if we have a ‘team’) there’s zero chance that the penny-pinching MLS would spend top dollar to bring a injured, old defender to the league. If Rio comes to MLS, it’ll be on a free transfer for a pittance of what he’s making now – that’s how Toronto got Torsten Frings. The only big money contracts go to player salaries, not to any transfer fees; that’s how Beckham, Henry, JP Angel and so on got here. And those players all have one thing in common: they create TV highlights for ESPN because they create goals. If Rio comes, its after his contract runs out. MU isn’t going to profit from him coming to MLS.
Just as another aside, former youth player and Salford’s own Richard Eckersley is playing here on loan from Burnley, and is doing a great job, gives it his all every game. Aside from Frings, would be our player of the year here. Easy to see the effect a good upbringing can have on a lad!
How about time to cash in on Sir Alex? Might be still worth a few bob
Any chance for time to cash in United thread and support another team?
I will agree though, he needs to rethink his international desires. Pack England in, and get yourself fit for United on a regular basis.
Cash in on Rio? Absolute nonsense! Rio has to admit He does not deserve to be among top earners? bollocks. One thing people have to realize is that We have to move on from past incidents, Yes Rio messed up at the time, I was really angry with Him but for goodness sake its been almost 7years and He’s been professional since so why the recurrent grieveances against Him? and just because We now have Jones, Smalling and Evans, We can now get rid afterall ” He messed up in 2005″ and as such He’s not in our good books ever since. His experience will be vital till the end of His contract not just for this season. Think of it should someone say “lets cash in on Berba” He’ll be sacrificed alive on this thread and yet Lets cash in on Rio sounds good! Point is We wont love all players but as long as they want to wear our shirt, They should not in any way be made to leave
Rio and Vida are still number one for me. Just reading their names on the team sheet makes me feel 100% confident that we’ll get a result.
Two years ago they were the best defensif partnership and at 33 Rio is now rubbish ?!
still has two years to offer IMO
Who would I support apart from United?
Well let me see…
Still trying to see…
Hmmmmm….
Cannot figure it out exactly…
I got it
The worlds sexiest football team captained by Hayley McQueen
MG
How about Coventry?
a lot of high horse opinions here. Fact is there is nothing to suggest Rio can play till he’s 36. I’d like him to retire here but that in itself is another matter. Will he want a limited role, no doubt his influence will be fantastic for the young players but will Rio want to sit on the bench. I doubt it. We’ll just have to wait and see how he gets along with regards to his fitness and if he’s willing to accept what the club offers him.
We seem to be jumping to conclusions that he’s to be sold now.when in fact no one has suggested it. Everyone is saying the same thing, he has 2 more years and he’ll be 34/35 by then. At that age no manager in the world won’t start to think of addressing the issue. Called this a non story earlier but we seem determined to huff and puff about nothing. Barr Giggs when was the last time we had 35+ outfield players in the team?
Coventry wouldn’t be a patch on MG United Cedars
Papers also have Rio going to Qatar
http://www.sportsvibe.co.uk/news/football/manchester-united-star-to-receive-shock-mega-money-offer-from-qatar-club-11391/
@Cedars – Gotta disagree 110% – you doubt that Rio has United in his heart? So whats in his heart then mate? A love of money? Because if thats the case pray tell why is he still hanging around a Club like United? We don’t even pay the highest wages in England let alone Europe, so if its all about Money for Rio why didn’t he sign a much better contract elsewhere years ago? In fact he could probably negotiate a better contract than the one he’s on right now at 33 years old!
IMO, you can tell from the way he celebrates, how he talks up the young players, and from the faith placed in him by SIr Alex… Rio has United in his heart. He’s made his love and admiration for the manager and Club very clear, so im confused how anybody could doubt Rio’ commitment? He’s given his best years to our Club and our Club has the defensive record and trophies to show for it. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him take a bad result without looking like he wanted to break something.
Are you seriously saying that you doubt RIO FERDINAND’S loyalty to the Club, and If so, who else do you think is only at United for a pay day?
@Cedars
Well Brown and O’Shea were around but I don’t see them ending their careers at OT? I also highly doubt Fletcher will end his career at United. I don’t think it has anything to do with being a true United player anymore. Most of us here (including me) would like to see Rooney end his career at OT and I can safely say that he treated the club a lot worse than Rio did in 2005. Speaking of contract renegotiations, 2005 was also a year when Giggs didn’t sign a contract until he got the 2 year deal he wanted. My point is that any contract negotiation can turn ugly nowdays. As I look at it, the way you perform in your declining football years outweighs how much you love United.
Maybe Rio’s going to FC Anzhi Makhachkala for 20 million a year after tax
I kid you not by the way
Costas
Very acutely observed
Coventry United !
Wayne – It’ll be something different tomorrow lol. Fucking papers. Transfer window closed, the red tops need their daily fix of gossip.
Cedars
Have you a thing for Coventry?
Famous for Lady Godiva
No Costas my good friend… You are wrong….. Why is Giggs still at the club?
MG
No I do not! Just a name for a laugh my friend !
Cedars
Pulling your leg as always
I hope I didn’t pull it that hard!
Rio likes to be high profile and in the limelight think that’s one of the main reasons it’s hard for him to quit England and there’s very few clubs that can offer world wide exposure like Utd.
Also think what a player may give up in wages is going to make back in indorsements because of Utds appeal.Just to break it up as paycheck vs paycheck doesn’t work because there’s so many more advantages in playing for Utd and when Rio signed the contract 120k a week was top money.
Keep him for this year as first(ish) choice, particularly for the big games, let him go to Euro 2012 + then retire/be forced out from England and maybe that’ll help his injuries, giving him a bit more time to rest/not fly off to other countries etc. Then next season rotate with the young’uns, give him games just not necessarily against the paciest strikers and keep a deeper line. Then after that will depend on how he feels.
haha the parallels between Terry and Rooney are spooky. Rooneys Dad got arrested for irregular betting
Willie this one is even better
http://www.sportsvibe.co.uk/news/football/agent-confirms-tevez-could-make-stunning-man-united-return-11365/
also Utd are going to bid 30mill for Higuain and Inter will sell Sneijder in january and it’s only week 1 of the break lol
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=1fYlyehyac4#t=89s
http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2011/Oct/Paul-Pogba-in-Sir-Alex-Fergusons-plans.aspx
last quoted paragraph is surprising seeing he’s a foreign player, but hugely satisfying
Wayne – Could you imagine this place if that happened? Lol. Melt down Republik! Have to honest, along with Gerrard and Terry, I would have a hard time supporting those cunts in a United shirt.
I can’t believe this!!
Rio Ferdinand is arguably the best defender England has ever produced. He has an unbelievable reading of the game, rarely see him diving into tackles. He’s like Danny Welbeck described a “Rolls Royce”.
Even if he can’t physically play every game, the depth of knowledge and experience he can provide to the younger lads, who still have a lot to learn is unmeasurable.
Rio is in the same bracket of Baresi, Maldini, Nesta (in his earlier years), Matthaus. These guys show how to defend, it’s not about throwing yourselves into last ditch tackles like Carra, Terry, Vidic. It’s about never getting into those situations where you never need to make those tackles.
The stat in the West Brom game summed it up, how long he’d gone without conceding a foul, granted he hadn’t played every week, but he’d played a fair few games, and for a defender not to have given a foul away speaks volumes of his quality.
For me, Rio does embody what our great club represents, passion, pride, winning mentality, leader on and off the pitch.
Re: his contract talks, we don’t know what happened in those talks, so it’s difficult for us to make a fair judgement on that. At the end of the day, footballers are people, they have friends, and when these friends leave the club, do we expect them to stop being friends?
Willie yes mate that would really test my faith,never happen thank God.
Off Topic talksport did a poll 84% of fans polled would rather watch the game in the pub than go live,i was surprised by that,does that mean with all the modern technology society is becoming lazy? introverted? ticket prices and travelling costs are becoming to high?
Has to be a bit worrying to the bean counters
Rai – Oh. Sorry to hear that mate. I hope she is ok pal.
The squad is being re-energized with youth. I have no doubt this is SAF’s number one priority. No manager, coach or sporting organization n history has been as ruthless as SAF in moving players on in order to keep the squad fresh. Regardless of how faithful the player has been, regardless of his contributions. Even when a player still has a few years left in him, SAF won’t hesitate to move him on if it’s the “right thing to do” — especially if there is new young talent standing in line. And the results are there for everyone to see: he may have been ruthless in this regard, but SAF has also been more successful, over a longer period of time, than anyone else. He is constantly reinventing the squad. He knows that “United players” don’t grow on trees; you can’t afford to wait until you need a new one, then just go to the store and get him. When one comes along, especially at a young age, you have to seize the opportunity. And if that means someone else must either take a backseat or move on, so be it.
That’s always been the way with SAF, and neither the players nor their fans can complain: we are both too well compensated, the players with money,the fans with success.
But now I think SAF is really pushing it along, and for several reasons.
First and foremost, he knows this is one of those fortuitous moments in history when he just happens to have an amazing crop of seriously talented youngsters at his disposal. To have one or two such players on the books would be great. But right now our first-team squad includes the following players under 25: the da Silva twins, Smalling, Jones, Cleverley, Welbeck, Hernandez, de Gea, Evans, Nani, Anderson, Kiko, Gibson, Diouf, Amos, Pogba and Morrison. What an amazing array of talent to have available! And naturally, SAF wants to take advantage of this. Most definitely, he does not want to let this opportunity go by.
Secondly, SAF is no fool. He knows his own days are (sadly) numbered. Another 3 or 4 years would be great. And if he moves these youngsters through now, that would allow him to have the pleasure of managing them and making them successful before he has to call it a day.
And finally, if he can achieve all that, he will leave the club in fine shape for the next manager. Not only will he leave the next guy a good set of young players to work with, they will already be successful. The new guy will not be faced with taking over a team that is successful, but aging and declining. Nor will the club be faced with trusting a new manager in the transfer market.
If, over the next 3-4 years, Sir Alex can achieve all this, it will be the most remarkable achievement in a career that is already marked by unbelievable achievements. To establish a bright new squad full of young stars, who individually and collectively are already proven, who by then will already have a couple of PL titles (and maybe a CL) under their belt, and who still have years of success ahead of them … well, what can you say. Not only that, but he will have done it during a time of hyper-inflation in transfers and wages, when others have spent hundres of millions and achieved nothing.
Wow.
But for those in the squad who are already 30 or older, it does mean the writing is on the wall. Sad it may be. But the show must go on.
wayne – Hello mate. Ha. A fucking return of Tevez to United. Yeah thats gonna happen. As is buying Higuain as after all we need some more strikers to the 7 we already possess. Fucking idiots. As for Sneijder I don’t even wanna go there. Yawn.
Stateside – Top post as usual pal.
slim – I am liking those Pogba quotes mate!! Mancunian tradition! Superb.
It would a mistake to get shot of Rio I think. He’s top class. Ok spends a bit too long on the treatment table but he never makes mistakes(very rarely). He’s still one of the very best centre backs in the world. THE WORLD. Let him run down his contract and retire. I’m sure that’s what the intention of both parties is or at least it should be.
King Eric … cheers mate. Tevez back to United? I couldn’t see that happening, not if we had no strikers left and the Argie troll whore was prepared to do it for free. He can fuck off, him and his fucking “agent” too. Cunts of the lowest order.
He really should quit England. Look what it’s done for the gnevs, scholes and Giggsys of the world. Berba knows it too and he’s only 30. Club > country.
King Eric yeah mate i got bored of WS soap opera along time ago,think there’s little or no chance Utd will sign him,but untill some other team signs him the soap will continue.
I know Inter having been losing big money for a few years and this debt crisis is now taking hold in Italy so i’m sure there will be a trickle down effect for the Italian clubs.WS being sold is a distinct possiblity just don’t think to Utd.
Mickjk … Rio’s quality isn’t in doubt. But even if he can stay relatively healthy, it seems likely the club will only offer one-year rolling contracts when his present deal runs out (which is effectively next summer). Will Rio be OK with that? And will he be OK with a bit part, even when he is healthy? Even Scholes has talked about how difficult that became in his last few years, how tough it was to know that even when you’re fit, your role is still restricted.
http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2011/10/06/rooneys-dad-held-in-bet-_n_997853.html
top post stateside
King Eric – believe it mate, sort of echos stateside’s comments. Next 2 years are going to be very interesting indeed. Here’s to the Mancunian tradition. Its like the fucking Illuminati. loving it
What i want to know is why does the legends chipy on the corner of sir Matt Busby Way STILL have a picture of that cunt tevez up on it’s sign? Get it down and get it down now.
Many of you don’t appreciate Rio Ferdinand and it’s pretty obvious the fact that many of you only see Rio as a character off the pitch and how he plays on it. And that’s the thing, if you don’t hear much about Rio on the pitch, it’s because he’s doing all the little things correct like covering for Vida enabling Vida to get stuck in with opposing defenders and taking chances knowing Rio is in position near or behind him.
Rio doesn’t mark many players because he reads the flow of the game better and can position/communicate better, in addition to his slower pace compared to Vida.
Rio is our best defender (next to Smalling) who can connect with the wingers or forwards, let alone Anderson or Carrick as a midfield connector. He’s composed on the ball.
Rio and Vidic have been and are the best CB partnership for the last 5+ years.
If and when Rio leaves, Smalling and Jones will not have an English defender as their mentor any more who is in and around the squad every day. This is a huge sticking point. Rio needs to teach Smalling and Jones and Evans as long as possible.
@Cedars
Giggs is still at the club for 3 reasons I believe. 1) He’s still a brilliant player. 2) He got the contract he wanted when the club’s policy wasn’t to offer more than one year extensions. 3) He is a part of the modern day Holy Trinity and these guys are the last of a dying breed. I think the days of one club players are coming to an end.
But Giggs isn’t so much the issue here. My point was what it will take from now on to see a player finish their career at United. And judging by Wes and O’Shea’s departures, it’s not just about loyalty anymore. You’ll have to perform at the top level until the twilight of your career. If, for example, Rooney or Rio do that, then I feel that they’ll hang their boots at the club.
Sell Rio, Hells No….Unless some have forgotten we have a very young team. We need to keep the old heads to keep order in the camp & pitch.
Say We Sell Rio, Giggs retires at end of season. Who do we have left?
Paddy & Vida will not be here late into their careers like Scholes, they;ll probably leave in 3 years.
Carrick is No leader. Fletch is 27? Park Ji is no senior, he;s our fresh faced 13 year old korean 3 lunged Hiro Nakamura.
We need Rio more than ever, his experience will be crucial to leading Jones,Evans & Smalling to greatness, he will mentor them till they reach an age where all they have learnt will start to show on the pitch instead of the quick thinking,quick moving, instinctive reactions we see now.
As Long as Rio plays 20-25 games a year, he is crucial to United. He can play on till his mid to late 30′s if he can avoid long term injuries and play at least 25 games for us. If Maldini could do it from 33-38 then Rio can for at least 2-3 years which SAF will allow.
Cash in, yeah right,
Costas … “You’ll have to perform at the top level until the twilight of your career.” That’s one way to look at it. Another way is to say that when you’re no longer able to perform to the top level week-in, week-out, you may have to be prepared to accept a lesser role, and/or lesser pay; you may even have to accept that your role can no longer be with United, but with some lesser club. Or you can retire.
This is meant as no disrespect to anyone but i think alot of lads are thinking of the way Rio used to play.As King Eric pointed out on a thread yesterday at the moment Rio is walking through games,he’s also been missing alot over the last couple of seasons.
I’m not knocking his ability but the injuries have taken a toll and Rio is not as effective or important as some are making out imo.
Clint … I see where you’re coming from and you’re right — it’s a key part of SAF’s auccess is that he’s always recognized the need to blend youth and experience. Still, it also depends on the whether the older player is prepared to accept a reduced role of 20-25 games a season. Scholes has said he found that very difficult.
But also, I am not sure of your timeline. You are saying that we need Rio to stay around because the others who can provide leadership and guidance (Evra and Vida) won’t be here in a few years. But how long do you think Rio can last? Three years from now, he will be 35-about-to-turn-36! And how much leadership and guidance do you think our young defenders/players will still need by then? Rooney will be 28. Young will be 29. Nani will be 27. Anderson 26. Hernandez will be 25, the same age as Rooney is now.
@Stateside
Of course. That’s something that everyone will have to deal with as they enter their early and mid 30s. Neville and Scholes retired once they felt that they couldn’t offer anything more to the club instead of going elsewhere. And the way I look at it, that’s a decision that Ferdinand will have to make as well over the next couple of years. Because I can’t imagine him playing for us in 5 years time.
keep him at the club till he wants to retire! he can help out jones and smalling IMMENSELY. dont see the point of selling him wont get more than £6 million due to his age and back problems
Costas … right. And Michael Owen is a good example of a player who does seem prepared to accept a bit-part role. He would rather have a small role in a big club, than a big role in a small club or no role at all. And so long as that works for the club too, I have no problem with it.
@dasilvatwins … well, I think the point I’m trying to make is that it’s not just about what the club wants, it’s also about what the player himself wants. They’re not cattle.
They way I look at it is that players need role models all over the pitch, they don’t need to be playing often, just look at the influence Scholes has had on Carrick,Fletch,Ando & Clevs even Gibbo.
Thiago silva at Milan has become impressive alongside his mentor Nesta, Similar to that of Puyol and Pique. Its about having teacher walking you through how everything is done (winning trophies, how to defend,attack, avoid injuries, how to prolong their stamina and career life span.) Im sure Scholes found it difficult but we definitely know he found an outlet in coaching kids which is why he took up a job with United.
Stateside – In around 3 years, I would expect Rio to be at the club either about to leave or retire. I don’t see Vidic or Evra here at 33/34, they might want to pursue a change or want a retirement home somewhere closer to their country or family.
The way I see it is that we have many ready made coaches already at the ground.
Owen teaches Chico,Rooney, Welbeck…..Wayne will take over this role when Owen Leaves.
Giggs Leads the way for Clevs,Nani,Young,Carrick,Fletch,Ando. Scholes also did this.
Rio & Vida Teach the defence.
The likes of Rooney,Fletch,Young,Evans,Park,Evra & Vida are the next batch of coaches..
This coaching by even bit part players like Owen is important or we will head the same inexperienced route of Arsenal which SAF will not allow.
@stateside im guessing he wants to stay.. i mean his agent did say that a few days ago
Load of rubbish IMO, I said this yesterday. Firstly, we won’t get much for a 33 year old. Secondly…on what planet does it make sense to sell one of your THREE defenders over the age of 24? Its crazy, and I’m certain it won’t happen.
Yeah, he’s no longer a first teamer, but he has a very important part to play. I’ll repeat- he’s one of only THREE defenders over 24. Were the same people who wanna “cash in” saying that about Giggs and Scholes a few years ago? Course not…just because you go from a first teamer to a squad player, it doesn’t mean you automatically leave the club! Your experience and ability will still be required, especially if you play in a position where there’s so many rookies.
As for whether his ego would handle being a squad member…that’s a different matter. Personally, when I look at him on the pitch and listen to him talk- he GETS Utd, and I think he’ll be happy to stay here.
sick and tired of this shit. everyone is saying the same thing. Fuck sake Scott come up with a new thread. Its as is ROM is eager to have something to moan about. I’d like to see a single quote saying sell Rio Now. I blame STR for this. poor choice of words, but does anyone really expect him sold off any time soon? Fuck me
Just wanted to say hello to my fellow red devils before i start with my pondicherry tour,
friends, smokes, wine, rum, cigars and lotsa fun on the beach..
catch u guys on Sunday
Take care all of you,
cheers
UNITED
Rio 33, wow, that number takes some getting around. Thats man for some great years, even though you let us down seriously with the testing debacle and the signing shenanigans. But water under the bridge. Great Centerhalf and stellar captain. As long as he doesn’t do a RvN or JaapStam impression, I support anything that Rio wants to do. Financially, I lean to Scotts arguement that he will likely be on year to year contracts and less pay than maybe elsewhere. No doubt he would be a god in LA with Becks for a year, or in AbuDabbi. But Rio is Rio, his own man with his own interests. He has to decide if retiring from the game at the top is what he wants. Getting 20th or 21st EPL and maybe a shot at another CL.
Hope Rio stays but only for sentiment and big games. The squad (thankb2god) has moved on and developed replacements? well no … not replacements. But well able and likely lads in Smalling, Jones, Evans. If Rio and Vida looking at fewer games and moving on, we surely need to pull another couple of Smallings and Jones out of the hat. Maybe the reserves will produce another gem in Friars. But we will be a couple light if Rio calls it a day. Hope he stays and retires with us, but good luck and gd bless if he takes his shingle and heads down the road.
***Thanks man for some great years****
FletchTHEMAN
down the road man city or down the road America ?
Wow what a great read, only half way through the posts.
I break a self imposed rule, I have said indirectly now direct.
@RAI blessings to you and yours. All of RoM is for a healthy and happy Rai family.
I apologize with a humble heart, my parable gone wrong, I never new you were expecting at the time.
You lads seeing all this Sh**t about Wayne Roonie’s da and uncle?! Jaysus wept. Arrested in a betting scam…. Capello to be asked about it. CHRIST!!!!!!
http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/sport/football/international/s/1461070_fabio-capello-manchester-united-forward-wayne-rooney-is-fine-to-face-montenegro?
Rio Ferdinand…the best centre back in the world for years…one of the best in football history…if not the one…surely the best in United history…9 years for United…5 times EPL winner,1 time UCL winner,2 times runner up in UCL…for more then half of this he was our captain…for all of them he was our leader…surelly for me is in the same class as Giggs,Scholes and Neville …i think sugestions from fans that we should cash in are wrong…the sole expresion ” cash in” i don’t think its wright…didn’t he offer enoufgh? we need to cash in?…not even to mention that he still is ours and world’s best cb when fit and when not there is no other better senior defender that the yong ones can go to for advice.So if Rio is sold just to cash in I will be very disapointed if he leaves for US for money and glamour in LA cause he doesn’t want just to be around and not at the hart of things il perfectly understand but i think for the next 2 years he will go nowere.
Stateside – You missed the best young talent of the lot of them in your young players list. Ryan Tunnicliffe.
Fletch I saw that, fuck…………….
King Eric … yeah, you’re right! I checked wikipedia for an up-to-date list of the first team squad, and he’s outn on loan, so I missed him. Missed a couple of others too, who are also on loan. Cheers!
I hope those fucking idiots at the fa don’t put Rooney up for any interviews. You know what they will ask.
Wow, what an article. How fickle some are.
realistic – I realluy do rate Rio but he isnt the best in United’s history. Buchan, Bruce, Pally were all better IMO.
Stateside – No problem mate. You know how much I rate Tunnicliffe!
Fred – Yeah, aren’t they just pal.
I have written many times, how a person feels is so different then how a person thinks.
I love RoM and one HUGE difference from The UK and the US is we went through the whole free agent thing with the guys looking bad in contract negotiations. We went through that in the mid 80′s. When Wilbur Marshall went from the Supper Bowl Champs my team for life the Bears to Washington for 75% more money. My heart was crushed. Well the Bear owners are cheep mother fuckers. Soon I was on the players side and it became part of the game. The game of big business. For me Rio captained the CL and PL double. He has said for years the MLS might be for him. He has made a lot of money on his Image. A Image of a Man Utd player. The cash in part is part of the business now. IF Rio is happy for less $ and making more as a Man Utd player in commercials and mentor the young lads that could be money well not made.
Interesting to see how many people say we shouldn’t sell Rio. You’re kindof missing the point though. Do you think Rio loves United so much that he’ll take a substantial pay cut and play on one year extensions? Really? Hmmm.
I wonder if Scott the Top Red would have written an article like this about Steve Bruce or Gary Pallister back in the day. Somehow I doubt it.
The Rooney’s, A show about the infamous crime family. Staring John Travolta as Don Rooney and…..
Why is it always like this on International weeks. Right, I’m off for an early shot Laphroaig,
Fuck off Downing you nomark one footed cunt:
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3855047/Stewart-Downings-warning-to-Manchester-United.html
Also big news is Wayne WILL start tomorrow. Err why wouldn’t he? His old man’s shady dealings have fuck all to do with what Wayne does on the pitch.
Jello, fucking idiots at the FA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Why Wayne SR???????????????
Scott – I don’t mean to sound a cunt mate but its our opinions that make your blog. You don’t seem to interact as much these days unless its some snide comment. OK pal you win. Lets sell Rio.
@willie
Why did something happen in regards to Rooney or his family that we are not aware of?
Don’t forget though. The Terrys are still the most despicable family in British football.
Right, a nice sip of single malts and world is looking much better.
King Eric:
Players on loan:
Bebe Beshiktas
Richie De Laet Norwich City
Josh King Borussia Monchengladbach
Scott Wooton Peterborough United
Ryan Tunnicliffe Peterborough United
Ajose Peterborough United
Robert Brady Hull City
Sam Johnston Scunthorpe
Who am I missing?
Thanks for the Downling link, King Eric. We need to smash these twats good and proper on the 15th. I’m sick of losing to this mob at Anfield. If we get turned over again, by a team whose star players include Stewart Downing and Charlie Adam, I’ll be very pissed off.
Hello STR? Rio take less cash? If his Q rating drops by not being a Man Utd player and he makes say an average of 40% less money in commercial off the field money. He may make more overall money by staying and making less in football money.
I think he may want an American adventure and sell he self here.
Big question is when will Smalling earn the #1 spot ahead of him in big games and how he would take to 25 games a year even if healthy?
King Eric – Hello mate. Yeah saw that article about that two bob one footed cunt mouthing off. Fuck off you mug.
Been listening to that slug on top lip cunt Nick Collins on SSN grilling Crapello about Rooney being distracted tomorrow due to his old man being in the news about the SPL betting investigation. Fucking cocksucker.
If Rio wants to stay at United, and agrees a contract to suit both his and the clubs needs, then I don’t think it’s a problem.
STR might have a point about Rio. Honestly, I sometimes wonder if he’s really aware of how much his body can take anymore. If he still believes that he can play on a regular basis at a top team AND play for England, then it’s very possible that he won’t accept the conditions the club will lay out for him. I really hope that’s not the case.
I do agree with you StR.
Rio has been magnificent for United…on and off the pitch. Unfortunately, I feel it is time to let him go. Mainly because he no longer posses the physical ability that we need at the back.
I’ve said it a few weeks back, there is a reason why RIO isn’t attacking our set plays and corners any more…his back! He no longer goes out there to try to head in a goal. Instead, he remains as the last man in defense. He’s been struggling in the air and on the run. Only his excellent positioning and reading of the game allows him to be a good defender still, but unfortunately, his body isn’t responding the way he would like to anymore.
I believe either Smalling or Jones should take his spot. RB is wide open at the moment, and I prefer to have Jones on that position due to his speed, ability and he is undoubtedly a better crosser of the ball than Smalling.
him self… fuck.
ak47 – you are spot on, pal. Thanks for your great post countering Scott’s argument.
Well, Rio says he’s happy at United. Nothing but conjecture atm. Unless Scott knows something we don’t?
What would Rio fetch in the market?
Scot come out and play, I know you tweet all the time now, I don’t tweet. Talk with us not at us.
RoM’s slow time 5:30 in the UK people going home.
Hello Smartalex, I’m sure you will keep up reading every post. Hope things are well and your busy with art and artisans.
Come on out!
Warriors Come Out and PLLLAAAYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Totally disagree with you on this one Scott. All players have outside interests that does not mean you just say well hey, you did things other than football so go play elsewhere.
Because he is so good, people do not get how much work it takes to be that good. He has worked hard to be the best, the young lads are no where near his league as our leaky defence has shown and it will take them a few years to get close. Rio is a huge asset for united and he set the standard for our defence and still does.
How people can say berba and Owen should stay – when berba plays less and is also on a huge salary – and rio who is the best in the works at his position year after year and plays more – should go.
I think Rio has earned the right to play for united as long as he is able. He is still a class act he is always supportive of team mates and leads on the pitch. He is not done yet, you could use that same injury argument for fletcher. Rios injury is not the same one all the time. He is not falling apart. He is still world class and could play for any top team.
Would love him to coach defence.
Brilliant piece, Scott. I tend to agree that it would be a good time to say bye to Rio. He’s really started showing his age lately with the lack of pace etc. Unfortunately, average strikers seem to be getting the better of him.
@NBI
How people can say berba and Owen should stay – when berba plays less and is also on a huge salary – and rio who is the best in the works at his position year after year and plays more – should go.
Consistency in a persons decision making process is key! Spot on NBI !!!!!
I feel some are a little too eager to push Rio, Berba and Carrick out the door. All squads need a blend of youthfulness and experience. We’ve got the balance right imo.
When will Giggs hang up his boots? Can the team afford to loose, G. Nev, VDS, Scholes, Brown, JOS then Giggs and Rio back to back years? SAF has a blend of Veterans, in their prime and up and comers.
Willie like I said last week it was refreshing to see we don’t always agree!?! hehe
for those that pay close attention or have an MUTV subscription you would see that Rio is practically the leader of our dressing room. Is close with all the players and youth team
if youve seen carrington revealed you would see he knows all of the kitchen staff and even helps them wash dishes!
i always see him watching youth games on mutv on sat / sun
the young english lads like cleverly welbeck and youngy seem to look up to him
he provides the link between the young upstarts and the elder statesmen of the squad. overall hes a real asset in the dressing room. fergie will not get rid of him have u guys seen how fergie talks about ac milan and their loyalty to their older players. its a certainty sir alex will want to keep him, giggsy had his fair share of injuries early 30′s and moved on so will rio
what you guys think?
Devil Is Red 19, Cool I can not get MUTV. I think you are SPOT ON!!!
Totally disagree with the “Sell Rio” idea. His experience is invaluable and on a big European night against top strikers he is the best, bar none. It’s not the number of games he plays for us, not anymore, but what he brings to the party on the really big occasions. Smalling and Jones dont come close to holding a candle to Rio on those nights. If it hadnt been for him and Vida CL2011 result would have resembled a tennis score by half time. And the grace with which he flitted around the ladyboy in the title deciders last season (or was it the CL quarters?) was magestic. Classiest defender around by a long shot – brings back memories of Baresi and Maldini. I understand someone not liking him – too much bling, a little bit of complacency in the run of the mill matches, sense of entitlement too. But no one better for the big occasion, IMO. So no – dont sell him, but have him around till Smalling can fill his shoes seamlessly (bad metaphor, I know). And frankly, I find the idea of his having to take a pay cut a bit ludicrous. If anyone needs to take a paycut because of his situation in the pecking order, much as it pains me personally, its Berbatov. And probably GNev before him, though I dont know how much he was on (pretty high would be my guess). And I thought we never sold a player for commercial reasons?
I was on Fox 5 years ago when I had my 9 year old Nephew teach me how to get on line to learn more about football from life long fans and people who played the game. I gave the Gunner fans shit that they had started a 40 year trophy less drought of biblical proportions because they lost Gallis, Henry, Berkmann, Pieres and all their older leaders and would suffer long term from that. I believe SAF has always had leaders in the looker room and always will.
Rio has scored 2 goals against the vermin! Another top reason to keep him!
Bloody hell. WTF? Sell Rio? We have a defensive injury crisis at least once a season. So the logical thing to do is to get rid of one and have less defenders then we already have? Makes no sense whatsoever. He’s got a year left after this season let him play it out and then assess it then. If he walks away thats fine with me. He’ll be 34/35 then so fair enough. His ability speaks for itself and we need him around for the remainder of his contract especially if Giggs calls it a day at the end of the season.
The england thing, I agree he should pack it in but won’t till after the Euros and I don’t begrudge him that. He comes from a generation where these tournaments meant something to all pros not like now. If he does continue to turn out for england after that then he’s an idiot.
As for his commitment/loyalty to the club, I think people have forgotten he did choose to leave Leads United to join us. Surely that counts for something? Or am I on my own on that one? To think we will have a team full of Scholes, Giggs and Nevilles is wishful thinking in this day and age.
As others and the media have pointed out Giggs held out for a 2 year deal (which he deserved) and Scholes refused to play for us once upon a time. So even our legends aren’t exactly holier than thou if we were to go through their record with a fine toothcomb.
We sell Rio we’ll have to bring someone else in. Zeke Fryers looked good vs leads admittedly but so did Spector and Bardsley when they broke through and look where they ended up?
NRD! NRD! NRD!
Rio has already amassed a fortune and has all his other business interests too (including the ones that the public don’t know about e.g. any properties he owns, shares etc.) so it’s not necessarily the case that he values money more than being a Manchester United player. Playing a bit of hard-ball over a contract negotiation isn’t a crime. It’s expected in most industries, including professional sports.
Even if it just gets down to financial and ego demands, Rio gets a lot of prestige and worldwide exposure from being a Manchester United player, that in turn helps him sell his products. Would he have the same following or opportunites if he played for QPR? Of course not. Being part of Manchester United opens a lot of doors.
Even if he did join one of the MLS sides, would that guarantee him instant fame and a ‘new maket’ in the US? Not a chance. It’s always the strikers or flash midfielders that draw the most fans, not defenders. Little kids want to be Rooney or Ronaldo. Nobody dreams of being John Terry (apart from John Terry).
I appreciate it annoys some people that Rio’s always advertising something but he’s nowhere near as over-exposed as the Beckhams at their peak.
Honestly I think it’s a bit unfair to try and predict a guy’s choices or question his loyalty and love for the club at this point, without even giving him the chance to make his choice.
Notorious speaks the truth! Rio isn’t a Manchester lad, but he does have the club in his heart.
Denton & NRD- Absolutely top posts.
Also, its probably coz they’re a couple of flash Cockneys….but Beckham and Rio I always felt got a bit of a raw deal from fans sometimes. I couldn’t fault either of them in terms of committment to the cause and knowing about the prestige/history of our club. I can’t help but feel that if they were less “showbizzy” and more “Scholesy”, people wouldn’t even think about questioning them.
Its a shame, coz say what you want about outside interests, but they never let it get in the way of their original passion, which is football.
Cyril has a point lads…. If Rio departs for pastures new. What will happen to Agent of Fergie blog? He’s one of the central figures!
Zibbie – great point about dressing room leaders. It occurred to me too. Arsenal had some top quality players – but they had no leaders. The same thing could happen to us if we were to “cash in” on the likes of Rio and Evra. We’d turn into a bunch of fannies like Arsenal.
@Willie – Don’t worry, I have that eventuality covered
Fletch – Cheers for the loan players. I reckon out of all those the ones that stand a chance are possibly scouser Scott Wooton, De Laet and Tunni. Not sure about Josh King. Great player but maybe not for United. Anyway we shall see. Regards De Laet I read an interview in Red Issue or UWS an interview with a Norwich supporter and he said he has been absolutely top drawer.
Nope we need Rio now more so after letting O’Shea and Brown go. He easily has 2 more seasons in him atleast if he takes care of himself
http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/manchester-uniteds-corner-defensive-woes-for-fergies-men/
Breaking News:
Harry Redknapp Interview
So Harry are you interested in signing Rio?
Well Jeff I mean he’d be a triffic signing – but we need to get him on a free you know because the chairman says we haven’t got that much money
I see Harry just a quick question, you want to build a stadium for endless millions yet can’t find money for players don’t you think that sounds bizarre?
Well Jeff in Football Manager 2011 the Harry Redknapp Chronicles I usually get players on the cheap you know so it’s important to me.
Oh ok – Will you be selling Modric?
Well Jeff I mean for the right price I’ll sell me won’t I?
I see Harry are you going to be next England manager?
Of course Jeff it’s going to be triffic, I’m bringing back Becks because he’s a triffic lad, and I’m bringing back Jamie as assistant manager – I can’t wait.
Interesting Harry what do you think of the looming recession?
Its traffic Jeff it means that I can be able to get players on the cheap – I’ve already got my eyes on Jones Welbeck and Cleverley – I can’t wait – I’m going to ask Alex for an interest free option on all three
Are you feeling okay Harry? You think Sir Alex will do that?
Of course he will Jeff why not in Football Manager it happens all the time! I mean Guardiola just gave me Messi and Xavi you know
Fuck me Harry
Their you go again Jeff! You and that bloody Rooney you should be both locked up for good – and no retrial
Rio has been class, no doubt about it. He also adds that experience and maturity to the team – especially needed with our young squad. He really seems to be part of the team spirit. But his injuries are a problem. It would make sense to give up his England role if he is serious about extending his playing time at United. It would be great if he and Vidic could both get fit and have some extended playing time together to assess how good he is now. It does seem premature to be thinking of selling him but I think that scott poses an interesting question though – how much of a drop in wages and status would Rio accept as his star fades?
I mean Arsenal had top quality like Fabregas, Nasri and Van Persie, but were missing leaders like Campbell, Vieira and Henry. This is another thing that sets Sir Alex apart from Wenger. Anyone can see that Rio and Evra aren’t as good as they used to be, but what those players can do on the pitch only tells half the story of their value to the club.
Wenger realised his mistake after it was too late, bringing back Lehmann and Campbell, and also bringing Henry back to train with the squad for a period earlier this year. He also invited David Beckham to train with the squad, let’s not forget. Obviously Henry and Beckham were of no use whatsoever to Arsenal on the pitch, but Wenger saw the huge benefit of having them around his squad.
This is why it would be folly to sell such a vastly experienced player and dressing room leader like Rio Ferdinand.
lol@MG
Devil is Red 19 – Spot on pal.
Stretty – Which “average strikers” seem to be getting the better of Rio? I cannot recall many.
Kings – Hello mate. “slug on top lip cunt”. NIce one.
Stateside well said mate, SAF has been ruthless when it comes to most players moving on. One of his great strengths as a Gaffer and why I feel in love with the club. SAF is the boss. What does Rio want? And how does that fit with SAF’S plan.
Some people forget too easily how much he fucked us around after his 8-month drugs ban. He’s a top player, been absolutely solid for us and one of the best defenders in the business though.
I remember the “we don’t care about Rio, and he don’t care about me, all I care about, is watching FC” chant from FC United!
Jeet – Hello mate. Nail on the head. Its in these big European games when it really matters that we count on Rio. Just think of Rentboys last season. Fergie was desperate for him to be fit for those games.
Anyone know please if Amos starting for under 21′s tonight?
Cyril … another top post at 18:21. It could be that if Rio sees his financial future as already secure, he may be happy to stay on, either in a reduced playing role (somewhere between the level of involvement of Giggs and Owen) or in an advisory/coaching capacity. I’m all for keeping players (including ex-players) at the club, especially those who have been right at the peak and have been long-term United boys. Then younger players can benefit from their knowledge/skill, their experience, their leadership/guidance, and it also helps foster the sense of “tradition” at our club.
But it’ll be down to him in the end. Some players can handle that, others can’t stand to be on the sidelines.
Campbell and big Pat I forgot to mention them. The gunners have gone down hill even with talent. Now the talent is leaving.
@bchilds , some never forget or forgive?
There is only one person that will decide Rio’s Utd future….and that’s SAF…… We all know how it is when he decides it’s time for someone to be let go….It’s goodbye from me and goodbye from him…
i just have that little feeling that he has brought in Jones and Smalling who are primarily central defenders..
my own feeling is that Rio will get one more year and that’s it…
bcchilds@ he might be a top notch defender but last season he was made of glass
God approached Arsene Wenger and told him to come forth.
We’ll be fucking lucky to come fifth Wenger replies.
Details on the Betting probe into RooneySr.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-15196761
King Eric,
Amos on bench for England U21. DeGea is starting for Spain U21.
Fletch – Thanks alot mate. Is Spain game on tv at all?
Fletch… Fuck…. wayne sr
unless he wants to go b/c can’t sit on the bench to see smalling and jones play occasionally then he should be let go. but if he wants to stay his experience is invaluable to the young guys until they have enough experience ….do not sell
unless he wants to go b/c can’t sit on the bench to see smalling and jones play occasionally then he should be let go. but if he wants to stay his experience is invaluable to the young guys until they have enough experience ….do not sell
It’s agreed then, Rio stays! He’s a glassic defender!
willie….
yeah Rio is a Galasstico
Rooneys dad what a fucking moron,that wouldn’t arise suspicion at all betting on someone getting sent off.
Shit for brains deserves everything he gets,I guess must’ve got sick of living off his sons money decided to go into a business venture of his own Dumb Cunt
Iceland v England u21 on http://www.kiwisportz.eu/stream-2.html from 7:30
Just started;
Spain U21 is on in Spain but don’t have a link yet.
@TonyB
Rio approached the pearly gates and God said Come forth my son
Rio said, Sorry sir, first …. or second even, but ain’t never been fourth in me life.! With respect Sir!
Just watched our game at Anfield when Garragher scored twice, for us that is! More of the same please
Carragher that is!
Carra was motm that day.
Regarding Rooney’s dad, what can I say? After all he’s a SCOUSER anyway. So its a hardly suprise…
I forgot that Cole got sent off that day!
such a sad thread, talk about turning on one of your own.. sad times
Violins at the ready!
crotia v spainhttp://www.sportz4u.net/index.php?pg=footbal
i- 0 spain halftime.
Don’t see anyone turning on Rio some just being realistic,there is a lot of ???? Seems to me any player coming to the end of his contract gets talked about
Berbas future gets talked about all the time,what’s the difference
I missed the point where this thread was actually a sad one! Every player will eventually either retire or leave, we move on. Never have I ever supported a player over the club
sorry but this is complete bullshit. I don’t see SAF letting Rio go anytime soon, especially with our defense not playing up to par at the moment. I know vidic is back soon, but injuries can and most likely will occur again. Rio still has a lot to give both on and off the pitch by mentoring our young defenders. I just don’t see this happening at all. Rio’s been a loyal servant for us and has been important in our success the last 5 years. i’m pretty angered by this article. no way SAF let’s Rio go like that.
The entire Jikkles family ain’t worth two bob.
Still in my retro mode, watching a review of the 98/99 season….. Damn I miss Ole!
Willie
Need a hug? I ain’t offering though!
I hope Rio stays for at least one more season. Like many others have already said, what would happen if we found ourselves in the middle of yet another defensive crisis with no Rio as top quality cover. If we were to sell him for 6 million or so we would still nead to replace him. There would be no point signing another older player and a young player would be expensive. Also not many young players would fancy their chances of getting a game. Many people have made some very valid points for selling him and keeping him but I would hate to find ourselves in a similar situation as when we sold Paul Magrath to Villa only to see him continue to show his best form for some other club.
Bloody hell, as with out doubt the best goal keeper of our generation Schmeichel’s kicking was poor! Great distribution with his hands but I almost forgot how nervous I was every time the ball was played back to him! De Gea is much better with his feet and that is a huge statement!
Cedars – No hug needed mate.
england u21 are 3 up
His name is Rio and we’re dancing in the stand, he left the Leeds scum to come to the promised land!! Gotta love Duran Duran!!
You are my Solskjaer
my only Solskjaer
you make me happy
Just taking a walk down memory lane all on my own!
Duran Duran? Hahaha… Gotta love the 80′s though
Solskjaer? We should have cashed in on him when we had the chance imo.
80′s!! Hair spray and shoulder pads! There seemed to be a lovely innocence about the 80′s!
I miss Beckham’s right foot and Irwin’s left foot!
Shoulder pads? How on earth did you remember that one Mike? haha
Fuck the 80s! Dippers were the top dogs.
@Fred
Shellsuits? Shocking.
What a fucking clown that iceland keeper is. Why the fuck are those shit cunts like Henderson and McEichran playing yet Tunni who owned the latter doesn’t get a sniff? Espn commentary arse licking wenger for his youth policy. Fuck off. Our lads are now with the full squad.
I remember buying a burgundy suit from cheetham hill and even that had shoulder pads!!! I must have looked a right cunt!
WillieRedNut
Shell suits and dodgy perms still the hight of fashion in Liverpool.
No pads? Cunt indeed! hahahahaha
Very good player for us that I respected but what an idiot of a pundit…. Wilkins, you are a fool
I like Mancini, he has a good hair style
Butch Wilkins. Remember his belter against Brighton! He is a tool at times when commentating. He was slagging Stuttgart off at the weekend. He said yes, there’s no problem showing respect to Bolton by not celebrating but he should have done it with a smile on his face ! The twat was being serious!
Mike Kelly. Aka ron burgundy. That sounds like one hideous suit mate. I fucking loathed the eighties. Cringeworthy. Fucked up Britain. Thatcher treating football fans like fucking animals. Even though the vermin were. Enter the acid house scene and subsequent dance scene and suddenly the hooligans who had spent years smacking each other were all loved up and hugging one another!!
Have you heard the latest news, CedarsDevil don’t know who to choose.
Will it be Robbo, will it be Keane, I think he likes jellybean!
King Eric
Evening pal! Yup, Ron Burgendy minus the monster mustache! 90′s were a bit of a blur for me!
http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2011/10/06/2699690/john-terry-certain-rio-ferdinand-can-return-to-the-heart-of?
As Kings would say…. have a day off ya cunt.
MikeKelly. Stuttgart? Sturridge. Yeah great curler by wilkins. Suddenly turned into the rentboys mouthpiece. Today saying chelsea need a ground the size of ours. Fuck off Ray. They can’t even fill their shithouse ground as it is. Having said that my old man met ray at the hotel in dubai three year back and sat on the end of his sunbed and chatted for a good half hour. The same holiday he met fat cunt Barnes who was a proper arrogant cunt and said my old man couldn’t afford the champagne the dipper cunt was supping. My old bloke almost bought a two hundred quid bottle to shut the cunt up but unsurprisingly decided against it. Fucking fat cunt. I haven’t made this up by the way!
Jellybean would of course win the day every time…. Sorry King Eric, I know you have a ‘thing’ with our red babe! Now piss off you blood sucking mosquitoes!
Typo! Yeah, sturridge. Barnes! What a fucking cunt! I’d have bought a cheaper bottle of Lambrini and wrapped it round his fucking napper and followed it up with a glib comment like, you’re right Barnes, this cheap plonk really does give you a bad head!! Cunt!
King Eric
The mosquitoes thing was directed at them and not you of course!
MikeKelly. Bit of a blur for me too mate. That’s an understatement.
Yeah where is jellybean? I love her posts. Proper feisty little thing.
Feisty indeed.
I graduated High School in 1980 was in San Diego in 1985, Moose shoulder pads and herpes. Big hair. I dated this volleyball player from USD she was 6’1″ with 3 inch heals = 6’4″ add the hair she was 6’8″ I wore cowboy boots a lot with her. She was so fucking hot!!!!!!
Oh I forgot they said Coke was not addicting!!!!!!!! hahahahahahaha
Ye ha Zibbie!
A group went up to Disney Line because a friend from collage came out to visit. All 8 of us ate boritos for breakfast on the way up from San Diego and we took mushrooms. We all had the nastiest farts the line would part as we all went at it. We laughed so fucking hard that day. Space Mountain was awesome. The 3D Michael Jackson thing we sat through twice. And I made a tea cup go so fast it started to rise.
I made it through the 80′s with my heart still beating…….
Rio – he and Vidic are a world class pairing and still have a fair way to go. I hate talk of ‘cashing in’ on a player. Sure, if Rio wants to leave, like Ronnie did, and an attractive bid comes in that suits all parties that’s one thing. Or if Rio ends up running out contract and age and injuries do not warrant another £100k pw contract, but doesn’t want to make an appropriate adjustment, thats another. However, cashing in? I don’t really think that’s the United way. We’ve showed more class than that. Under SAF United has acted with much decency and respect to players such as Wes and JOS by agreeing transfer fees on the low side of reasonable to ease the parting process.
As for ‘Butch’ Wilkins, younger readers who criticize Carrick for making square passes (somewhat unfairly in my view) ain’t seen nothing . Wilkins was in a league of his own as far as meaningless square balls are concerned, particularly when playing for England, which was a shame as Wilkins could actually play a bit when he put his mind to it. Decent player but now a bollox blue rinsed pundit.
I got a Miami Vice pastel shoulder padded coat, I saw some pictures from back on ocean beach in like 86 at a friends house last month! Wow and we looked good at the time.
Fucking space mountain lol.
@Willie a fun time in the sun back then willie. We were the same height bare footed and we went out if I wore sandals she looked like she was 6 inches taller then me. Never really bother me.
We had 4 good looking 24 year old women with us that day. And the 2 with the nastiest asses were hot babes. They were so proud they were matching and surpassing the guy’s. Wow what fun times.
The Southern Cal beaches are full with as many hot women as you think they are. From Ocean Beach to Mission and Pacific Beach the La Jola Del Mar and on and on……….
I preferred splash mountain Zibbie lol.
Beef tips in red wine sauce is about ready, I must go make the pasta.
Willie I love the big water parks. The Wisconsin Dells have a huge one. Any excuse to take my nieces and nephews I’m there. Still go at least once a summer.!!!!!!!!!!1 I love the new wave pools. People watch a fat old guy catch some waves!!!!!
Nice story, the club bought tony dunnes medals at auction.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-15205423
Better there in the museum than some collectors drawer
I see the troll’s agent claims the troll was mis-translated. Apparently, when the Scarf told the troll to get ready and be subbed on, what the troll actually said was: “Suck my dick, motherfucker. Just fuck off back to fucking Wog-land, you scarf-wearing dago cunt.”
Somehow, in the confusion and pressure of translating a live press conference, or perhaps due to incompetence, this got interpreted as “No.”
They have suggsted that in future, they will hire their own translater, one Jose Mourinho. Apparently, it’s something he’s good at.
Limited my contributions of late on RoM to a handful of comments a day to avoid addiction.
Its great to still be entertained by the likes of;
SillieRedNut, Zibbie-Fibbie Buffay
Squirels Sneer, CedricsDevil, ToniVee & ErmGee
R.I.P Steve Jobs, my grandad died of Pancreatic cancer, the world of business has lost a leader & Innovator…my grandad that is
Kidding Meant that apple fella.
Lawd above! Among da greatest defenders we ‘ave known, Rio ‘as played a major part in aaahr continued success. I’m sure ‘e wants ter stay an’ is ‘ighly valued. The manager’ll make da right decision when facin’ ‘ard choices., innit.
Awright geeezzaa! #stayonyaaahrplates. Sorted mate
Really disappointed with this article Rio has always been a model pro never put into doubt how much he’s love us and how much he respects us. Fuck off you prick i’m not having it fuck cashing in i’d rather have players who love our club like Rio then mercenaries who come for the sole intention of money, yes Rio came for that but you can tell it’s about so much more then that now this article bring it into disripute and I really dislike that. End of the day I would want Rio and Vida starting for us in the champions league final this season without a doubt and that won’t change. Really disappointed in the article scott not what I thought a UNITED blog was about we should all love our own and by publishing this your being a prick i’m sorry to be vulgar but fuck off! Rio i’m behind you mate scott i really am so gutted thought we were all about loving our club and players here you’ve been all behind berba who is a briiliant man and player yet you publish this I really am gutted not happy at all love you Rio thanks for everything true united legend
Whoa. Good article. Scott you surely can brainwash people into changing opinions! Haha. But anyway, I don’t agree with you opinion. We want so many of players to end their careers with us by why the different view for Rio? Cos of the contract issue? If he’s learned what he’d done was daft and want to say until the very end then why would or should we sell him? Even after what Rooney had done, Id still want him to stay till the end of his career nonetheless. Well the idea of even possibly cashing Rio could be because we have potential deputies in Smalling Jones and Evans, but really the world is potential. They’re fantastic they cure the absence of Rio or Vida atm, but for them to play at Rio/Vida’s level every single week will take time and experience. And Rio is a good leader, he’s good for the team spirit too so I see no clue as to why should we even sell him. We value the player more than the money so even if it comes to a situation later when he plays once in two weeks even without injuries, i don’t want him to budge.
Cash in on Rio ??jeysus wept .. .He’s one of those players who give everything to the team and the added bonus of our youngsters learning from him !! He is still a valuable player in our squad and he loves the club and is happy to help the younger uns and is still happy to sacrifice for the team
that’s it ,he should stay here for at least 3more seasons
seanmthered
hang on, Rio came to us for the money? i was under the impression he wanted to win things, a bit rich saying that. and oh he’s so reformed now is he?
I wouldn’t sell him until he himself wants to leave, and of course we got someone who can efficiently replace him in CB position, Jones, Evans and Smalling are still young and need proper guidance before they bloom to a world class level, and this can be done only if Rio and Vida are there to guide them when they play alongside in games.
My main concern, going off topic, is for Rooney, he may be affected by the recent events where his father and uncle were jailed for fraud, and I sincerely hope this does not reflect in his forthcoming games
God how I remember the 80′s….when I first fell in love …..
had been around for a few years……
was very demanding …
lot of others were in love with her too……
made me see her at least twice a week….
went through some bad times….. but always picked herself up
sometimes she made me cry….sometimes she made me roar like a lion
every-time I heard her name called it made my heart beat faster
and still does….. to this very day……..
GOD ……. I LOVE MANCHESTER UNITED ………AND ALWAYS WILL
So Rooney’s old man got nicked after ‘Suspicious and irregular betting’
Apparently he put a tenner on arsenal to win their next 2 games
A girl on the Internet said, “I love Manchester United what about you?”
I said, “Oh yeah! I’m a die hard fan.”
She asked, “Really, have you ever been to Old Trafford?”
I said, “No, but I’ve had many a wank over Bruce Willis.”
Bee in the bonnet
TonyBee on a nice roll….. Loved how your love story began!
Papii – Pleasure to entertain my good friend… SillieRedNut? Haha, nice one
morning Cedars….
Good Morning ROM!
Two days of pulling all-nighters and one day of wallowing in sadness at the passing of one of the greatest minds of the modern world have left me with little time to contribute to ROM. Still feeling the pangs of sadness, but life moves on. (Came up with a feeble tribute to the man on my blog for those interested.)
To cheer myself up, I revisited this article because I wanted to share it with my dad as well. Since this is going be a slow international weekend, I wanted to link to it here. Many of you may have already read it, if you have, it is great to read through it again, if you haven’t, this is one of the best I’ve ever read.
http://www.chelseasupportersgroup.net/2011/02/the-liverpool-myth/
Morning my good friend….. Slow day on RoM, bloody hate these international breaks
Balaji
Interesting to know that one person had so much effect on many! I hardly ever knew about him to be honest…. Just out of touch with the whole technology world, but having read a few tributes here about him than I give him my full respect, me he RIP….
Interesting link Balaji, however I do not agree totally with the writer. Liverpool DO have history and are our biggest rivals in the game in England. United and Liverpool are England’s biggest club sides, no mistaking that fact
Hi Reds, I always enjoy reading your posts. Boring weekend this will be. I salute all veterans like Costas, , King Eric, willie, Fletch, FITB, CEDARS,BALAJI,ZIBBIE,GHTT etc. Yoryor always unleashing funny posts.
@Balaji, Ifeel for the loss too. genius da man was. RIP SJ
Whilst we have enjoyed so much success over the past 20 years or so we cannot deny Liverpool their success either…. That ‘Welcome to Anfield’ sign they have at their tunnel used to scare the shit out of opponents….. Whilst I loath and hate them with a passion I cannot agree to statements saying they have no history or clubs like Chelsea or Arsenal are more successful, like fuck they are…
The home of football in England is in the North West, do not be fooled by a silly Londoner writing crap
Gerriered
Thanks for the mention buddy… really appreciated
I know Willie may not agree but here is a video of our club’s best ever captain…..Damn I love the guy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBilBa5n2wY
@Cedars, Yeah mate, I never said I completely agreed with the article either.
But you can’t deny that most Liverpool supporters – like most hardcore followers of anything else – live in denial most of the time and try to convert non-believers. I have had some personal experiences with this as I am sure you have as well. That is what I found funny more than anything else. The way the article highlights some nature of Liverpool’s ex-players and supporters was pretty dead on for me. That is why I found it an interesting read.
Also my friend, if you knew the history of technology and all that (when you have time read my tribute for that), then you will know that Steve was one of the people behind the computers we all use today. There is much more to him as well, but he (along with other people like Bill Gates, Steve Wozniak etc.) is pretty much the reason for how we live our lives today with PCs.
@Gerriered, Yeah mate, I already miss him immensely. Thanks for the mention as well.
Balaji
I have many friends and dare I say family members that are Liverpool supporters, but trust me I was never in a situation where by they tried to convert me! In fact it was always the other way around…
Thanks for the insight on SJ, I should do more reading on the guy who apparently was a genius
Cedars – Hello mate. As much as it pains me to say it Liverpool are our proper rivals and along with us the biggest English club. A proper club not like these nouveau rich fucking shithouse clubs like Chelsea etc.
Cheers Gerrie
Cedars – Not being pedantic mate but it’s “This is Anfield”.
King Eric
‘This is Anfield’ it is my friend! The words lost me for a second! Agreed with you though buddy
@Balaji and Cedars: Honestly, I found that article quite bullshitty, because what it says applies to diehard supporters of all football clubs. Those supporters will always engage in “my club is superior in a mystical way than your club” or “oh my club’s footballers are real gents, and yours are cokehead cunts” behavior – which frankly, I just find a bit silly. These specimens are fairly uniformly distributed across all big clubs’ fanbases, including, dare I say it, United.
And, oh, by the way, did you know that Steve Jobs once dated Joan Baez? apparently they were quite serious about it, but ti didnt quite work out, probbaly because Joan was too old, or didnt want to, have kids…not quite sure.
I thought that Liverpool article was stupid to be honest. The dippers are cunts but their history is the only one that rivals ours. Of course the scum rentboy couldn’t understand it because they have no history.
‘what’s so important about history?’ he asks. That’s the sort of shite you expect from a bitter but his lot aren’t much different. History is about tradition, passing on our ways tonew generations so we are never frgotten. History is about struggle. Overcoming obstacles and succeeding. History is wisdom, learning from mistakes and adapting. History makes us what we are today.
Comparing a football club to a religion? Oh how original, and yes, there’s the obligatory criticism of Catholicism and Islam and all the Richard Dawkins ‘meme’ theories because apparently it’s wrong if billions of people worldwde have something that gives them comfort, especially when their daily lives are full of fear and violence.
People get together in things they enjoy, be it sports, arts, science or whatever else. It’s about enjoyment, not some sort of cult or indoctrination, but of course to some moronic rentboy everyone must be crazy or brainwashed if they don’t support Chelsea.
I hate ‘you’ll never walk alone’ but it gets the players and fans fired up for a game, makes a good competitive atmosphere, and having 60,000 of the bastards wailing it at you can be pretty intimidating. We dont have anything like it (our fans songbook is the best but our attempts at official anthems suck) and neither do Chelsea. So why criticise them for having it or try to belittle it? Just sour grapes.
I despise the dippers and I love it more when we smash them than any other team but I have far more respect for them, Everton, Arsenal and Villa as opponents than the scum rentboys and bitters who need to live off daddy bigbucks.
Now i hate myself for sticking up for them.
/rant.
Cyril – Top post. God I must be feeling genorous today for praising the dippers but I find “Fields of Anfield Road” a top anthem. Better than YNWA.
My my, hey hey
rock’n Rio is here to stay
It’s better to burn out
than to fade away
My Rio will stay.
Once he’s gone,
he can never come back
when he’s out of the Red
and into the black.
Hey hey, my my
rock’n Rio can never die
There’s more to the picture
Than meets the eye.
Stay Rio, near by.
Hello all
Gerriered, thanks for the shout out. OUT!
@Smartalex hello how is the world cup going for SA? Big game coming.
Gerriered – Thanks for the mention!
Thanks for no mention Gerrired because all mentioned are old veterans and I’m the young gun
Having such a laugh
@Zibbie, Hello! The world is great! The world cup is also good, although I’ve not paid a lot of attention. Very involved in other aspects of life right now. I’m expecting StatesideAussie to be really sad on Sunday, and for the immediate future thereafter. He hates the Boks, mainly because they keep winning the big games!
Rio has alot to offer for utd
You can’t sell Rio now!!!! He needs to stay not only coz he is still a class act when fit but coz of the way Jones and Smalling are playing!! Its no coincidence that since they’ve been training with Rio and Vida they have got even better. Some might say Jones was doing well for Blackburn anyway, well he might have but he wasnt doing as well as he is now and Smalling is just getting better with every game.
Playing with great players inspires the younger ones, you start selling the likes of Rio before his time and Smalling and Jones MAY start to think they are assured of being in the team and then before you know it they will be getting the same abuse as Evans got last year for loss of form!!
Think about it!!
smartalex … we have won 5 out of the last 6 encounters against your Boks, so I am not at all worried! However, I am deeply suspicious of the referee appointment. Bryce Lawrence is probably the worst ref in the tournament. He is also a known Aussie hater. Not only that, but he is from NZ. Since the winner of this match could play NZ in the next round, the IRB’s own rules mean he should be excluded. But he isn’t. Why am I not surprised!
StatesideAussie … It seems you suspect that the IRB have chosen the official with a view to saving New Zealand from the danger presented by Australia, yet the All Blacks greatly fear the Springbok, and not the Wallaby.
Once again all the responsibility for keeping alive the Southern Hemisphere’s hold over world Rugby will fall to Africa. We shall not let our antipodean brothers down. Strengthened by the gushing blood and dismembered flesh of our battle-thrashed victims (you and the kiwis) the Boks will retain William’s Webb Ellis Cup.
This Sunday Bloody Sunday is for you too.
Bloody rugby
You both should try following a real team like Manchester United.
I’ve seen all our games, and none of the rugby games.
We don’t try following a real team like Manchester United, we are Manchester United.
That’s the spirit right there smartalex
19
Rio is world class. In my opinion, when fit, he is better than Vidic. Why sell that. the suggestion is actually ridiculous.
“The following month, Rio was booed by fans at the Charlton game, with him still failing to put pen to paper on our latest contract offer.”
“…there are still plenty who haven’t forgiven or forgotten the defender for messing us around.”
“The club and fans stuck by the defender.”
- LOL
SmartAlex … SA may physically be in the southern hemisphere. but in terms of rugby style, it is firmly in the north. If the Boks and English both make the final (as last time), that will be another bore fest (as last time). No matter which of them wins, rugby will lose. And that’s my final word on that sport on this blog, promise! (Until Sunday, of course.) Cheers mate!
StatesideAussie … Cheers my friend! Enjoy!
Can’t see why this is being seriously considered. We have 3 young centre halfs learning there trade, none of them are ready to replace Rio and all will be better players the longer that they spend with one of the best centre halfs in a genoration.
ability or experiance???
i know which one id rather have!!