Manchester United are on the brink of having one of their worst seasons in the last decade, and their first trophy-less season since the 2004-05 season.

United need improvements this summer to get back to their winning ways under Sir Alex Ferguson. Ferguson is a fantastic manager, but managerial talent can only go so far without the necessary players.

Below are the transfer targets who could revive Ferguson’s team, by bringing a creative edge to the midfield that the current side is so dearly missing.

Luka Modric

Modric would slot seamlessly into the starting eleven, occupying one of the two spots in the centre of midfield. His quality would represent a massive improvement over the current players in these positions, i.e. the likes of Giggs and Carrick.

Modric would no doubt bring a creative edge to the United squad, taking a huge burden off the likes of Wayne Rooney.

Unfortunately, it’s a transfer that is probably not viable. Due to a large transfer fee and the stubbornness of Tottenham’s owner, Daniel Levy, and manager, Harry Redknapp, Tottenham may stand in the way of a potential deal.

Eden Hazard

Ferguson and Mancini are currently locked in a battle for the signature of the young Belgian attacking-midfielder. Many United fans would love to see Hazard at Old Trafford.

If he were to make the switch to the Red Devils, he’ll likely be utilized on the wings, as a welcome alternative for Ashley Young and Nani, who have both suffered with inconsistency this season. In time, he may even prove to be a better player than them.

However, Manchester City’s wallet is undeniably much larger than United’s, a transfer fee of around £30 million is likely to put Ferguson off.

Shinji Kagawa

Kagawa would definitely be a more realistic transfer than Hazard and Modric. His contract expires in 2013 and Borussia Dortmund are willing to listen to offers for him in the summer.

The attacking midfielder would provide United with another quality player in the midfield. The only problem that could occur for Ferguson is fitting him in the current system at the Manchester club. He’s an attacking midfielder who also operates as a second striker: the same place as Rooney. He could be played in central midfield or on the wings, but these aren’t his natural positions.

Wesley Sneijder

The speculation linking the Dutch midfielder and Manchester United has circulated for the past few seasons. If Sneijder was to ever leave Inter, it’s likely he would make the move to the Premier League by joining Manchester United.

Sneijder is no doubt a quality player, he has proven himself at various clubs throughout his career. He would undoubtedly bring class and creativity to the United starting eleven.

However, the attacking midfielder has a contract with Inter until 2015, as a result he would command a huge transfer fee. At the age of 27, he still has a few years left to play at the top of his game. Although, it’s questionable whether Ferguson will want to pay £30 million for a player nearing the end of his peak form.

James Rodriguez

James Rodriguez has been dubbed “the new Ronaldo” by the press, and 12 goals and eight assists at the age of only 20 suggests that he’s very much worth the hype.

The Daily Mail has his price-tag at a hefty £25 million, but it has been suggested that including Anderson in the deal could bring down Rodriguez’s price significantly.

If United are indeed still looking for Ronaldo’s replacement at Old Trafford, this would be the guy to go after.  However, he won’t  be the number one priority on United’s summer shopping list, but if all else fails, I’m sure an enquiry will be made.

Javi Martinez

Martinez is predominantly a defensive midfielder, but this season at Athletic Bilbao he has been moulded into a centre-back.

His strength and ability to make clean tackles is a characteristic the United have definitely been missing this season. Central defence and defensive midfield are positions that United have been found wanting in this season. With Vidic out injured, Ferdinand often off-colour and Phil Jones playing all over the pitch it has been left to Jonny Evans to stand out as their best central defender.

Carrick still occupies the position that is most alike to the holding role for United, but he is not renowned for his tenacity. Past him and Scholes, and the options aren’t looking great, with Anderson perennially on the treatment table there is a void to be filled.

Martinez would be a great signing for Ferguson, providing United with versatility in two positions they are currently lacking. At a cost of around £20 million he’d definitely be worth the investment.

Nicolas Gaitan

Gaitan showed that he indeed is a solid, up-and-coming player in world football with seven assists in this year’s Champions League. However, he recorded only three goals and seven assists in 25 league games for Benfica, and failed to make a difference over two legs for Benfica against Chelsea.

Gaitan is a good player, but at the age of 24, he doesn’t look like a player that’ll one day be better than Nani, Young or Valencia.

Apparently Nicholas Gaitan is a big fan of moving to Manchester United, but it is not yet known if the feeling is mutual. But for the sake of United’s progress in the next few seasons Gaitan doesn’t seem like a wise signing, especially at the cost of £20 plus million.

Yohan Cabaye

Cabaye is not a player that’s been linked to United as such. But he would certainly fit into the team very well.

Cabaye is an all-action midfielder, a “box-to-box” midfielder. He’s not just a playmaker, and he’s not just a tackler; he does it all, and when your team plays only two central midfielders like Newcastle and Manchester United do, it’s great to have a player like Cabaye.

If Newcastle United harbour any hopes of repeating this year’s success next year, they’ll hold on to Cabaye tightly this summer. However, if Mike Ashley decides to cash in on this year’s success by selling the team’s best players for profit, Cabaye could prove to be a wise investment for Manchester United down the line.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Eden Hazard is arguably the most sought after player in Europe at the moment. It  now looks like the Belgian dazzler has made his decision on where he’ll be playing next season – and Fergie’s not going to like it at all!

Recently the Lille midfielder has dropped his biggest hint yet that he will join Manchester City this summer after announcing he will ‘definitely’ be wearing blue next season.

The Belgian star has long been linked with a move to the Barclays Premier League and both City and Manchester United were front-runners for his signature.

But Hazard is set to rub salt into Manchester United’s wounds by snubbing the chance to join the Red Devils – and opting for noisy neighbours Manchester City. Tottenham and Arsenal have also be linked to the 21-year-0ld, but these comments seem to have brought the end to any further speculation regarding the two London clubs.

Chelsea, who have signed three Belgians in the last year, have also been credited with an interest in the player.

Mancini’s side are on the verge of securing their first top flight trophy since 1968. It’s obvious to see success in the Premier League brings with it certain perks – clearly they’ll now have first choice of Europe’s best players this summer.

Regardless, Hazard is set to leave French club Lille this summer and both Ferguson and Mancini will continue fighting it out for the £25million-rated youngster.

“I have already said that my wish is to go to the Premier League,” Hazard said. “It’s the blue that I’ll be wearing next season. Definitely the blue.“

Roberto Mancini has told Lille star Eden Hazard that Manchester City would be his “perfect destination”.

 ”I like Hazard a lot,” Mancini told France Football magazine. “He’s a good player, he’s young and he would do great things in our team. Given his technical qualities City would be the perfect destination for him.

“I know him and have been following him for a long time. He’s a player a lot of teams want.”

I’m sure Hazard’s comments will come as a doubly painful blow for Ferguson and United. The Belgian could have been the perfect player to solve the Red Devils creativity problems in midfield.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

When Sir Alex Ferguson finally decides to close the curtains on his long and glorious career there will certainly be more than a few managers in line to replace him. Below are the Sky Bet current favourites:

1. Jose Mourinho 2/1

Will the special one end up at Old Trafford when Sir Alex Ferguson decides to call it a day? Manchester United is not just a club, but a global brand. The current Premier League Champions need a big personality at the helm. Mourinho has a bigger personality than nearly anyone in football and this is a great opportunity to prove himself as the World’s best manager. There will be plenty of pressure on whoever takes the United job, with Sir Alex leaving some big shoes to fill, it will not only take a very talented manager to replace him, but also someone with great confidence. The Mourinho looks likely to give Real Madrid one more season, however he would see it as the ultimate accolade to take over from Sir Alex Ferguson, a manager he admires immensely.

2. David Moyes 5/1

Moyes has done a great job at Goodison Park. If offered the United job he would almost certainly accept the position. People claim the likes of the Everton manager would not be able to play the attractive football demanded by United. Why not? What he has done at Everton is get the best from what he has had and been able to acquire. With better players he would play better football. It’s a major decision for United but in Moyes lies the potential for Ferguson’s successor. David Moyes is the best of the British at the moment, although he has done a great job at Everton he would appear to be a bit of an underwhelming choice to follow the great reign of Sir Alex

3. Ole Solskjaer 6/1

The former Manchester United winger is highly respected by the fans and the club. Solskjaer is currently manager of Norwegian Premier League Side Molde. When the Ferguson era comes to an end at Old Trafford, the club would ideally turn over the team to a young manager with a future bright enough to have another 25-year reign as boss. Solskjaer possesses the necessary qualities to do just that, and when the Super Scot steps down, he would be smart to hand the job over to the super-sub.

3. Pep Guardiola 7/1

Pep Guardiola would be a good choice for Manchester United. He has achieved a great deal with Barcelona but it remains to be seen what he will do with a less talented group of players (even one not too far off Barcelona like Man United. Ferguson has indicated the Barcelona coach is the right man to take charge at Old Trafford when he finally decides to retire. The outgoing Barca coach should easily be able to handle the transition to the Premier League.

5. Ryan Giggs 10/1

 A Manchester United legend. Currently approaching an amazing 900 appearances. It’s not difficult to see him becoming manager at the club in the future.

6. Martin O’Neill 12/1

It’s no secret that Martin O’Neill is desperate to manage Man United when Alex Ferguson retires. Sunderland’s current manager is experiencing a good run of form with his new team. After previous success with Celtic in the Scottish Premier League, he’s used to being in control of a countries dominant team.

7. Laurent Blanc 16/1

Currently at the helm of the French national team, depending on how Les Bleus perform at the European Championship the timing could be perfect.

8. Mark Hughes 20/1

Having been dismissed by City, Hughes could find himself crossing the city to succeed Ferguson. However, in the past he has made a few comments regarding United which will not endear him to the fans.

9. Mike Phelan 20/1

Sir Alex Ferguson’s current assistant manager. He’ll know the way Ferguson thinks through and through. He’s also a former player who has won the Premier League, the European cup winners’ cup, The FA cup, The League cup and the community shield with the club. He has had a lot of success under Sir Alex Ferguson at United. If the fans want to see the survival of Fergie’s ideas and tactics, then Phelan would be the ideal replacement.

10. Brendan Rodgers 25/1

The current Swansea manager has enjoyed a brilliant first Premier League season with Swansea. His teams play very attractive, passing football. Perhaps it’s too soon to judge his performance as a manager at the moment. But in a few season’s time he could definitely be an option for United when Sir Alex retires.

11. Joachim Loew – German National Team 25/1

12. Fabio Capello 25/1

13. Steve Bruce 25/1

14. Paul Lambert – Norwich 25/1

15. Chris Hughton – Birmingham 33/1

16. Roy Keane 33/1

17. Carlos Queiroz – Iranian National Team 33/1

18. Ottmar Hitzfeld – Swiss National Team 33/1

19. Gus Hiddink – FC Anzhi Makhachkala 33/1

20. Eric Cantona – New York Cosmos 33/1

21. Paul Scholes – Current Manchester United Player 33/1

22. Gary Neville 33/1

23. Alex McLeish – Aston Villa 33/1

24. Martin Jol – Fulham 33/1

25. Darren Ferguson – Peterborough United 33/1

Please comment with your opinions!

Feel free to visit my independent blog for similar articles http://chrisslinnell.wordpress.com/

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

In the previous week, I suggested that huge investment will be needed in summer for United to stand a chance at competing with top clubs next season. This feeling will have certainly intensified for all United fans as they witnessed the 1-0 defeat to City on Monday evening.  Perhaps this match has highlighted that bigger changes are needed in the dressing room.

Make no mistake. Sir Alex Ferguson will be angry following the defeat. This could well be the moment the power change in Manchester was confirmed? If City now go on to win the title, will Sir Alex hang up his boots?

Whatever happens now, City have completed a famous double over a United side that quite simply didn’t have the quality to break them down.

It’s now time for wholesale change at Old Trafford in a way that we may have never seen from Sir Alex. His reputation is at risk. He knows he should have sorted the midfield problem long ago. If he still intends to continue he has to reassert his stature in the English and European game by having a clear-out and making some marquee signings.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom for the fans. There are several reason’s United supporters should be optimistic going into the 2012/13 season.

Firstly, expect money to be made available by the owners. United are regularly linked with new players, but Alex Ferguson is a relatively frugal shopper compared to others in the Premiership. Some of the more expensive players likely won’t be coming to Old Trafford, and Fergie also usually stays away from players older than 23.  However, following the poor season, many would expect a flurry of signings once the transfer window re-opens. A few quality recruits in midfield and defence are all that’s needed to drastically improve the standard of the current first team. Manchester United will likely have to part with some of its veteran players at the end of the season and look to the transfer market to fill those holes with talented youngsters.

On top of this, United are blessed with several young players, these will make up the core of the team going forward:

For instance, David De Gea has had his dodgy moments this season. But the 21-year-old Spaniard has also shown plenty of the talent that originally caught the eye of Sir Alex Ferguson. He has steadily improved as the season’s gone on, and will continue that trend going into next year. De Gea will be the goalkeeper of the future at Old Trafford, and fans will enjoy watching him get better and better as every game goes by.

Phil Jones is another promising young player in the United Squad. Sir Alex Ferguson has put Jones at outside back, center back and central midfield this season, and the youngster showed a well-rounded skill set while being moved around. Jones is full of energy and plays with passion. These are qualities that have endeared him to Fergie, and he will be a mainstay in United’s lineup for a long time.

This season Tom Cleverley has definitely shown his ability to provide a creative spark in the United midfield, but injuries derailed his season after just a few games. After regaining fitness, he was unable to work his way back into any sort of role that involved substantial playing time. He will have the entire off-season to regain his fitness level, and will come back next year ready to show that the beginning of his last campaign was no fluke. Next term I Imagine Cleverley will be one of Alex Ferguson’s first choices in the midfield.

Finally, Danny Welbeck has been a revelation for United this season. He has shown incredible pace and an eye for the goal, scoring nine Premier League goals.The 22-year-old striker will continue to be a nightmare for opposing defences next season, and for many more campaigns after that.

As well as the development of young players, United fans can look forward to seeing the more experienced players playing at their best. Wayne Rooney has entered his prime and established himself as one of the best footballers on the planet. He has been a world-class talent his entire career, and recently has started to show maturity and class on the pitch. Rooney is no longer a temperamental teenager, and has grown into a leader. As Rooney goes, so will United, and the striker seems poised to take his team very far next year.

Furthermore, Antonio Valencia’s form of late has proven that the winger has the potential to be one of the best players in the world in his position. The Ecuadorian has excellent pace and fantastic footwork, but his best attribute is his unselfishness. Many players at his position prefer to cut inside and go for the glory far too often. But Valencia is constantly determined to get the ball to the corner and find one of his teammates on a cross or back-pass. Valencia’s ability to get off a cross nearly every time he receives the ball in attack makes him a game-changing presence. Barring an injury next season, he will start to make the rest of the world notice his talent.

In addition, the return of Nemanja Vidic will be a huge boost next season. The Serbian defender has been sorely missed this season. The 30-year-old centre back is one of the best in the world in his position, but suffered a knee injury against Basel in the Champions league in December. Hopefully he will return to full strength by August ready to re-establish his role as United’s brick wall in defence.

European failure this year will have left the fans praying for success on the continent next season. The best way for the team to atone for a disappointing result this term, would be for Alex Ferguson to earn his third Champions League title. The Champions League trophy is by far the most important one to win for any European club, and with a few quality signings, United will be one of the favourites for next year’s competition.

Also, having lost twice against Manchester City in the league this season, United fans will be eager to have their revenge. The pain from these defeats could be eased if the Red Devils are able to return the favour to the Blues and beat them twice next season. City will be ready to compete for a title again next year, and United need to put their neighbours back in their place as Manchester’s second-tier club. This optimism will be boosted by the opportunity to win the EPL in its 20th Year. a 12th title win would show everyone, including Mancini’s men, which club is going to dominate the next 20 years of English top-tier football.

To top all of this, next season will be Sir Alex Ferguson’s 25th year as manager of Manchester United. It’s destined to be a special one. This is an amazing accomplishment in today’s football world, where managers are often the most expendable person at their club. Ferguson is one of the special few who have proven themselves worthy of their board’s trust, and United fans should consider themselves lucky every year that the Scotsman is still with the team, even when results are going against them. Bearing in mind this could be Fergie’s last season before his retirement, it would be great to see him go out with a bang.

Please comment with your opinions!

Feel free to visit my independent blog for similar articles http://chrisslinnell.wordpress.com/

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Manchester United may miss out on the title this year, but there are many things to look forward to next season.

United’s 1-0 loss to City puts them in a tie with their arch-rivals at the top of the table, but City’s goal difference is eight points better than United’s.

This is a lot of ground to make up in just two fixtures, and the Red Devils will likely finish as runners-up in 2011-12.

But the 2012-13 will be starting up in August; the clubs fans have every right to expect a better performance next season.

Manchester United will likely part with some of its veteran players in July and look to the transfer market to fill those holes with talented youngsters.

The Red Devils are regulars in the football gossip columns, but Alex Ferguson is a relatively frugal shopper compared to others in the Premiership. However, Fergie is surely lining up potential signings to create the next generation of his Manchester United squad. Below are some of the players the Red Devils have been linked to.

Javi Martinez – Central Midfielder (Athletic Bilbao)

The 23-year-old’s performances this season have seen him become one of the most coveted players in Europe. Sir Alex Ferguson, who had the chance to see Martinez close up when the Basque club knocked United out of the Europa League, is a long-term admirer of the Spain international. According to caught offside and various other sources, Fergie is prepared to spend £28m to sign the Spanish international midfielder.

Iker Muniain – Attacking Midfielder (Athletic Bilbao)

Nineteen-year-old Athletic Bilbao attacking midfielder Iker Muniain, who received his first cap for Spain earlier in the year, has caught the eye of Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. But the Old Trafford club will have to shell out £29.5m for his services, according to the player’s agent.

Shinji Kagawa – Attacking Midfielder (Borussia Dortmund)

Shinji Kagawa after informing Borussia Dortmund he won’t sign a new contract—could be a Manchester United player next season. The 23-year-old former Cerezo Osaka star—whose contract runs out in June of 2013—was offered a new four-year deal, but turned it down, according to Dortmund’s sporting director Michael Zorc, who admitted that while money isn’t a priority, the club have no choice but to sell the playmaker.

Jan Vertonghen – Defender (Ajax)

With Nemanja Vidic still out injured and Rio Ferdinand in decline, the versatile Dutch defender could be a cut-price alternative, especially as he enters the final year of his contract and could be available for less than £7million.

Mathieu Debuchy – Right back (Lille)

Ever since Gary Neville decided to retire United have lacked consistency at right-back where Rafael is always capable of a costly loss of concentration. Lille defender Mathieu Debuchy could be the man to fill Gary Neville’s boots.

Jack Rodwell – Centre-back, Defensive Midfielder (Everton)

The cultured Everton defender seemed nailed on to become a United player before a series of injuries and loss of form cooled Ferguson’s interest. However, he has returned to type this season and could give Michael Carrick a few sleepless nights before the transfer window closes - unless Chelsea get in there first.

Javi Garcia – Defensive Midfielder (Benfica)

Schooled at Real Madrid, the Spanish defensive midfielder made an impression as Benfica all but ended United’s participation in the Champions League this season. A move to Old Trafford would give him bragging rights over cousin Luis who played for Liverpool – although United face competition from their City rivals.

Luka Modric – Attacking Midfielder (Tottenham)

The Croatian schemer had his heart set on a move to Chelsea last summer only to be denied by the powers that be at White Hart Lane. Fergie has been a long-time admirer of his creative talents – even if he doesn’t score many goals. Spurs may struggle to keep himthis time round but expect Daniel Levy to be drive a hard bargain.

Nicolas Gaitan – Attacking Midfielder (Benfica)

Another Benfica player who ran United ragged in the Champions League, Gaitan has been dubbed the ‘Argentine Cristiano Ronaldo’. There have been reports that a £20million deal has already been negotiated with the possibility of Fabio da Silva and Federico Macheda moving in the opposite direction.

Eden Hazard – Attacking midfielder, Forward (Lille)

The Belgian wonder kid has been courted by Premier League suitors including Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City ever since confirming he would leave Lille in the summer. The 21-year-old was said to be flattered after a personal visit from the Great Scot himself, which could place Fergie at the head of the queue.

Wesley Sneijder – Attacking midfielder, Forward (Inter Milan)

The Dutch maestro was the subject of a will he/won’t he? Transfer that lasted the entire close season last summer. Expect more of the same this time round as United still need a creative playmaker and Paul Scholes can’t last forever – although Sneijder might have to lower is wage demands.

Arjen Robben – Winger, Forward (Bayern Munich)

The Flying Dutchman passed up the chance to join United in 2004 after having his head turned by Roman’s roubles at Stamford Bridge. Despite a fragile constitution, he’s proved to be a world class player at Bayern Munich where a bust up with Franck Ribery could convince him to make a Premier League return.

Jordi Alba – Left Back (Valencia)

According to the Metro Sir Alex Ferguson’s side have added Valencia left-back Jordi Alba to their list of transfer targets as a long-term replacement for Patrice Evra. However, Manchester United will have to fork out £15m for the 23-year-old’s services.

Leighton Baines – Left Back (Everton)

Baines is another Left back Manchester United are supposedly targeting as a replacement for ageing full-back Evra. According to the Daily Mirror, the Reds may offer just £5m for the England international.

Gylfi Sigurdsson – Attacking Midfielder (Swansea)

Manchester United are considering a stunning £10million swoop for ­Swansea’s on-loan ­Icelandic star Gylfi Sigurdsson. Sir Alex Ferguson has been monitoring the ­midfielder, who is enjoying an outstanding campaign at the Liberty Stadium after arriving from German club Hoffenheim in January. United are now on red alert after Sigurdsson told Hoffenheim he wants to quit the Bundesliga.

Lucas Rodrigues Moura da Silva – Attacking Midfielder (Sao Paulo)

Brazilian side Sao Paulo have set a £40m asking price for Manchester United and Chelsea transfer target Lucas Moura. The 19-year-old attacking midfielder, who is also wanted by Real Madrid, has a £65m buyout clause in his contract.

Klaas Jan Huntelaar – Forward (Schalke)

United could be eyeing up Schalke striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar as a possible replacement for Dimitar Berbatov after the Netherlands forward rediscovered his form following difficult spells at Real Madrid and AC Milan. Sir Alex Ferguson is supposedly planning a £12m bid for Schalke striker.

James Rodriguez – Winger, Attacking Midfielder (Porto)

United are monitoring young star James Rodriguez, the player known as the South American Cristiano Ronaldo. The Colombian winger, 20, has told his club Porto that he wants to move to the Manchester Club.

Oscar de Marcos – Midfielder (Athletic Bilbao)

Manchester United want £26m Athletic Bilbao midfielder Oscar de Marcos, 22, after he starred for the Spanish side in the Red Devils’ Europa League downfall.

Also See:

• More Manchester United News.
• More Transfer Rumours.
• Team-by-team Premier League Summer 2012 Transfer Previews.

You can follow The author, Chris Linnell, on Twitter or his blog.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Ownership of a horse is a sign of wealth and affluence, with modern day footballers some of the richest people in sporting circles both in the United Kingdom and further afield.

With the money attached to horse racing and betting, leading figures in football stand to make more money than their already inflated wages. The thrill of seeing a horse you own win a big race is something difficult to rival, with the time and money invested generating a winning buzz.

Despite this, horse racing has been a curse to some footballers, who have splurged their wages on betting, and lost. Here are some of the main footballing figures involved in horse racing.

Sir Alex Ferguson

The Manchester United manager’s only passion is not just the beautiful game, as the Scottish coach has been heavily involved in the world of horse racing for quite some time. The legendary coach fell out with Red Devils’ key shareholder John Magnier over the ownership of horse Rock of Gibraltar back in 2003, with the conflict eventually settled out of court.

Ferguson has owned a raft of winning race horses, some of which have ran at the Grand National; his latest major victory was Harry the Viking’s triumph at Doncaster at the end of 2011.

Michael Owen

Former England forward Michael Owen and his wife Louise have a key interest in horses and horse racing, with the pair owning and keeping a number of the animals at Lower Soughton Manor in Flintshire, North Wales. Owen’s race horses are trained by Tom Dascombe and his proudest day in the sport was Brown Panther’s win at Royal Ascot in 2011, which reduced the Manchester United striker to tears.

Robbie Fowler and Steve McManaman

The former Liverpool players own a number of horses through their joint company, The Macca and Growler Partnership. The Merseyside duo’s main success was with Seebald, which won the 2003 Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Celebration Chase. Some of the pair’s horses have been ridden by leading jockey Tony McCoy, and the venture has increased both football men’s considerable wealth.

Joe Cole

The attacking midfielder has an interest in horse racing and has four race wins in his ownership career. Frequently seen at race venues with wife Carly and daughter Ruby, the now Lille playmaker will find it more difficult to organise affairs on the paddock whilst he is playing in France.

Wayne Rooney

The England forward has followed club team-mate Michael Owen in buying a racehorse, which will be trained by Tom Dascombe also and stay at Owen’s stables. Rooney’s wife Coleen is a regular attendee at the races, and has been pictured at the Grand National for the last couple of years.

Footballers and Betting

The issue of footballers and gambling is one that rears its ugly head on a semi-regular basis, and generally the players’ vice is horse racing. Former Liverpool and Scotland defender Dominic Matteo admitted to spending over £1 million on betting on the races, whilst the likes of John Terry, Wayne Bridge, Scott Parker, Keith Gillespie Michale Chopra, Matthew Etherington, Steve Claridge and Paul Merson have all admitted losing huge sums of money in racing betting.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

After 25 years in charge of Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson will go down in history as one of the best and most successful managers in the club’s history.

However, Ferguson was involved in a legal battle in the 2000′s over the ownership of prize-winning horse Rock of Gibraltar, in the one main blotch in his copybook.

A disagreement with co-owner John Magnier saw ugly scenes as a power struggle for the lucrative animal’s ownership ensued, which unfortunately has seen the Scottish coach’s name blighted slightly and opened him up to criticism over the controversy.

The Irish stallion, who claimed over £1.1 million in prize money in a distinguished career, was co-owned by the Manchester United boss and Sue Magnier, wife of racehorse breeder John Magnier.

The name of the animal comes from the island of Gibraltar in the Mediterranean Sea, which has been a point of contention between Great Britain and Spain in the past. Magnier, at the time the primary shareholder of Manchester United, gave half of the horse’s ownership rights to Ferguson, however the financial side of the horse’s ownership sparked a feud between the pair. 

After Rock of Gibraltar retired, Ferguson felt that he was owed tens of millions of pounds in stud fees, with the football manager reportedly only being given a fraction of the money he felt was rightly his.

In 2003, Ferguson sued Magnier for the missing studs fees from Rock of Gibraltar, which won a record seven successive Group One races. With the case set for court, Magnier offered Ferguson the opportunity of four stud nominations a year for the rest of the horse’s life, however the Glasgow-born trainer decided to opt for a one-off £2.5 million payoff to end the feud.

This decision by Ferguson was later questioned by Martin Hannan, the author of the book Rock Of Gibraltar, who believes that the legendary United manager could have recuperated around £2 million-a-year if he has opted to keep half the breeding rights of the thoroughbred.

Magnier released his interests in the Old Trafford football club in 2005, when he sold his shares to American business tycoon Malcolm Glazier.

Since the ugly disagreement between Ferguson and Magnier, the manager has come in from criticism over his conduct, especially from former player Roy Keane. The temperamental Irish hardman and Ferguson were involved in a war of words in 2011, after Keane criticised United following their Champions League elimination at the hands of Basel.

After Ferguson has hit back, Keane accused the Scot of putting his own interests ahead of the club’s, stating the case of Rock of Gibraltar as a key example of selfishness.

The whole incident was shrouded in controversy, and thinking back Ferguson may well regret the actions that may have slightly tarnished his reputation at Old Trafford, and given critics such as Keane ammunition to attack him with. Despite this, the ability money to derail personal and financial relationships; after all it’s a horse-eat-horse world.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Manchester City 1-0 Manchester United
Kompany 45 +1

Manchester City: Hart, Zabaleta, Lescott, Kompany, Clichy, Barry, Toure Yaya, Silva, Tevez, Nasri, Aguero.
Subs: Pantilimon, Richards, Milner, Dzeko, Kolarov, De Jong, Balotelli.

Manchester United: De Gea, Jones, Ferdinand, Smalling, Evra, Nani, Carrick, Scholes, Park, Giggs, Rooney.
Subs: Amos, Berbatov, Hernandez, Young, Welbeck, Rafael Da Silva, Valencia.

Referee: Andre Marriner (W Midlands)

After all the hype leading up to yesterday evening’s kick-off, the Manchester Derby proved to be a huge disappointment. The majority of the 650 million viewers were expecting a goal filled match, with quality from the greatest players in the Premier League. Instead we sat and witnessed, a lacklustre defensive performance from United as City walked away with an easy three points.

Manchester City took control of the Premier League title race with two games remaining after the derby victory saw them leapfrog rivals Manchester United at the top of the table.

Vincent Kompany’s header in first-half stoppage time gave City the win that means they have wiped out the eight-point advantage held by United three weeks ago, and move to the summit on goal difference.

In a game of few chances, City were the more positive side and deserved the three points on offer in what had been labelled the biggest game in the Premier League’s 20-year history.

United, in contrast, were passive, poor and lacking inspiration despite the high stakes, failing to get a shot on target as City keeper Joe Hart enjoyed a virtually untroubled night.

Ferguson and Mancini went toe-to-toe in the 78th minute in a furious row in the technical area after Nigel De Jong had been booked for a foul on Danny Welbeck.

Fourth official Mike Jones had to stand between the pair and members of United and City’s coaching staff got involved as the feuding managers continued their verbal tirade.

The pair were eventually separated, with Mancini making a mocking gesture towards Ferguson with his hands to further enrage the United boss, who watched his side surrender the initiative in the title race.

For me, Ferguson’s team selection and tactics were the main reason behind the loss. The decision to play a 5-man midfield appeared extremely negative. He was clearly playing for the single point, which would have kept United in top spot. This formation left Rooney extremely isolated up-front.

For certain spells in the game Rooney was even forced to come back and assist the midfield, leaving no attacking players in Manchester City’s half.

Park Ji-Sung’s start for the first time since January was another controversial decision. He was given the tough task of marking Yaya Toure. However, his contribution had been minimal. It was no surprise when he was the first player substituted by Ferguson before the hour, as he chose to give United more offensive options by introducing Welbeck. Smalling, like Park, was also making his first start since January after Jonny Evans was ruled out through injury, momentarily lost Kompany on their run from the edge of the box and was still marginally out of position when the Belgian rose to power home from six yards.

Ferguson’s experienced line-up rarely threatened Joe Hart’s goal and City always looked likeliest to score.

It was an agonising final few minutes for the home fans. However, United’s display was so poor that they were unable to even rouse themselves for their trademark late rally, City surviving in complete comfort to take control of the title race.

With United dropping eight points out of their last 12, the momentum and advantage is now with City. Mancini knows victory in their last two games, away at Newcastle United and at home to Queen’s Park Rangers, would give them their first title since 1967-68.

City’s recent resurgence has also proved decisive for their goal difference as they now hold an eight-goal advantage over United and, as referee Andre Marriner sounded the final whistle, their fans celebrated a victory they clearly felt would prove decisive.

Now United have a colossal task on their hand, the league is mathematically still winnable, but would take a huge number of goals in their final two games against Sunderland, then Swansea. However, If Manchester City slip up in their last two fixtures, Ferguson’s side will re-gain the top spot, providing they finish the league campaign with two wins.

It’s clear to see that Mancini’s has much greater quality than United. Ferguson’s ‘experienced’ side is clearly ageing, recent results have shown this. In summer I’m hopeful that Ferguson will invest in new, quality players. Maybe then we can put a highly unsuccessful season behind us and set out in August with all guns blazing.

Below are the Mirror Football ratings for each player from yesterday’s match:

Manchester City:

Joe Hart
Nervy punch inside the first five minutes but assured handling thereafter. City’s dominance of possession mean he was never called upon to make a save at all. 6

Pablo Zabaleta
Pushed forward at every opportunity, overlapping with Nasri and causing Evra problems down United’s left side. Defensively sound too, justifying selection ahead of Richards. 7

Vincent Kompany
Superb header from Silva’s corner to give City the lead in first-half added time, out-jumping Smalling to score. Booked for a foul on Rooney midway through the first-half. 8

Joleon Lescott
Read the game superbly and made a succession of vital blocks and headed clearances when called upon, continuing the impressive form he has shown all season. 7

Gael Clichy
Like Zabaleta, he was able to push on from his left-back berth and gave Jones a torrid time, at times effectively playing as a wing-back he was so far forward. 7

Gareth Barry
Another no-nonsense display from one of City’s most effective but underrated players. Allowed Toure to get into advanced positions while he protected the back-four. 7

Yaya Toure 
A colossus in midfield. Made his physical presence felt with a superb ball-winning tackle to dispossess Jones in the first-half and was the driving force for City through the middle. 8

David Silva
Caused anxiety in the United defence on the ball with his darting runs and clever movement, and provided the delivery from a corner for Kompany’s goal just before half-time. 7

Samir Nasri
A constant threat whenever on the ball, he gave City the cutting edge in attack and was their most effective attacking player, drawing opponents to him to open up space. 8

Carlos Tevez
Played a key role in Kompany’s goal, tussling with De Gea on the goal-line and ensuring the United keeper did not see the City skipper’s goal-bound header until too late. 7

Aguero 
Lashed at the ball on the volley in the 25th minute, sending it high and wide of the goal. For once he wasn’t City’s match-winner, but his constant movement meant United could never settle. 6

Subs 
De Jong for Tevez (67mins): Fullfiled his remit of helping to shut the game down. 5

Richards for Silva (82mins): Brought on to see out the game.

Manchester United

David De Gea
Did not see Kompany’s header until it was too late, Tevez putting him off in the build-up to the corner and ensuring United’s keeper got nowhere near the ball. 5

Phil Jones
Made a couple of crucial early blocks but looked all at sea thereafter, constantly pulled out of position and lacking the defensive discipline to fulfil his remit at right-back. Booked. 4

Chris Smalling
First appearance in four weeks and how it showed. Hopeless marking for City’s first goal, his hesitancy allowing Kompany to get to the ball ahead of him and power it in. 4

Rio Ferdinand
Looked the most assured of his fellow defenders but that’s not saying much given their poor displays. Had to draw on all his experience with the shortcomings of those around him. 6

Patrice Evra
Has had a poor season and it didn’t get any better last night, as he was given the runaround by Nasri and, at times, Zabaleta. Didn’t get enough protection from Giggs. 5

Michael Carrick
Has been a consistent performer for United this season but like his fellow midfielders he was simply overran. Looked lightweight up against Toure and Barry. 5

Paul Scholes
Struggled to make any kind of impact on the game, which seemed to pass him by in midfield, with younger, stronger and more agile players getting the better of him. 5

Ryan Giggs:
With him, Scholes and Carrick, United’s central midfield trio had a combined age of 105, which showed. A peripheral figure, his selection, too, was a decision which backfired. 5

Nani 
Ballooned a long-range shot way over the bar after 10 minutes and that was pretty much it. Offered little in the way of an attacking threat and failed to trouble City’s defence. 5

Ji-Sung Park
Recalled to the side for the first time in six weeks for his energy and tenacity, his role to disrupt City in midfield. But the ploy backfired and he was subbed before the hour. 4

Wayne Rooney
Looked out of sorts all night. Sloppy in possession, frequently misplaced passes and looked ill at ease leading the line alone until Welbeck’s introduction just before the hour. 5

Subs

Welbeck for Park (57mins): Failed to make the impact required of him. 5

Valencia for Scholes (78min): Came on too late to make an impact.

Young for Nani (82mins): Another whose introduction came too late.

Man of the Match

Yaya Toure: A colossal display, drove City to victory.

Please comment with your opinions!

Feel free to visit my independent blog for similar articles http://chrisslinnell.wordpress.com/

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

A week ago, I spoke of the significance of Manchester United’s draw with Everton and how much the title race had been affected. The impact has been huge; this has been made clear throughout the footballing world for the last 7 days.

Roberto Mancini might still be trying to convince himself that the title is already Manchester United’s this season but the rest of the football world knows that tonight’s Manchester derby is a colossal battle that can send the title either way.

The climax to this Premier season looks set to surpass any other before it as the league’s top two teams go head to head in what many are calling the biggest Premier League game of all time. Tonight’s game is expected to attract 650 million television viewers.

Current Sky Bet odds stand at 11/10 Manchester City win, 12/5 Manchester United Win and 5/2 for a draw. Clearly the home side are favourites to take all 3 points.

City win - it’s all level with two games to go, with City’s goal difference significantly better.

A draw - and United would need four points from their last two games to win the title, regardless of what City do. A victory against Swansea in their next match would clinch it if City fail to win at Newcastle.

United win - and the title is all but in the bag. One more point would seal it.

Talking Tactics

As big a prospect as it may be for Manchester City to win their first top-flight championship in 44 years, thereby denying their arch rivals Manchester United, both teams will be concentrating first on keeping 11 players on the field.

Ignoring the Community Shield, previous encounters this season have involved a man being sent off, with Jonny Evans seeing red in City’s 6-1 rout at Old Trafford and Vincent Kompany dismissed during United’s 3-2 FA Cup victory at the Etihad. These events had a big impact on the eventual score line in both matches.

So with City three points behind United and needing the win far more than their neighbours how will managers Roberto Mancini and Sir Alex Ferguson prepare their teams?

City’s attack versus United’s defence

Of both teams back fours, United’s looks the more vulnerable. Having conceded four goals against Everton last Sunday, questions have re-appeared about the form of Rafael, Rio Ferdinand, Jonny Evans and Patrice Evra. Although, United’s defence has the best record in the Premier League for clean sheets (18) and is second only to City in terms of goals conceded.

Some may consider United’s defensive mishaps against Everton a blessing in disguise. No doubt, Ferguson will have used this week to iron out any mistakes seen last weekend; creating a stronger more effective back four.

But up against the top-flight’s leading scorers they will have a far sterner test in contrast to their previous seven games which have all been against teams in the bottom half of the table. Sergio Aguero and Carlos Tevez have formed a deadly partnership of late; United could struggle to prevent the goals flying in. On top of this, the end of Mario Balotelli’s 3 match suspension will give City a boost going in to the match, having scored 2 of the 6 goals in his team’s 6-1 win earlier this season.

City’s attacking options are enough to win them the game, but City will have to keep their nerve in other areas of the pitch. The performance in midfield will be key but the attacking players will need to play there role. So much emphasis has been placed on this game that a tight encounter could be the result if the star players don’t play well and create chances.

The midfield battle

But against Everton, United winger Nani showed he can pop up in danger areas across the pitch and underlining his status as a big game player. Although there have been concerns over his fitness ahead of the match, if he’s okay to play, It’s likely he will be in the starting line up. On top of this Antonio Valencia, who did not play at Old Trafford last time, and Scholes have been catalysts for United in their run of 12 wins in the last 15 league games. Both players should both be selected, but Ferguson will expect big individual performances if United are going to take anything away from the match.

It has also been suggested that Fergie will attempt to bolster central areas by asking Wayne Rooney to play a deeper role. In my opinion this is unnecessary, Welbeck and Rooney’s work rate up front will compensate for one less man in midfield.

Mancini has some big decisions to make regarding midfield selections. It’s likely he will continue will the recent 4 man midfield of Yaya Toure, Gareth Barry, Silva and Samir Nasri. City’s FA Cup semi-final victory over United last season came when Mancini chose to let Yaya Toure off the leash and play him in a five-man midfield behind Balotelli.

Needing a win, 4-4-2 is certainly the most attacking option for Mancini’s side. But it’s possible the Italian might be more cautious to begin with. However, Mancini will have studied the Everton draw when the Toffees’ five-man midfield swarmed around Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes. This could influence his decision.

United’s attack versus City’s defence

As solid as City look when captain Kompany is in the side, he and his fellow defenders will have to be on top form to deal with the threat of Danny Welbeck and Rooney.

The duo have registered 35 goals and eight assists between them in the Premier League this season to go with the three they scored against City in January’s FA Cup win.

The pair are “forming a great partnership” although some would consider City to have enough quality to deal with them.

Ferguson is likely to keep Hernandez to the bench due to a lack of form in recent matches.

Expected Line Ups:

Manchester United: De Gea, Rafael, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra, Valencia, Young, Carrick, Scholes, Rooney, Welbeck.

Manchester City: Hart, Richards, Kompany, Lescott, Clichy, Silva, Nasri, Toure, Barry, Tevez, Aguero

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

Manchester United have won 67 of the 161 matches between the clubs since they first met in the old Division Two in 1894. City have 44 victories, with 50 draws.

Manchester City have failed to score in their last three Premier League games at home to United. They drew 0-0 last term, having lost 1-0 the previous two seasons.

United’s 6-1 defeat to City in October was their heaviest ever Premier League defeat, and the first time they had conceded six at Old Trafford since 1930.

Manchester City

Roberto Mancini’s side have won 21 of their last 22 home matches in the top flight, and are unbeaten in their last 27 games, claiming 77 points from a possible 81. The last team to leave the Etihad Stadium with maximum points was Everton on 20 December 2010.

City have not conceded a first-half goal in 19 of their last 20 Premier League games, and have let in only six all season.

Carlos Tevez and Sergio Aguero have started four Premier League games together this season, with City scoring 15 goals in those matches – 12 netted by the Argentine duo.

Tevez has scored or assisted a Premier League goal every 55 minutes this season.

Manchester United

The Red Devils have yet to win a league game after conceding the opening goal this term (D3, L4).

They have dropped five points in their last three games, as many as they let slip in the first three months of 2012.

Wayne Rooney has scored 16 times in his last 14 appearances for the club.

Analysis

Both teams have enough quality in attack to win the match alone. However, neither side has the strongest possible defence; any mistakes will lead to goals. However, there’ll surely be no repeat of the defensive aberrations that saw United concede four to Everton last weekend (let alone the six against City in October) and with them only needing a point to make sure they stay in command of things, you’d expect Ferguson to set up his team to make sure they get it.

In my opinion, the game will be won in the midfield, you can guarantee if Tevez starts he will be dropping back into midfield and helping out, United have to make sure they don’t get outnumbered there, so Rooney may have to sit a little closer to Carrick and Scholes. Both teams’ midfielders pose a big goal threat, but will be heavily relied on to create the chances for the strikers.

Expect United to park the bus, similar to how they did in the 3-2 defeat where Kompany was dismissed in January. They just sat back and played on the counter-attack .However, I wouldn’t be surprised if Mancini also approaches this game extremely defensively.

Manchester City clearly have the stronger side, plus the advantage of playing at home. They’ll be the more confident team going into this evenings match.

No doubt this is going to be an extremely nervous encounter; with so much to lose neither side will be willing to make mistakes. Roberto Mancini’s team have dropped only two points at home all season while United have the best away record in the division. Surely something has to give?

Please comment with your opinions!

Feel free to visit my independent blog for similar articles http://chrisslinnell.wordpress.com/

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Manchester United’s 4-4 draw against Everton may have cost them dearly in the race for the Premier League this season.

Following Manchester City’s 2-0 win at Wolves, Mancini’s side are now perfectly poised to overtake their city rivals in next Monday evening’s derby.

The title is now seemingly in City’s hands. Now, just three points behind United in second place and with a superior goal difference, wins in the final 3 games would secure City the Premier League title for the first time in their history. This is clearly a massively different picture compared to two weeks ago, when, after City’s defeat to Arsenal had given United an 8 point advantage. Since this game Roberto Mancini’s side have strung three wins together, scoring 12 goals in the process.

Acknowledging that the game a week tomorrow will be “definitely” the biggest derby of his long United career, Sir Alex Ferguson said:

“We have to go there knowing we are capable of getting a result.”

“We need to get a result now at the Etihad and there’s no reason we can’t do that. There’s been the expectancy from City that it could be their decider – it’s our decider too.

“It’s a big game. It’s always a derby of the highest proportions and next week will be no different.”

However, Roberto Mancini is continuing to play down ManchesterCity’s title hopes despite closing the gap with the win against Wolves.

“Only one team can win this title. It’s not in our hands. We have three points less.”

“You all wrote the title race was finished. Seven days ago, the race was finished. You wrote it. I congratulate Sir Alex Ferguson on a good season.”

United have only lost one and drawn 2 of their last 15 games, even though many of their recent victories have come against teams in the bottom half of the table.

The recent defeat at Wigan was followed up by victory over Aston Villa but United will have to respond once again after Everton exposed defensive frailties reminiscent of their early-season form.

By contrast, Nani looked fresh on his return to the side by setting up two goals and scoring another, and the way Wayne Rooney and Danny Welbeck linked up will give United added vibrancy.

For City, the re-emergence of Carlos Tevez has coincided with City’s upturn in fortunes and his combinations with Sergio Aguero have caught the eye despite Mancini still asking for the team to be more clinical in front of goal.

Their blip of no wins in three games around the end of March appeared to be more psychological and borne from a lack of title-race experience. But that seems to have lifted as they now chase first place.

Despite his continued insistence that United are favourites to win the Premier League, Mancini admitted after the recent Norwich victory that he hoped his stance would inspire his players to prove him wrong. As ludicrous as it now sounds with only a three-point gap, it seems to be doing the trick as Manchester United begin to drop points.

Ferguson accepted the defeat by Wigan, but was less charitable after the Everton game. And by highlighting the problem in defence he has automatically shifted the focus onto the likes of Rafael and Rio Ferdinand, who were at fault for at least two goals against David Moyes’ side.

Still, Ferguson holds the upper hand, with experience, in inspiring teams to the title from a variety of situations. The question remains if he has the team to do it.

It’s important to remember that United don’t necessarily need a win at the Etihad next week. 1 point would be sufficient to keep them ahead of City going into the final two games of the season. But Fergusonwill look back to the reverse fixture last year, when City destroyed the Red Devils 6-1. Plus, in reviewing the opposition’s performance against Everton last weekend, Mancini will look to exploit United’s weaknesses, as the Toffees five man midfield easily found spaces between Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick.

Now that Ferguson has described this as the biggest derby of his time at Manchester United, it will only add to the intensity of the occasion. But whatever happens at Etihad Stadium, there are some tricky games looming which could play a telling part in which side of Manchester the Premier League trophy travels to.

United appear to have the easier games, as Mancini has suggested, with a home fixture against Swansea followed by a trip to Sunderland. As good as Brendan Rodgers’s side have been this season, their away record is poor, while the Black Cats have not scored in their last four games.

After the derby, City will travel to face the form team in the division -Newcastle- before hosting a QPR team who are fighting for their survival and have beaten Tottenham, Arsenal and Liverpool over the last month.

It’s bound to be a very exciting week leading up to the match next Monday. I just hope that the football during the game lives up to all the hype and speculation. All in all, it’s bound to be a very exciting fixture.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News