In een bij momenten zinderend Jan Breydel kon new look Club Brugge vanavond via penalties Valladolid verslaan. 25.073 fans zagen hoe Glenn Verbauwhede uitgroeide tot held van de match: in de penaltyreeks stopte hij een Spaanse elfmeter en knalde hij de beslissende strafschop voorbij een gefrustreerde Valladolid goalie. Na 90 minuten stond het 2-2 (Balaban en Vermeulen). Reacties van Clubcoach Mathijssen, doelman Verbauwhede en doelpuntenmaker Vermeulen.
Glenn VERBAUWHEDE:
"Winst is leuk"
Invallersdoelman Glenn Verbauwhede toonde zich bijzonder tevreden over het feit dat Club zijn galamatch zegevierend voor de eigen supporters kon afsluiten. "De trainer had mijn naam op zijn blaadje opgeschreven maar toch was ik verwonderd dat ik die vijfde strafschop moest trappen. Gelukkig kon ik die bal tegen de netten jagen en kon ik ook één Spaanse strafschop stoppen. Tegen beide tegendoelpunten was ik echter kansloos. Vooral die tweede was heel mooi geplaatst. Het resultaat speelt niet echt een rol maar toch ben ik opgetogen dat we de partij alsnog met de penalties in ons voordeel konden beslechten." (MV)
Jorn VERMEULEN :
"Eerste doelpunt voor Club"
Ook Jorn Vermeulen, dat andere jeugdproduct, kon met een positieve noot terugblikken op deze editie van de Brugse Metten. "Ik ben heel tevreden dat ik na mijn blessure deze speelkans heb gekregen. Het liep vrij goed, al kreeg ik later in de wedstrijd wel wat last van stramheid. Uiteraard hou ik ook een goed gevoel over aan mijn allereerste doelpunt voor Club. Als rechtsachter is het sowieso niet zo evident om de weg naar het doel te vinden. Dit doet dan ook enorm veel deugd." (MV)
Jacky MATHIJSSEN:
"Had liever binnen de 90 minuten gewonnen"
"We namen een zeer degelijke start", opende de Limburgse Club-coach. "We willen iets herkenbaars opbouwen in de startbeleving. Jammer genoeg konden we die goede start niet lang aanhouden. Het tweede deel van de eerste helft was duidelijk minder. Gelukkig werd ons engagement, onze positieve wedstrijdmentaliteit na de rust weer opgepikt. Ondanks de vele onderbrekingen door de vele wissels hebben we toch de honger om de match te winnen kunnen vasthouden tot het einde. Het is ons niet gelukt dit te doen binnen de 90 minuten. Dat vind ik persoonlijk wel jammer. De mogelijkheden waren er nochtans, jammer van die gemiste penalty. Maar de manier waarop we vandaag toch nog wonnen, is zoveel spectaculairder voor de fans. En de Brugse fans zijn toch belangrijk, heel belangrijk. Ik ben vandaag dan ook een tevreden trainer."
Ik heb nu een site en ik wil zoveel mogelijk kijkers. ik ben geboren 1997 5 juni. bedankt voor de mededeling ik hoop op zoveel mogelijk kijkers. de speeldagen gaan er ook op staan.
KAKA Ricardo Izecson Santos Leite, geboren in de Braziliaanse hoofdstad Brasilia, begint met voetballen bij São Paulo. Hij doorloopt de jeugdopleiding en maakt in 2001 als achttienjarige een spetterend debuut in de hoofdmacht. De middenvelder weet twee keer te scoren, waardoor São Paulo voor het eerst in haar bestaan beslag legt op de Rio-São Paulo Cup.
In iets meer dan drie seizoenen speelt Kaká 56 competitieduels voor São Paulo, waarin hij 22 keer trefzeker is. Europese topclubs, waaronder AC Milan en Chelsea, willen de middenvelder graag overnemen. Kaká besluit om de overstap naar AC Milan te maken, alwaar hij een contract voor vier seizoenen tekent. De Italianen betalen een transfersom van 8,5 miljoen euro.
Bij de Italiaanse topclub maakt Kaká direct een goede indruk. Zonder veel moeite weet hij binnen korte tijd een basisplaats te veroveren. In zijn debuutseizoen voor de Rossoneri speelt hij 30 competitieduels, waarin hij tien doelpunten maakt. Coach Carlo Ancelotti is bijzonder te spreken over de middenvelder. Volgens hem koppelt Kaká de technische kwaliteiten van een Braziliaan aan de mentaliteit van een Europeaan.
Dankzij zijn stormachtige opkomst krijgt de middenvelder doorgaans een korte dekking. Kaká ziet het als een positieve ontwikkeling: "Het is belangrijk geweest dat de verdedigers in Italië me niet veel ruimte gaven. Ik ben daardoor als speler gegroeid. In het veld zie ik nu veel oplossingen waar ik eerst geen oog voor had. Ik kan een wedstrijd inmiddels veel beter lezen."
Met de Rossoneri wint Kaká in 2004 de landstitel. Een jaar later speelt de middenvelder een bizarre finale van de Champions League tegen Liverpool. De Italiaanse ploeg neemt in de eerste helft een 3-0-voorsprong, maar weet die marge niet vast te houden. Liverpool komt langszij en weet uiteindelijk via een strafschopserie zelfs te zegevieren. Dit seizoen is de Braziliaan een nieuwe verbintenis met AC Milan overeengekomen. Hij staat nu tot de zomer van 2010 bij de Italianen onder contract.
Voor het nationale team van Brazilië speelt Kaká zijn eerste wedstrijd in 2002 tegen Bolivia. Datzelfde jaar maakt hij ook deel uit van de selectie voor het Wereldkampioenschap. Op het mondiale eindtoernooi pakt Brazilië de titel door in de finale Duitsland opzij te zetten (2-0). Afgelopen zomer wint Kaká met zijn land de strijd om de Confederations Cup. In de finale zijn de Goddelijke Kanaries een maatje te groot voor Argentinië (4-1).
Nev: Ronaldo Can Wreck Gunners Again Manchester United full-back Gary Neville is backing on-song Cristiano Ronaldo to continue his hot streak against the Gunners. Ronaldo, 20, scored twice in United’s 4-2 win at Highbury last term. Neville said: “Cristiano has a really good record against Arsenal. He always seems to do well against them and when he is on his game, as he is at the moment, he is a really difficult opponent to stop. Someone who plays like Cristiano needs to be scoring goals and setting them up on a regular basis, so hopefully the two he got against Bolton will give him more confidence.” Neil Custis, The Sun
Ronaldo Appeal Rejected
Cristiano Ronaldo will serve a three-match ban after an appeal against his red card at Manchester City was rejected by a Football Association panel on Tuesday.
The Portuguese winger was dismissed by referee Steve Bennett for a high lunge on former Reds striker Andy Cole during the 3-1 defeat, but the club appealed against the decision on the grounds that no contact was made between the two players.
The ban means Ronaldo will miss United's matches against Burton Albion, Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers.
Report by Steve Bartram.
Ronaldo On His Way Out Cristiano Ronaldo could be on his way out of Manchester United this summer in a £20million deal. Juventus and Valencia have already made contact with Ronaldo's advisers about a potential move, believing that the youngster's unique style and flair is more suited to the leagues of Italy and Spain. Ronaldo has endured a miserable time on and off the pitch this season and his United team-mates have grown frustrated with his self-indulgence on the ball during matches. David McDonnell, Daily Mirror
Ronaldo Loses Red Card Appeal A Football Association disciplinary commission hearing has rejected Manchester United's claim that Cristiano Ronaldo was wrongfully dismissed in Saturday's defeat at Manchester City. The Portuguese winger was sent off on Saturday for a lunge at City striker Andy Cole when United were trailing 2-0 in the Barclays Premiership. Referee Steve Bennett showed the 20-year-old a straight red card and United went on to lose 3-1 at Eastlands. Ian Ladyman, Daily Mail
Round-up by Steve Bartram.
Fergie Unimpressed By Double Charge
Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of his bemusement at the charges levelled at Cristiano Ronaldo and Gary Neville.
Neville has been hit with an "improper conduct" charge after his celebration of United's last-gasp winning goal against Liverpool last weekend was deemed unacceptable by the FA. He has until 10 February to respond.
Ronaldo's misconduct charge relates to an incident during United's Champions League game against Benfica in Lisbon last December. After enduring a night of abuse from the Benfica fans, the Portuguese winger gestured towards the home supporters as he was substituted in the 2-1 defeat.
"There's no evidence from the TV cameras regarding who Gary was celebrating to. I think the FA have a hard case to prove."
Sir Alex Ferguson
Fergie is dismayed by both charges and believes Neville in particular has been singled out because he plays for United. When asked if a player from another club would have been charged, the boss replied:
"Absolutely no chance! All we've seen is Gary celebrating but to whom, we don't know. There's no evidence at all from the TV cameras regarding who he was celebrating to. So I think the FA have a hard case to prove.
"It's very difficult to contain people's emotions at times particularly when there's a last-minute goal. Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard ran the full length of the pitch during the Everton / Liverpool game recently with their fists raised at the Everton fans, but not a word was said.
"During the derby match, Robbie Fowler ran towards our fans showing five fingers [in reference to Liverpool's five European Cup triumphs]. Our fans surged forward and the stewards had trouble with them because of that - but yet again not a word was said.
"I'm surprised about the Ronaldo one given that it happened nearly two months ago," added Fergie. "Normally UEFA are right on the button with these charges.
"The boy took a lot of abuse during the game and when he came off the pitch, but maybe UEFA don't see the signifance of fan abuse of players nowadays.
"It seems fans are allowed to do anything they like and players must not react to that which is disappointing."
Fergie believes exhaustive press coverage of the Neville incident is the main reason behind the defender's charge.
"It's all down to the press," insisted Fergie. "The FA compliance office only react when the press write about it, that's a fact.
"That can't be right and they can't be running a proper compliance office if they only react to what the press say.
"In other words, what are they doing during the week? They don't study videos, instead they read the papers. It's a problem."
Report by Gemma Thompson, at Carrington.
Rooney, Ronaldo & Rio Soar High With AirAsia
Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Rio Ferdinand can now be spotted thousands of feet above the ground emblazoned across United's very own aeroplane.
AirAsia, Asia's leading and largest low fare airline, has honoured United by having one of its aircraft painted in the colours of the club.
The 9M-AFC, otherwise known as the Red Devil Airbus A320, is also adorned with images of Sir Alex and the players on both sides of the aircraft's fuselage. The tail and aircraft engines of the 180-seater Airbus proudly feature the club crest.
"Manchester United has one of the biggest followings in Asia," said AirAsia Chief Executive Tony Fernandes. "As the official low fare airline for United, AirAsia hopes to create opportunities and exciting avenues to reach out and connect with the club’s loyal fan base in Asia."
United marketing director Peter Draper, added: "We are delighted to be the first football club in the world to own our very own aircraft livery. The AirAsia Red Devil Airbus is an epitome of how a dynamic sponsor like AirAsia can creatively blend art and function into their everyday business."
Published by Gemma Thompson.
Reds' Legend Wants More From Ronaldo
Eric Cantona wants Cristiano Ronaldo to develop his prowess in front of goal.
The United legend believes the 21-year-old winger has the potential to become one of the game's top players, providing he can make a more telling contribution in the scoring stakes.
"Cristiano Ronaldo could score more goals," insists Cantona.
"He gives the ball, a nice cross from left or right, and he doesn't care. He doesn't go to the goal. What does he have to do? He has to run 30 metres. He is young and can improve.
"He will become - could become - one of the best if he wants to score goals.
"He does a lot of things right. He will score maybe 10 more goals during the season. And it is important to score goals."
Ronaldo currently has seven goals to his name this season. To date, he has an overall total of 23 goals in 122 games since his arrival at the club in the summer of 2003.
Eric Cantona was speaking to The Daily Telegraph.
Report by Gemma Thompson.
Ronaldo Aims To Repay Reds' Faith
Cristiano Ronaldo has pledged to repay the faith United have shown him.
The Portuguese winger has been linked with a move to Juventus in recent weeks, but the 21-year-old star is concentrating solely on validating the club's support.
Cristiano told the Manchester Evening News: "United have stood by me and been there for me and I want to repay that.
"They were also the only club that showed 100 percent commitment towards me. They brought me to England and tried to make me a better player and they have worked hard.
"There is nobody else who could make me what I am now and I am really thankful. I will repay the faith."
The 21-year-old star has endured a tough time in his private life this season - including the death of his father - and he admits that his performances have suffered as a result.
"Obviously it has been really hard to take since my father died," he admitted. "Psychologically it was very tough and you are bound to take it onto the pitch whether you like it or not."
Ronaldo is eager to win the Carling Cup this weekend so that he can dedicate the victory to his father's memory.
"I know he won't be there on Sunday and that will be tough to take," he said. "But he will be with me in my heart. I will think about him and I would like to win it for him."
Report by Steve Bartram.
Ronaldo Leads Portugal World Cup Preparations
Cristiano Ronaldo was on top form for Portugual on an overall successful night for United's international players.
The Reds winger continued the impressive form he has shown at club level as Portugual took on Saudi Arabia. The 21-year-old scored twice (Maniche got the other) in a 3-0 win.
The win led Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari to declare his team are primed for this summer's tournament in Germany. He said: "I am very pleased with the way we have performed in the last two years leading up to the World Cup."
Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand both played the full 90 minutes in England’s last-gasp 2-1 victory over Uruguay at Anfield. Wayne Rooney also started but was substituted for Peter Crouch just after the hour mark, while fellow Reds Wes Brown and Kieran Richardson were unused substitutes.
Chelsea’s Joe Cole set up Crouch to cancel out Omar Pouso's first-half volley and then scored one himself in injury time to clinch victory.
Nemanja Vidic's Serbia and Montenegro continued their preparations for the World Cup with another clean sheet in a 1-0 win over Tunisia.
Edwin van der Sar kept a clean sheet for Holland against Ecuador as the Oranje recorded a 1-0 win over the South Americans. Ruud van Nistelrooy missed the game, the 29-year-old was ruled out late on suffering from flu.
Mikael Silvestre's return to the French national side after 18 months in the international wilderness was marred by a shock 2-1 defeat to Slovakia at the Stade de France.
Ryan Giggs tormented Paraguay’s defenders on his second visit to the Millennium Stadium in four days. The Welshman, who played in central midfield for United in the Carling Cup final win there, was in a new position again, partnering Craig Bellamy up front. Although the front two created plenty of chances, neither could find a breakthrough and the match ended in 0-0 stalemate.
John O’Shea started in midfield for the Republic of Ireland as Steve Staunton began his tenure as national boss with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Sweden at Landsdowne Road. The Waterford defender was replaced just after half time. Liam Miller, currently on loan at Leeds, scored the third.
Tim Howard was a second-half substitute for the USA and made several good saves as the Americans overcame a determined Poland and a snowstorm to record a slender 1-0 win.
Korea Republic scraped past Angola with a 1-0 win with a goal from Park, but not United's Ji-sung Park. Chu-Young Park got the all-important goal. But Ji was still on good form and almost scored. He threatened on a number of occasions, and went close just after the hour.
Report by Ben Hibbs.
Valencia In Ronaldo Bid Cristiano Ronaldo is a £17million target for Valencia as Manchester United ponder a bid for Villarreal's Juan Roman Riquelme. President Juan Soler said: "I want Valencia to do big things in the Champions League and Cristiano would fit perfectly with these plans. We will now speak with Manchester United." The Spaniards have not been put off by Ronaldo signing a contract extension in the summer to keep him at Old Trafford until 2010 and are prepared to match his £1.3m-a-year pay. Staff reporter, Daily Mirror
Fergie's Star Bet Sir Alex Ferguson looks like being a happy loser for once — over a wager with Cristiano Ronaldo. Fergie has bet the Portugal international £50 that he will not score 15 goals this season. But after bagging the equaliser in the 2-1 win over Wigan on Monday, Ronaldo now has 10 — with 11 games to go. Manchester United boss Fergie admitted: “His recent goals mean I might lose my money this season but I’ll be happy to lose the bet.” Neil Custis, The Sun
Ruud's Peed Off Ruud van Nistelrooy was totally “peed off” at being dumped on the bench for Manchester United’s Round-up by Gemma Thompson.
Fans Name Ronaldo Top Player For March
Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the PFA Fans' Player of the Month for March.
The 21-year-old winger has been in scintillating form in the last month as United have strung together an impressive sequence of five wins out of five during March.
The Reds recorded their sixth successive victory at Bolton at the weekend with Ronaldo once again playing a key role.
The Portuguese star has also made an impressive contribution to the scoring stakes, bagging six goals in his last ten matches.
Report by Gemma Thompson.
How Does Your Shot Measure Up?
Ever wondered just how hard Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo can hit a ball? Well, it's over the English national speed limit!
The prodigious pair both clocked incredible speeds of 77 miles per hour when their shots were measured by Speed Goal, a state-of-the-art machine which you can now test yourself on.
Rooney and Ronaldo topped the charts, ahead of Tim Howard (74 mph), Louis Saha, Edwin van der Sar (both 72 mph), Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra (both 68 mph).
Speed Goal will be located in the United Museum during the Easter holidays. For just £1, you get three chances to see how your shots measure up to those of your United heroes.
Reds fans visiting the museum this Easter can also take part in Easter egg hunts, have their photo taken with the Carling Cup and meet club mascot Fred the Red.
To book your visit to the United Museum, please call 0870 442 1994 and select option 3.
Report by Steve Bartram.
Boss Waits On Fitness Of Attacking Pair
Louis Saha and Cristiano Ronaldo are United's only injury concerns ahead of the must-win clash with Charlton on Sunday.
The pair picked up slight knocks in Monday's goalless draw with Middlesbrough but Sir Alex Ferguson believes they are both in with a good chance of being involved. Wayne Rooney, of course, misses out with a broken foot.
Victory in their final match of the season at Old Trafford will guarantee second place for the Reds and, more importantly, automatic qualification for next season's Champions League.
"I always feel it's important to win the last game of the season but this one is a massive game for us," Sir Alex told reporters at his pre-match press conference. "It's typical United, we tend to do things the hard way.
"We have to finish second and hopefully a really determined performance from us will help us do that.
"There was a lack of urgency against Middlesbrough but I think that had a lot to do with the energy we used up during the Chelsea game," added the Boss as he reflected on the Bank Holiday stalemate.
"There was a lot of tension before that match and losing it might have had an impact. But I think the fact that Middlesbrough had a completely fresh team is a more valid reason.
"We showed more urgency in the second half and should have won it.
"We'll be much fresher on Sunday and I'm sure we'll get the right performance," he added.
Report by Gemma Thompson at Carrington.
Ronaldo Wants To Take The World By Storm
Cristiano Ronaldo wants to take the World Cup by storm and help Portugal win the tournament in Germany.
Ronaldo played a key role in Portugal's run to the final of the European Championships in his home country two years ago.
Now the United winger, who has ambitions to be considered among the best players in the tournament, wants to inspire his country to go one better.
"I'm trying to give my very best in every training session in order to be at my best level in the World Cup," he said.
"I'm still not 100% but I will get there in time to help my team achieve its aims. My dream is to be one of the best players in the world.
"There are many players who can hope to be the best player in the tournament and I just hope to be among that group."
Ronaldo is already seen as one of Portugal's leading lights, much like his United team-mate Wayne Rooney is for England. The 21-year-old former Sporting Lisbon winger knows he must deliver.
"I want to prove my value," he said. "But I don't think the pressure will affect me. I know that there is great expectation and that really gives me motivation to improve."
Report by Ben Hibbs.
Ron: Ruud Row Has Been Blown Out Of Proportion
Cristiano Ronaldo insists his training ground row with Ruud van Nistelrooy was nothing more than "a storm in a teacup."
Van Nistelrooy was omitted from the Reds' squad for their final game of the season with Charlton after a reported bust-up with the Portuguese winger.
Ronaldo confirmed the pair had a disagreement but says the issue has been blown out of proportion.
"Quarrels happen in all teams, in all professions," explained the 21-year-old. "It's normal to have small disagreements.
"That's what happened, something perfectly normal. People are turning it into something and it's only a storm in a teacup."
The pair are currently preparing to represent their respective countries at the World Cup. Van Nistelrooy was an unused sub during Holland's 2-1 friendly win over Mexico on Thursday night. Earlier in the week, the Dutch striker scored the only goal of Holland's 1-0 victory over Cameroon, a close-range strike in the 23rd minute.
Ronaldo, meanwhile, started Portugal's 4-1 win over Cape Verde Islands in Evora but came off in the 62nd minute, shortly after being shown the game's solitary yellow card. Paris St.Germain striker Pauleta bagged a hat-trick for the home side.
Report by Gemma Thompson.
Ronny Looking Forward To World Cup Bow
World Cup Reds: Ronaldo (Portugal)
WORLD CUP - GROUP D FIXTURES • 11 June: Angola v Portugal • 17 June: Portgual v Iran • 21 June: Portugal v Mexico
United winger Cristiano Ronaldo cannot wait to take part in his first World Cup with Portugal.
For a 21-year-old, Ronaldo has a pretty comprehensive CV: European Championship finalist, FA Cup winner, Carling Cup winner, Uefa Team of the Year, PFA Team of the Year, FIFPro Special Young Player of the Year. But the most significant entry yet is about to be made.
"Hopefully this will be the first of many World Cups for me," says Ronaldo, who is confident about the chances of a Portugal side that has a heady mix of glittering young stars and the ageing Golden Generation.
"We have a good team this year and we have been very pleased with the way we have played and qualified," says Ronny.
"I think there is a similar feeling now as there was before the European Championships in 2004 but we are well aware that it will be more difficult this time.
"We have to think about winning the group that is our main aim and to be successful in our first game against Angola is very important.
"Mexico and Iran are funny opponents in football terms, but we have to consider winning that first game to give us the confidence to win the other two. Only then can we think about who comes first."
Ronaldo was on fire in qualification, scoring a fifth of Portugal's goals, but his only interest is team success.
"I will try to score and I'll be pleased if I can get a few, but my priority is to work for the team," he says. "Scoring goals will be the icing on the cake if the team does well."
With a squad that includes Ronaldo, Deco, and Figo, and with a born winner like Phil Scolari in charge, you wouldn't bet against it.
Nev: Ronaldo Can Wreck Gunners Again Manchester United full-back Gary Neville is backing on-song Cristiano Ronaldo to continue his hot streak against the Gunners. Ronaldo, 20, scored twice in United’s 4-2 win at Highbury last term. Neville said: “Cristiano has a really good record against Arsenal. He always seems to do well against them and when he is on his game, as he is at the moment, he is a really difficult opponent to stop. Someone who plays like Cristiano needs to be scoring goals and setting them up on a regular basis, so hopefully the two he got against Bolton will give him more confidence.” Neil Custis, The Sun
Ronaldo Appeal Rejected
Cristiano Ronaldo will serve a three-match ban after an appeal against his red card at Manchester City was rejected by a Football Association panel on Tuesday.
The Portuguese winger was dismissed by referee Steve Bennett for a high lunge on former Reds striker Andy Cole during the 3-1 defeat, but the club appealed against the decision on the grounds that no contact was made between the two players.
The ban means Ronaldo will miss United's matches against Burton Albion, Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers.
Report by Steve Bartram.
Ronaldo On His Way Out Cristiano Ronaldo could be on his way out of Manchester United this summer in a £20million deal. Juventus and Valencia have already made contact with Ronaldo's advisers about a potential move, believing that the youngster's unique style and flair is more suited to the leagues of Italy and Spain. Ronaldo has endured a miserable time on and off the pitch this season and his United team-mates have grown frustrated with his self-indulgence on the ball during matches. David McDonnell, Daily Mirror
Ronaldo Loses Red Card Appeal A Football Association disciplinary commission hearing has rejected Manchester United's claim that Cristiano Ronaldo was wrongfully dismissed in Saturday's defeat at Manchester City. The Portuguese winger was sent off on Saturday for a lunge at City striker Andy Cole when United were trailing 2-0 in the Barclays Premiership. Referee Steve Bennett showed the 20-year-old a straight red card and United went on to lose 3-1 at Eastlands. Ian Ladyman, Daily Mail
Round-up by Steve Bartram.
Fergie Unimpressed By Double Charge
Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of his bemusement at the charges levelled at Cristiano Ronaldo and Gary Neville.
Neville has been hit with an "improper conduct" charge after his celebration of United's last-gasp winning goal against Liverpool last weekend was deemed unacceptable by the FA. He has until 10 February to respond.
Ronaldo's misconduct charge relates to an incident during United's Champions League game against Benfica in Lisbon last December. After enduring a night of abuse from the Benfica fans, the Portuguese winger gestured towards the home supporters as he was substituted in the 2-1 defeat.
"There's no evidence from the TV cameras regarding who Gary was celebrating to. I think the FA have a hard case to prove."
Sir Alex Ferguson
Fergie is dismayed by both charges and believes Neville in particular has been singled out because he plays for United. When asked if a player from another club would have been charged, the boss replied:
"Absolutely no chance! All we've seen is Gary celebrating but to whom, we don't know. There's no evidence at all from the TV cameras regarding who he was celebrating to. So I think the FA have a hard case to prove.
"It's very difficult to contain people's emotions at times particularly when there's a last-minute goal. Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard ran the full length of the pitch during the Everton / Liverpool game recently with their fists raised at the Everton fans, but not a word was said.
"During the derby match, Robbie Fowler ran towards our fans showing five fingers [in reference to Liverpool's five European Cup triumphs]. Our fans surged forward and the stewards had trouble with them because of that - but yet again not a word was said.
"I'm surprised about the Ronaldo one given that it happened nearly two months ago," added Fergie. "Normally UEFA are right on the button with these charges.
"The boy took a lot of abuse during the game and when he came off the pitch, but maybe UEFA don't see the signifance of fan abuse of players nowadays.
"It seems fans are allowed to do anything they like and players must not react to that which is disappointing."
Fergie believes exhaustive press coverage of the Neville incident is the main reason behind the defender's charge.
"It's all down to the press," insisted Fergie. "The FA compliance office only react when the press write about it, that's a fact.
"That can't be right and they can't be running a proper compliance office if they only react to what the press say.
"In other words, what are they doing during the week? They don't study videos, instead they read the papers. It's a problem."
Report by Gemma Thompson, at Carrington.
Rooney, Ronaldo & Rio Soar High With AirAsia
Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Rio Ferdinand can now be spotted thousands of feet above the ground emblazoned across United's very own aeroplane.
AirAsia, Asia's leading and largest low fare airline, has honoured United by having one of its aircraft painted in the colours of the club.
The 9M-AFC, otherwise known as the Red Devil Airbus A320, is also adorned with images of Sir Alex and the players on both sides of the aircraft's fuselage. The tail and aircraft engines of the 180-seater Airbus proudly feature the club crest.
"Manchester United has one of the biggest followings in Asia," said AirAsia Chief Executive Tony Fernandes. "As the official low fare airline for United, AirAsia hopes to create opportunities and exciting avenues to reach out and connect with the club’s loyal fan base in Asia."
United marketing director Peter Draper, added: "We are delighted to be the first football club in the world to own our very own aircraft livery. The AirAsia Red Devil Airbus is an epitome of how a dynamic sponsor like AirAsia can creatively blend art and function into their everyday business."
Published by Gemma Thompson.
Reds' Legend Wants More From Ronaldo
Eric Cantona wants Cristiano Ronaldo to develop his prowess in front of goal.
The United legend believes the 21-year-old winger has the potential to become one of the game's top players, providing he can make a more telling contribution in the scoring stakes.
"Cristiano Ronaldo could score more goals," insists Cantona.
"He gives the ball, a nice cross from left or right, and he doesn't care. He doesn't go to the goal. What does he have to do? He has to run 30 metres. He is young and can improve.
"He will become - could become - one of the best if he wants to score goals.
"He does a lot of things right. He will score maybe 10 more goals during the season. And it is important to score goals."
Ronaldo currently has seven goals to his name this season. To date, he has an overall total of 23 goals in 122 games since his arrival at the club in the summer of 2003.
Eric Cantona was speaking to The Daily Telegraph.
Report by Gemma Thompson.
Ronaldo Aims To Repay Reds' Faith
Cristiano Ronaldo has pledged to repay the faith United have shown him.
The Portuguese winger has been linked with a move to Juventus in recent weeks, but the 21-year-old star is concentrating solely on validating the club's support.
Cristiano told the Manchester Evening News: "United have stood by me and been there for me and I want to repay that.
"They were also the only club that showed 100 percent commitment towards me. They brought me to England and tried to make me a better player and they have worked hard.
"There is nobody else who could make me what I am now and I am really thankful. I will repay the faith."
The 21-year-old star has endured a tough time in his private life this season - including the death of his father - and he admits that his performances have suffered as a result.
"Obviously it has been really hard to take since my father died," he admitted. "Psychologically it was very tough and you are bound to take it onto the pitch whether you like it or not."
Ronaldo is eager to win the Carling Cup this weekend so that he can dedicate the victory to his father's memory.
"I know he won't be there on Sunday and that will be tough to take," he said. "But he will be with me in my heart. I will think about him and I would like to win it for him."
Report by Steve Bartram.
Ronaldo Leads Portugal World Cup Preparations
Cristiano Ronaldo was on top form for Portugual on an overall successful night for United's international players.
The Reds winger continued the impressive form he has shown at club level as Portugual took on Saudi Arabia. The 21-year-old scored twice (Maniche got the other) in a 3-0 win.
The win led Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari to declare his team are primed for this summer's tournament in Germany. He said: "I am very pleased with the way we have performed in the last two years leading up to the World Cup."
Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand both played the full 90 minutes in England’s last-gasp 2-1 victory over Uruguay at Anfield. Wayne Rooney also started but was substituted for Peter Crouch just after the hour mark, while fellow Reds Wes Brown and Kieran Richardson were unused substitutes.
Chelsea’s Joe Cole set up Crouch to cancel out Omar Pouso's first-half volley and then scored one himself in injury time to clinch victory.
Nemanja Vidic's Serbia and Montenegro continued their preparations for the World Cup with another clean sheet in a 1-0 win over Tunisia.
Edwin van der Sar kept a clean sheet for Holland against Ecuador as the Oranje recorded a 1-0 win over the South Americans. Ruud van Nistelrooy missed the game, the 29-year-old was ruled out late on suffering from flu.
Mikael Silvestre's return to the French national side after 18 months in the international wilderness was marred by a shock 2-1 defeat to Slovakia at the Stade de France.
Ryan Giggs tormented Paraguay’s defenders on his second visit to the Millennium Stadium in four days. The Welshman, who played in central midfield for United in the Carling Cup final win there, was in a new position again, partnering Craig Bellamy up front. Although the front two created plenty of chances, neither could find a breakthrough and the match ended in 0-0 stalemate.
John O’Shea started in midfield for the Republic of Ireland as Steve Staunton began his tenure as national boss with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Sweden at Landsdowne Road. The Waterford defender was replaced just after half time. Liam Miller, currently on loan at Leeds, scored the third.
Tim Howard was a second-half substitute for the USA and made several good saves as the Americans overcame a determined Poland and a snowstorm to record a slender 1-0 win.
Korea Republic scraped past Angola with a 1-0 win with a goal from Park, but not United's Ji-sung Park. Chu-Young Park got the all-important goal. But Ji was still on good form and almost scored. He threatened on a number of occasions, and went close just after the hour.
Report by Ben Hibbs.
Valencia In Ronaldo Bid Cristiano Ronaldo is a £17million target for Valencia as Manchester United ponder a bid for Villarreal's Juan Roman Riquelme. President Juan Soler said: "I want Valencia to do big things in the Champions League and Cristiano would fit perfectly with these plans. We will now speak with Manchester United." The Spaniards have not been put off by Ronaldo signing a contract extension in the summer to keep him at Old Trafford until 2010 and are prepared to match his £1.3m-a-year pay. Staff reporter, Daily Mirror
Fergie's Star Bet Sir Alex Ferguson looks like being a happy loser for once — over a wager with Cristiano Ronaldo. Fergie has bet the Portugal international £50 that he will not score 15 goals this season. But after bagging the equaliser in the 2-1 win over Wigan on Monday, Ronaldo now has 10 — with 11 games to go. Manchester United boss Fergie admitted: “His recent goals mean I might lose my money this season but I’ll be happy to lose the bet.” Neil Custis, The Sun
Ruud's Peed Off Ruud van Nistelrooy was totally “peed off” at being dumped on the bench for Manchester United’s Round-up by Gemma Thompson.
Fans Name Ronaldo Top Player For March
Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the PFA Fans' Player of the Month for March.
The 21-year-old winger has been in scintillating form in the last month as United have strung together an impressive sequence of five wins out of five during March.
The Reds recorded their sixth successive victory at Bolton at the weekend with Ronaldo once again playing a key role.
The Portuguese star has also made an impressive contribution to the scoring stakes, bagging six goals in his last ten matches.
Report by Gemma Thompson.
How Does Your Shot Measure Up?
Ever wondered just how hard Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo can hit a ball? Well, it's over the English national speed limit!
The prodigious pair both clocked incredible speeds of 77 miles per hour when their shots were measured by Speed Goal, a state-of-the-art machine which you can now test yourself on.
Rooney and Ronaldo topped the charts, ahead of Tim Howard (74 mph), Louis Saha, Edwin van der Sar (both 72 mph), Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra (both 68 mph).
Speed Goal will be located in the United Museum during the Easter holidays. For just £1, you get three chances to see how your shots measure up to those of your United heroes.
Reds fans visiting the museum this Easter can also take part in Easter egg hunts, have their photo taken with the Carling Cup and meet club mascot Fred the Red.
To book your visit to the United Museum, please call 0870 442 1994 and select option 3.
Report by Steve Bartram.
Boss Waits On Fitness Of Attacking Pair
Louis Saha and Cristiano Ronaldo are United's only injury concerns ahead of the must-win clash with Charlton on Sunday.
The pair picked up slight knocks in Monday's goalless draw with Middlesbrough but Sir Alex Ferguson believes they are both in with a good chance of being involved. Wayne Rooney, of course, misses out with a broken foot.
Victory in their final match of the season at Old Trafford will guarantee second place for the Reds and, more importantly, automatic qualification for next season's Champions League.
"I always feel it's important to win the last game of the season but this one is a massive game for us," Sir Alex told reporters at his pre-match press conference. "It's typical United, we tend to do things the hard way.
"We have to finish second and hopefully a really determined performance from us will help us do that.
"There was a lack of urgency against Middlesbrough but I think that had a lot to do with the energy we used up during the Chelsea game," added the Boss as he reflected on the Bank Holiday stalemate.
"There was a lot of tension before that match and losing it might have had an impact. But I think the fact that Middlesbrough had a completely fresh team is a more valid reason.
"We showed more urgency in the second half and should have won it.
"We'll be much fresher on Sunday and I'm sure we'll get the right performance," he added.
Report by Gemma Thompson at Carrington.
Ronaldo Wants To Take The World By Storm
Cristiano Ronaldo wants to take the World Cup by storm and help Portugal win the tournament in Germany.
Ronaldo played a key role in Portugal's run to the final of the European Championships in his home country two years ago.
Now the United winger, who has ambitions to be considered among the best players in the tournament, wants to inspire his country to go one better.
"I'm trying to give my very best in every training session in order to be at my best level in the World Cup," he said.
"I'm still not 100% but I will get there in time to help my team achieve its aims. My dream is to be one of the best players in the world.
"There are many players who can hope to be the best player in the tournament and I just hope to be among that group."
Ronaldo is already seen as one of Portugal's leading lights, much like his United team-mate Wayne Rooney is for England. The 21-year-old former Sporting Lisbon winger knows he must deliver.
"I want to prove my value," he said. "But I don't think the pressure will affect me. I know that there is great expectation and that really gives me motivation to improve."
Report by Ben Hibbs.
Ron: Ruud Row Has Been Blown Out Of Proportion
Cristiano Ronaldo insists his training ground row with Ruud van Nistelrooy was nothing more than "a storm in a teacup."
Van Nistelrooy was omitted from the Reds' squad for their final game of the season with Charlton after a reported bust-up with the Portuguese winger.
Ronaldo confirmed the pair had a disagreement but says the issue has been blown out of proportion.
"Quarrels happen in all teams, in all professions," explained the 21-year-old. "It's normal to have small disagreements.
"That's what happened, something perfectly normal. People are turning it into something and it's only a storm in a teacup."
The pair are currently preparing to represent their respective countries at the World Cup. Van Nistelrooy was an unused sub during Holland's 2-1 friendly win over Mexico on Thursday night. Earlier in the week, the Dutch striker scored the only goal of Holland's 1-0 victory over Cameroon, a close-range strike in the 23rd minute.
Ronaldo, meanwhile, started Portugal's 4-1 win over Cape Verde Islands in Evora but came off in the 62nd minute, shortly after being shown the game's solitary yellow card. Paris St.Germain striker Pauleta bagged a hat-trick for the home side.
Report by Gemma Thompson.
Ronny Looking Forward To World Cup Bow
World Cup Reds: Ronaldo (Portugal)
WORLD CUP - GROUP D FIXTURES • 11 June: Angola v Portugal • 17 June: Portgual v Iran • 21 June: Portugal v Mexico
United winger Cristiano Ronaldo cannot wait to take part in his first World Cup with Portugal.
For a 21-year-old, Ronaldo has a pretty comprehensive CV: European Championship finalist, FA Cup winner, Carling Cup winner, Uefa Team of the Year, PFA Team of the Year, FIFPro Special Young Player of the Year. But the most significant entry yet is about to be made.
"Hopefully this will be the first of many World Cups for me," says Ronaldo, who is confident about the chances of a Portugal side that has a heady mix of glittering young stars and the ageing Golden Generation.
"We have a good team this year and we have been very pleased with the way we have played and qualified," says Ronny.
"I think there is a similar feeling now as there was before the European Championships in 2004 but we are well aware that it will be more difficult this time.
"We have to think about winning the group that is our main aim and to be successful in our first game against Angola is very important.
"Mexico and Iran are funny opponents in football terms, but we have to consider winning that first game to give us the confidence to win the other two. Only then can we think about who comes first."
Ronaldo was on fire in qualification, scoring a fifth of Portugal's goals, but his only interest is team success.
"I will try to score and I'll be pleased if I can get a few, but my priority is to work for the team," he says. "Scoring goals will be the icing on the cake if the team does well."
With a squad that includes Ronaldo, Deco, and Figo, and with a born winner like Phil Scolari in charge, you wouldn't bet against it.
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