1 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011

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2 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 Editorials In this month’s issue of So that’s it then...we’ve had the ups and downs, we have smiled and cried but here we are. End Football United Fanzine of the season and end of an era. No I’m not talking about United securing a record 19th league title, or even our performance against Youth Barcelona (it’s still raw!), instead I am refer- 12 Policy ring to the sad news today that United veteran has made the decision to retire from football. Just as we had been expected Scholes’ announcement was understated and with minimal fuss, just as he would have dic- tated. I have often spoke of my jealousy of the United fans who were fortunate enough to watch the likes of and . Now I feel proud that in 20 years time I can tell the new generation of fans that I was one of the lucky fans who watched Scholesy in 2010-11 person. A genius. One of the best. What else can 38 Awards you say? Thank you for the memories Paul, it’s been an absolute pleasure. And of course a significant applause must also go to , six fantastic seasons with United won’t be forgotten.

Steph - Editor @stephdoehler United’s best 26 XI

REGULAR FEATURES SPECIAL FEATURES

I don’t know about you guys but I’m starting to 06 HOT TOPIC 08 UNITED AGAINST wish the Champions League final took place United’s record league title THE WORLD PART III before the Premier League finished. The con- A look at Fergie’s strained trast of agony and ecstasy, always present in 07 EDITOR COMMENT relationship with the FA football has been felt greatly by all United fans Social media’s victory over courts over the last few weeks. One week you’re 24 PLAYER RATINGS writing your name into the record books and celebrating being the greatest English team 14 AWAY DAYS 2010-11 ever, the next you’re having your dreams of a United vs Bayern, 1999 How have our players fared this spectacular double crushed by the mighty season? Barcelona. But that’s football and that’s why 16 MICKY OWEN - PI we love it. We lost to the better side, the very Micky takes on the injunctions 33 best team around right now and maybe ever United legend and hero but we move on. We can take a lot of credit from a great season. Now it’s those horrible 17 GREAT DEBATE few months where your life has a massive void Should terracing be introduced into 36 TWEETIN’ HELL and barely any purpose (or maybe that’s just Premier League grounds? The growing phenomenon of me being a bit dramatic). Hopefully we shall footballers on see some key signings to add to our already 20 OVERSEAS REDS strong side. I hope we can all put the Barcelona Introducing Casper from Denmark game behind us and enjoy a summer celebrat- ing a fantastic 19th title. I have no doubt we will be back even stronger next season, fighting on 22 YOUTH WATCH @FootballUB all fronts with Fergie very much in the driving seat yet again. I hope you enjoy this month’s edition and our Thanks to Darren end of season awards. 31 MAY ROUND UP (@ManUtdOT) for use of his photos on the cover of this Rachel - Assistant Editor @Rachel_jj2011 40 THE FINAL WORD magazine. 3 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 Contributors

Liam Scott 1986: Plain old emphatically is Alan Monger asked what his primary aim is with Manchester @almanuman United after his recent appointment as manager.

Tony Park His answer? Quite simply, to “knock off @mrmujac their fucking perch.” He was laughed at. Liverpool were on 18 league titles, whilst United lumbered Stephen Jackson on just seven.

Brett Burgers @holdandgive 14th May 2011: Scouser and Evertonian, , knocks Liverpool off their fucking perch. Alex Wardrop @aquelious

Suffy Kala @sufiyan_kala

Tom Clare

Special thanks to

Casper Heiselberg @Heiselberg

Darren @ManUtdOT

Daniel Burdett @Luzhniki2008

All material unless otherwise stated, is copyright to the Football United Fanzine. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the editors, however you have the right to reply to the following email address: [email protected] The Football United Fanzine is completely independent of Manchester United Football Club. The Football United Fanzine accepts no responsibility for services offered by advertisers. 4 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011

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Hi all, back with this month’s hot topic. As this Liverpool FC show even a glimmer of the promise is written pre-Champions League final, I decided we show year on year. And that drive shows no that the most important thing to be discussed signs of slowing down. Shortly after winning the this month was of course #19. 19th Championship, SAF was discussing his plans to bring maybe two or three players in, plus our But before we relive the magic moment we young loan players coming back with more ex- confirmed our status as the greatest English perience, eager to break into the team. Mike club, I would like to pay tribute to someone very Phelan after the Blackburn game referring to this special. Championship winning team as a squad still in devel- opment. Not bad really. With comments like that I My cousin passed away in April, leaving behind can only think but one thing. Bring on the League a husband and three little children. In her mid next year!! 20's and with everything in life in front of her, an inoperable brain tumour took her away, when Somehow, with talk like that, so soon after a there are so many other more deserving of such monumental achievement, I can't see SAF sud- a fate. So whilst we sit and put the footballing denly winding down to retire at the end of this world to rights, never forget, there is more to life year. All I took from his press conferences and than football. Laura, your family, friends and interviews is that he is ready to win number 20, those who you held dearest, will always hold you whatever money rich club wants to challenge. close to their hearts, never to be forgotten. Retirement is for young people, according to And so, after all, this is a football mag - League SAF himself. That must be why, at the age of 37 Champions for a record breaking 19th time, now has won 12 league titles, he must also who's sat on the perch? And, maybe we haven't believe in that philosophy - especially as he wants had the best of seasons, but I think SAF put it best. to stay on next year for number 13. And will we The league is getting more competitive than it has let him stay on? I should bloody think so!! The ever been. Investment in the middle order clubs man is still, tearing apart defences when most means that, you may only finish the season with would be working on their tee shot... five away wins and still go on to lift the title. Over the course of the year, we amassed more points, By Liam Scott regardless of what anyone says about the club’s strength this year, that's what matters! Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City - all of them less consis- tent than ourselves, so why don't we deserve it?

Liverpool haven't won a league title since 1990. I was three years old then and, with the exception of a couple of titles here and there, excluding the league of course, I haven't seen the machine of

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Social media scores victory as Ryan Giggs is named the Premier League footballer at the centre of an injunction scandal over alleged affair. Like many who use the social enjoyed ‘extra-curricular’ ac- Are we witnessing the best media world it was hardly a tivities shall we say. He cer- shock when MP John Hemming tainly wont be the last player ever football player? used to be accused of such indiscre- to disclose Giggsy as the in- tions. I’ve had this discussion with my brother junction wielding football ban- on a few occasions. He says Leo Messi is up ning Imogen Thomas from It was uncomfortable viewing there with Maradona in terms of being the discussing their alleged affair. at when United best ever footballer to grace this planet. I Anyone who uses forums, were awarded the Premier have always said he still needs to improve Twitter etc have been aware of League trophy and out walked his international form to be truly deemed these rumours since it was first his wife and kids onto the the best. My brother argues a compelling reported in April. pitch. But such is life. point, when Maradona played the World Cup was the bee all and end all of football, Everyone will have their own I watch and appreciate Ryan not anymore. The Champions League is a views on what may or may not Giggs as a footballer, not as a far more important competition, and I’m have happened between Giggs man. The same goes for any inclined to agree with him. Messi is 23, he and Thomas, but in truth I other Manchester United still has at least ten decent years ahead of really couldn't care less player. So long as they perform him on the grandest stage of them all. He whether they had an affair or on the pitch I am not overly already has three Champions League med- not. To me Giggs is nothing fussed about what they do off it als to his name (not to mention the five La more than a footballer, just like and considering Ryan’s recent Liga titles). He is deemed the best player in the others out there who have form, I’m all for it! the world at present and has embarrassed United in two European Cup finals. Make AGREE OR DISAGREE? We want to know what you think no mistake, by the time Messi retires there about anything you read in the magazine. You can email: will no longer be a debate - he will have been the best player ever. [email protected] or tweet us @footballUB

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Over the last two issues Alan Monger has supplied firm proof that contrary to popular belief from the ABUs, Manchester United are in fact more often than not reprimanded for their actions rather than let off. Here Alan addresses the complex issue of Sir Alex Ferguson.

In the previous two issues of the incurred the wrath of the FA on Seriously, you couldn’t make it up FUFanzine I have sought to quash more than just the one occasion in could you? Well actually, if you're the arguments of those who seem the past. Far more than just the the FA it appears you CAN just to think that United are forever the once actually. Basically the mere make it up. Because compare SAF’s beneficiaries of 'dodgy decisions', fact of him opening his mouth comments to Ancelotti on 6th May, of 'luck' and yes, of downright seems to infuriate that oh-so- again prior to the United v Chelsea 'bias' by referees particularly, but reputable body known as the Foot- match.. "I don’t want to put pres- also by bodies such as the FA. ball Asso...... sure on the referee. I think Howard However examination of events Webb is a fantastic referee because both on and off the pitch this sea- **** STOP PRESS **** STOP he has experience. If the referee has son and in seasons past actually PRESS**** STOP PRESS **** STOP no experience we can perhaps be a shows this not to be the case, with PRESS**** bit worried about this but with United often getting the rough end Howard Webb there is no problem". of key decisions on the field, and Well blow me down with a Um, has Ancelotti been charged? off the field often seen to be having feather! Mid sentence writing Has he bollocks. And nor should he punishments levied against them about SAF's 'indiscretions', and the be. But SAF shouldn't be either! which are not then levied in any FA have only gone and hit him with consistent form against other clubs another disrepute charge!! This and their players by the FA. Oh, time for daring to 'insult' referee and other clubs' managers too.... Howard Webb when asked in the pre Utd v Chelsea match press As detailed in the previous arti- conference about the choice of ref cles, Sir Alex Ferguson was handed by saying "We are getting the best a five match touchline ban by the referee, there is no doubt about FA for his comments after the that" And those comments bring Chelsea game earlier this season. A forth a charge from the FA which five match ban that included two their website justify as "The charge matches from a previous relates to media comments made 'suspended' but now enforced about match official Howard punishment. Straight away there- Webb." fore we know that SAF has 8 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 For Christ’s sake FA, Fergie WAS ASKED A BLOODY QUESTION!!! As was Ancelotti. As was on 30th March prior to Stoke’s FA Cup semi final against Bolton "Howard is a great ref in my book and certainly as good as there is in the world... We are pleased to have him [for the semi final]. ..we just hope .... That major decisions are decided by the players and not the officials". Oh, and one more, also extolled the virtues of Howard Webb on 13th May prior to Spurs playing Liverpool two days later.

At the time of writing NONE of these latter three managers have been charged. Which obviously begs the question as to whether To be honest I see nothing chang- delight in picking on SAF at any the FA radar is specifically and ing for as long as the legend that is opportunity. They obviously resent solely aimed at Old Trafford? To SAF remains our manager. And the fact that he is perceived as quote from a Carry On film (quite judging by varying soundbites being the most powerful man in apt I think in that the logic of the coming out of Old Trafford this English football. After all he has FA at some times smacks of a right could basically be one year, two been at the helm of the biggest club carry-on), I am of the mind that years, five years, or even more - side in the world for over a quarter SAF could justifiably come out with hell, as long as the great man him- of a century, a tenure which would the oft-repeated line 'Infamy, self wants to and is able to con- be extraordinary at any time, but in Infamy, you've all got it in for me'. .. tinue. Which is great news for all the present day, with its £1m a And he wouldn't be wrong. us United fans, as (and I speak as month footballers, it’s almost beg- someone who has lived through gars belief. He holds so much sway Sorry, got a bit sidetracked there. the bleak times having supported that the FA delight in any chance to Where was I? United since the early 70's) the bring him down a peg or too. It's as stability and success his tenure at though they're saying 'whoa, hang Oh yeah, so the latest charging of Old Trafford has brought has been on we're in control here, get back SAF has absolutely and totally unparalleled in English football, in line,' that increasingly marks exemplified yet again that United culminating of course in newly them up for ridicule, particularly are being persecuted by the FA. acquired title number 19. when it is quite clear that a lack of And it brings me nicely back to consistency is being applied, as what the main theme for this arti- What's going to happen when he with this latest charge (which cle was going to be, having looked finally does relinquish the reins incidentally as I write has just been at the past and present, what does though? And this question is not dealt with, with SAF rightfully not the future promise in the relation- just posed in terms of how United being punished but merely being ship between United and official- will do on the pitch. Yes, we'd all warned as to his future conduct). dom? like to think that a seamless transi- tion will take place with the new So, do the United board, when manager continuing where SAF eventually sitting down to discuss leaves off, but let's not kid our- SAF’s successor, make any consid- selves that he's not going to prove eration of how the new man will to be one hell of a hard act to fol- interact with the FA? Obviously low. No, the question is asked they, and we, will want the best more in terms of how United are man for the job, someone who it is going to be perceived and treated to be hoped will carry on our suc- under a new manager by the likes cess. But will they want someone of the FA. who brings with him baggage that maybe United don't necessarily At present, the FA quite clearly want in the immediate aftermath 9 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 of SAF? Someone who, whilst maybe being a guarantee of con- tinuing success to United is also almost guaranteed from day one to raise the hackles of the FA? You may have guessed where I'm going here....

Yes, I'm talking about José Mour- inho. He has long been touted as a possible successor to SAF, and it's often stated that the two men get on well, they speak to each other team play great football and some- little choice but to be charmed by and text each other often, thus one who has a great demeanor him, just like we as fans had no leading to conjecture that SAF may about him. Even the FA would choice but to be charmed by him be grooming him as his successor. struggle to fabricate, sorry, not from the first day he burst into Old And for his part Mourinho has fabricate, that just sounds as Trafford, leading quickly to his expressed on more than one occa- though they make things up as 'baby faced assassin' nickname. sion that he wishes to return to they go along....um...ok, as we were, Such charm, such calmness, would to manage once he fin- fabricate charges against someone in my opinion benefit the dynamics ishes with Real Madrid. In terms of like Guardiola. Maybe the whole of the whole United versus the FA continuing the dynasty that SAF time element will never facilitate situation in due course. And this is has created, Mourinho is a proven such an appointment however, something that I for one would winner and as he showed at Porto, with as previously mentioned SAF love to see in the fullness of time. not always purely because of blank at present giving no indication as For the good of United, the good of cheques being at his disposal. He to when the dreaded day of his the FA, and for the good of football has a winning mentality yes, but, leaving will arrive and Guardiola in general. No-one’s best interests and this is important, he also a perhaps only possibly available in are served by United and the FA propensity to upset people, as the next year or so. being almost permanently at log- shown by his behaviour/actions/ gerheads with each other. And I attitude in the recent Madrid v Names such as Moyes and Bruce, look forward to the day when it Barcelona clashes. Do we want amongst others, will doubtless be ceases, or at least eases. this? touted in any future SAF successor debate. If you allow me to indulge Something to think about for the In my eyes no I don't think so. I myself for a minute in a few years future perhaps? For the present think that bridges have to be re- time I would hope that another let's rejoice as one in the winning built between United and the FA in name is added to that list. A per- of title number 19, a title that the wake of SAF leaving and I don't son who is currently in his first full makes us the most successful Eng- see that the appointment of Mour- time managerial post abroad, who lish side in the history of league inho will enable this. I think a more is the epitome of diplomacy, whose football; a title that can be said to diplomatic manager might be the demeanor and football values have been won despite the FA, order of the day, someone who could never be questioned and certainly not because of it. neither seeks nor attracts contro- who would be welcomed by every versy, as per Mourinho. Hell, listen, single United fan if it came about. Alan has been a United fan ever I might be completely wrong. Having already achieved success in since his dad took him to watch Maybe the 'we're Man United, we'll his spell as United them play Spurs in 1972. He was do what we want' faction of United manager, how great would it be if a Ender in the days supporters would like nothing legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer trans- when you could turn up and pay more than Mourinho or someone lates his managerial ability on to 20 minutes before KO. He also similar to come in and completely the bigger stage and makes a suc- had a ST in North Stand before assume the mantle of SAF and cess of his new career? Sure we're work took him abroad. His best disregard the consequences with talking some way in the future memory was the trip to Barce- regard to how United as an institu- here, but a lá Guardiola at Barce- lona for the 1999 Champions tion are perceived. lona, does anyone think that a League final. His favourite play- playing legend such as Ole couldn't ers are and Ryan Going the 'diplomat' route how- successfully take the reins of the Giggs. ever, I could see someone like Pep United manager? Guardiola ticking all the right boxes. A loyal one club man whose At any rate the FA would have @almanuman 10 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 Tweets

From The Terrace

Give one word to sum up Manchester United’s season.

On the 2nd May United sadly lost one of its oldest @holdandgive: stars. Eddie Lewis, one of the original Busby BELIEVE Babes, lost his battle with cancer aged 76. The striker joined United in 1947 and made is debut in @aquelious: 1952 at just 17 years old against West Brom, giv- ing United the lead after seven minutes. He went Historic on to make 24 appearances in total, scoring 11 goals for the club. He also featured in United’s first @mrgreen1066: FA Youth Cup winning side of 1953. His appear- Edwin ances were limited due to the presence of the likes of Sir , , Dennis Viollet @John_Aldinho: and . Lewis therefore left United for Preston before joining West Ham in 1956 where Overachievers he was playing when the happened. Eric Mallender, a Manchester City Scout @JanMetcalf: who was a team mate of Eddie’s at Manchester Rollercoaster Boys, described him as “a bubbly character and an astute, clever forward who was destined to make it as a footballer.” @WorriedTurkey: Unexpected After his playing career he went into coaching, mostly in South Africa where he emigrated in @DazJenno: 1970. He coached Wits University and Kaizer Evolution Chiefs amongst others. He also worked on TV for sports stations Supersport and PA Sports. Premier Soccer League chairman Irvin Khoza says Eddie @FootieRoxMySox: Lewis’ death is a big loss and credit’s the rise of Exciting football in South Africa to him. “He joined the old National Professional Soccer League when it was @ManUtdJacko: not fashionable. His presence gave the confidence to sponsors at the time to back the league and he was Gritty already there when the NPSL went multi racial in 1976. He always strove to put that English disci- pline into the game. He was an influence on the direction of the game in the country. We thank God for the gift of his life.”

He may not be the best known of the , but we remember each and every one of them. Rest in peace Eddie Lewis.

By Rachel

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Johnny Morris while others such as and Henry Cock- burn had featured for the Goslings, one of United’s nursery clubs.

Fundamentally, in- herited his first youth team. Crowds up and down the country soon saw how good this youth team was as the Reds won the FA By Tony Park Cup in 1948 with seven players coming through the ranks. The side For most of us Manchester United table. So in 1932, Gibson and Rocca also finished second in the league have always been regarded as a decided that Duncan was their man on four occasions before lifting the wealthy club. Let’s put aside the and offered the Scot the opportu- league title in 1951 with the likes Glazer argument for a moment and nity of replicating his success at of , Don Gibson and consider the facts. Manchester Manchester United. Unfortunately Billy Redman progressing from the United have a history of buying big. it didn’t turn out that way. With ‘A’ team. Meanwhile the MUJAC’s In 1949 we broke the transfer United struggling in the Second were back in action! record to bring John Downie to the Division there was an enormous club for £18,000. In 1958 we did pressure for results and the com- In 1947, Jimmy Murphy had won the same thing and paid £45,000 to ings and goings at the club made with United’s acquire . Since then ’s spell as man- Reserves, and after being congratu- , , Gary ager appear one of stability! Dun- lated by Busby commented that Pallister, and Rio Ferdi- can was under pressure from the although he appreciated the recog- nand amongst others have been start. nition, not one player was good added to the list. But it wasn’t enough for the first team. Murphy’s always that way. Nevertheless, in 1934 United Mission had begun! entered a team in the Manchester

In the early 1930’s United were League calling themselves the Together with Bert Whalley and the poor neighbours in Manchester Manchester United ‘A’. The ‘A’ team scout Joe Armstrong, Murphy and Chairman James Gibson was was a level below the Reserves and scoured the country watching keen to change that. A visionary, made of seventeen and eighteen schoolboy football and trying to Gibson had bankrolled the Reds year-olds. The Manchester United entice the best lads available to throughout his tenure, but times Youth team was born! A few years join Manchester United. Wanting to were tough in the depression years later, the club decided to take the ‘catch them young’, he convinced and Gibson sought a different next step and develop kids straight the likes of Jackie Blanchflower, strategy. If United couldn’t afford from school. So, in 1938, the Man- , Mark Jones, Geoff to buy big names of the day, then chester United Junior Athletic Club Bent, , Cliff perhaps we could develop our (MUJAC) was formed and two Birkett, Brian Birch amongst oth- own. With that in mind Gibson set teams were formed, with the MU- ers that their future was at Old out to find a man who could turn JAC ‘A’ being entered into the local Trafford. his dream into reality. It’s at this Chorlton League. During WW2 the point that the story becomes a MUJAC’s project was shelved. little vague…whether or not Louis To the amazement of all and sundry, Matt Busby played them in Rocca influenced James Gibson, or When Matt Busby was appointed the rough and tumble of the old the Chairman was acting on his manager of Manchester United in First Division. This was ground- own volition may never be con- 1946 he faced an uphill task of breaking. Word soon caught on firmed. However, what is clear is rebuilding the club. With Old Traf- and schoolboy footballers wanted that both men agreed to build a ford severely damaged by bombs to join United. Duncan Edwards football club made up of home- during the war, Busby found him- and Bobby Charlton needed very grown players. self with no ground, no money and little convincing….”if you wanted a high expectations. What he did chance at being a footballer then Meanwhile up in Scotland, Cow- have was blend of good prospects Old Trafford was the only place to denbeath had won promotion to such as Carey, Rowley and Chilton be.” Together with local youngsters the Scottish First Division in 1924 who remained on the clubs books such as , Wilf and had appointed Scott Duncan as from before the war and a band of McGuinness, Dennis Viollet, John secretary/manager. With a team of even more exciting juniors who Doherty, Eddie Lewis and Albert predominantly local youngsters, had featured for the MUJAC’s in Scanlon, United were developing a Duncan won plaudits north of the some capacity. Lads such as John deep pool of talent that no other border as Cowdenbeath finished Aston, , John Ander- club could compete with. regularly in the top half of the son, Joe Walton, and 12 ISSUE ISSUE 4, 4,JUNE JUNE 2011 2011

Then in 1952 the FA announced that they were launching a new competition. A mini FA Cup tourna- To the class of ment called the FA Youth Cup. 1992. Murphy saw the opportunity of spreading the message to an even wider audience and duly entered.

History has since shown that Manchester United won the FA Youth Cup for the first five seasons on the trot and but for Munich could have extended this record. From the Busby Records were made and broken Babes... regularly and the youth conveyor belt had begun. The United junior teams regularly won their leagues Manchester United Youth team. 1987, United have won the FA and local cup competitions and all Four different managers did noth- Youth Cup in 1992, 1995 and 2003. Busby had to do was to decide ing for stability and although the They have been finalists in 1993 when to blood these ‘Babes’ in the likes of Arthur Albiston, Jimmy and 2007 and reached the semi- first team. As a consequence, be- Nicholl, Brian Greenhoff, Sammy finals twice. tween 1952 and 1957 Matt Busby McIlroy and a handful of others only needed to significantly enter pushed their way into first team As I am currently writing this the transfer market once, for reckoning little success was en- article, United have reached the Tommy Taylor. joyed. In 1977, joined final of the FA Youth Cup once as Manchester United manager and again with a team as exciting as For many modern supporters it set about to restore United’s repu- that of the ‘Class of 1992’. A full might be difficult to understand, tation of prodigious producers of house at Bramall Lane saw an but back in the 1950’s to play with young talent. In 1980 and 1981 the exhilarating 2-2 draw with Shef- a team whose average age was youngsters reached the semi-final field United and it is hoped that only 21 was ground breaking. To of the competition with the likes of United can make it ten successes win two successive league champi- Scott McGarvey, Steve Pears, Nor- next Monday in the return. onships and enter Europe was just man Whiteside, Clayton Black- (Editor’s note: United won the sec- pure fantasy. more, and Graeme ond leg 4-1, securing the cup once Hogg all showing their worth. again). After Munich it took a little time to rebuild but the ‘conveyor belt’ continued in the Since it all began United have was still in operation and soon the same vein and although not par- given first team debuts to 194 likes of Giles, Brennan, Nicholson, ticularly interested in the youth juniors - approximately 50% of the McMillan, Stiles, Moir, Chisnall, team he made an important deci- total number of first team players Lawton and others found them- sion. He appointed Eric Harrison as in that period. 31 of the top 60 selves on first team duty. youth team manager. Under Harri- appearance makers have come son’s tenure the Reds reached the through the ranks. 85 juniors have In 1964 the Reds won their sixth FA Youth Cup final in 1982 and gone on to represent their country. FA Youth Cup with the likes of 1986 producing first team players No club in Britain has a youth Bobby Noble, George Best, David such as Billy Garton, , system that can compare to these Sadler, John Aston, John Fitzpatrick Lee Martin, Russell Beardsmore figures. and all featuring. In and Mark Robins. 1968, we won the European Cup Watching the kids progress from with eight of the team progressing However, when Alex Ferguson the juniors through to the first from the juniors, including nine- took over in November 1986 he team has been part of our pioneer- teen year-old . You can wanted to completely restructure ing history…part of Gibson’s, talk about your modern Barce- the youth set-up. He wanted ex- Rocca’s, and Murphy’s vision…part lona’s and Ajax….United were actly what Murphy had achieved of our rich culture of young attack- pioneering home gown talent in thirty years earlier - the best youth ing football…part of what we lost European Cup finals 45 years ago. system in the country. on the runway at Munich…part of what attracts so many support- The 1970’s saw a bleak time for The rest they say is history. Since ers…and it will always be part of our future! 13 ISSUE ISSUE 4, 4, JUNE JUNE 2011 2011

Our journey began back home as we set off. We set of travelling headed to our place of rest, a in Redditch, me and my dad down England towards Dover to hotel based in Girona, The Cos- were members of the Redditch catch the ferry over into France, mopolita. I think everybody was supporter’s club and was also the mood was good as all chat- glad to arrive there and get off season tickets holders sitting ted, laughed and watched foot- the coach which had started to just under the old score board ball DVDs on the coach. We feel more like a prison than north east quadrant . We loved caught the ferry over into France mode of transport. We went going to watch United at home and proceeded to travel down down to the hotel bar being and tried as much to travel to see the country going through Paris greeted by a friendly barman them play away. and Lyon. I recall Lyon being a who was the spitting image of particularly dull concrete look- Faulty Towers’ Manuel, “two As soon as United had reached ing city with the large cold look- beers please,” was the order. We the final of the Champions ing river running through it. sat down, drank some beers and League we knew we had to make then decided to venture out to this game. The supporters club My dad always recalls stopping the local bars to soak up the in Redditch decided that the best for a toilet break in the middle of atmosphere more. As we walked way to get to the match was to nowhere having to step over down the street we could see the travel there by coach, stay over people sleeping on the floor on many United fans flooding the at a hotel near Barcelona watch the coach to get off for the toilet bars, drinking away and singing the game and then travel back. It block near the roadside. Then song after song. seemed like a long way to travel rushing into the toilets half by coach but the savings out- asleep and hearing an Elvis song We woke the next day fully shone the extra effort of travel- playing during a much needed recharged and ready for the big ling. We turned up at the meet- break, surreal! By this time the match. United vs. Munich, Cham- ing point in Redditch on the mood was a lot duller as we was pions League final! I could hardly Monday morning ready and all tired, uncomfortable and still believe we were there and prepared for the adventure. wanting to just get to our desti- the excitement of us playing in There was plenty of banter flying nation. We crossed the boarder this match was huge. The jour- around and an air of excitement over into Spain where we ney this time was around two

14 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 hours into the city where we go crazy when Ole’s goal went in, parked up and then went to AMAZING! It was a moment that Tweets some of the bars in the sur- I will never forget in my life and rounding areas. The weather still get goose bumps thinking From The was fantastic, very sunny and about. It was typical of United to there was plenty of fans enjoying come back and win it like this. Terrace it and drinking in the local bars. After all the cup celebrations and This is where we stayed for cheering we left the ground some time before heading to- which was manic as all were Scenario: You can wards the stadium around two trying to get back to their sign one player hours before kick off. We coaches and travelled back to stopped around the outside of hotel for some drinks an plenty during the summer the Nou Camp to get some food of singing. The next day we woke for United, who do and look around at the many went down for breakfast, relaxed stands selling merchandise, of our tender heads and then you choose? which I was tempted and bought started to board the coach and a nice scarf that still hangs on my travel back home, which had @GJ_Goody: Bring back wall at home to this day. The been long forgotten about during Ronaldo stadium looked fantastic, we this great adventure. The jour- couldn’t wait to get inside. Our ney back was much the same as tickets which had barcodes on the journey down but with a @deanhuggins731: them was scanned three times sense of satisfaction with Edwin Van Der Sar’s before even getting into the United’s historic win. We finally younger clone if that was stadium so security was very got home after many miles and tight. We climbed the stairs into reflected back on our adventure, possible! the ground got a quick drink a nightmare of a journey but a then found our seats to watch dream come true, Manchester @Shaun_Payne_7: the players warm up an view the United Champions of Europe It's hard to give just one. amazing stadium. We were 1999 worth every little bit of it! Sneijder is the obvious but seated on the 2nd tier, in the corner Beckham took the cor- I think Diarra would add ners for our goals. The atmos- some tenacity! phere was great and the match was fantastic. We all know what @Ram5den: the happened in the game, but I’d sign Modric. Probably wow! I’ve never seen so many people jump, cheer and generally not what United need but By Stephen Jackson he is fantastic #mufc

@ MrMujac: The Ajax keeper

@himavad: I’d have to say

And finally, ever the optimist

@Alan_Tonge: Messi

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Since escaping the evil clutches of Liverpool’s gang of petty criminals. Micky Owen has spent most of his investigative career ensconced in the underbelly of the horse racing fraternity. Sir Alex Ferguson recognised the potential in Micky and offered him the oppor- tunity to fine tune his craft for long periods of time without having football as a distraction. It was just your average Thursday. I was at the good name. Sir Alex had once again assured the stable hosing down one of the horses I had recently press that there was nothing suspicious concerning acquired since working for United, that I’d affection- my whereabouts by releasing a pre-prepared state- ately named Dion . I’d also just bought a don- ment that I had ‘stubbed my toe in training and key cross (it had a horses head) for the kids I was would need treatment from a placenta specialist in calling Obertan. My Step-father was Paignton and I’d be out for 2-3 weeks”. Without my with me, we’d just had a big win at the last meeting wheelchair (that Hargo had managed to park half- so he had got to work on creosoting a fence to cele- way up a tree last month leaving him with multiple brate. Now that’s living. As I walked across to one of injuries that science hadn’t yet discovered) I decided the barns I spotted Arsene Wenger round the back, to take my trusty steed Obertan for this adventure. at the entrance to the glue factory. He was trying to Yeeeehaaaa! Unfortunately, although Obertan was sell one of the poor mares we had put down last like shit off a shovel, he had no sense of direction week…He was always flogging a dead horse. Further and kept instinctively taking us down cul-de-sacs. to this was inside the barn taking in some extra training, he’d bought one of George Formby’s instruments off E-bay and borrowed a bovine from the a local farmer. He’d been in there for months but still hadn’t hit the cows arse with the banjo. was the most amazing discovery in all my investiga-

As I headed inside for a cuppa with a copy of the racing post I spotted SAF heading up the driveway unbelievable! My ability to deal with high pressure with Ruud Van Nistlerooy. As he got closer I soon realised he was actually just bringing one of his own horses with him to show me. SAF’s mouth was masticating so frantically I though his head was going to dislodge from his shoulders! was with him and he had one of the red top newspa- pers wedged in his mouth. “Drop!” bellowed SAF, which Mike Phelan obediently did. SAF petted him on the head and gave him a treat from his pocket. I picked up the drool ridden paper up and began to read the page it was folded open on. The article was I’m sure you will agree it was fairly conclusive. Case talking about the rise in Super-Injunctions issued by closed. professional footballers and bemoaning how they were becoming above the law. I agreed with the Carro was supposed to be seeing a bloke about getting this self-destruct function sorted, but said he was going round ’s house for dinner cos he was always making a meal of things. I think they got on like a house on fire last time Carro apparently had Nani in stitches. As per the last issue, please dispose beyond the pale. Something would have to be done of this sensitive information by whichever means and fast. necessary. Thank you. I will not rest until the integ- rity of Manchester United is upheld. Keep ‘em After a few months of learning morse code I finally peeled! By Brett Burgers @HoldAndGive

Image courtesy of www.deemointernational.com 16 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011

17 ISSUE ISSUE 4, 4, JUNE JUNE 2011 2011

By Steph

The subject of terraced standing areas at football grounds was revolutionised by the in 1989, in which 96 Liverpool fans were crushed to death during their FA Cup semi-final tie against Notting- ham Forrest. A horrific incident, no doubt about that, but looking back it is hard to place much blame on terraces season ticket at Bayern Munich costs €650, whereas a themselves, instead there were a range of logistical Stehplatz (standing) season ticket costs just €120. problems that affected events on that sad day; poor planning, poor observation by the police and human The atmosphere concern is another that often comes up error were the main culprits, not to mention the large when discussing standing terraces. It is generally consid- fences that trapped so many, which has since been abol- ered that football grounds don’t hold the same atmos- ished in this country. phere they used to. I spoke to numerous fans, many of whom nostalgically talked about how they would stand As a result of Hillsborough the Taylor Report was pub- on the terraces on match day and described what a fan- lished in which Lord Justice Taylor not only sought justi- tastic experience it was. Some believed that football lost fication for what happened, but also made recommenda- its soul since television revenue poured into clubs. Whilst tions for how the Football League may be able to prevent this afforded the clubs a much healthier financial position future tragedies. It was this that essentially saw the end it also contributed to the downfall of another part of the of terraces. Lord Taylor believed at the time that there club. was no solution which would achieve the total safety – however seated grounds would achieve this aim more Sadly a precedent was set with the Taylor Report, one than any other single measure. However we are now in a that doesn’t look like changing anytime soon. As fantastic fortunate enough position that clubs have been able to as it would be to see the return of terraces, it took a lot of incorporate technological advance within their grounds; effort to get all-seater grounds and at a significant devel- CCTV and digital ticketing are just two of the progres- opmental cost. sions made by clubs already. Some will argue that with seated grounds trouble makers are more easily recognis- Each week we still see large numbers of fans standing able as each seat is assigned a number which in turn will as the attempts to remove this from stadia has largely be assigned a name. However modern technological been ignored by spectators. Regular Stretford Enders advances do not require people to be sat down to be spend entire matches on their feet. Furthermore away identified. People are spotted at festivals, in the busy fans all across the country often choose to spend their crowds of and therefore surely they can be time stood when occupying other grounds. They are the picked out of the static environment inside a football hardcore fans, the ones that scream and shout – why ground? There is standing in almost every other specta- would they want to be confined to a seat? After all they tor sport. Furthermore standing is allowed at concerts are there to watch a football match, not a west end show. (many of which take place inside football grounds) with Surely putting these fans in a safer environment, built for far more safety concerns, anyone who attended Oasis’ purpose, is far more secure than having standing fans in a 2005 gig at the City of Manchester Stadium will under- seated area? stand this. The lessons have been learnt from Hillsborough. The The football authorities in Germany have it spot on in all Taylor Report sought to propose a range of measures to aspects with standing areas in many top grounds give football ‘a better future.’ And it did for many years. throughout the country. Whilst German fans tend to Now the report is out of date and a modern review describe how improved the atmosphere is at matches, should take place, yet the authorities appear to be hiding there is also a significant monetary benefit. A seated behind the safety excuse for the foreseeable future.

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By Alex

Over the last few years, the calls for a reintroduction of terracing at Premier League grounds has grown louder, but personally I disagree with supporters of their turnstiles? The huge increase in women and this change and will try to provide you with my rea- children attending matches now is testament to the soning for that. So, why should we bring back terrac- safety of modern stadia and the enjoyment there is to ing? be had whilst watching your favourite team.

There are many that believe that terracing has been My favourite reason why terracing should come back given a bad reputation due to the 1989 Hillsborough is due to the atmosphere it would generate at matches. disaster, when 98 Liverpool fans lost their lives at an In fairness, I can understand why people would say FA Cup semi-final. This is due to the belief that it was this. When I think back to games I watched in the 80’s the role played by the overcrowding of the terrace and or bring up on Youtube, the atmosphere is incredible. the large fences holding back the supporters that con- The noise, the singing, that incredible 12th man spirit tributed heavily to this terrible event. An understand- that the fans provide for their team. There truly is no able argument, especially when you take into consid- way that an all seater stadium could come close to eration that the fencing and crowd segregation had matching that sort of intensity and atmosphere, is been implemented to prevent any potential crowd there? trouble that had become synonymous with football in that era. Well, cast your minds back a few weeks to a game at Old Trafford. I choose the Theatre of Dreams for two The case for its return continues with the discovery reasons. Firstly, this is a United fanzine, but also be- that several leagues across Europe, most notably Ger- cause Old Trafford has often been criticised for lacking many, have terracing, and have had no significant atmosphere due to its ‘prawn sandwich brigade’ per- issues. haps. Imagine my surprise, and pride I might add, at the sheer volume of noise being made by the Old Traf- My argument would be that since the introduction of ford crowd during the game against Chelsea. all seater stadiums within the Premier League, and to some extent Championship as well if you take into Yes, if we won we had all but clinched title no 19. consideration teams that have been relegated from the Yes, we scored before Petr Cech had even tied up his top tier of English football, we have not had any repeat head protector. But that noise, that wall of sound, said of those terrible scenes from April ‘89, or others like it everything about what a Premier League football sta- (Heysel, Bradford). The safety aspect of all seater are- dium and it’s attendees now bring to a game. Stoke nas has been well and truly established, as well as the City fans are another great example of being able to fact that they are far easier to police and access should create an incredible atmosphere. They never stop an issue occur. singing, ever. Win, lose or draw. And they do that with- out the ‘aid’ of terracing. I also believe that foreign clubs with terracing have looked at disasters like Hillsborough and learnt from This is what football is all about. discussion and opin- the mistakes made, to ensure that safety is paramount. ion. Agreement and argument.

Who would use terracing nowadays? ‘Hardcore’ But at the end of the day, football has to make its supporters appear to be eying a return to terracing, decision one way or the other, and my personal opin- but where would that leave the incredibly diverse ion is that if will decide to stick, rather than twist and crowds that football clubs are seeing flock through risk seeing something half as bad as Hillsborough. 19 ISSUE ISSUE 4, 4, JUNE JUNE 2011 2011

FUB: What made you start supporting Especially Barcelona, but not to the same United over other English clubs? social extent as United.

CH: Eric Cantona was the reason why I first FUB: We've obviously boasted one of the started following United while growing up in best GK's ever in the shape of Peter the 90's. Obviously there was a lot of focus on Schmeichel. How is he regarded in Den- United because of Schmeichel and the success, mark? but it was really the talent of Cantona that got me started. Then I started to learn more about CH: Among football fans, he's huge. Among the club and the history. My first game was the United fans, it's a bit different. He's the host of away friendly in 1998 against Brondby, where the Champions League show and never lets an I was so lucky to meet the squad the day be- opportunity to past without telling about his fore the game. I was 12 years old at that time, love for United. Some United fans feel this is a so it was obviously a memorable day for me. bit over the top, I think. Especially because he Later, my passion for the club made me played for City and he's never been that start www.OldTrafford.dk in 2003. The web- "supporter friendly." But obviously, everyone site has grown to become a leading football seems to be proud of what he's done for us website in Denmark with between 6,000 and and Denmark. 8,000 daily visitors.

FUB: How big are United in Denmark, com- pared to other big European clubs? CH: It is difficult to say, but I think we have the most organized fanbase among foreign clubs in Denmark. This is first of all thanks to the Scandinavian supporter’s branch and maybe in the later years, also OldTrafford.dk. On the website, we have done a lot to promote the social aspect of following United through pro- moting the "United-friendly" pubs and doing events. However, I also need to say that Liver- pool has a large fanbase here as well. But as far as I see it, they seem to be less organized than us. In recent years, we have also seen the fanbase of Barcelona and Real Madrid grow. 20 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011

FUB: How accessible are United matches? United that I can’t defend myself taking interest CH: Every game is shown on TV here. You can in other football. also watch the games with other United fans like FUB: What has been your favourite United at the Happy Pig in Copenhagen. Fans who went moment? to Copenhagen away a few years ago may remem- ber it. For the big games, it's totally packed with CH: United has given me a lot of memorable mo- 300 singing United fans, while for the smaller ment. I remember when I met Eric Cantona per- games we're a group of 100 hardcore fans. sonally, I went over and shook his hand and said "Thank you for what you've done for United and FUB: Is it expensive to watch United matches me." One of the greatest moments has been walk- in Denmark? ing down before the Milan game in 2005 protesting against the Glazers. I am CH: Beer is expensive in Denmark, so yes! very passionate about United and at that moment I felt I was not alone in my protests against the FUB: Does supporting them have an impact Glazers. I am still protesting and doing my best to upon your work and leisure life? tell Danish fans about the situation at United. CH: For me personally, it is a bit extreme since I Football-wise it was probably the away game run the website. So yes, it does have a great im- against Juventus in 1999. One of the best games pact on my life. My fellow students in my study I’ve seen. Then I could also add John O' Shea's late group at Uni have been let down a few times, winner against Liverpool, which made the Happy especially during the 2009 CL final, where the Pig go nuts. People had their glasses broken game was during a 72hr exam. during the celebrations. The CL victory in 2008 was also a great memory. We had organized a FUB: Have you ever been to Old Trafford? street event in Copenhagen with the supporter’s branch and the Happy Pig. 2,000 United fans CH: About 25 times. First time was in 2004. Be- came and had a great time. The next year we did fore I started studying, I worked full time for an the same and 5,000 people showed up. This year airline which gave me some benefits of going to we'll do the same. the games. But I prefer away games, especially in Europe. I've seen United play in Rome, Milan, FUB: Finally, who is your favourite player and Barcelona, , Paris, , Copenhagen why? and Aalborg. Of all time, Eric Cantona. He was more an artist FUB: Do you support any teams in the Danish than a football, wasn't he? Of present day, I’d say leagues? . Amazing how he has grown up to become such an important player for us. CH: No. I actually feel I spend too much time on 21 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011

Name: William David Keane

Born: Stockport, 11th January 1993

Position: Forward

When I first watched Will Keane play for the Marveld and Nike Youth Tournaments, reinforc- Manchester United U-15 Academy side, I was ing his potential along the way. A pupil of St. immediately struck with his maturity on the ball. Bede’s College in Stockport and staunch United But who did he remind me of? fan, Will had already stressed that his future was in a Manchester United shirt! He had excellent control, good movement off the ball when he would often drop deep, great In the 2008-09 season, Will made his Academy composure and an eye for goal. Although not debut on the 21st of October in the 0-1 home particularly quick, he possessed a wide range of defeat to Stoke City. With Evandro Brandao passing skills and had superb vision. I thought playing up front, Will adopted his favoured role that this kid had a real chance. of playing just off the front man. By the end of the term he had been called up into the England Talking to my pals at Carrington who mostly U-16 squad and immediately won silverware as watched the U-18’s I remember telling them to he helped the young Lions to success in the watch out for this kid, who made the game look Montaigu Youth Tournament with a victory over so easy and always seem to have time on the Germany. By now a full time scholar, it had been ball. a great jump for the young Stockport lad.

“Like Paul Scholes?” they asked.

Then it came to me.

“No…..like !”

The younger of the twins, Will born in Stepping Hill Hospital in Stockport but grew up in Heaton Moor. Both lads played for St. Winifred’s School and also their local team South Manchester from the ages of eight to ten. They were then asked to join the United Academy at U-11 level, with Will always featuring up front. He continued to pro- gress through the ranks, featuring in the 22 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 Throughout the term, Will contin- He suffered a deadleg which worry- ued to feature for the England U-17’s, ingly kept him sidelined throughout Febru- mainly in an advanced midfield role rather ary and March. He returned for the away leg than out and out striker and appeared regu- at Chelsea in the semi-final and although larly on the scoresheet at Academy level. well. Happily for all United fans he looked Will made his FA Youth Cup debut against much sharper in the return and scored a Birmingham and poached two goals in the ‘perfect’ hat-trick in United’s 4-0 success trip to Burnley in the following round be- over the Londoners. fore the Reds were knocked out at Black- burn Rovers. By the end of the season he At Bramall Lane last Tuesday, he found had finished as United’s leading goalscorer the net once again and with the second leg’s in the Academy side with thirteen goals in result not known at this point, it is hoped twenty-five appearances s the Reds topped that his fine form has resulted in a well Group C. Further success was just around deserved winners medal. the corner as he was part of the England U- 17 team that won the European Champion- A player of some talent, many United fans ship with a 2-1 victory over Spain in Liech- will be watching his progress with much tenstein. interest. While clearly not in the Roy Keane mould, nor alike in playing characteristics, This season has seen Will push on once he has already motivated many fans to again. He collected an U-19 England sing…‘there’s only one Keano’…. against Slovakia in September and been a regular in both the Reserve and Academy That is respect in itself. teams. At the same time his form was key in helping the United FA Youth Cup squad reach the final against Sheffield United. By Tony Park After finding the back of the net against Tony has been a season ticket holder for 20 years. Portsmouth he pounced on a keeper error He has been following the youth side since the late to score the winner at West Ham in Janu- 1970’s. Tony is currently co-writing a book on the history of the United youth team. ary.

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With the season now over, Liam has given his assessment of the United players and rated their contributions.

Edwin Van Der Sar- The rock at the back. Our season - 4 games, 12 appearances as a sub, 4 would have been much worse if we didn’t have him. goals to his name. However is another player be- Shame we couldn’t persuade him to stay on for more sieged by injury. Might be given a reprieve for one one year, while we developed our next number one. more year…but I think that will be it for Score out of 10-10 Michael Owen. Score out of 10-3

Gary Neville– Three league appearances this year, Anderson- I think he has shown glimpses of what he plagued by injury and an inability to gain any mo- is capable of- could have a very good year next year. mentum to his season. Decided to retire mid-season. More to come from this man I think. Score out of 10- Score out of 10-1. 7

Patrice Evra- Left back, plays with the same flow and - Top goalscorer, has been pushed drive that played with when teamed up out by the blossoming relationship between Rooney with . Will keep getting better- future and Chicha. Has had a great year despite his rightful captain? Score out of 10-7. limelight being taken away from him. Won’t be leaving in the summer, but will slump again next - One of our BUPA player of the year year I think with less playing time and confidence contenders, his future doesn’t lie with United. Score knocked by being left out of the squad. Score out of out of 10-0. 10-9

Rio Ferdinand- Started to get back to form this year after a temperamental summer. Played 28 games across three competitions, never as a substitute. His performances haven’t set the world on fire, but has done the job required of him well. Score out of 10-6

Wes Brown- Bit part player. Don’t think he will fea- ture much next year, as our younger players come back off loan. Has been a diligent servant to the club, but I think his time is drawing to a close this year. Score out of 10-4

24 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 Wayne Rooney- had highs and lows, some moments of pure brilliance and some moments of pure cringe worthy stupidity but goal of the season without a doubt. Score out of 10 for the season- taking into account his poor start, transfer rant, and on the other hand his partnership with Chica and improving form…6

Ryan Giggs- Doesn’t know when to slow down. Still tears through players like they’re not there. Also did a very good job at left back too I recall. Last season? I also heard a rumour he’s heading for management in two years time. Score out of 10-7.

Chris Smalling- For me over the course of a year the most improved individual. Grown into the role of 1st team starting centre back, created a rock John O’ Shea- Mixed emotions. He does the job solid partnership at the back with Vidic. Some put in front of him, utility player able to cover small mistakes but watch out next season. Score everywhere. Score out of 10- 6 out of 10-7 Johnny Evans- his report simply says must im- Park Ji-Sung- Player that gives so much effort to prove. Not at the right standard to break into the each and every game he plays- would make a regular squad and with summer reinforcements great advert for Lucozade. For me, under- utilised. on the way it could signal the end of his fight. When Park puts in a performance he sets the Score out of 10- 5 United tempo high- Score out of 10-8 Darren Fletcher- Damn virus, could have had a Javier Hernandez- Brilliance! What a first year,. great season. Obviously this is written before the Would have liked to see him partner Berba up CL final, I hope he made it. He is a player that front a bit more. See how that partnership got on makes the difference- Score out of 10- 6 (should - Score out of 10-10 be much more)

Nemanja Vidic- Captain, heart of the de- Tony Valencia- Should also have been one of the fence, heart of the team. Leads by example. influential men on the field and when he was Score out of 10- 9 back from injury he made up for lost time with some great performances. Looking forward to - Can’t take him seriously- no seeing him play next year. Score for this season- rating 7

Nani- For me, player of the season, he’s grow- ing and growing. I can’t help but think next year is his “Ronaldo” year and he’ll set the league on fire! Score out of 10- 9

Paul Scholes- as rash and as hard working as ever. Don’t need to tell you all what he is to the team. Debateable as to whether he will be there next season, or if he takes title 19 as his curtain call- Score out of 10- 7

Fabio & Rafael- Can’t make my mind up who has done better. Fabio has a great forward working mind, will develop in leaps and bounds if he listens in to Evra’s guidance. Twin scores out of 10- 7 25 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011

The Perfect XI

By Sufiyan Kala

So, when I was asked to choose my perfect XI for this issue of the fanzine, I knew a tricky task was at hand. Over the years, we have had a wealth of talent grace the holy turf of Old Trafford. From the days of Welsh Wizard, in the early 1900’s, to Matt Busby’s pioneering Babes in the mid-1950’s, to Fergie’s Fledglings of the last 24 years. There have been players that have come and gone who have helped United win countless trophies and gone down in history as immortals.

Although there might have been some unbelievable players in the past in Best, Charlton, Law, Whiteside and Robbo to name but a few, I felt it was only fair for me to choose my team based on players who I’ve seen play during my lifetime – the Fergie era, especially from the late 90’s to the present day. 26 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011

GOALKEEPER: The Great Dane. Probably the greatest goalkeeper to ever play for United, he made 398 appearances in Red. He was between the sticks during the most successful period in the club’s history and helped us to win our first Premier League title. He was a vocal goalkeeper, constantly talking to his centre-backs, keeping them CENTRE-BACKS: & organised. If the defensive lines were breached, he’d NEMANJA VIDIC always be there to the rescue, often making the most elaborate of saves. Who can forget the last-minute penalty save from in the FA Cup semi STAM -finals and captaining United to the European Cup to For me, Stam comes ahead of Rio. Despite only spending complete the Treble in his very last game for the club? three seasons at the club, he was a solid rock in the heart In total, he won 15 trophies in his eight years with the of our defence and struck up a good partnership with club and even though he may have defected to the bit- . He was simply unbeatable. Strikers ters across the city, there’ll be no other like him, not hated to play against him and everybody else loved play- even good old Edwin. ing with him. He was a tough-tackling, ball-winning, non- fearing, scary-looking, fearless character on the pitch and he was pretty much the same off it. He was voted the best defender in the Champions League for two consecu- tive seasons which also coincided with him helping us to win the Treble along the way and himself winning a total of six major honours in those three seasons. Fergie to this day regrets selling him after Stam criticised him in his autobiography. But there’s no questioning the impact he had when he played RIGHT-BACK: GARY NEVILLE Winner of 19 major honours and my all-time greatest VIDIC player and hero, Nev was and still is Mr Manchester When Vida first came, it looked as if it was another United. He’s arguably the most passionate amongst us Djemba-Djemba/Kleberson-esque signing from Fergie. as supporters. Not only that, he was a firm favourite Relatively unknown and signed from Spartak Moscow, amongst the fans and a loyal servant to the club dedi- for me, he has emerged as probably the best central- cating 20 years of his life to play for his boyhood club. defender of our present time. After his disastrous debut He also had the small matter of playing for Ingurland 85 performance against City, his talents were severely times. Although he wasn’t naturally gifted, there was no doubted but he’s forged a strong partnership with Rio at doubting his technical ability and desire to succeed as the heart of the defence and played an integral part in one of the greatest United players. He never was the the double-winning season of 2008 where his perform- fastest of players so he worked on his stamina; he was ances in every competition were nothing short of im- never the tallest so he worked on his leap. An exem- maculate. Further testament to this is his inclusion in the plary role-model if ever there was one who proved that PFA Team of the Year for three consecutive seasons and nothing but sheer hard work and determination is the being voted as Barclays Player of the Season after help- key to success. He struck up a telepathic understanding ing United reach a record-breaking 14 consecutive clean with Beckham down that right hand side constantly sheets in 2008-09. He does have an eye for goal with 17 proving to be a nightmare for opposition defences with of them, many quite crucial. In the time he has been at his deceiving overlapping runs and great vision, making the club, he’s won 11 major honours and this season, him for me, the greatest right-back in Red. been handed the captaincy ahead of Giggsy and Rio. 27 ISSUE ISSUE 4, 4, JUNE JUNE 2011 2011

CENTRAL-MIDFIELD:

ROY KEANE & PAUL SCHOLES

KEANE

Having Roy Keane in your team meant that you had an extra two people in the side. Captain fantastic gave life and limb for the cause of Manchester United. He grabbed the game by the balls and made sure each and every player on the pitch with him gave more than 100 per cent. His fiery character and aggressive nature LEFT-BACK: combined with his hunger and competitiveness was This was a tough choice as was a fantastic special to witness. Tough-tackling and no-nonsense, he left-back in his time but good old Paddy just edges it. struck fear into his opponents. His passion and ability Like Vidic, his debut was a complete disaster and some to win football matches on his own set him apart from were questioning Fergie’s motives behind this signing other United players. The only player whose character- but once again, he pulled out a gem of a signing for only istics resemble that of Bryan Robson, he was indeed a £5.5million. Since his arrival and the departure of special player and in my eyes, the best United captain of , Evra’s made the left-back position his my generation. His desire to ‘take one for the team’ was own and he’s flown up and down that wing, keeping also commendable and if ever you could rely on any- some of the worlds best players in check, most notably, body on the pitch, Roy Keane was that man. During his in the Champions League semi-final at Old 12 years with the club, he won 17 major titles. He may Trafford in 2008. But ever since that disastrous debut have left the club on controversial terms but he will against City, he has gone from strength to strength always remain a special person to the fans. notching up 200+ appearances for United, winning ten major trophies and being included in the PFA Team of SCHOLES the Year on three occasions, UEFA Team of the Year Paul Scholes is the most natural passer of the ball I have ever seen. Despite there being David Beckham, if you asked Paul Scholes to hit a particular crater on the moon, you could bet that he would hit it. His range of passing is unreal. He had a wide range of shots in his armoury. Left foot, right foot, volleys, tap-ins and head- ers; Paul Scholes could score them all. He scored count- less goals to help United claim countless crucial victo- ries and is truly one of the best players of our genera- tion-not just for United. When he’s on the ball, he has an imaginary force field around him, no opponent can get RIGHT-MIDFIELD: anywhere near him. Barcelona’s said of his ability, DAVID BECKHAM “He's the best central I've seen in the last 15, He was a special player from the first day he joined the 20 years. He's spectacular, he has it all, the last pass, club. A member of the class of ’92 and another one of goals, he's strong; he doesn't lose the ball, vision. If he'd my childhood heroes, his trademark free-kicks and his been Spanish he might have been rated more highly. great vision coupled with his spectacular ability to Players love him.” He is still going strong at a veteran score free-kicks from any distance possible, he again, age of 36 and this season is rumoured to be his last. He played an integral part in ensuring United were trophy- has won 23 major titles at Old Trafford and his shy rich throughout the 90’s and it was from both of his personality means he hasn’t picked up many individual corners that magical night in Barcelona that led to the awards but he has been included in the PFA Team of the dramatic turn-around and completed the Treble. He Year award on three occasions. had the ability to change a game in a split second, be it through a free-kick or a pinpoint pass, he was a great player for the club. It was a shame that he left in the circumstances that he did but there’s no denying the service he gave to the club. In the ten years he was at the club, he won 15 major honours and was voted PFA Young Player of the Year as well as Goal of the Decade for his rather ostentatious strike against Wimbledon.

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STRIKER: The bargain buy from Sporting Lisbon, he was destined to go onto bigger and better things. The ominous sur- name, the elegant trickery, the unorthodox free-kick

styles, the blistering pace and not forgetting the hatful of goals he scored in his time here. With 118 goals in 244 appearances – 42 of them in one season – he didn’t even hit his peak before departing for Real Madrid in 2009. He LEFT-MIDFIELD: RYAN GIGGS won nine trophies in his six years and he won both PFA The most decorated player in English football and win- Players’ Player of the Year & Fans Player of the Year ner of 31 major honours, he is the greatest player ever twice, was voted in the FIFPro World XI and the PFA to have played for United. Having made 700+ appear- Premier League Team of the Year for four consecutive ances and at the grand old age of 37, he has occupied seasons. that left wing for nearly 21 years and doesn’t look like giving it up any time soon. Although he has lost some of his pace, he has been integral in United’s recent success CENTRE-FORWARD: and has been the catalyst for some of the most impor- tant victories, not just in the present but in the past. He’s had plenty of great individual moments – the most This man is the most prolific goal-scorer I’ve ever seen. famous one being his goal against Arsenal in the FA Cup He scored 150 goals in 200 games here and won four semi-final in 1999. But it’s his willingness to be the best trophies in five years. He also won a hatful of individual that has got him where he is today. Using his elegant honours; PFA Player of the Year, UEFA Club Forward of wizardry, he’s captured the hearts of each and every the year, Premier League Golden Boot (02/03), UEFA United fan with a shimmy here and there, a quick turn Champions League Top scorer for three consecutive of pace to beat his man, a peach of a shot from that left seasons. Enough said. foot of his and in recent seasons whilst occupying the By Sufiyan Kala central-midfield position, great vision to pick out his Suffy is currently studying journalism at UcLan. He has men and further go down as the greatest British player been a red all his life and a regular at Old Trafford. His of all time. No team would be complete without Ryan favourite player is Paul Scholes.

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A selection of photos taken by Darren from United’s victory parade through Manchester on 30th May 2011.

30All photos are copyright to Darren. Follow him onISSUE Twitter 4, JUNE @ManUtdOT 2011

May form: LWWDWL 7 points taken from a possible 12 in the Premier League One Premier League trophy And another disappointing trip to Wembley Rachel takes a look at United’s performances in May

1st May 2011 Arsenal (A) - Premier League - 1v0 - defeat Attendance - 60,107 Arsenal dominated the first half although created very little. They did however have a penalty shout when Vidic was deemed to have handled the ball in the area but no penalty was given. United gave the ball away too often and only really started to settle into the game towards the end of the half. 10 min- utes into the second half however Arsenal took the lead through . United stepped up a gear in search of an equaliser, with Szczesny saving well from a Rooney free kick. Both Berbatov and Owen were then introduced to try and find a goal but United couldn’t find one. They did however have a penalty appeal of their own when Clichy his first which he slotted into the bottom corner of caught Owen with barely a minute left on the clock. the goal and Berbatov’s pass left him with a simple Again no penalty was given. The game finished in tap in for his second. Next stop Barcelona. defeat and United could have little argument with the result after a flat performance. 08/05/2011 Chelsea (H) - Premier League - 2v1 - win 4th May 2011 Goals - Hernandez (1) and Vidic (23) Schalke (H) - Champions League semi-final 2nd Attendance - 75,445 leg - 4v1 - win Hernandez gave United the lead less than a minute Goals - Valencia (26), Gibson (31) and Anderson into the game, after a brilliant through ball from Park (72, 76) left him one on one with Cech. The Mexican slotted Attendance - 74,687 home to send Old Trafford crazy. Rooney then hit a Both teams started the game with an attacking in- screamer from 30 yards out which Cech did well to tent, but it was United who took the lead half an save. Park later tested Cech who knocked the ball hour into the game. Schalke gave the ball away, then away for a corner. United doubled their lead from the Gibson played a brilliant, defence splitting pass to corner with a determined Vidic header mid way Valencia who finished clinically. The reds then dou- through the first half. Chelsea almost pulled one back bled their lead on the night, making it 4v0 on aggre- but Van Der Sar’s reactions kept the lead intact, stop- gate through a Gibson goal which Schalke keeper ping a close range Kalou header. The keeper then Neuer should probably have saved. The away team made another good stop from a Drogba free kick. then scored just 4 minutes later to make it 2v1. A Ivanovic was lucky not to get a second yellow after Valencia shot was then cleared off the line but the stepping on Rooneys foot. Both teams had penalty half time score remained 2v1 United. Two second shouts early in the second half but both were denied. half goals from Anderson sealed United’s path to the Lampard then pulled one back for the blues with 20 Wembley final. Nani found Anderson in the box for minutes to go. It was United however who looked the more likely for the next goal, with Alex stopping a

31 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 Rooney shot on the line and Hernandez failing to score from a close range free header late on. The result meant that United had all but sealed their record breaking 19th title.

14/05/2011 Blackburn (A) - Premier League - 1v1- draw Goals - Rooney (pen 73) Attendance - 29,867 The first real chance of the game fell to Nani in the first 5 minutes, but unfortunately he could only head his effort onto the crossbar. Samba then had a good chance to put Blackburn ahead but ended up hitting the ball well over the bar. Kuszczak looked nervous in goal for United and was at fault when Blackburn took the lead after 20 minutes. The marking from United’s defence was also poor how- ever when Emerton was free in the box to put the ball past Kuszczak. Blackburn defended well throughout and held onto their lead into half time, with Robinson also saving well from Hernandez. Blackburn almost doubled their lead with 25 minutes to go when Olsson’s header smacked against the post. United were level less than 10 minutes later when Robinson brought down Hernandez in the box to give the reds a penalty. Rooney coolly converted leaving United on the brink of the title. Nani should well from a Berbatov header. Blackpool’s hearts have put United ahead but failed to connect from were however broken when Evatt put into his own close range onto a Rooney cross. The game finished net from a Smalling cross to give United the lead with without much incident as both teams were happy to 15 minutes to go. Owen then made it 4v2 after run- take a point which meant United were Champions ning onto a delightful through ball from Anderson. again for a record 19th time. 28/05/2011 22/05/2011 Barcelona (N) - Champions League final - 3v1 - Blackpool (H) - Premier League - 4v2 - win defeat Goals - Park (21), Anderson (63) and Owen (81) Goals - Rooney (34) Attendance - 75, 400 Attendance - 87, 695 Keith Southern should have given Blackpool the lead United started the game well, seeing more of the ball after just 3 minutes but he dragged his free shot in than expected until Barcelona settled into the game. the box wide. Rafael then worked the Blackpool With the Spanish side seeing more and more of the keeper Gilks from 20 yards out as did Berbatov from ball, it was no shock when they look the lead just close range. It was United who took the lead after 21 under half an hour into the game. Some wonderful minutes through Park. Fletcher played a great long link up play between Rooney and Giggs however led pass to Berbatov who controlled brilliantly before to an equaliser against the run of play just 7 minutes passing to Park who finished well. United should later. Rooney finished exceptionally well with a have had a penalty half an hour in when Park was clever shot past Valdes. Messi restored Barcelona’s fouled but no penalty was given. then lead early in the second half when the United defence equalised 5 minutes from half time from a great free stood off him and Van Der Sar perhaps should have kick that went in off the post. Van Der Sar made a done better. The reds tried to get back in to the game good save from another Adam free kick early in the but Barcelona were just too good and Villa sealed his second half but Blackpool still took the lead through team’s victory with a third goal 20 minutes from Taylor Fletcher ten minutes later. Anderson brought time. United rarely threatened and were sadly com- the teams level again with just under half an hour to prehensively beaten by the brilliant Barcelona. go after Parks cross into the box. Gilks then saved 32 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011

Some of you may have come across the fantastic work by Tom Clare before, having written extensively about Manchester United history. Tom has resubmitted some of his articles which centre around United captains. This one looks at Dennis Viollet, captain from 1959-60.

To be around Old Trafford in the particularly in the British game. to lose his young life just fifteen early to late 1950’s was an abso- Sadly, after sowing the seeds and days later. Because of the sever- lute joy. It was a joy shared by watching the flowers grow, they ity of their injuries, two others fans, players, directors, staff, in were to see them wither at the were never to play again. Of the fact anybody who had any kind of end of a slush filled airfield run- seven surviving players, four of connection to the club. Ask any of way in Munich, Germany, on 6th them would leave the club the older fans today who were . within four years, and of that around during that period who four, three would disappear into has been the greatest United team Seven Manchester United play- relative anonymity. The other ever? and it’s my guess that the ers lost their lives that sad day, player is the subject of this arti- answer will come back as quick as and another one, the colossus cle, and he is of course, Dennis a bullet shot from a gun – the that was Duncan Edwards, was Viollet. Babes! Violett’s United Career The Busby Babes were probably the most exciting, and precocious collection of young football play- Appearances Goals ers ever to come together at any club in the world. For at that time, Division One 259 159 they were certainly unique. In the professional world of football at FA Cup 18 5 that time, players in their teens and early twenties were deemed not to have the skills or experience League Cup 2 1 to survive at the top level of the professional game. Fortunately, European Cup 12 13 Matt Busby and Jimmy Murphy’s visions changed that kind of blink- Other matches 2 1 ered thinking, and opened up a whole new outlook and era

33 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 Mention of that wonderful team lethal partner was a steel dart at London sunshine, the emotions always throws up the names of ground level. During the mid- of the previous few months Byrne, Colman, Edwards, Taylor, when the Babes were caught up with them, and their and of course a young teenager sweeping all before them, the energies seemed to have been who had just broken into the duo struck up a seemingly tele- sapped. They didn’t function too team, a certain Bobby Charlton. pathic understanding, creating well and Bolton were deserved 2 Yet one of the side's key per- space for each other by their -0 winners. formers was widely and pecu- imaginative movement and reg- liarly underrated, though not, it istering a river of goals that Any fears that Dennis would should be emphasised, by Matt showed no signs of drying up. It never be the player that he was Busby himself. In terms of ap- is incredible when you look at quickly disappeared over the pearance, Dennis Viollet did not the fact that they played in 134 following two seasons. In season correspond with the popular games together and scored 182 1958/59 Manchester United image of a goal-scoring hero. goals between them, Dennis confounded everybody by finish- Wan of countenance and slim to netting 84 and Taylor 98! ing as runners-up to Wolves in the point of scrawniness, he the First Division. Dennis con- seemed pathetically equipped From the inside-left position, tributed 21 goals. The following physically to mix it with strap- Dennis contributed at least 20 season he was on fire and set a ping defenders. Yet the prolific senior goals per season, and he club League goal scoring record Mancunian was a gem, both as a went on to share in a succession by notching a further 32 goals. foil for the magnificent Tommy of heady triumphs, notably the By this time he had also taken Taylor and as a marksman in his League Championships of over the responsibility of Club own right. Indeed, the fact that 1955/56 and 1956/57. As Captain from Bill Foulkes. It was no one - not Law, not Best, not United blazed a trail into Europe, an enormous responsibility Cantona, not Ronaldo, not even his pedigree shone through ever considering that the club was in Rooney - has netted more league more vividly and his evident the early stages of trying to re- goals than Dennis did in a single relish for continental opposition build the team after the accident. season, offers telling evidence of made his sojourn in the interna- It was also during this same his rare calibre. tional wilderness increasingly period that Dennis finally and

perplexing. Maybe this was be- deservedly won full interna- After captaining Manchester cause at that time the England tional recognition. That he was schoolboys - and also playing team was chosen by a selection only capped twice for England regularly for his country at that committee made up of chair- was a travesty of justice. level - he joined Manchester men/directors of other First United as an amateur in 1949, Division clubs. In the 1960/61 season Dennis’s turning professional a year later form dipped and he lost his place and making his first-team debut Dennis survived the tragedy at in the team. Perhaps his phe- at St. James’ Park, Newcastle in Munich but did suffer head inju- nomenal contributions from the 1952/53. Dennis held his own ries and was hospitalised for a against white-hot competition as month after the accident. How- Busby's youthful revolution ever, he did return home to Man- gathered exhilarating momen- chester and began the journey tum and he won a regular place that would see him playing during 1953/54. He was blessed again. By mid April of 1958 he with instinctive ball control, was deemed fit enough to play searing acceleration, and the again at first team level and after vision to use these attributes to a couple of League outings he full advantage. Arguably he was was selected to play at Wembley at his most effective when work- against Bolton Wanderers in the ing in tandem with Tommy Tay- FA Cup Final. Dennis had missed lor, the big bold Yorkshireman the emotional passage of who lost his life on that slushy United’s patched up young team German runway. Big Tommy was winning their way to that Final, majestic in the air while his less and sadly, on that May day in the conspicuous but formidably 34 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 previous season did take its toll. However, he battled back towards Fan photo: the end of the season and he be- Old Trafford gan the 1961/62 season as first celebrating Javier choice striker. Again his form dipped and once more he was left Hernandez’s early goal out only making sporadic appear- vs Chelsea. ances and playing in the number By Daniel Burdett seven shirt. By this time United had signed centre forward David Herd from Arsenal, and plans were well afoot to bring Denis Law back to Manchester from Torino in Italy. Dennis was still only 29 years old, and despite his hercu- lean efforts for the club since the tragedy, Busby sold him to Stoke City who were then in the Second Division, for the sum of 25,000 pounds in January of 1962. Just four years after the tragedy, only Gregg, Foulkes, and Charlton, remained at Old Trafford from the 17 players who had left for Bel- grade in 1958, and Gregg was to leave the club in 1966.

35 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 from to Villa - not a tweet to speak of!

Ryan Babel also fell of the FA in his Twitter dealings. His attempt at humour in mocking up a crude photoshop image of Howard Webb in a United shirt subsequent to the FA Cup tie between the two sides in January cost him a £10,000 fine. A bit steep perhaps for what could be perceived as an act of satire, but clearly the FA felt he had over- stepped the mark. I daresay a United player produc- ing something similar with Martin Atkinson and a I'm fast coming around to thinking that someone Chelsea shirt would provoke the same reaction… 'up there' is looking down on me favourably when- quite funny though. ever I start picking up my iPad and start typing an article for this magazine. No sooner had I started Another attempt at humour via Twitter landed thinking about how to approach the question of of West Ham in trouble. On the day that whether of Twitter and footballers Ghana played England in a friendly, Cole tweeted, is good or bad than an incident involving Wayne “Immigration has surrounded Wembley premises! I Rooney hits the headlines, an incident that straight knew it was a trap! Hahaha!”. Clearly a joke, but it away has got even Arsene Wenger voicing an opinion backfired on Cole with the FA reprimanding him for (and in this case even a fairly sensible one) on the improper conduct. pros and cons of his and other clubs' players signing up to this rapidly expanding social network. Returning to Wayne Rooney, I have to admit that him joining Twitter came as a surprise to me. With So what's Wayne been up to? Well basically he saw all of the turmoil that has clouded his life over the fit to respond to the following idiotic 'threat' of a past season, I don't think it needed an Einstein, or Liverpool-supporting moron "....I'll smash ya head in better still even a Clark Carlisle, to work out that with a pitching wedge an bury ya with a ballast fork. some idiots would seize on the opportunity to abuse etc". To which Wayne retorted "haha you know where the United star. And yes, I would have possibly I train every day kid come and do it, good luck". He thought that even some non-forgiving United fans followed up with "I will put you asleep within 10 sec- would be amongst that number. And you know onds hope u turn up if you don't gonna tell everyone what, that very fact raises Rooney's stock with me. you scared u little nit. I'll be waiting.” He's put himself on a platform where anyone, and I mean literally anyone, has the ability to send him a More of this incident later, but suffice at the mo- personal one-to-one message. They might not get ment to say that some within the media have jumped the chance to send a second one, thanks to the on this 'spat' and consequently the whole question of 'block' process, but hey there is that chance of en- whether it is a good idea for footballers to be tweet- gagement. Whether he actually reads your tweets to ing has raised its ugly head again. I say again because we have had other instances of players reacting be- fore. for example responded to a torrent of abuse from his own West Ham fans who blamed him for a defeat against Aston Villa by tweet- ing “U know what, f*** the lot of you.” An FA fine of £6000 for this outburst led to Gabbidon’s account subsequently being deleted. Slightly different but again a reaction of sorts against things going on around him came from when trying to facilitate a move from Spurs to Sunderland. Believing Spurs' Chairman Daniel Levy to be preventing or stalling such a move, Bent went public and pleaded via Twitter for Levy to “stop f**king around”. Bent got his move not long after, but had possibly learnt the error of his ways by the time he subsequently moved Not exactly Babel’s smartest tweet, January 2011.

36 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 him of course is a different matter. In the example Not unexpectedly for someone always consid- highlighted earlier, he obviously did read it, and ered an intelligent footballer, Owen has already subsequently replied. And I for one say good for shown himself to be very articulate in his tweets him. Why should he idly sit by and just take abuse whether they are about football, horse racing or like that? just general stuff. To illustrate, he engaged with journalist Oliver Holt and stated inter alia that "the Rooney of course is only one of several United relationship between players and media is poor and stars to have Twitter accounts, the most vocal and needs improving...if papers actually printed what is prolific being and Michael Owen as actually said then I think players would talk to you well as now ex-United player (and legend) Gary more openly. I know I would....it's the sensationalis- Neville. Of these Ferdinand is the self-proclaimed ing of headlines that annoys most players". The 'Boss,' addressing his million plus followers on a basic content of this exchange was relayed in the regular basis, and not just about football. Music, following days Daily Mirror, with Holt seemingly food, competitions, familial stuff, even politics, can embracing the concept of a comfort zone that be read about from the big man. Owen had found in Twitter. Holt tweeted that Owen was “giving better insight on here than a lot And Rio gives the impression of being the go-to of footballers do". And that was because, as Mi- man if anyone is considering starting up on twitter. chael himself implied, the words that people were Or even leaving it. Because literally hours after he reading were his and unarguably his. announced that was joining, Rio also announced that he was leaving! Notwithstanding So, to conclude, are Twitter and footballers a the fact that Gibson for the brief time he was on good combination? As can be seen from the above board received shameful abuse from both United examples it very much depends on the individuals fans and also from Irish fans angry at his perceived themselves. Some just aren't cut out for it, some switching of allegiance from Northern Ireland to just need to take care in how they deal with it, and the Republic for International representation, the some, well some just seem to be completely at official reason for him leaving was given by Ferdi- ease with it and have almost found a new lease of nand as “Darron Gibson says he came on to see what life, certainly a new way of expression through the lads were up to – he came off because he couldn’t it..... be bothered with it not any other reason.” Now, if only we could get rid of the idiots who try So Twitter is not everyone’s cup of tea. It certainly and ruin Twitter for everyone…Wayne? Wayne? appears to be Michael Owen’s though. And probably Over here lad… Gary Neville's. Owen's tweet to Gary Neville "you certainly need thick skin on here. I'm sure if anyone By Alan Monger knows how to handle it it's you." gives an indication that the two of them may be on Twitter for the long haul. Incidentally you can follow the United players on Twitter here:

Rio Ferdinand: @rioferdy5

Michael Owen: @themichaelowen

Wayne Rooney: @WayneRooney

Nani: @luisnani

Gary Neville: @GNev2

Ryan Tunnicliffe: @RyanTunnicliffe

Did the Gibson bashers hound him out of : @RavelMorrison49 Twitter? Not according to Rio.

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It has been one hell of a maiden season for us and yet here we are, cele- brating United’s 19th league title. Who would have thought that after and ? We would like to take the chance to now praise those stand out players for the season in the 2010-11 awards with all winners being decided by FUB’s website readers.

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER YOUNG PLAYER OF 2010-11 OF 2010-11 The short listed candidates for this award This hotly contested category had three were Rafael, Javier Hernandez and Chris outstanding candidates put forth by the Smalling, the latter two both enjoying ex- readers of FUB. Rafael, Dimitar Berbatov cellent maiden seasons for the club. How- and Luis Nani. A big mention must also go ever it was the little Mexican who ran to Fabio, who probably would have made away with the vote, capturing an astound- the top three had the poll been conducted ing 81% following his 20 goal tally for the at the end of May as opposed to the start season. We hope to see more from 22 year of it. Nevertheless Nani ran out the even- old Chicharito next season. tual winner, securing 59% of the final votes. Congratulations Nani!

38 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011 MATCH OF THE SEASON GOAL OF THE SEASON 2010-11 2010-11

The was arguably the most difficult cate- A vote was hardly needed for this award gory for fans to decide, with six matches and as you might expect Wayne Rooney’s to choose from: winner in the Manchester ran away United 7 Blackburn 1 with the title of FUB’s goal of the season. Schalke 0 United 2 Notably mentioned must go to two run- Blackpool 2 United 3 ner’s up, Berbatov’s third against Liver- United 3 Liverpool 2 pool and Javier Hernandez’s backwards West Ham 2 United 4 header against Stoke at the Britannia Sta- United 2 Chelsea 1 (Premier League) dium. Rooney said of his goal that it was It was United’s match with champions the best he ever scored, which is arguable Chelsea at Old Trafford which won with in itself. Here’s to more next season, 37% of the final vote, most agreeing that Wayne. this was the match when fans could finally believe the title was ours.

PLAYER YOU WOULD MOST MATCH OF THE SEASON LIKE TO HIT WITH A BLUNT 2010-11 OBJECT In a season built on some fantastic indi- Whilst fans were allowed to vote for vidual performances it was hard to pick United players in this category, it’s hardly out one player. Captain, Nemanja Vidic surprising that it was three rival players and Hernandez fought valiantly for the who battled for this award - , title, both securing 30% of the votes, but it Mario Balotelli and . And was retiring Edwin Van der Sar who can captain fantastic, JT, came out on top. claim the title of FUB’s player of the season.

39 ISSUE 4, JUNE 2011

Ok so Europe wasn’t meant to be but if you had told me at the start of this season we would be walking away with a record 19th league title I would have been delighted. It is with sadness that we bid fare- well to the playing careers of both Edwin Van der Sar and Paul Scholes (not to mention Gary Neville earlier in the season), but it certainly won’t be the last time we see them around Old Trafford. I am sure throughout the next month United will be linked to endless amounts of players, hopefully by the next issue we can be previewing some new signings. Until then let’s try to get through the close season as best we can...as champions.

40 Issue 5 is out on Friday 1st JulyISSUE 2011 4, JUNE 2011