Quick viewing(Text Mode)

Michael Carrick

DISABLED SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION

DISABLED SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION

The official MUDSA magazine Volume 17, Issue 2, Christmas 2013 + Phil Downs, MBE Secretary/DLO MUDSA, c/o MU Foundation, Sir Way, , , M16 0RA T: 0845 230 1989 E: disability@manutd. co.uk Jamie Leeming EDITOR 1 Althorpe Drive, Southport, PR8 6HS T: 07590 406669 E: [email protected] Chas Banks Social & DEPUTY EDITOR MUDSA, c/o MU Foundation, , Old Trafford, The official MUDSA magazine Manchester, M16 0RA Volume 17, Issue 2, Christmas 2013 T: 0161 610 8200 E: [email protected] This magazine is issued free to MUDSA members. You can also view Rollin’ Reds and download it in Sue Rocca PDF format from our websiteJohn atand www.mudsa.org Matthew Peters Treasurer leemingdesign.co.uk 113 Darley Avenue, Manchester, M21 7QR Photography: T: 0161 861 9454 Production: Richard Trenchard E: [email protected] Kevin Christie Thanks this issue: Des Turner

Cara Salt John Allen Customer relations executive MUDSA, c/o MU Foundation, Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Manchester, M16 0RA Keeping up with the Jones... T: 0845 230 1989 Phil Jones celebrates scoring the only goal of the game E: [email protected] against Shakhtar Donetsk at Old Trafford to seal top spot for in the group stages of the Champions League Ann-Marie Lewis FAMILY EVENTS 17 Bala Avenue, Holywell, CH8 7HD T: 01352 715794 E: [email protected] Inside this edition… 4 The Platform with Jamie 16 Rovin’ Reds Reds in the Med Andy Wild 5 Team Talk with Chas 17 Coachin’ Reds Sohail Rahman ADMIN & MERCHANDISE Apt 2, 1 Maple Road West, 6 Ups ‘n’ Downs with Phil 18 The Kids Are Alright with Kevin Christie Manchester, M23 9QU 8 Exclusive RR Interview Michael Carick 20 For The Shirt David de Gea T: 0161 972 0565 E: [email protected] 13 MUDSA Tribute 22 MUDSA Official Merchandise 14 Fergie Time Poster 23 My MUFC Paula Wood Liz Edwards QUadrant Rep/MERCHANDISE 37 Ashburn Way, Mill Gardens, Follow MUDSA Keep yourself up to date Wrexham, LL13 0YY T: 01978 264822 on Facebook: with the latest news by E: [email protected] www.facebook.com/MUDSA.official visiting www.mudsa.org 4 THE PLATFORM with Jamie TEAM TALK with Chas 5

A fun-packed festive feast Unfamiliar territory for awaits all who enter… Reds as Christmas arrives

ello everybody and welcome to the might be a couple on there who we’d all like to was going to write this piece after the HChristmas edition of Rollin’ Reds. If forget (I’ll refrain from mentioning anyone ISpurs game when we were high on the you’re reading this before the big day specifically by name). wave of a 10-game unbeaten run. then I hope you have a good one and if Next we have, at last, two features about MUDSA United also beat Arsenal in a stunning you’re reading it after, then I hope Santa members which, sadly, we couldn’t fit into the game which saw the volume turned brought you everything you wished for. previous edition of Rollin’ Reds. The first one takes a up at Old Trafford, plus we destroyed If he didn’t, then fear not because we have a fun- look at the Maltese branch of the Manchester United Leverkusen, one of the best teams in the packed feast of festive features for you to enjoy. Supporters’ Club with MUDSA Member Richard Bundesliga, 5-0 in their own back yard. As usual, the kind folks down at the Aon Training Haselgrove who was lucky enough to pay them a I now find myself writing this article Complex in Carrington arranged for Chas and I to visit during his 2013 summer holiday. The second after two consecutive home defeats — both to drop in and interview a player is a story about a remarkable teams we’re used to beating or, at worst, drawing — non other than midfield young MUDSA Member called with. metronome, Michael Carrick. Sohail Rahman who, at the Right now, United sit in an unfamiliar ninth place We spent a good 20 minutes age of 16, began his football and I find myself watching Fulham against Villa to half-an-hour grilling him coach badges and now, hoping for a Fulham victory to save us from the about all things United and aged 21, is a fully qualified ignominy of slipping even further down the table you can read his replies on coach and recently received and into double figures… Dark days indeed. pages 8-12. a letter of congratulations for Transition Mixed results in the Elsewhere, few will have this fabulous achievement run-up to Christmas failed to notice the recent from non other than Sir Alex We now know how important a player Michael left United mid table headlines about the sad himself. Read all about it on Carrick is for us, with us taking only two points from passing of Busby Babe Bill page 17. the four games he’s missed. However, it has to be Foulkes. Bill was one of the As New Year approaches said that the team have had no luck (how many that when we get , RvP, Phil Jones last remaining survivors of we have a fantastic new times have we hit the woodwork lately??!! ) and the and Micahel Carrick back together again, the the Air Disaster and feature by sportswriter Kevin injuries and suspensions (especially Wayne Rooney) victories will come too. The is all we have paid tribute to him Christie, called ‘The Kids Are have managed to combine to make an already about fine margins and the whipping boys of old on page 13. Alright’ which looks at the difficult time even worse. are all playing decent football now. Just look at Now, if you’re looking for progress of United’s non-first- Of course the ABU nation out there are enjoying some of the other results! something to fill the space team groups like the Under our discomfort and the internet warriors who, of Stoke beating Chelsea, City struggling to win on your wall when you take 21s and Under 19s. Be sure to course, never actually go to the games, are out away from home at Southampton, Newcastle down your Advent calendar, check it out on page 18. there clattering away on their keyboards. winning at and, of course, Everton you could do a lot worse than pinning up the With David de Gea half way through his third I say it’s time to man up, take it on the chin and getting a good draw at The Emirates. poster you see pictured here. But don’t go cutting season at United, we thought it was high time we come out fighting. has been given The manager knows we need to buy in the next out this small version because we’ve dedicated took a closer look at our Spanish stopper and Chas what most people agree is the most difficult job window and I’m sure we will be seeing a couple the centre pages of this edition of Rollin’ Reds to Banks has done just that on pages 20 and 21. you could have in football — following Sir Alex of new faces quite soon. Our next four league the painstaking work of MUDSA Member, Joseph Finally, if you’re lucky enough to have any Ferguson. fixtures look winnable and our luck must surely Major and his dad Alan. Between them, they have pennies left after the expense of Christmas, take a Transition is the buzz word of the moment and turn. We just need some of those shots that hit the managed to track down photos of every single look at page 22 where you’ll find a clearance sale most people who know their football, understood woodwork to hit the back of the net and we’ll soon player who has played for Sir Alex over his 26-year on MUDSA merchandise. it was always going to be tough. Losing RvP and be back climbing up the league. reign at Manchester United and they’ve arranged So I guess all that’s left for me to do, is to wish you Michael Carrick at the same time showed just how In the meantime, stop moaning and get behind them into this stunning poster for everyone all the best for the festive period and the new year! important they were for us last season. the lads! to remember, although, I’m pretty sure there Jamie Leeming — Editor I know I’m an eternal optimist, but I’m confident Chas Banks — Deputy Editor 6 UPS ’N’ DOWNS with Phil 7 Nothing is permanent except change… After a turbulant 2013, both Manchester United and MUDSA will continue to evolve in the new year

ay I just start off by wishing you all in the knowledge that the press and other media Mthe very best for 2014! haven’t changed one iota! IMPORTANT: Your Photos 2013 has been full to bursting with all kinds It’s catching! of news and changes but now we should see We received a great response from members after announcing that we things begin to settle and crystallise at the various After the departure of Sir Alex and David Gill, will be adding passport-style photos of individual members to their epicentres of last year’s movement. we now know that Karl Evans, Manchester United’s membership cards from the start of the 2014-15 season. This isn’t an overstatement as no other club has Director of Venue, has announced The time has come to really push members to send their images to us undergone such significant and defining changes that he is leaving the club as quickly as possible because they need collating in plenty of time for in living history. after more than 25 years. us to get them all done during the close season. You can email them or The vacuum or void that was anticipated Karl, left, has always post your photo to us at the usual contact addresses — please write your following the departure of Sir Alex and David Gill been a close friend name and membership number on the back. seems to have manifested itself in many different of MUDSA and has Again, we would urge every member to send theirs photos to us as ways and this is continually exploited by press and helped immensely soon as they can but please remember they need to be PASSPORT STYLE other media… quelle surprise! when have we held and just of the head with a plain white (or almost white) background. Without doubt the changes have been manna events at Old Trafford from heaven for the ‘vultures’, as Sir Alex used to such as our Annual call them… another speech about seagulls and a Dinner and Christmas developing his consultancy and to also French, left, a new name to most people. trawler also comes to mind! party. thank him for everything he has helped David has been with the club for a Journalists and media in general; they couldn’t On behalf of the MUDSA us to achieve with our extremely while and previously worked for say a great deal for such a long time but now they membership I would like to polished events! Nokia. are making up for lost time! Well, at least we are safe offer Karl our sincere best wishes for the future in Into the breach comes David Again, on behalf of MUDSA members we would like to wish David all the very best in taking over the Director of Venue role SUITE DREAMS ARE MADE OF THIS… and we look forward to seeing him One of the great things about the Theatre of thanks to everyone that took part in bringing at our Annual Dinner next October/ Dreams is that dreams do come true! it together. November to show him what we can do. Go to any other stadium in the country to watch Special thanks to Mark Metcalfe, the journalist And Finally… United play and you won’t experience anything who wrote it, Mark Harvey the photographer like our Ability Suite. and to Jamie Leeming for putting it all together. Once again, we conclude by thanking everyone Everyone knows what a great facility it is and We hope everyone enjoys taking a look at at the club who continues to help MUDSA thrive how welcoming it is — especially in the midst of this tribute to what is an outstanding facility in the way it does… if you need testament to this, winter… unbelievably the Ability Suite was 10 born out of the close links between the club and simply take a look at the Ability Suite book when years old last April and MUDSA has acknowledged MUDSA. you get the opportunity. this by commissioning a book to explain what it’s 2013 has been a remarkable year with significant all about. moments and defining memories. The front The book ‘MUDSA – Celebrating 10 Years of and back Here’s hoping that 2014 is yet another remarkable the Ability Suite’ was launched quietly at the covers of year, even though the look and the feel of it is the new Christmas Party and everyone there received a Ability Suite slightly different! copy. Of course, everyone should be able to get booklet Have a great time over the festivities and all the a copy but we would like to offer our sincere best for 2014! Phil Downs, MBE — Secretary/DLO 8 THE INTERVIEW Michael Carrick 9 It would be nice to finish my career here and stay on at the Michael Carrick club in some way talks to Rollin’ Reds

ichael Carrick’s not a man to scream extension, Michael. It’s rare for United to finish those. It’s not right at the front of my Mand shout about his capabilities — offer more than a one-year extension for mind, but it does give you an option to he openly admits he’s not the sort of a player to go on into their mid-30s. That stay in the game after you’ve finished person to bust veins in his neck in a Roy must be a compliment… playing. Keane-like rant. Yes, it was a natural thing. It didn’t take much RR: We were just talking with He’s United’s quiet assassin, the man who quietly agreeing to, as obviously they want me to stay and earlier, and we’ve and consistently punches killer passes through I wanted to stay. The deal is another year after this talked about Giggsy. There Premier League defences. Quite happy for a Rooney season and then the option of another year after does seem to be a vibe at or a van Persie to take the plaudits, Carrick quietly that. There was no reason to move anywhere. the club to keep the players goes about his business… and United bosses must RR: You mentioned Giggsy earlier. If your on in other capacities at the be pleased that he does. Having just signed a deal own body holds out, do you want to carry club. Can you see yourself to keep him at the club until June 2015, on like he has? Can you see yourself doing that, and staying in Manchester? with an option to extend further, playing on? Who knows? I mean I’ve been here a long time Michael, now 32, tells MUDSA I don’t think that you can plan myself. This is my eighth year. I think it’s a great why he wants to stay at Old I always like that. I mean, if you had asked thing at the club. They’ve got people who have Trafford until he retires… and looked Ryan five, six years ago if he’d been so successful here – the likes of Giggys and beyond! up to Peter still be playing on, he probably Scholsey, Phil Nev, Butty – they’ve been here for so RR: How are you finding Beardsley and wouldn’t have seen himself long and have so much to give. They know the club life under the new boss and doing so. I think you’ve just inside out and people look up to them. It’s all about coaches? got to take things year by year keeping the tradition of the club going on To be honest, it hasn’t actually when I was and Ryan is incredible really. and keeping its identity. been all that different. There’s the growing He’s got things going for him RR: But you’re still a Geordie obvious difference in that it’s different up in terms of his build, his balance boy, no? personalities and Sir Alex has left. David and how light he is on his feet. He [Laughs] Yeah, I am. My family Moyes is a different person, he’s got his own doesn’t put a lot of force through are all up there and my wife’s from ways of doing things, but around the training his joints and he hasn’t had any major injuries. up there. But we’re settled here, ground not much has changed. Day-to-day it’s He obviously looks after himself. Once you get to we’re happy here. The kids have the same sort of routines and the same principles. a certain age you just have to see how things are grown up here and are five-and-a-half People like have come in, and they going. and three now. It would be nice to finish obviously know the club, they’ve been here RR: Do you have any plans to move into my career here and stay on at the club in some before, and Giggsy is on the coaching staff so coaching? way. there is still continuity within the club. And I started doing the coaching badges two or three RR: Do you think of yourself as a shouter, a remember, a lot of the players have been at the seasons ago, but the way that the year panned motivator on the pitch? club for a long time, too. out I didn’t actually finish them as I was too busy No, I don’t actually. I’m quite laid back. I think RR: Congratulations on the contract playing. At some stage I would like to go back and that when you’re on the pitch, you have to talk, you 10 THE INTERVIEW Michael Carrick 11 FACTFILE Full Name: Michael Carrick DOB: July 28, 1981 Age: 32 Joined United: July 2006 Place of birth Wallsend, Tyne and Wear, England Nationality: English Int. caps: 31 have to communicate with the noise there is in the anyone out. Obviously Scholsey was just a genius Career goals: 31 stadium and most of the time that’s shouting, but with what he could do, too. Medals: FIFA Youth Cup 1998-99. Premier that’s not how I am normally. RR: You’ve always been known for your Legue 2006–07, 2007–08, 2008–09, RR: What about the coaches having to passing, but recently is seems like it has got 2010–11, 2012–13. League Cup: 2009–10. shout? even better. Do you think it has? FA Community Shield: 2007, 2008, 2010, Yeah, you know, I’ve played under managers that Thanks. Maybe my long-distance 2011, 2013. UEFA Champions League: have been quite calm, and quite composed. I’ve passing has. I think you just get better 2007–08. FIFA Club World Cup: 2008. obviously played under others who have shouted as you get older and I try to and screamed. I think there’s a time for both styles improve all of the time. and if you’re a manager, that’s when you have to gauge how to do things. There were none better how does it affect you on and off the than that over the years than Sir Alex. He had the pitch when games come thick and knack of knowing when to let loose and fast like that? let you have it, and then other Do you know, it feels like we’ve times he’d be really calm had that all season, a game every three of four days. It’s what Jamie and Chas chat we’re used to really. We do to Michael most of our training pre- at the AON when you were Training season to get ready for expecting him to go Complex the games, then training mad. It’s similar with the during the season it’s gaffer now, to be honest. a case of recovering He’s calm most of the time and preparing for and then, when he sees something he’s not happy the next one. Yes, it with, then he’ll let you know. can be quite tough, RR: Remember the two wonderful goals you mentally more scored against Roma in 2007? As a lad you than physically to started as a striker, didn’t you? Why don’t keep going and you shoot more often? setting the Well, it’s just the positions you get into really. The standards position I play within the team means that I don’t and hitting get in and around the box that often, apart from them in maybe corners and fee-kicks. every game. RR: What about in training…do you ever But if you shoot from distance? want to be winning trophies and be fighting at the You train how you play, basically. It’s not top of the league, you’re going to playing a lot of something that I’m too worried about if I’m honest. RR: United’s win ratio with you playing games. It’s what we expect here. RR: Who was your favourite player when you is around 70%, whereas without you it’s RR: Moving on to England, is playing in the were growing up, and who’s your favourite 60%… World Cup the pinnacle, something you player now? Well, I’m not one to look at the stats, to be dream of growing up even more so than I always looked up to and Paul honest. You can read a lot into stats and pick out European competitions? Gascoigne when I was growing up, because they different things, but I do wish it was a bit more than It’s different. Playing in Europe is something that were from the North East and were playing at the 70% when I was in [laughs]. I wish it was 100%, but you strive for every single season, but the World top level. Nowadays, you’ve got so many good you can’t have everything. Cup only comes around every four years. It’s a players in our dressing room, you couldn’t pick RR: United have nine games in December, so totally different feel. It’s your country and when the 12 THE INTERVIEW Michael Carrick A TRIBUTE TO A BUSBY BABE 13 Bill Foulkes 1932 — 2013

World Cup comes around the whole place changes. But playing in the Champions League final is pretty hard to top. arely a home match goes by without RR: The England players always take a lot of Ba reminder of that tragic event stick from the fans and the press, but they back in 1958. Whether you approach always seem to want to play on… the ground though the Munich Tunnel Yes, but to play in a World Cup, especially in or you take a moment to observe the Brazil this year, is special. banners decorating the upper stands RR: What do you think England’s chances of Old Trafford, it’s hard to forget that are? a group of heroes died for Manchester Well, it’s going to be tough. There are so many United but also, that a group survived. Bill at Old Trafford in 2006 good teams. We could have a good run and a bit November 25th, 2013, saw the sad passing of of luck and who knows? But it will be tough. Once one of them — Bill Foulkes. you get through the group it’s game by game Bill played an incredible 688 times for the Reds determined to be called back to play for the first after that. We’ve seen how well it can go, but — a number only bettered by , Sir team. This attitude worked in his favour and he we’ve seen how badly it can go. It’s a case of and , and he picked up returned to playing regularly for the first team from trying to peak at the right time. four League titles, an FA Cup and a European Cup the next season until the end of the 1960s. RR: Do you watch football much? winners’ medal along the way. During that period, Bill was one of the luckiest Do you know, I don’t really. Born into an athletic family from St Helens survivors of the — the I used to watch a lot when I he was almost destined to become a plane broke in half right beneath his seat was younger, but now legend. His grandfather had captained and he escaped with a minor injury to I try to get away St Helens Football the back of his head caused by a bottle from it. Mentally, Club and was also an England rugby of gin which fell from an overhead just to switch off, international. His father had also locker. Talking about the disaster I’ll watch other played rugby league for St Helens and afterwards, he said: “It was obvious sports. A lot of played football for New Brighton in the that we would struggle to take off and the lads will watch Third Division North. they took the chance. They should never a lot of footy, but watching other sport relaxes Foulkes himself played for the Whiston have done that. I don’t feel guilty about me. I’ll watch anything, though – rugby, golf, Boys Club in his teens and also worked at being a survivor. I was just damned lucky. Formula One. the Lea Green Colliery as a miner, a job which he But I do harbour this feeling that it wasn’t necessary, RR: And finally, deep down, you’re a continued into the mid-, by which time he was a that angers me. It cost the club, it cost the country Newcastle fan. If you’re still injured regular member of the Manchester United first team. so much.” when United play against them on Bill was discovered by United while he was playing Bill’s prefered playing position was centre half December 7th and you’re watching on for the Whiston Boys club in 1950. He joined the but he still managed a total of nine career goals for TV, would your loyalties be divided at all? club in March that year at the age of 18 years old. United, the most important of which turned out to [Laughs] Not a chance. I look out for After coming through the junior ranks of the club, be the winner (on aggregate) in the semi-final of the Newcastle and I suppose support them in a few he turned professional in August 1951 and made his 1968 European Cup after he latched on to a George ways. That’s just natural if you’re born there. professional debut in a First Division match against Best cross to side-foot the ball into Real ’s net. But there’s no chance that I’ll be wanting them on 13 December 1952, slightly less than a He went on with United to win the 1968 European to get anything against United. When you’re month before turning 20. United won the match 2–1. Cup final at Wembly and, afterwards, he said that growing up supporting a club as a kid you In the 1955–56 season, Bill won his first the win had helped him to get over the crash 10 don’t expect to be Championship with United but towards the end of years earlier. playing for another that season he found himself laden with National Bill leaves behind his wife, Teresa who he married team…you don’t Service commitments. Because of that, Matt Busby in 1955, and three children, Stephen, Geoff and even expect to began to favour over Foulkes at right- Amanda, and he will never be forgotten by the Old be a footballer! back. Bill responded by training harder than usual, Trafford faithful as one of the .

16 ROVIN’ REDS COACHIN’ REDS 17 Will Sohail be the Sohail at Old Trafford with his letter from Sir Alex and, below, with some of the next players he coaches Wheelchair-bound coach is aiming high The Club House Fergie? is packed with memorabilia dating back to 1959

wheelchair-bound football coach Afrom Bradford who dreams of one day managing Manchester United has had an endorsement from Sir Alex himself. Reds in the Med! Sohail Rehman, 21, suffers from a disability called hose lucky enough to visit the sun- The Club was founded in 1959 and they have the spinal muscular atrophy. He has always found Tdrenched Mediterranean isle of Malta original letter signed by Sir Matt Busby on the wall, it hard in life, trying to face the fact that he could could do a lot worse than paying a visit to giving permission for them to set up a Supporters never play the sport he loves. its Manchester United Supporters’ Club. Club. They have nearly 1,200 members and their But when many would have felt they’ve got no While on holiday in May 2013, roving MUDSA headquarters has a bar, several TV screens and even other option but to do something else, Sohail decided Member, Richard Haselgrove (below), dropped in has its own souvenir shop. he was going to break down barriers and, just like Sir to their Club House in Msida. Richard continued: “If you’re going to Malta and Alex, make the impossible dream possible. always had that blockage in my head saying I could He said: “Club President Joseph Tedesco is a want to visit, please contact Joseph beforehand but At 16, he began his coaching badges and now at not do it. But this letter has given me the belief. If a fabulous host who gave me a full tour. He took me be warned, the Club is up a flight of 25 steps with the age of 21 he is a fully qualified football coach. person like that can hear about you and what you into their Committee Room where the history and no lift — so only those able enough to make the But not only that, Sohail was given a nice have done, you shouldn’t doubt yourself. memorabilia was fascinating.” ascent need apply.” surprise when the man who inspired him, Sir Alex “I want to go to the highest level I can. My Ferguson, wrote a letter to him, saying: “Dear ambition is to one day manage a Football League Sohail, I am writing to congratulate you on passing club and to one day manage Manchester United. your coaching badges and becoming a qualified Some may say thats a crazy goal to chase but why football coach. It never ceases to amaze me the coach or manage if you wouldn’t want to manage enthusiasm and effort people put into the game the greatest club in the world? and more importantly in giving their time. May I “I have always had a love for football and always take this opportunity to wish you all the best for the for this club. Coming to Old Trafford to watch a remainder of the season. Well done!” game is a great feeling.” Sohail says: “It just shows the character of this How refreshing to see how our Club inspires yet amazing man because this letter was written in more and more people. And maybe one day he will April 2013 when he was planning his retirement get his dream of managing Manchester United. and how to tell the footballing world — he still had After all, a boy from Govan went to the highest the time to write to a young boy chasing a dream. heights of world football... From all at MUDSA, “It was mind-blowing to receive the letter, I have good luck, Sohail.

Richard with Club President, Josph Tedesco 18 THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT with Kevin Christie 19 Fletch returns for Christmas fighting fit and back in first team after surgery and strong perfomances for the Under 21s

here is absolutely no doubt that the had looked the better side without ever really Wilson had been captaining Paul McGuinness’s Tend of Sir Alex’s era was a seminal creating any clear-cut opportunities. Shakhtar Under-18s but has made a seamless and successful moment in the struck a decisive blow as United committed extra transition up to Butt’s Under-19s. United. men forward in search of an elusive breakthrough After Wilson bagged a brace in an Long before any news of the changing of the and while Ashley Fletcher did manage to hit a late impressive UEFA Youth League guard went public last May, any vague rumours leveller to set up a frantic finale, there was to be no performance against Bayer that Fergie’s retirement might be imminent were fairy-tale ending this time. Leverkusen in the autumn, Butt told met with little more than flattering eulogies and the Despite ultimately falling short, assistant coach MUTV: “He has got an abundance acknowledgement that following in his footsteps Paul Scholes believes it was a useful experience of pace and has great finishing would be an exceptionally difficult and, quite for the youngsters and hopes they have learned ability. He’s a nice lad and listens possibly, thankless task. some important lessons about the nature of and works hard. He has got Reality never crept in though; it was all Welcome back: European competition: “The lads have to all the attributes to be a hypothetical and imaginary and we never really got David Moyes wise up in Europe. The refereeing is a bit top player for this club brings Fletch it into our heads that he would actually be gone. A on for an different and the attitude of the foreign and, hopefully, he’ll keep impressive last huge proportion of fans couldn’t remember a time 20 minutes players can be difficult. They are clever playing like he did today when Sir Alex wasn’t manager; he was so engrained against Villa players and got away with a number of for us.” in the culture and history of the club that he was things but the lads really need to learn Wilson’s speed and synonymous with it. Imagining Manchester United from that.” athleticism stand out and without was like trying to imagine The result will no-doubt please U21s coach, Warren he has been a prolific Sensation Christmas without Santa Claus. Joyce, who had seen his side slip to a 1-0 defeat scorer at youth level. In against Stoke a few weeks earlier. Although ending So, while the campaign ended September 2012 he broke Calibre in defeat, that match also saw Zaha display the sort in disappointment, there were Danny Welbeck’s record of Now, as winter’s icy grip takes hold, we are six of brilliance which brought him to the attention of a some entertaining high points four goals in an Under-18 months into our post-Santa existence and David variety of Premier League clubs last year. along the way — most notably game by netting five in an Moyes is finding that the boots and beard don’t fit While it’s always heartening to hear about the in the impressive win against emphatic 7-1 victory over him snugly just yet. However, despite some tricky progress of our future stars, the Blackburn match Real Sociedad and Scholes was Newcastle. What’s more, moments so far, the signs of life are there and was also notable as played another optimistic about their chances next he also possesses great continued success may well be within our grasp. full 90 minutes for the U21s. Fletch hasn’t played time around, saying: “hopefully we can win the determination and mental Undoubtedly, the blossoming of the burgeoning for the first team since Boxing Day 2012 but surgery tournament next year.” strength. A potentially talents of The Class of 92 provided Sir Alex with in January has seen him on the road to recovery A lack of Under-19 games for the remainder of career-threatening ankle one of the key elements of the club’s domination from the ulcerative colitis which has troubled him the season means that the older members of the injury didn’t halt his during the Premier League era and I’m sure David since 2011 and David Moyes has confirmed that group need to press on and aim to step up to the progress and, indeed, he Moyes is praying that players of a similar calibre he’s training well — so well, in fact, that he was on next level and to push for a place in Warren Joyce’s returned looking sharper can make the grade over the coming years. Adnan the bench and then played the last 20 minutes of Under-21 group. “They have got to start doing than ever. Januzaj has been the first to make the grade this United’s 3-0 win at Aston Villa on December 15th. well in training every day and impressing Warren Of course it’s still season but many more are waiting in the wings, He looked like he’d never been away and it’s great and Nicky. They need to make sure they get into early days and young looking to make their mark – not least summer to see him back. that Under-21 team and, if they get in, they must James has a lot of arrival Wilfried Zaha. Meanwhile, Nicky Butt’s U19 side were eliminated make sure they produce”, Scholes warned. One to watch: hard work ahead of Zaha was on target for the U21s in a 2-0 win from the UEFA Youth League following a tense 1-1 One youngster who has made great strides in Under 19s striker, him if he is to make James Wilson, broke against Blackburn Rovers on 2nd December and draw in what was a must-win match with Shakhtar recent times is teenage striking sensation James Danny Wellbeck’s the grade but the U18s goal record, caught the eye with a dazzling performance, while Donetsk. Wilson who has been in fantastic form so far this scoring five against signs certainly are 18-year-old James Wilson scored a superb free kick. The result was harsh on United’s juniors as they season. A confident and composed finisher, Newcastle United promising. 20 FOR THE SHIRT David de Gea 21 Playing for keeps After a shaky start to his United career, David de Gea FACTFILE Full Name: David De Gea Quintana DOB: has proved his worth at Old Trafford. Chas Banks 7th November 1990 Age: 23 now takes a closer look at the Reds’ Spanish stopper Nationality: Spanish Place of Birth: Madrid Height:1.91cm Weight:76 Kg Handed: Right have to be honest and admit that when Under 21 Caps: 27 IDavid came to United in June 2011, Medals: I was far from convinced we’d got the 1 x UEFA Europa League, 1 x UEFA Super Cup right man. David’s goalkeeping inspirations are , I strongly fancied Manuel Neuer, who, of course, Victor Valdes and also his father who was a keeper. ended up going to Bayern Munich from Schalke that same summer. However, on one of our trips to The Aon Training Complex to interview a player for Rollin’ Reds, race. No player on the team deserved their medal I bumped in to Eric Steele in reception where I more than David at the end of the season and his Between the sticks: told him of my unshakeable belief that Neuer was When David’s not superb contribution earned him a place in the PFA the man for United. “What if there was someone on duty for United Premier League team of the year. you’ll probably find better?” he replied. At the time I couldn’t imagine After the horror of the 3-2 defeat by Blackburn him with his Spanish This year he has cemented his place and his save that, but I can see it now. Rovers at Old Trafford, when David was blamed by pop-star girlfriend, from Sunderland’s Giaccherini during a 2-1 away Edurne (below) I think I was fooled by Neuer’s size (he’s 12 kilos most of the media for the loss of the third goal, he win was described by Peter Schmeichel as one of heavier than David ) plus he has more than a passing was dropped and Sir Alex put Lindegaard in. the best saves ever seen in Premier League history! resemblance to Peter Schmeichel. However, it’s a bit David returned following an injury to Lindegaard David is currently dating Spanish pop star Edurne of an illusion, in that he’s only one centimeter taller and held down the position for the rest of the Juntos and regularly flies to Barcelona to visit her. One than David and it’s the height, reach, reaction time, season. He finished the season with the best saves of the advantages of not being in the national side bravery and agility of a keeper that count. to shots ratio in the Premier League, with 77.9%. means apart from getting the chance to rest, he After a difficult first season, caused to some After playing in the Olympics for Spain, causing can spend time with her. Of course it also means extent by an ever changing pair of centre backs in him to miss United’s pre season tour, he returned for that the speculation about him returning to front of him, people began to express doubts. the 2012-13 season, 7 or 8 kilos heavier and every Spain one day will always be there, although Goalkeepers are always under the microscope gram was muscle. He’d been working the whole he is happy and has no intention of leaving. and the United keeper even more so, especially summer on strength and conditioning exercises During the last International break he was following in the footsteps of . and he now looked the part. He was ready to take on the bus from the plane to the terminal There were some stand out moments though. on the Kevin Nolans of the World! when a Barca fan approached him and asked David kept a clean sheet on his Old Trafford debut David contributed massively to United’s title for a picture. David obliged. The fan then and saved a penalty from the then Arsenal captain, winning season making superb saves and showing asked him if he’d ever join Barca. “Who knows” , which would have cancelled out increased strength and agility, whilst refusing to be replied David, diplomatically. United’s 1-0 lead. He made further saves to deny pushed around. It helped that he had a more settled That was reported in the Catalan press as: RvP and Arshavin as United thumped Arsenal 8-2! defense in front of him, of course. ‘De Gea may join Barca’. The Daily Express than He improved game by game as the season I was fortunate enough to be at Stamford Bridge ran the piece on their website, except they said went on, having a great game against Chelsea and to see him make one of the best saves (from Juan the fan was a journalist. Tomorrow’s chip making two stunning saves in the 1-1 draw at Stoke. Mata) that I’ve ever seen to secure a point in the title wrappers, indeed! MY MUFC with Andy 23

DISABLED SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION Merchandise Paula DISABLED SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION Wood

NEW!

e are committed to offering our Wmembers fairly priced products with all the profits going to MUDSA. Merchandise is available on match days from Andy in the Ability Suite and from Liz in the quadrants. Merchandise is also available from the Age: club museum. 44 Badges, phone charms, lanyards £2.50 Number of years supporting United: Keyrings (leather) £3.00 38 Keyrings (metal) £1.00 Earliest memories of Manchester United: NEW! Pens (boxed) £3.00 United being promoted in 1975 1GB USB memory stick £4.50 NEW! Best United Memory: SPECIAL OFFER The Treble Boxed pen OR leather Favourite all time United Player: keyring AND a badge £5.00 Ryan Giggs Merchandise is also available at MUDSA events or Favourite current player: by mail order (plus p&p). Contact Andy, Ann-Marie Wayne Rooney or Liz (details on contents page). Player would most like at United: Most memorable MUDSA moment: The Christmas Party Hobbies: Clearance offer: Manchester United, Sale Sharks, TV, cinema Usual match day companion: All items below are £1 each while stocks last My friend, Dave Ashton “By attending ABOUT US. Foundation projects my confidence has The Manchester United Foundation works in some of grown and I have the most disadvantaged areas across performed in front and uses the passion for Manchester United to educate, of huge crowds” motivate and inspire young people. - Roosevelt Sigsbert, Street Reds We deliver football coaching, skills training, personal development and choir participant and life changing experiences, providing young people with opportunities to change their lives for the better.

Red Heart United is the fundraising brand identity for all of Manchester United Foundation’s fundraising activities. OUR GOAL To educate, motivate and inspire future generations to build better communities for all.

We aim to achieve this goal by delivering in five areas:

“Through the FOOTBALL We strive to provide football opportunities for school children and those Foundation I have with physical or mental disabilities. We also manage the Manchester United recognised my dream Foundation FA Girls’ Centre of Excellence. of stepping on the Old Trafford pitch as COMMUNITY COHESION head ball boy” We deliver a programme of football and alternative activities that act as a - Steven Boyd, Street Reds participant mechanism for community cohesion in some of the UK’s most deprived areas. and head ball boy EDUCATION We develop partnerships with schools to create community hubs and also deliver a range of educational programmes to primary and secondary schools, using Manchester United as a hook to engage youngsters.

HEALTH Using football, and other sports, we aim to develop a range of programmes that improve the health and wellbeing of local communities.

CHARITIES The Foundation manages the Club’s charity partners, Francis House, The Christie and UNICEF, and the distribution of signed merchandise for charitable purposes.

“Through training and playing with the Foundation I have been scouted to represent my country” - Natasha Flint, U17s girls’ player

Top View