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DISABLED SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION

Disabled Supporters Association

The official MUDSA magazine Volume 18, Issue 2, winter 2015 DISABLED SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH PLUS: 10 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT Marcos Rojo 2 CONTENTS Vol 18 | Issue 2 | | CONTENTS Vol 18 | Issue 2 3

Panic over... celebrates with Wayne Rooney after ending his goal drought against Hull in November

Phil Downs, MBE Sue Rocca Secretary/DLO Treasurer Inside this edition… C/O Ticketing & Membership Services, 113 Darley Avenue, United, Sir Way, Manchester, M21 7QR 4 The Platform with Jamie , Manchester, M16 0RA T: 0161 861 9454 5 Team Talk with Chas T: 0845 230 1989 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] 6 Ups ‘n’ Downs with Phil John Simister 8 Editor’s Notes with Jamie Jamie Leeming VI Representitive EDITOR C/O Ticketing & Membership Services, The official MUDSA magazine 10 Things You Didn’t Know Marcos Rojo 1 Althorpe Drive, Southport, PR8 6HS Manchester United, Sir Matt Busby Way, Volume 18, Issue 2, Winter 2015 12 MUDSA Christmas Party T: 07590 406669 Old Trafford, Manchester, M16 0RA E: [email protected] T: 07521 863737 This magazine is issued free of charge to 14 Exclusive RR Interview Wayne Rooney E: [email protected] MUDSA members. You can also view Rollin’ 20 MUDSA Annual Dinner Chas Banks Reds and download it in PDF format from our 22 Have Your Say Your Letters Social & DEPUTY EDITOR Ann-Marie Lewis website: www.mudsa.org C/O Ticketing & Membership Services, FAMILY EVENTS 24 The Kids Are Alright with Kevin Christie Photography: John and Matthew Peters Manchester United, Sir Matt Busby Way, 17 Bala Avenue, Holywell, CH8 7HD 26 MUDSA Official Merchandise Old Trafford, Manchester, M16 0RA T: 01352 715794 Production: leemingdesign.co.uk T: 0161 610 8200 E: [email protected] 27 My MUFC Ruth Eagle E: [email protected] Thanks this issue: Richard Trenchard Liz Edwards Kevin Christie Des Turner QUadrant Rep/MERCHANDISE John Allen Rollin’ reds production 37 Ashburn Way, Mill Gardens, 2, Cae Bryn, Garth, Wrexham, LL13 0YY Llangollen, LL20 7DQ T: 01978 264822 T: 01978 810528 E: [email protected] Keep yourself up to date with the E: [email protected] Follow MUDSA on Facebook: latest news by visiting www.facebook.com/MUDSA.official www.mudsa.org 4 THE PLATFORM With Jamie | | TEAM TALK With Chas 5

Time flies when Lou’s United squad you’re having fun is starting to click ith the pace at which some of us Phil Downs is next with an overview of what it n spite of a somewhat mediocre start to Persie and a fit again Di Maria, our attack will surely live our lives it’s hard to believe takes to run an organisation like MUDSA. the season (especially with what seemed be good enough to cement that Champions Whow time flies sometimes. On pages 8 and 9 you will find my inane Ilike a kind fixture list), most United fans League spot for next season. I’ve been involved with MUDSA for about four ramblings about the season so far and a few felt quietly confident that things would did a superb job against years now — starting off as a contributor to Rollin’ other matters which I think are of note, including work out under the new manager. Liverpool playing in the centre of a back three, Reds and moving on to become editor and I can some of the more interesting transfer rumours Now, riding on the wave of an 11-game but what a waste of a player who is possibly our tell you the time has flown by. which have been doing the rounds in the national unbeaten run (though with too many away draws), best at the moment. I can’t even begin to imagine how Phil Downs newspapers. sitting in a comfortable third place and in the hat It’s surely not a coincidence that since he feels as he has recently seen the organisation Next we have a few interesting facts about for the 4th round of the FA cup, that mark its 25th anniversary one of United’s summer confidence seems well placed. at the Christmas party signings, Marcos Rojo. In the main, the team have not been back in December. You December saw the playing brilliant football (although can read more about the 25th MUDSA Christmas against Hull we were outstanding) but celebrations elsewhere in Party and pages 12 and points on the board ae what count. this edition but I’d like to 13 are dedicated to that What United have done, is become take this opportunity to offer event which was expertly more resilient and rediscovered the my own congratulations organised by Ann-Marie. It fighting spirit that seemed so badly and thanks to Phil for the has been commemorated absent last season when Liverpool effort he’s personally put with a special badge which were beating us on our own pitch. in over the years to Make is pictured below and can This season the situations are MUDSA what it is today. be bought in the Ability neatly reversed, including the score With disability, Phil faces Suite on match days. line and it’s Brendon Rogers who is challenges just like the Chas and I were lucky being taunted with songs about being rest of us and so I think it’s enough to secure an “sacked in the morning”, not David fair to say that we’re lucky interview with club captain Moyes. to have this super-human Wayne Rooney and you can has definitely turned Bringing in quality players like Di Maria and Falcao has elevated United figure running the show. read what he had to say to things around, spreading confidence And every disabled sports us on pages 14 to 19. through the club from the top to the bottom. returned from injury we’ve gone unbeaten in 11 fan who’s ever attended an Another major event late His press conferences cheer me up no end! games. event at Old Trafford and last year was the MUDSA Even Fellaini has moved on from last season to We know now we’ve got the best keeper in the enjoyed the facilities over the years, Annual Dinner we have a write-up become a cult hero! country and as long as we can keep him out of whether it be a Manchester United about that on pages 20 and 21. Everyone knows there is a long way to go. You Real ’s clutches, it’s probable that his best match or any other event the stadium Last, but by no means least, we have don’t win the league by your goalkeeper being years are yet to come. All we need is to get the has hosted, owes Phil a pat on the back. the usual suspects including a packed player of the month three months running. four in front of him sorted out and we’ll be flying. Moving on to the this edition of Rollin’ Reds, letters page, a review of some of United’s However, the injuries we have suffered during I can foresee a scenario where we could start I must offer my apologies for the delay as this younger players with Kevin Christie and a Q&A the last few months have been beyond anything to climb the table like Liverpool did in the second should have been in your hands a month ago, but with MUDSA member, Ruth Eagle. I’ve ever known in 50 years of watching United. half of last season. Like us now, they had no I hope it’s been worth the wait as the team has All that’s left for me to say is a big thanks to all You have to believe that when we come out the European commitments and that extra rest and put together an action-packed read for you. the team who help to produce this magazine and other side of this blight, which surely must end preparation time gave them an edge. As usual, we start with Team Talk on the also to Fred the Red who I managed to corner for soon, we’ll look like a formidable team again. I’m officially excited about the rest of the opposite page — the thoughts of our own pundit, the photo above which was one of my favourites Once we have a defence that works (a couple season now and we haven’t even seen Falcao at Chas Banks whose views are always worth from 2014 — happy new year, everybody! of fully fit full backs would be a good start!) then his best yet! Happy New Year and bring on 2015! listening to. Jamie Leeming — Editor with an in form Rooney, a resurgent Robin van Chas Banks — Deputy Editor 6 UPs ‘n’ Downs With Phil | | UPs ‘n’ Downs With Phil 7 MUDSA is 25 years young!

UDSA recently switched offices from Ann-Marie presents the MU Foundation building to the with Ticketing and Membership Services the MUDSA Player M of the Year award building, i.e., the Ticket Office, a significant for 2014 with the help of other MUDSA move and perhaps an indicator of how far members and guests MUDSA has come in its 25 year history! Yes, the 2014 Christmas Party was our 25th anniversary. When we originally sprung to life we were thrilled by the best technology available… a fax machine and an Amstrad computer… it’s much more sophisticated and complex now! Our recent move allows us to streamline some procedures and benefit from shorter lines of communication with the people we work closely with producing improved outcomes for our members. It’s representative of MUDSA reality the medical model can’t be dispensed with being considered part of the club’s DNA partly if we are going to ensure our members receive due to the fact there is a significant amount of tickets for the most appropriate seating for them. expertise in our office relating to this complex and Standing still is the same as going backwards specialist area of operations. This background of in any area of the sport and leisure industry experience, expertise and understanding gives which effectively means it’s our job to keep an members the reassurance of knowing the people eye on issues likely to affect us in the medium dealing with their enquiries know and appreciate to long term. Take for example the increasing ‘disability’ in all its various forms. demographic which is going to put massive demands on every segment of industry, that Keeping pace with change being the rapidly expanding demographic of Our ethos has always been about plotting older people. Disabled and older people are an evolutionary course and anticipating likely to constitute around 50% of match day what’s just around the corner and making ticket holders by the time we reach 2030. We steady progress towards it. We appeared already know that we have 15,000 season ticket on the radar before any other disabled holders aged over 50 so we have already started supporters’ organisation which is testament to plan a ‘lift usage strategy’, an ‘accessible car to the club as much as any individual. Gradual parking strategy’ and you may have seen the progress has been made over the years as our blip MUDSA is 25 years old! — Check out development which has already been introduced, the new commemorative badges for on the radar became larger as the years passed sale in the Ability Suite on match days i.e., the buggy departing from N3 car park meaning we were ahead of the game with other carrying those people with walking difficulties to clubs playing catch up. It remains the same today the perimeter of the stadium. with only a few clubs coming anywhere near our introducing changes which constitute genuine 21st century provision of facilities tends to be There is clearly more to do in this department amazing standard of match day experience and improvements is what we have preferred to do; wrapped up in a standoff between those who for the next 25 years! Nothing remains to do each of those has benefited from the luxury of a we have steered a steady course along the line of believe the social model of disability should reign except thank everyone involved from day one… new stadium in a recent past. introducing improvements whenever necessary supreme whereas others still believe there’s merit Lyn Laffin, Ken Merrett, Sir Alex, David Gill to Over the past 25 years we have seen quite (or even before) and we’ve also managed to in extending the medical model to suit current mention only a few. We have much to be proud a number of ‘trends’ in the world of disability, sneak in a few landmark decisions to produce needs. We try to use a blend of both models of and we look forward to working in unison for however, we’ve always been more aware of exciting and exceptional developments such as in developing our operations which has so far the next 25 years and beyond! what people need rather than ‘trending’! Steadily the Ability Suite. helped us avoid making sweeping changes. In Phil Downs, MBE — MUDSA Secretary / DLO 8 EDITOR’S NOTES with Jamie | | EDITOR’S NOTES with Jamie 9 We must be best of the rest Rollin’ ifficult as it may be to accept, Forget about City by Manchester City. They could quite easily have RUMoURS Manchester United fans might just lost both games, but, on another day, they might IT’S JUST GOSSIP… OR IS IT? Dhave to get their heads around playing and Chelsea for this have taken more than just the one point. Ed Woodward and Louis van Gaal have second fiddle to the likes of Chelsea and season, our destiny is But, perhaps what got lost in what Van Gaal dismissed suggestions that United will buy Manchester City — at least for this season. in beating the OTHERS was saying is that United don’t have to compete more players in January but it doesn’t stop Over the last couple of decades we’ve grown with Chelsea and Manchester City this season. the newspaper rumours. Here’s a round-up: used to the ebb and flow of competition at the top “Despite the result, we are very close. You saw Of course, for United, wins over Chelsea and of the league with United predominantly coming it against Chelsea and against Manchester City. Manchester City will always be welcome. n Manchester United have earmarked out on top, but for Louis van Gaal’s rebuilding job “They are the two best clubs in this league and Juventus' former United midfielder Paul to achieve a top-four finish this year it’s the rest of the difference is zero I think. When you see what Pogba, 21, as their main transfer target. the league we need to dominate. we did with 10 against 11 [after Smalling was sent Daily Star, January 2nd After the recent back-to-back games against off] you can be proud as a coach.” n United are set to pip neighbours Chelsea and Manchester City, Louis van Gaal said There’s plenty to back up his claim. United Manchester City to the signature of United are “very close” to the two title favourites. drew against Chelsea and were narrowly beaten Fiorentina’s Colombian midfielder Juan Cuadrado, 26, in January. Sport Mediaset, December 13th n central defender Nemanja Vidic, 33, is on the verge of making a shock return to Manchester United. Daily Star, December 10th n Van Gaal is also hoping to bring Bayern Munich and ex-Chelsea winger , 30, back to the in January. Daily Express, December 9th n Manchester United are in pole position United played well against City, even with 10 men to sign Benfica’s £25m-rated Argentine midfielder Enzo Perez, 28, because Valencia It’s United’s form against the rest of the cannot afford him. Premier League that will determine where we Talk Sport, December 9th finish this season. United have already dropped n Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal is points against Swansea, Sunderland, Burnley, confident of signing Netherlands midfielder It’s Dave the save! Leicester and West Bromwich Albion. That was a Kevin Strootman. David de Gea’s last gasp saves helped Manchester poor run which ended end when we beat Crystal Daily Telegraph, December 9th United secure some vital points recently. Palace 1-0 Old Trafford on November 8th and it n Manchester United are keen on Atletico The Spain international has been in fine form was heart wrenching to watch United fail to win Madrid central defender Diego Godin with for club and country and Louis van Gaal has hailed games against either Chelsea or Manchester City boss Louis van Gaal not ruling out meeting his goalkeeper’s contribution to United’s upturn — especially as the latter was fourth derby defeat the 28-year-old’s £28m buy-out clause with in form. Here are some fans’ tributes that have in a row which is particularly hard to take. the Spanish side. been doing the rounds on and Facebook. But there will be plenty of others (most, in fact) Daily Telegraph, December 1st who will struggle against the two best teams in n Manchester United have been told the league this season. Borussia Dortmund defender Mats It’s far more important that United continue Hummels, 25, will cost them £47m. their run of form which has seen them beat Sunday Times, November 15th Arsenal, Hull, Stoke and Southampton. n Real Madrid are willing to sell winger We are used to having United’s seasons , 25, to Manchester United in defined by results against the title challengers January and plan to move for Chelsea’s Eden but at least for this season, games against the Hazard, 23, as a replacement. likes of Crystal Palace, QPR and Burnley and the Metro, November 8th rest will matter that little bit more. 10 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW Marcos Rojo | | THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW Marcos Rojo 11 Marcos Rojo is a Red! With a surname which translates to ‘red’ in Spanish, it was almost destiny that the versatile defender would play for United. Here are Rollin’ Reds top 10 Rojo facts…

His full name is Faustino Marcos Alberto Argentina teammate Ángel Di Rojo and he was born on March 20, 1990 María how to perform a 1(when Beats International’s Dub Be Good to as he performs it with grace Me topped the UK music charts). and style on a regular basis.

He can play as a left-sided centre-back or He can also be deployed left-back, and has done so on numerous further up the pitch 2occasions for United. 4as a winger, which will please Louis van Gaal who That goal against Stoke. The BBC website But judging by this ‘Rabona’ clearance at the prefers wing-backs in a 3-5- credits but Rojo did seem to World Cup (below) he doesn’t have much 2 formation. When within get a slight touch before it went in. 3confidence in his right foot. Mark Lawrenson shooting range he is not afraid to helpfully suggests “he would have looked an have a crack, and has been known to score ass” if he’d messed it up. Maybe Rojo should ask some wonder goals. However, 2011 wasn’t all that bad for Rojo: he made his international debut. It was 7a February friendly on home turf, and Rojo did have a good World Argentina defeated Portugal 2-1 thanks to a Cup on the whole and played last-minute penalty. He has since 5every one of the 120 minutes accumulated 28 caps, and his only goal was a during the final defeat to Germany. crucial one: the winner in Argentina’s final World Indeed, he was named in the team Cup group match against Nigeria: of the tournament having made 15 interceptions, won 17 tackles and Good news for United: Rojo can already completed 191 passes. In the semi-final speak English, according to his leg tattoos, against Van Gaal’s Holland, he helped 8which read ‘Pride’ and ‘Glory’. his side keep a clean sheet, and even nutmegged Arjen Robben. He has lots of other tattoos… ‘For My Family’ is on his chest. Another is dedicated to Rojo’s ‘Rabona’ clearance He used to play in Russia (and 9former club Estudiantes de , where during the World Cup. wore gloves). He signed for he won the trophy in 2009. Check it out on YouTube. 6Spartak Moscow from Estudiantes in December 2010 on a five-year deal, but According to transfer rumours, only lasted the 2011-12 season after a torrid before he signed for United, Marcos time, playing only 19 times. Rojo then moved 10attracted the likes of Barcelona, Real to for £3.5m in July 2012. Madrid and... Southampton. 12 MUDSA Christmas Party | | MUDSA Christmas Party 13

MUDSA 12 CHRISTMAS PARTY 2014

MUDSA is 25 years old! — Check out the new commemorative badges for sale in the Ability Suite on match days

he 2014 MUDSA Christmas party took place on December 23rd in the TInternational Suite at Old Trafford and saw the organisation mark its 25th anniversary. It’s hard to believe we’ve been going that long but the Christmas party is where all began, way, way back in 1989. The party always starts around 11am with a fantastic cooked breakfast, then just after noon the players begin to arrive. You could feel the excitement build as each thanks to Shirley Banks and Liz Edwards who sold Jones our compere, all the staff at Old Trafford of the players walk in and go around the tables raffle tickets to raise a magnificent £503! and Wig Wam who supplied the sound system. meeting members and their families, having This year’s MUDSA Player of the Year was There are two more MUDSA events photographs taken, signing autographs and David de Gea and he was presented with the approaching — the Bowling Challenge in April chatting away. award by me and my team of little helpers (right). and Belle Vue Dogs in July. Please contact me if Later on comes the raffle with some great Many thanks to Chas Banks for helping you’re interested in attending either of these. prizes which raise a lot of money for MUDSA, organise the day, Des for manning the door, Mark Ann-Marie Lewis — Family Events 14 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Wayne Rooney | | EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Wayne Rooney 15

14 I’ve always tried to give 100% on the pitch

t seems Wayne Rooney can do no wrong and . It doesn’t at the moment… After 10 years at Old happen every day… ITrafford he’s captain of both club and It’s a huge honour and I’m proud to be captain country and currently enjoying a superb run of such a fantastic club as Manchester United of form — scoring goals on both fronts. and also of my country. Chas and Jamie from Rollin’ Reds caught up RR: Do you think Manchester United has turned with the Manchester United front man at the Aon a corner and, importantly too, do you think Training Complex and here’s what he had to say… we’ve got a bit of luck back which seemed to RR: Captain of Manchester United and England. have abandoned us last season? Is this what you dreamed about as a little lad, Yes, I think we’re getting better and I think kicking a football about in the street? that you can see the resilience in the team now You know, when you’re young, all you dream because there have been games where we of and hope for is that you become a professional haven’t been at our best but we’ve been getting footballer. To have played for Manchester United a goal and seeing games out. That’s going to for ten years and for England more than 100 happen with a lot of teams, like with Chelsea and times is a great honour and something that I’m Manchester City, but we’re definitely doing it at very proud of. the moment and we just need to improve the RR: The last people to have done that were performance and keep getting those results. 16 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Wayne Rooney | | EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Wayne Rooney 17

RR: We do seem to have refound our fighting professional, and that’s only what you would RR: I think that’s a great psychological thing to spirit and refusal to lie down… expect. It’s different to what we’ve experienced do… That’s obviously always been there, I before and we’ve played a few different Yes. Normally, we’d train in the morning for a think, but David de Gea’s been brilliant formations this season. It’s great to be a player Boxing Day match and then go and spend the for us and has made some brilliant when you’re playing these night in a hotel. saves. But us as forwards and different formations and RR: Do you think the captaincy has attacking players are putting different positions. You’re Being changed you as a player and the ball in the back of the net getting experience and I person? too, which is helping us think the younger players in captain I think things like learning win games. particular will benefit from brings with how to speak to the media RR: You’ve played that. We knew it would take it a lot more comes with experience. I think time, because there are a lot of you realise being captain new things. But hopefully, as I responsibilities brings with it a lot more said before, we’re starting to take on and off responsibilities on and off the a few things from the training pitch the pitch pitch, especially being both out on to the pitch and see results. United and England. But I was RR: Since Michael Carrick happy to take that on and do it the best that I can. RR: Do you ever feel that there are people out there just waiting for you to make a mistake? I think there always is. I’ve been quite fortunate in that I’ve been under scrutiny since in Europe every season, and made the age of 16, so it’s something I’ve learned to your debut for United in a European has come back, we went through a period of handle. I don’t think it’s too much of an issue for match where you scored a hat-trick. winning every game. Do you think the United me. What’s it been like not playing European and England fans underestimate him? Is he a RR: You recently won a Twitter poll as the most football this season? footballer’s favourite and not a fans’ favourite? It’s a bit strange. You play your games Michael is great to have in your team. His at the weekend this season and then composure on the ball and the way he can read having that free week leading up to the the game is great. As we’ve seen, too, he’s got no next game is a bit strange. We’ve not problem in filling in at centre-half as well. He’s got been used to that. a great footballing brain. We as a team appreciate RR: Is it a bit boring? what he does and what he brings to the team. No, not boring. We come in and it’s a RR: You got to spend Christmas Day at home, for chance for us to learn more. Obviously the first time in ages, which must be great… but with having a new manager and a new who cooked, you or Coleen? way of playing, that time has given the It wasn’t me for sure! I’m not a cook. We did all chance to work on the things he wants on the preparations for the Boxing Day match before, the pitch on the training ground. but the manager let us have Christmas Day off RR: How is the training regime under at home, to spend with the family and children. Louis Van Gaal? Is it tougher, more It was a bit strange, but I’m sure all the lads, demanding, interesting? especially those of us with children, appreciated The whole thing is really being home on Christmas Day. Chas, Jamie and Wazza at the AON Training Complex 18 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Wayne Rooney | | EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Wayne Rooney 19

FACT FILE… Full Name: Wayne Mark Rooney DOB: 24 October, 1985 Age: 29 Career goals: 224 (United), 15 (Everton), 46 (England) Honours (club): Premier League 2006–07, 07–08, 08–09, 10–11, 12–13 League Cup 2005–06, 09–10 Comm. Shield 2007, 10, 11 To Champs League 2007–08 score a Club World Cup 2008 Honours (individual): PFA Player of the Year, Goal of the popular player among fans. goal like all working together as a team How does that make you feel and I think it might be a little Season (3), Goal of the Month (6), BBC Young Sports and why do you think you are that and for unfair to single any one player Personality of the Year, England Player of the Year (2), FIFA/FIFPro World XI plus too many more to list here! such a fans’ favourite? it to be the out. As a fan, I think they appreciate RR: Who is the hardest when they see a player is working winner was defender you’ve played hard for the team, and that’s amazing against? Which one has that and for it to be the winner was amazing. something I’ve always tried to do. I’ve frustrated you the most? RR: But the City fans still claim it came off your always tried to give 100 per cent on the I’d say . He’s the shin… pitch. You can always come off at the end and best centre-half. He’s not the quickest, but he’s To be honest, it doesn’t matter what part of say, “Well, I’ve tried my hardest.” I think fans can strong and he doesn’t mind a tackle. your body it comes off. see things like that. RR: Do you think we can win the league? RR: Do you think your lads will follow in your RR: Who’s the best United player you’ve played Yes. I think there are plenty of games still to go. footsteps? with? A lot can happen from now until the end of the I’m not too sure. They’re still young. To be I think Scholsey and Ronaldo. They’re two season. But we just need to focus on ourselves, honest, I’m not fussed if they follow in my very different players, but two great players in keep playing well and hope that we’ve put footsteps and play. If they do, great, but if they their own right. I think Scholsey for the way he ourselves in a good position if other teams slip don’t then I’m sure they’ll have other things they’ll controlled games for us, and then Ronaldo for up. I think the next few weeks could define our want to do with their lives. Whatever they decide the way he won games for us. I couldn’t really season if we do well. to do, or whichever path they take, I’ll be there to split them. RR: What’s the best goal you’ve ever scored? support them and help them. RR: And who do you enjoy playing alongside at I’d have to say my goal against Manchester City, RR: Is that it now, or are you still thinking maybe the moment? the overhead kick. It was a tight you could have a little daddy’s girl? There are so many great players in the team game, 1-1 with 10 minutes to Ha! I don’t know. You’ll have to wait and see at the moment, and we’re all playing well. We’re go, and to score a goal like what happens there… 20 MUDSA Annual Dinner | | MUDSA Annual Dinner 21 20 MUDSA 17th ANNUAL DINNER

Mark Jones chats with guest speaker Gordon McQueen and (right) Guests of honour including Paddy Crerrand, Guy Smith, Gordon McQueen, Mark Jones, Richard Arnold, Kate Green MP, Chas Banks and Phil Downs and (bottom right) some of the raffle prizes kindly donated by the Club ovember 7th, 2014, was a record- breaking night for MUDSA as we Ncelebrated our largest ever Annual Dinner at Old Trafford’s Manchester suite. It was the 17th time MUDSA has held this event, organised by Chas and Shirley Banks and their grandson, Mark, with the help of Sue Rocca and her daughter, Helen, and it went down a storm with guest speaker Gordon McQueen sharing some of his stories with the 550 guests attending. MUDSA would like to offer a huge thank you to the former United defender who, despite recently recovering from throat cancer and currently put on a wonderful and very professional service raffle including prizes such as a signed shirt and suffering with a couple of leg complaints which including a four-course meal and a table waiter football, kindly donated by the Club. have left him hobbling around on crutches, still service for guests to buy drinks. All-in-all, the MUDSA Annual Dinner is a attended when others may have cried off sick. Comedian Tony Jo had the crowd in stitches fantastic social event and a great value night out The Annual Dinner is open to all MUDSA with his 45-minute set before MC Mark Jones and is held every year around the same date so members and, as usual, the Club’s catering staff wrapped things up with the ubiquitous MUDSA look out for details this time next year. 22 HAVE YOUR SAY Your Letters | | HAVE YOUR SAY Your Letters 23 Your letters

Hi Ann-Marie, MUDSA member included the North Stand facilities, the VIP seats, Gladys has asked me to thank you on behalf of Gordon Collinge says Press Room and, of course, the Home Dressing Manchester United’s our son, Terry, for the Christmas Party. Neither Old Trafford stadium Room, Dug-outs and Players’ Tunnel. Half a could stop talking about it when they got home. tour is much better, dozen young lads including three from Norway, more accessible Gladys said it was the best one ever. Terry said and safer than were beside themselves as they were marched after all the years he has supported Manchester Barcelona’s in line out of the tunnel to the pitch with the full United he never thought he would ever meet the sound effects of a 76,000 crowd reception. players and have photos taken with them. He said As a visually impaired visitor in Barcelona I that day will live in his memory forever and will was left to my own devices, reliant on my wife’s be able to tell his grandchildren when they come guidance and support. around that he has met and had photos with the At Old Trafford I was immediately given best players of our time. reassurance, advice and whatever guidance and None of this would have been possible without support they were able to offer in order that I you and your hard work. Thanks and lots of love. gained the maximum experience possible, and I Best regards, Terry, Gladys & Terry jr. xxxxxx certainly did! Many thanks to all at the Theatre of Dreams — Hi, you had the Barca lot beaten hands down. I would just like to say thank you very much for But then again, what do we expect when the organising an amazing event. My little boy, Jack name is Manchester United! joined the party this year and he had “the best anniversary and we couldn’t have wished for supremos, Barcelona, in 2013 which proved to be Thanks, Gordon Collinge day of his life”! He hasn’t stopped talking about it. a better crowd to spend it with. The fact that most uncomfortable for a visually impaired visitor. I just wanted to say thank you for making his Gladys got a trophy on the day was the icing on Well at the MUDSA Dinner in November my To whom it may concern, dreams come true and thank you for all your hard the cake. None of this could have happened if wife and I won an Old Trafford stadium tour with MUDSA is a wonderful organisation run by the work bringing this event together. yourself, Sue, Chas and others hadn’t done such a canal cruise included. So here was my perfect most phenomenal team of people. Merry Christmas and happy New Year. a wonderful job organising the event. chance to compare these two great venues from Every time we have been to Old Trafford there Kind regards, Helen Yates. Thank you again on behalf of our family that the same viewpoint. has never been a single hitch. attended. My visit to the Theatre of Dreams was on Every query, every worry I have had as a Dear Phil, Gladys & Terry Wood xx Sunday 30th November and we were met at disabled person travelling from Fife, Scotland Thank you for the issue of the Members’ Potato Wharf, Castlefield, by Tony, a United to Manchester has always been addressed Handbook. Gladys likes the new style and size. It Hi Chas representative. During the Bridgewater Canal promptly and with a certain panache. I think the is easy to handle and is well laid out. With reference to our chat at the match on cruise, which included a lock descent into the MUDSA team is just awe inspiring and deserves It is obvious by the content and photos that a Saturday, we just wanted to say how much we Ship Canal and a return trip to Mode Wheel Locks, much more recognition than it has. lot of hard work has gone into publishing it and enjoyed the Annual Dinner on Friday. Tony assured us that the Stadium tour was quite I have to commend Manchester United for we would like to thank everyone involved. The meal was first class, Tony Jo was hilarious accessible even though there would be a few having the foresight to have such a fantastic It is things like this among many other events with some great original material which we hadn’t flights of steps to negotiate. After lunch in the facility. Every other football club should take note and features that make MUDSA stand out way heard before, and Gordon McQueen was down to Red Cafe we met up for the guided tour and were and learn from United’s disabled facilities and I above other organisations. earth and extremely entertaining with his tales — joined by a second United steward, Andy, who would also like to say that the stewards who man Gladys, myself and our granddaughter Liz we hadn’t laughed so much in ages! paid particular attention to me and other visitors the disabled section are beyond compare — (who mostly looks after her Nan at matches) All in all, we couldn’t have asked for more. in our party who might need extra guidance or nothing is too much trouble. If there is anything would like to wish all MUDSA members and staff Thanks very much to yourself and everyone assistance with the tour. they can do to make your visit easier then they a very happy and prosperous New Year. else involved in organising such a great night, it As Tony had advised, stairways in all parts of will do their level best to do it. Best regards, Terry & Gladys Wood was very much appreciated. the stadium were adequately equipped with This review may be a bit long winded and Kind regards, Mary and Don Hooper handrails and barriers and I felt completely safe gushy but this has been my honest experience Hi Ann-Marie, and comfortable throughout. of MUDSA and the Stewards of the Manchester Gladys and I would like to thank you for another Dear MUDSA, With the entertaining commentary of Tony United Football Club. I feel honoured to be part of wonderful day at the MUDSA bowling event. Readers of Rollin’ Reds may recall my account and the care and guidance of Andy I was able to the MUDSA family. It was a nice way to spend our 47th wedding of a very hairy visit to the home of the Spanish participate fully in the whole experience. The tour Facebook User 24 THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT With Kevin Christie | | THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT With Kevin Christie 25 Lou’s graduates continue to impress Blackett and McNair were key in recent games and there’s a queue of talent behind them

ith all the talk hat-trick in the 4-2 Lancashire Senior Cup win at of tactics, game Accrington Stanley in early October. He followed Wplans and statistics that up with the winner in a narrow 2-1 away win at that dominate the game in the West Ham — James Wilson grabbing the opener modern era, it is sometimes easy in the game before Elliot Lee (son of Newcastle to forget that there are basically just legend Rob) levelled for the Hammers. two different types of managers. The ones November started with a disappointing 3-2 who know you won’t lose the game if you defeat at home to Leicester City as Joyce’s boys don’t concede a goal, and the ones who couldn’t capitalise on an early opener from Wilson know you’ll never win a game if you don’t and they were eventually undone by former score. Some might argue that United hopeful Jack Barmby, who sealed the falls into the former category, while his win for the Foxes in the last minute of the game. successor, Louis van Gaal, belongs to the Joyce’s side, however, bounced back from that latter. disheartening defeat with a hard-earned point So, it was somewhat ironic that, on a weekend against an impressive Chelsea side at Stamford when Moyes took charge of his new club Real Bridge — Will Keane continuing his impressive Sociedad for the first time and led them to a solid scoring run by netting from the penalty spot. if unspectacular point courtesy of a 0-0 draw at Deportivo La Coruña, Louis van Gaal’s men finally Under 18s sealed their first away win of the season but had (left) and Paddy their defence, rather than their star-studded McNair (centre) were excellent Meanwhile, the Under-18s’ patchy attack, to thank for doing so. in United’s recent win at Arsenal form has continued into the wintertime after their uncertain start to the season. Resolute Encouraged by their win over Wolves at performance at The Emirates as he marshalled have been allowed to leave? With Robin van the start of October, United’s youngsters made it In his post-match interview, Arsenal’s the three-man defence to victory despite the Persie struggling to recapture his stellar form two wins on the spin with an impressive 4-1 win consolation strike slipped Wayne Rooney’s mind best efforts of a frantic Arsenal side. Smalling of two seasons ago and Wayne Rooney being at Blackburn Rovers — Oliver Rathbone (below) as he spoke of United’s satisfaction at having looked assured and composed alongside youth deployed more as a No.10 this season, Falcao’s grabbing a hat-trick. The joy was short-lived, kept a clean sheet and, while they didn’t quite team graduates Tyler Blackett and Paddy McNair loss is Wilson’s gain and the stage is set for the however, as United then suffered a hold out for 90 minutes, United’s defence was — who both continue to impress despite having teenager to make his mark and force his way into disappointing 2-0 home reverse impressively resolute. been fast-tracked into the first team a little the first team over the next couple of months. at the hands of Sunderland. That The arrival of the ‘Van Gaalacticos’ captured quicker than the coaching staff would probably was followed by a 2-0 friendly the fans’ imaginations as we saw a whole host of have liked. Under 21s win over Loughborough exciting internationals arrive at Old Trafford in the At the other end of the field, James Wilson Students — a match played in summertime but, arguably, it is the youngsters is in a different situation. His introduction has However, for all the talk of James Wilson at memory of Loughborough’s who have impressed most so far this season. The been more gradual because, despite Falcao’s the moment, another highly-rated young forward former coach, Mike ‘Doc’ unfortunate injury crisis that has deprived Van persistent injury problems, Van Gaal still has stepped up to the plate for Warren Joyce’s Holliday but, unfortunately, Gaal of some of his more experienced players has possesses a lot of options going forward. Young Under-21s recently. Loan moves to Wigan and McGuinness’s boys failed to resulted in a number of youngsters being thrown Wilson is being eased into the fray, making QPR in recent times didn’t quite work out for the build on that win and went down straight in at the deep end instead of easing their impressive cameos from the bench as the -born forward but young Will Keane is 2-0 to Everton in their next league way into the first team as the likes of Wes Brown opposition are tiring. His pace, directness and eager to prove that his injury problems are behind outing. Thankfully, the Under-18s and were able to do in the past. eye for goal offer United something different and him as he aims to remind both the fans and the quickly got back to winning ways and the Having fallen foul of the manager after his despite his limited playing time so far this season, coaching staff of his abilities. impressive struck both goals as ‘stupid’ red card in the derby, took there is no doubt that the manager rates him very Keane had an impressive autumn and he United overcame Newcastle by a score of, you the criticism on board and put in an impressive highly — why else would Chicharito and Welbeck was back amongst the goals again, netting a guessed it, 2-0! | MY MUFC Ruth Eagle and Joan Beresford 27 MUDSMUDSAA Beckham is my Merchandise all-time favourite Merchandise Rollin’ Reds catches up with MUDSA member Ruth Eagle

Badges and lanyards £2.50 Key rings (leather) £3.00 Pens (boxed) £3.00 RR: Number of years supporting United: RR: Favourite current player: Cufflinks £5.00 Since childhood but I’m a joint Ipswich Town and Going off current form I would have to say David 1GB USB memory stick £4.50 Manchester United fan. de Gea. SPECIAL OFFER RR: How did that come about? RR: Player you would most like at United: Boxed pen OR leather My dad’s family are from down that way so I have Maybe a defender at the moment but if I could key ring AND badge £5.00 relatives that are also Ipswich fans, but I’m from have anyone… Messi or Ronaldo, or both of them? just down the road in Denton. RR: What do you think of the summer transfers? RR: Earliest memory of Manchester United: I think we’ve had to pay rather a lot for them but and he played in the late 70s and then I think in some ways we were over a barrel, early 80s. I used to collect the football stickers and so to speak. I also the think that we’re a bit too heavy on the left side and up front. NEW for 2015 RR: Who do you think will win the league? Chelsea. Not much to discuss on that one. RR: Where do you think United will finish in the league? It’s difficult to say but hopefully we can continue this run we’re on and stay in the top four. RR: Approximately how many times have you been here to Old Trafford? This is only my second time as a wheelchair KEYRINGS MEMORY STICKS LANYARDS user. I’ve only ben disabled a few years with MS and so I’ve not always needed disabled facilities. Ruth Eagle at the Hull game with friend Joan Beresford RR: What do you think of the CUFFLINKS disabled facilities here at Old had one of him. Also my dad made a United Trafford? cake for my 9th birthday and it got dropped I’ve been to quite a few grounds PENS before anyone had a piece. There were and this is the best. Many of a few tears but my mum managed to the ones I’ve been to are lower make it into a number 9 shape league stadiums to watch Ipswich and saved the day. on their travels in the north. RR: Favourite all-time How do the facilities at other United Player: ground compare to here? I’d have to say David I guess we’re a bit spoilt here Beckham because but some of the other grounds of his free kicks and are shocking. Without naming Clearance ITEMS: his crossing. I don’t names, I’ve been sat in the All items below are £1 each while stocks last think he was an all- pouring rain at some grounds round player like and there’s nothing like but I just the Ability Suite. United’s liked him. disabled fans are very lucky. When I’m wearing that badge I think there’s nothing I can’t do. Working with young people and using football to help them; there’s nothing more brilliant than that. Joab Westwood, Street Reds coach(former participant and volunteer)

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