Wolves set to visit OT

United have been drawn at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Carling Cup fourth round.

The road to Wembley continues as the Reds welcome Wolves - who United met in the third round en route to the final last year - to Old Trafford during the week commencing Monday 25 October 2010.

The date and kick-off time of the match will be confirmed in due course.

Holders United saw off Scunthorpe in the third round with a 5-2 win that in the end proved comfortable despite the Championship side putting up an impressive show on home turf at Glanford Park.

The draw for the Carling Cup fourth round is as follows:

Newcastle v Arsenal
Birmingham v Brentford
Wigan v Swansea
Aston Villa v Burnley
Leicester v West Brom
United v Wolves
West Ham v Stoke City
Ipswich v Northampton

The price was fright for Berbatov

DIMITAR BERBATOV admits his huge price tag has been a millstone around his neck.

Only now are Manchester United seeing the best of the Bulgarian - two years after his £30.75million move from Spurs.

Berbatov has seven goals in six games this season.

The 29-year-old admitted: "You try not to think about it but sometimes you just can't help it. You start thinking, 'It's a lot of money and what's going to happen if you don't prove good enough for that amount of money or you don't score enough goals?'

"They're always going through my mind and sometimes it can be bad for your concentration and your skills because it distracts you.You start to underestimate your skill which is not good because I know what I can do.

"But every player has periods like this and the main thing is to stay strong because you are going to have dark moments.

"In the end I just say, 'Relax, play. You're playing for the biggest club in the world' - nobody can say anything else."

Owen Hargreaves set for comeback

ALEX FERGUSON has hinted Owen Hargreaves could soon be back in the first team reckoning at Manchester United.

The injury-plagued England midfielder has played just one minute of football in the last two years.

He has struggled with a persistant knee problem and was thought to have suffered a setback earlier this year.

But Ferguson has revealed Hargreaves is back in training and looking to build his fitness ahead of a potential return.

The United boss said: "He trained yesterday with the first team and looked very good.

"I was surprised actually how good he was looking. It's an extra string to our bow.

"Bringing him in at this time, after being out for so long, obviously we'll have to monitor him and see how he's going to progress in the next few weeks.

"But it's good to see him back.

"Because he's been out for so long you have to see whether there's going to be a relapse.

"That's the first thing on our mind at the moment but having watched him in training yesterday if he continues that way he's going to give me another selection problem, no question about that."

Ferguson has also confirmed Michael Carrick is on the road to recovery after having an injection in his Achilles.

The Scot added: "Michael started training last week. He had that injection on his Achilles to settle it down.

"It was nothing serious, just one of those niggling little problems you can get with your Achilles, particularly at the start of the season when grounds are firm. But he's fine, he's started training."

Owen savours cup start

Michael Owen conceded that Wednesday's Carling Cup win over Scunthorpe was a vital outing for several squad members who have found themselves consigned to the first team periphery this term.

The 30-year-old bagged a brace in United's 5-2 victory at Glanford Park, as he made his first start since August's Community Shield. United's starting line-up contained eight players who had made one or less starts so far this term, and a pepped-up Scunthorpe side provided a valuable test of their fitness and sharpness.

"There are a few of us who haven't been playing a lot this season and needed the game, and Scunthorpe made a real game of it," Owen told MUTV. "They're obviously very fit and they never stopped going forward.

"We scored five goals but they could have scored a few as well. It was a good game. There were a lot of players there tonight that needed that first game; be it players coming back from injury or players who just haven't played, so that was beneficial to us.

"All in all it was a good workout and we're pleased to get through to the next round - especially seeing the other results!"

Owen feels he and a number of other action-starved players have fallen foul of the early-season schedule, but the striker predicts that the onset of cup duties, allied to the bread and butter of the Premier League, will ensure plenty of squad rotation from Sir Alex Ferguson.

"It's been a strange start to the season," said Owen. "We played weekend-weekend-weekend, and then it was international games for two weeks so the manager didn't need to rotate so much. Subsequently, five weeks into the season the manager had kept a similar team.

"We're coming into a period now where the Champions League has started, the League Cup has started and there are Premier League games, so I'm sure there will be a lot more games coming thick and fast now."

Berba: It was a magical day

Dimitar Berbatov took home a big smile and a signed matchball after enjoying arguably his finest hour for United.

"It's a magical day, special for me because I scored a hat-trick and we won against our rivals Liverpool," the Bulgarian beamed on MUTV. "Everybody was happy in the dressing room after the game. I'm happy too and I'm going home with a smile on my face because we won a very important game.

"It's probably one of my best games for United but I don't want it to be my last so I will keep working and hopefully I'll improve on the things I try to do. Today, everything happened for me. I give thanks to my team-mates who supplied me for the goals."

The forward's second goal - a stunning overhead kick - is an early contender for goal of the season. But with his back to goal, Dimitar didn't have the best view of it. "Honestly I didn't see it go in, but when I hear the crowd screaming, it was easy to guess what happened. For me, if the ball's in the net, it doesn't matter if it's an overhead kick or a tap-in."

At that stage, the Reds looked certain to enjoy a comfortable win. But two goals from visiting captain Steven Gerrard changed that and two points looked to be slipping away for the third time this season. "This was going through my mind when it was 2-2 but we showed we have good spirit, a fighting spirit and we always fight to the end," he added. "We scored a third goal and we deserved the win.

"Liverpool put up a good performance but I think we deserved it more than them. Let's hope in the future we don't complicate it so much! It's good when you're up 2-0 but even better when you make it 3-0. We'll keep working, we'll keep improving. There is a long way ahead of us but hopefully we'll be on top at the end of the season."

From a noisy afternoon to a quiet night in, Berbatov revealed there would be no big celebrations. "I'm going home to play with my kids," he said. "I am nothing special. Tomorrow is another day and next Sunday we have another game. That's it."

Berba's back on Sunday

Sir Alex isn’t in the habit of giving away too many secrets, but the United boss has confirmed Dimitar Berbatov will play against Liverpool on Sunday.

The Bulgarian has been in fine form this season, netting four goals in five games to silence members of the media who had questioned whether he was cut out to play at Old Trafford.

But the manager has always backed the striker and will put his faith in the 29-year-old again when he sends him out against Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday.

“Not everyone’s questioned him,” Sir Alex reminded the press on Friday morning. “He has a lot of admirers, particularly within this club.

“When we buy a player for a lot of money there’s more focus on them. When they have a bad game they get criticism other players might not get.

“Dimitar’s had some marvellous games for us. I’ve told him he has to dismiss the press. I think he worried about [the headlines sometimes]. But he’s expressed himself this season very well, he’s enjoying his football and he’ll play on Sunday.”

The boss also confirmed “everyone else is fit” and reiterated his belief that United-Liverpool games are still the biggest drawcard on the English football calendar.

“I may sound like a parrot sometimes because I say this time and time again but this is the fixture. And the form in these fixtures fluctuates quite a bit.

“There was a period for about five years [in the late 90s] when we hardly lost and then recently they won a few in a row. We won the last game [in March 2010], so hopefully that swings it back in our favour again.”

Although Liverpool played a Europa League tie on Thursday night, Sir Alex doesn’t expect any sizable advantage from an extra two days’ rest.

“Liverpool rested players on Thursday so it doesn’t really matter. Both teams will be well prepared for the game. We’re looking forward to it.”

Valencia surgery successful

United have confirmed that Antonio Valencia's ankle operation was successful.

The Ecuadorian winger was stretchered off during the Reds' Champions League draw with Rangers on Tuesday after dislocating and fracturing his left ankle.

Valencia is likely to be out of action for a while, but remains in good spirits.

"The operation went well," a club spokesperson told ManUtd.com.

"A plate has been inserted to stabilise the fracture but there is obvious significant ligament damage that follows a dislocation and he will be out for a good portion of the season.

"Contrary to recent reports there has been no official contact from the Ecuadorian national team. Antonio is perfectly fine, very positive and very determined."

Get well soon, Antonio

Antonio Valencia underwent surgery on a fracture and dislocation of his left ankle on Wednesday, the start of the long road to recovery from the horrific injury he suffered against Rangers at Old Trafford.

But team-mate Darren Fletcher says Valencia has the character, determination and mental aptitude to overcome the injury and battle his way back to the standards he reached in an excellent debut campaign for the Reds.

"It was a really bad injury," admitted Fletcher, on the field when Gers defender Kirk Broadfoot's innocuous-looking challenge led to Antonio being stretchered off the field with an injury Sir Alex Ferguson likened to the leg-break Alan Smith suffered at Anfield in 2006.

Flecher added: "He’s a good lad and a strong character. Having just got back from injury at the end of last season, it’s a real blow for him. But he has real determination about him and he works hard. He’ll be back, I’m sure. He’s a top player. He’s been great since he came from Wigan.

"He had a great first season and he was looking to push on this year. That’s why the injury’s a blow. But he has a long future at United and I’m sure he’ll be back as soon as possible."

Valencia's injury capped what was a hugely frustrating night for the Reds all round. But Fletcher says Rangers deserve credit for their defensive organised and dogged resolution not to allow United to break them down.

"I don’t think many teams have played with three centre-halves before," he said. "I think that was the difference. Usually when you play against teams who get men behind the ball they have the extra man in midfield, but Rangers had it in defence and they proved difficult to break down."

I'm living the dream (Nani)

It's not just Manchester-born first-teamers who dreamt of playing for the Reds as youngsters. Portuguese winger Nani has revealed he visited Old Trafford before he joined United and sat in the dressing room daring to dream he would one day earn his own place there.

In an exclusive interview with Inside United, the 23-year-old tells of his trip to M16 as a youngster and looks back on how far he has come since.

"I came with my friend and we did the tour of the museum and the stadium," explains to the monthly magazine, out now. "I remember sitting in the first-team dressing room and both of us saying ‘wow, this is Ronaldo’s place’ and ‘this is where Rooney and Giggs sit'!

"We sat there and said ‘imagine what it would be like to be part of this dressing room one day,’…and then two years later I was here. It was a great feeling when I signed."

Nani talks in-depth about his emergence as one of the key men for United in 2010, and how he is enjoying his football and feels at home in Manchester and at United.

"The life here is very nice," he adds, "but the best things for me are being able to play football every day for such a great club and having the opportunity to win trophies each season.

"I’ve learnt a lot in my time here - I'm older, more experienced and I have more confidence. It's my fourth season at the club and it feels like this is home now."

 

Welbeck makes progress

Danny Welbeck is pleased with his performances on United's pre-season tour of the US and Canada, and says it's the result developing as a player mentally just as much as he has done physically or technically.

The 19-year-old forward shone in United's second tour match against Philadelphia Union this week, and he’s hoping his performances will catch Sir Alex Ferguson's eye.

"I’m really pleased with how the tour has gone for me so far and I’m happy with my performances,” Danny told ManUtd.com.

“I’ve got to keep going and continue to get my fitness up. The game in Philadelphia was a good game for us and a good test of our fitness levels. It was quite open at times but we’re pleased to have got the win.

“My main aim is to be part of the first team set-up this season, but I’m happy to go on loan if the manager wants me to. I just want to keep playing games and improving.”

The Longsight-born striker feels his game has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years.

“I feel like I’ve improved a lot over the last couple of years in particular,” he explains. “I’ve learnt so much during that time, particularly the importance of mental strength on and off  the pitch. I want to keep improving and striving to show everyone what I can do.”

Much of that development is rooted in the exposure to playing alongside experienced professionals like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, something Welbeck – like al the other youngsters on the tour – has relished across the Atlantic.

“It’s always good to be away with a few of the older lads because you pick up so much from them every day. You see how they prepare for games, how they rest and how they train.

"The older lads at the club are unbelievable – they have this huge determination to win every single training match, let alone actual games. Just to be around them is a real privilege.”

Smalling hails United welcome

MANCHESTER UNITED new boy ace Chris Smalling has thanked Wes Brown and Jonny Evans for helping him settle in.

Smalling is looking for his second run-out for the club against Philadelphia Union on Wednesday at Lincoln Financial Field.

The former Fulham star played alongside Evans at the back in the 3-1 victory over Celtic on Friday in Toronto.

With Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic both absent, the 20-year-old has the chance to make an early impression on manager Sir Alex Ferguson and the coaching staff.

Smalling said: "The tour has been a really enjoyable experience so far. It was great to meet everyone, initially at Carrington.

"I have spent quite a bit of time with Wes and Jonny, my fellow centre-backs.

"And I have also been chatting to a lot of the younger lads. It is just great to get to know everybody and be part of such a great club. I just want to do my best."

Defensive team-mate Wes Brown said: "Chris is a great lad and has fitted in brilliantly.

"He has been training really well — he looks very fit and sharp. I am sure he will be ready and raring to go for the start of the season."

Nani on course to return

After a summer of injury frustration, Nani is relishing the chance to get back to business having recovered from a broken collarbone.

The Portuguese winger was one of United’s most influential performers during the second half of last season and he was looking forward to taking his good form into the World Cup.

Unfortunately, injury prevented him from featuring in South Africa, but he has since made a good recovery and is ready to return to action for the Reds.

“I started full training with the team a couple of days ago and I feel very good now,” he told reporters at a press conference in Philadelphia.

“My fitness is getting better all the time and I hope to be involved in this week’s games [on Wednesday against Philadelphia Union and Sunday against Kansas City Wizards].

“I’m very much enjoying the tour – it’s a great opportunity for me to get a good pre-season under my belt ahead of the new campaign.”

Berbatov is 'the right player'

Sir Alex Ferguson has reiterated his belief that Dimitar Berbatov is the 'right player' for Manchester United.

Since becoming United's club record signing in 2008, the Bulgarian striker's performances have been heavily scrutinised. However, Berbatov shone in the Reds' opening pre-season victory over Celtic, and Sir Alex insists everyone in the United camp is behind him.

"He got man of the match, and I think he deserved that, no question," Sir Alex told MUTV after Saturday's win over the Bhoys. "His performance was excellent. In the second half he produced some fantastic moments.

"It underlines the one great factor - that class he has. You cannot take that away from him, no matter the crticism. It doesn't come from our camp. When we see that we know we have the right player."

As United continue to be linked with a string of new strikers, Sir Alex gave backing to his current roster of front men and conceded that he has an abundance of attacking options for the new season.

"We are happy with the strikers we have got," he said. "You have to decide what is the best combination. Diouf has got different talents to Macheda and Welbeck. He penetrates, he is quick and aggressive. We have really good talent in the striking department with Hernandez also joining us, so that is a good area and a good future for us."

Berba feeling good

Having scored the opening goal and provided a further pair for Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley, it's little wonder Dimitar Berbatov was in chipper mood after United's win over Celtic.

The Bulgarian international looked sharp throughout the opening game of the Reds' pre-season campaign, and he is relishing the start of the season proper.

"It's the first game of pre-season, still too early to judge, but it was a good test of our physical form and technical as well," Dimitar told PA Sport. "I enjoyed the whole game. We have started well with a win. We have a lot of games before the season starts so I think we will be fully prepared."

Although Berbatov and his colleagues are eagerly anticipating the 2010/11 campaign, the Bulgarian admits he is enjoying the nomadic experience of United's pre-season tour.

"When the summer comes you don't stop playing, you play with your friends," he said. "But when you come here you play with your team-mates. The season is starting so it's very exciting. You come to new countries, see new people, play different teams and it's very exciting."

Sir Alex: Players raring to go

United's players were relieved to get back in action against Celtic after almost a fortnight of training ground slog, according to Sir Alex Ferguson.

In order to build a fitness base to withstand the rigours of a full season, the players tread some hard yards under instruction from the fitness and coaching staff.

Having put his squad through their paces, Sir Alex revealed they were straining at the leash ahead of Friday evening's opening US Tour victory over Neil Lennon's Bhoys.

"We try and get the preparation to a point where they want to want to start playing games," the Boss told his post-match press conference. "There was a little bit of boredom in the training yesterday (Thursday). They had seven days at Carrington, four days in Chicago and they were desperate for a game.

"That is the one thing pre-season brings on: the desire to start playing games. No one likes pre-season. It does not matter how good it is. Nobody enjoys it because it is rough and tough. It is the hard bit of the game. Thankfully we are on that route of playing."

United overcame the Hoops through goals from Dimitar Berbatov, Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley, and Sir Alex was more than satisfied with the stern test his players overcame.

"The first game is one you want to get out of the road because fitness comes into it, as does the time you give to your players," he said. "I thought we were nearly right. I was pleased some of the performances were good.

"There was a period after Celtic scored they got a bit of dominance over us. That was a period we had to get through. The second goal killed the game. It was a fantastic goal too. A marvellous bit of football from Berbatov.

"Celtic were very competitive. That's been the way when we have played them. There is not a lot in it between the two teams because the Scotland-England thing motivates both sets of players. It was never going to be an easy match."

Hernandez can be 'major influence'

Javier Hernandez has already impressed his new coaches and manager with some outstanding displays at the World Cup – prompting Reds assistant boss Mike Phelan to suggest he can have a “major influence” at Old Trafford.

Hernandez will meet up with his new team-mates on the summer tour of America in time for the match against his former club Chivas in Mexico. And Phelan says everyone at United is looking forward to linking up with the 22-year-old.

"We were quietly pleased with what we saw of Javier at the World Cup,” Phelan told ManUtd.com.

“He’s still on a break after being in South Africa with Mexico, but we’d like to get him on board as quick as we can, so he’ll join us in America. Then hopefully he’ll be a major influence on the team.”

Hernandez’s World Cup performances justified United’s move for the young striker, whose two goals - one of them an unerring finish in their second round 3-1 defeat to Argentina – highlighted his abundant potential.

“We did the deal before the World Cup and that has probably helped us a little bit!” added Phelan. “He has only just begun his career with the national team, but already he is a very influential player for Mexico. He’s young, he’s athletic and he’s as keen as mustard. He’ll be a good addition to what we’ve already got.

"We all hope he hits the ground running and adds to what we think is a good blend of youth and experience in our squad. We just hope it all comes together.”

Hernandez isn’t the only new face in the United ranks this summer. Young centre-half Chris Smalling joined from Fulham in a pre-announced deal and has been training with his new colleagues at Carrington this week. He is another player who has impressed Phelan.

“We’d spoken to Chris a few times before he actually joined us,” said Mike. “He knew he was coming to the club so we kept in close contact with him. He’s with us now and looking forward to the challenge.

"A club this big is brand new for him. But given time and with a bit of patience, I’m sure he’ll do well. The tour will help him settle in and get to know everyone.”

Hargreaves to miss tour

Owen Hargreaves has today been ruled out of United's pre-season tour.

Sir Alex Ferguson told MUTV: "The bad news is that Owen Hargreaves is back in America seeing the specialist. He won't be ready for the start of the season. I don't know when he'll be back."

The midfielder was sidelined between September 2008 and April 2010 and required surgery on both knees but did return to action at the end of last season. He played 45 minutes for the Reserves before making a brief appearance off the bench in the first-team's final away fixture at Sunderland.

There’s plenty of positive news for United fans, though, with the boss confirming three key men should recover from injury in time to line up for the start of the season.

“Antonio Valencia should be okay and Nani should be ready for the start of the season, too. Michael Owen is doing great – he’s doing all his work in the gymnasium every day. I don’t think he’ll be fit to go to America but he should be ready for the start of the season.”

The boss also revealed Rio Ferdinand faces a battle to be fit for the Reds’ first league test, at home to Newcastle United on Monday 16 August, although admitted it will be a race that’s run close.

“It depends on how his progress is over the next few weeks,” he said.

Meanwhile, Brazilian midfielder Anderson remains on track to return from a cruciate knee injury in late September.

“He’s doing fine, he’s working hard, but it will be late September.”

Man United are just FABIANO

LUIS FABIANO hopes to play alongside his dream strike partner Wayne Rooney at Manchester United.

Seville want around £40million for the Brazil hitman - who aims to add to his two-goal World Cup tally in tonight's last-16 clash with Chile.

Fabiano revealed: "Premier League football attracts me and the way United play football attracts me.

"You think about being Wayne Rooney's strike partner and that is very attractive for any striker.

"I've made it clear I will not be signing a new contract with Seville.

"At 29, I now need to join a club where I can start challenging for the highest honours. The choice will come down to Manchester United or AC Milan."

Manchester City striker Robinho has hit six goals in Brazil's last five matches against Chile.

He said: "I've always been lucky against them. I hope that's what happens again."

Michael Owen targets US comeback

A hamstring injury sustained in February's Carling Cup final cut short Michael Owen's first season as a United player. Now, after surgery and months of rehabilitation, the striker says he's looking forward to lacing up his boots on United's pre-season tour.

Speaking at the launch of Sky Sports 1&2 on BT Vision, Owen revealed he's nearing full fitness.

"I'll be ready for the start of the season, although I might have to miss one or two pre-season games on the American tour," he said.

That news may come as a blow to fans in Toronto, where United kick off pre-season preparations on 16 July, but supporters in Philadelphia, Kansas City, Houston and Guadalajara (Mexico) will be hopeful of seeing Owen in action.

He's certainly making good progress and has worked hard over summer in order to make a full recovery from an injury that turned out far more serious than first thought.

"Basically, I tore my hamstring. It came apart. I had surgery to tie it back together and at this stage I'm not sprinting but I am kicking balls."

Pair become United players

Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez and Chris Smalling are officially United players from today (1 July).

The two new boys initially agreed deals to join the club during the last season, and their contracts are now effective.

United fans have been excited by Chicharito’s promising displays at the 2010 World Cup. The talented striker hit two goals in four games for Mexico, including a superb late effort in his side’s last-16 defeat to Argentina at the weekend.

Chicharito is determined to succeed at Old Trafford. "My expectations are to do the best I can personally, to work, to learn, and to win many trophies," the 22-year-old said when the deal was first announced – to near-universal surprise – in April.

Defender Smalling, who played 18 times for Fulham last season, agreed terms on a four-year deal in January. The 20-year-old will link up with his new team-mates at Carrington next week as those players not involved in the World Cup return to training.

Chicharito will be given some time off after his exploits in South Africa and will meet his new team-mates for the first time during July's trip to the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Reds fans will likely get their first glimpse of the duo during the tour, and Sir Alex has confirmed Chicharito will play some part in the friendly against his former club Chivas.

Scholes eyes coaching role

PAUL SCHOLES wants to go into coaching when he hangs up his boots at the end of next season.

The Manchester United midfielder has agreed to play for one more campaign at Old Trafford.

He revealed: "I am coming to the end of my playing career and I maybe have one year left.

"I have started doing my coaching badges back in England and hopefully one day I will be able to coach kids or coach some kind of team somewhere."

Scholes narrowly missed out on a 10th Premier League champion's medal when Chelsea pipped the Red Devils to the title last season.

But United boss Alex Ferguson believes Scholes still has the quality for another year at the top.

And the 35-year-old is under no illusions about the influence the great Scot has had on his career.

The ex-England star said: "He has been great. It goes without saying what a top manager he has been.

"The amount of players he has brought through the youth team is great and it gives hope to all the kids in the youth team that if they are good enough he will definitely use them.

"It has just been fantastic working with him and I think there is a good few years left in him yet."

Fergie in £25m Giorgio swoop

ALEX FERGUSON will launch a £25million bid for Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini.

The Juventus centre-back, 25, is the Manchester United chief's top choice to replace Nemanja Vidic, should the Serb quit Old Trafford as expected.

Despite being one of the biggest names in Serie A, Chiellini earns a modest £1.7m a year and has two seasons left on his current contract at Juve.

It is understood that the Old Lady of Turin would accept a bid for him as they look to rebuild their side following a disastrous season - they finished seventh in the Italian top flight.

And Fergie is on red alert, with Manchester City expected to launch a £20m bid for wantaway Vidic in the next few days.

Player review: Rafael

It’s sometimes easy to forget Rafael is still a teenager... like when he more than held his own against Ronaldinho in the San Siro, or shackled Franck Ribery and terrorised the Bayern Munich left side at Old Trafford.

Story of the season: Like so many other Reds defenders, Rafael's season was blighted by injuries. Shoulder trouble in pre-season meant his first appearance of 2009/10 only came in late October, and that was in the centre of midfield at Barnsley. Sporadic outings at right back followed but by Christmas the young Brazilian had only chalked up five appearances. He'd go on to make 11 more before the season's end, but an ankle injury sustained in the Carling Cup final limited him to just two starts from March onwards.

Finest moment: He netted United's third in a 5-0 home win over Wigan, but it was his performances in Europe that really caught the eye. Thrust into action at the San Siro, and up against his countryman Ronaldinho, he passed the test with flying colours. In the next round he dazzled for 45 minutes in the home leg against Bayern Munich, keeping Franck Ribery quiet and injecting pace and invention to the Reds' forward forays.

What’s in store? Nobody would dare suggest he’s the finished article yet, but United fans have certainly seen enough to suggest he’s good enough to nail down the right-back spot on a permanent basis when Gary Neville hangs up his boots.

ManUtd.Com

Player review: Obertan

The Old Trafford faithful only saw glimpses of Gabriel Obertan during his first campaign as a United player. But in those 13 appearances, he showed plenty of promise...

Story of the season: After a back injury delayed his debut, Obertan first pulled on a Reds shirt in the Carling Cup fourth round tie at Barnsley. He impressed enough to be given a league debut (as a substitute) at Old Trafford four days later. The nerves that day got the better of him (he ran the ball out of play with his first touch before later spurning a glorious chance to score) but he soon settled and became a viable attacking option from the bench.

Finest moment: Away in Wolfsburg in the final Champions League group stage game, Obertan came off the bench to dazzle on the left wing. Indeed, Michael Owen owes the second of his three goals that night almost entirely to the Frenchman, who wriggled past two defenders before teeing up the striker with a precise pass across the six-yard box.

Strongest attribute: Dribbling. When Ronaldo left, fans feared all the skill and trickery had gone with him. What they didn't know then, however, was just how good Gabriel Obertan is with the ball at his feet. Confident, quick and direct, the former Bordeaux star will terrorise plenty of defenders in the coming years.

What's in store? Injuries hampered Obertan's first season at United, but he'll undoubtedly be given more chances to shine in 2010/11. At just 21 years of age, this young touchline sniffer certainly has the ability to forge a rich future at United

ManUtd.Com

Player review: Valencia

In his first term at OT, 'Tony' was a revelation on the wing vacated by Cristiano Ronaldo...

Story of the season

Far from being eased into life at United following his summer move from Wigan, Valencia was thrust into regular action from the off, and soon vindicated that decision with a string of confident and athletic displays. Assists from whipped-in crosses were his stock-in-trade – and manna from heaven for goal-fixated Wayne Rooney. Valencia weighed in with a few strikes of his own: a delightful effort against Bolton in October was the first of a mid-season cluster which culminated in the winger picking up back-to-back Player of the Month awards on ManUtd.com. He netted a late Champions League winner at CSKA Moscow and was also named Man of the Match in the Carling Cup final. Strength and stamina positioned Antonio as both a go-to man in attack and a useful ally in defence; for virtually all of the season he steered clear of injury to finish as one of the Reds’ top appearance-makers, and was deservedly named in the PFA Team of the Year.

Finest moment

In a perfect illustration of the winger’s art, Valencia destroyed his former club Wigan at Old Trafford in December. After setting up three of the Reds’ first four goals with a devastating combination of power, pace and skill, he rounded off a fine evening’s work by running onto Rooney’s defence-splitting pass to clip home the fifth.

What’s in store?
More of the same, especially after a refreshing, World Cup-free summer. Valencia is still only 24 and his improvement throughout the season was palpable, so expect him to get better still. He’s already more of a goal threat than in his time at Wigan, where he found the net only seven times in three years, and Sir Alex will doubtless challenge the Ecuadorian to increase his tally next term.

 

Player Review: Fletcher

Arguably the Scot’s best campaign in a red shirt – Fletcher has developed into the complete midfielder who possesses that unique knack of inspiring those around him...

Story of the season: The man for the big occasion proved time and again during 2009/10 that he can handle the pressure against the cream of England and Europe. His all-action display in the dramatic 4-3 derby victory in September yielded two fine headed goals and he netted one of the strikes of the season against Everton two months later. As well as popping up on the score-sheet, Fletcher, who found himself playing in defence during a torrid spell of injuries, turned creator on numerous occasions with some pinpoint deliveries into the area which were gladly snapped up by Rooney and co. One of United’s most consistent performers throughout the campaign, he oozed class and energy when the Reds needed it most.

Finest moment: Fletcher’s glorious opener in the 3-0 victory over Everton at Old Trafford was an easy choice for the Goal of the Season shortlist in United’s end-of-season awards. After Patrice Evra’s cross was nodded down by Valencia into Fletcher’s path on the edge of the area, the midfielder overcame the awkward height of the bouncing ball and sent a scorching volley thundering towards the top corner, kissing Tim Howard’s right-hand post on the way in. Stunning.

What’s in store? Only bigger and better things. Playing in a Champions League final is one of Darren’s major ambitions after missing out so cruelly through suspension in 2009 (he was an unused sub in Moscow in ‘08) – he certainly deserves the opportunity to perform on Europe’s biggest stage.

Player review: Evans

Evans made significant strides forward in his bid to command a regular starting berth at the heart of the United defence...

Story of the season: Jonny was thrown straight into action at the beginning featuring in all but one of United’s matches in August. His ability to adapt his game to complement the attributes of his fellow defenders was there for all to see in the opening month of the campaign as he found himself paired with four different team-mates – Ferdinand, O’Shea, Brown and Vidic - in the centre of defence. By mid-November Jonny had played more games than any of the team’s recognised centre-halves, but unfortunately he joined the long list of defensive casualties when he picked up a calf injury whilst on international duty. He returned at the beginning of 2010, starting United’s opening seven league games of the year. Ferdinand and Vidic were back in tandem for the majority of March and April, but Evans ably stepped in at Bolton and City to help the team earn two vital victories and a couple of clean-sheets.

Finest moment: The dramatic derby victory at Eastlands in April will forever be remembered for Paul Scholes’ late, late winner, but Evans’ flawless display alongside the colossal Nemanja Vidic was arguably his best of the season. He even had the audacity to execute one incredibly cool drag-back inside his own box to evade the menacing Carlos Tevez.

What’s in store? More of the same we hope. Ferdinand and Vidic remain Sir Alex’s first choice defensive duo, but the boss has great faith in Jonny and Wes Brown as an alternative pairing. “There aren't many better partnerships in the Premier League than Brown and Evans,” he declared last season. Evans will also be aiming to finally break his United duck.

Player review: O'Shea

An injury sustained on international duty restricted the usual ever-present John O'Shea to just 19 appearances in 2009/10.

Story of the season: The Irishman's season was all but over in November when he picked up a thigh problem in the Republic of Ireland's World Cup play-off defeat in France. At one stage it looked like he wouldn't play again in 2009/10. Sir Alex explained: “He's got a terrible injury. It's like a dead leg. The problem is that a blood clot has become knotted. It's a long process to clear up and he'll probably miss the season now. It's a bad blow for the boy." But the Carrington medical team worked wonders and O'Shea returned to action as a substitute in April’s 3-2 win over Bayern Munich. Four days later he started in the Reds' 0-0 draw at Blackburn.

Finest moment: The Irishman made his 350th United appearance one to remember when he helped to empty home fans’ seats by doubling United’s lead at the Britannia Stadium in September. O’Shea met Ryan Giggs’ in-swinging corner from the right with his head and flicked the ball into the top corner past a flailing Thomas Sorensen. Sadly, in a season blighted by injury, there weren't too many other opportunities for John to shine.

What’s in store? With his current contract running until 2012, O’Shea is very much part of United’s plans for the future. Expect him to be doing a job for the Reds in defence, midfield, attack or even in goal (he donned the gloves against Spurs in 2007).

Fergie has £95m to spend

DAVID GILL has told Manchester United's protesting fans: Stop moaning, we've got £95million to spend.

Many of the Old Trafford faithful have become disillusioned with the debt-laden ownership of the unpopular Glazer family.

And the American family put another nail in the coffin of the takeover bid by the Red Knights consortium last night by insisting there are no plans to sell up.

But chief executive Gill insisted there is nothing to be gloomy about and claims boss Alex Ferguson will have as much of that warchest as he wants for new signings this summer.

Fergie has hinted there may only be one big-name signing with Chris Smalling and Javier Hernandez already signed on for around £18m.

But with Karim Benzema and David Silva also believed to be on their radar, Gill says the extra money will be made available.

Gill said: "People say Alex is saying money is there because he has to. Anyone who knows Alex Ferguson knows he wouldn't say that if he didn't mean what he said.

"The money is definitely there. The financial results will show the figures are about £95m cash.

"We are not in a situation whereby Alex is restricted in what he wants to do with the club.

"We can invest in the players, the training ground and the stadium."

Fan protests became part and parcel of United home games last season with the Green and Gold campaign particularly prominent.

Yet Gill insisted: "The fans protesting are not going to change their opinion even if we win three Champions League titles in a row.

"We couldn't have been much more successful in the last three years.

"But they are simply never going to be happy."

United's hopes of landing Karim Benzema, however, are set to be dashed by Real Madrid for a second successive year.

Ferguson was keen to sign the French forward 12 months ago before he moved to the Bernabeu for around £30million.

And Real's sporting director Jorge Valdano has now said Benzema will be like 'a new signing' next season.

The former Lyon man hardly featured last term, sparking stories he could be on the move again.

But Valdano said: "We do not need more forwards - we scored 102 goals this season and Benzema didn't play much. Next season Karim is like a new signing."

TheSun

 

Player review: Fabio

Injuries hampered Fabio's maiden campaign as a United player, and also disrupted long portions of his 2009/10 season. Nevertheless, a new contract illustrates his status as a bright hope for the future...

Story of the season: Although Fabio's season began in a perfect fashion, completing 90 minutes as a much-changed back four kept a valuable clean sheet against Birmingham City, the Brazilian's second term at United was another stop-start affair, disrupted by a string of minor knocks and strains. Aside from making his Premier League bow against Alex McLeish's Brum, Fabio made four further appearances as second half substitutes against Fulham (home and away), Wigan and Hull, and impressed in his Champions League debut in Moscow. The explosive full-back enjoyed mixed fortunes in cup ties against Leeds, Barnsley and Wolves, receiving a straight red card in the latter, but his campaign ended on a high when he extended his United contract until at least June 2014, prolonging what he sees as: "every young player's dream."

Finest moment: A string of solid displays yielded few glaring highlights, but Fabio saw the funny side of being booked for a foul by his twin brother during the Reds' win at Barnsley. Referee Chris Foy later transferred the booking to Rafael, after United appealed.

What's in store? Plenty. Providing he can stay fit, Fabio has shown himself to be a more than able deputy for Patrice Evra, one of the game's leading left-backs.

Man United head race for free agent Joe Cole

Manchester United have emerged as the new favourites to sign Joe Cole.

Sir Alex Ferguson is understood to have put the Reds into pole position to sign Cole, with United one of three clubs offering the Chelsea play-maker a contract.

Cole will be a free agent when his current Stamford Bridge deal ends on July 1.

But although he has been unable to agree terms with Chelsea, he has been boosted by United’s offer, along with bids from Spurs and Italian giants Juventus

Cole, expected to be named in Fabio Capello’s final 23-man England squad for the World Cup on Tuesday, moved to Chelsea from West Ham in 2003.

At Stamford Bridge he has won three titles, two League Cups, and three FA Cups, and went within a whisker of winning the Champions League two years ago.

But the England midfielder’s bargaining position was weakened by a long injury lay-off and a loss of form last season, despite a stunning goal against United (right).

Chelsea are unwilling to put Cole into the same pay bracket as Frank Lampard and John Terry, leaving him to consider his future.

Spurs had been favourites to land him with boss Harry Redknapp, who worked with Cole at West Ham, able to offer Champions League football.

But Redknapp, who has been monitoring Cole’s situation over the last 18 months, privately fears the player has already opted to move to Old Trafford.

Manchester City had also shown interest but have now switched their attentions to Aston Villa star James Milner.

It leave United as favourites to prise away a player Fergie has admired ever since Cole’s time in the youth ranks at West Ham.

A year ago a Cole exit from Stamford Bridge would have seemed highly unlikely but yesterday Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti gave a hint why he sees the England man as expendable.

The Italian, who led Blues to their first-ever domestic Double last season, seems to believe he has a surplus of players who can do Cole’s job.

“The strength of a team is to have players with fantastic skills and players who can play in different positions on the pitch,” said Ancelotti.

“I have a lot of those – Ivanovic, Malouda, Lampard, Ballack, and Essien. Then there is Anelka, who can play up front or can play wide, Kalou is the same. This is a very important thing because you can change the shape.

“We changed the shape three times this season, without problem. We played the Christmas tree formation at the beginning and we had a lot of advantages. But after 15 games our opponents were able to cover the space between the lines in our team so we changed.

“We used two strikers and one offensive midfielder. Then, after the first half against Fulham at Christmas when we were losing, we changed to use two wingers to open the pitch and use all the space to attack. It is important to surprise your opponents.”

Cole and his Chelsea team-mates Lampard, Terry and Ashley Cole will head off to South Africa in peak condition according to Ancelotti.

Ancelotti (left) believes the tough Premier League programme has left his men battle-hardened, dismissing suggestions that they will be too tired to give their best.

He said: “The tempo of the matches here in England is higher but in Italy there is more pressure on each game so there is more stress. This takes more energy. In England there is less stress than in Italy, so physically you can do better.

“I can speak about my players. Frank Lampard, John Terry, Joe Cole and Ashley Cole are fit and physically they will do a fantastic World Cup.”