Rio - We didn't deserve it

Manchester United defensive stalwarts Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic conceded that they did not deserve to win the UEFA Champions League final.

Barcelona triumphed 2-0 in Rome with a goal in each half from Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was quick to admit that Barca deserved to win, and both Ferdinand and Vidic echoed those thoughts.

"We didn't come here and give a good account of ourselves," Ferdinand told Sky Sports News.

"We have played better 99 per cent of the time this season, but saying that we created four or five good opportunities to score, but they scored two goals at crucial times and two bad goals on our part.

"But we have no arguments, they were the better team on the day, you have got to do it on the day - if we played better or played to our strengths it would have been a different game, but if you don't do it on the day you don't deserve to win."

Vidic agreed, adding: "We didn't play well.

"They had a good game and scored at the right time - then we chased the game and they had space to counter attack us, they deserved to win."

Left-back Patrice Evra was equally disappointed.

"You can have a lot of excuses, but I am disappointed as we didn't see Manchester United playing quick - we were slow and we didn't press enough and you didn't see the character of Manchester United tonight," he concluded.

Barca claim European crown

Manchester United failed to retain their UEFA Champions League crown as Barcelona claimed Europe's top club prize with a 2-0 win in Rome's Stadio Olimpico.

United started the final brightly but were stunned on 10 minutes when Samuel Eto'o skipped into the box and poked the ball past Edwin van der Sar.

Barca almost doubled their lead just after the break when Xavi smashed his free-kick of Van der Sar's post - but the Catalan giants did not have long to wait for their second.

Brilliant work from Xavi on the right saw him pick out Lionel Messi with a sublime cross and the Argentine superstar rose unmarked to head home from eight-yards - his first ever goal against English opposition.

The defending champions were left shell-shocked as Barca played out time in the Eternal City and sealed their third European title.

The shape of the contest might have been so different had Park Ji-sung been

able to snaffle the rebound after Victor Valdes had failed to hold a stinging Cristiano Ronaldo free-kick. Instead, former United man Gerard Pique shot across to block what proved to be his old club's best opportunity of that opening period.

Like his team, Ronaldo was clearly in the ascendancy in his personal duel with

Messi.
Eto'o opener

How rapidly things changed. In the twinkling of an eye Andres Iniesta, one of the brightest starts in the Barcelona firmament, slipped a pass to Eto'o.

The Cameroon striker cut inside Nemanja Vidic, then held off Michael Carrick as he prodded the ball goalward with enough strength to take it past Van der Sar.

Suddenly the strategy of containment and hitting at pace on the counter-attack suggested by the inclusion of Park and the exclusion of Carlos Tevez and Dimitar Berbatov did not look such a good idea.

Ferguson's team shot across the pitch, able to do little more than firefight as Messi, Iniesta and Xavi lit bonfires all around.

Had a Messi flick found Eto'o in the area, it would have probably brought Barcelona's second. Rio Ferdinand's agility saved his team. Xavi curled a free-kick just wide, Vidic pumped the ball away after Van der Sar had failed to hold a cross shot, the slick passing wearing United down all the while.

The arrival of Tevez at half-time had to come, and with it a more overtly

offensive approach.

Yet in taking such bold action, Ferguson knew he was playing right into

Barcelona's hands. Xavi picked out Thierry Henry with a brilliant pass. The former Arsenal star cut inside Ferdinand with ease but could not find the finish, a similar mistake to the one that proved so costly for Arsenal in Paris three years ago.

When Xavi saw his free-kick come thumping back off a post, memories of 1999 and the mauling United nearly took at the hands of Bayern Munich sprang to mind.

Yet this was different. Ferguson's team were poor until the unforgettable ending. This time they were simply ripped apart by the only team on the planet who can match them.

The introduction of Berbatov midway through the second half was effectively Ferguson throwing his book of tactics out of the window and not worry about the consequences if it all went wrong.

All over

Sadly it did. Quite quickly as Xavi's curling cross dropped perfectly for Messi, who guided his header over Van der Sar.

Ronaldo's world player of the year crown was slipping and Valdes managed to get in the way of a close-range effort that would have given United some hope, as would the volley from Berbatov that followed.

Berbatov had another chance too, although by then Carles Puyol had seen two efforts saved by Van der Sar.

In truth, the Dutchman was his side's best player, which just about says it all.

Vidic ready to win at all costs

Nemanja Vidic is sure Manchester United will beat Barcelona in the Champions League final - and does not care about the style in which they do it.

Wednesday's match in Rome pits holders United against the team regarded as the most attractive in Europe this season.

But United defender Vidic, 27, told BBC Sport: "All that matters is the result, you'll quickly forget about the style.

"Football is not about the style - it's about the winning and we have the confidence and belief to do it."

The Serbia international added: "I don't think we are arrogant - we respect Barcelona but we believe in ourselves and in the players we have. "We won the league and have reached the Champions League final so we have to believe we can win it. We know it's going to be a hard game and have big jobs to do but we are excited and we will try to hurt them."

Unlike Vidic, United manager Sir Alex Ferguson conceded he would like to win in a manner that will earn his team plaudits and insisted: "We have our own style and hope we can express ourselves the way we want to on Wednesday."

The Scot acknowledged that with the opposition being Barca many fans would expect an attractive final and he hoped United could play their part in delivering that.

"Football is always needing a boost," he said. "We have negatives in the game that surface every year in all different ways.

"But when we get a game of football that paints the real story of football then we're all lifted by it. I think Barcelona and Manchester United can do that in this final.

"There is a strong possibility it will be a very good final."

Barca have scored 104 league goals this season, setting Spain and Europe alight with their unique brand of attacking football. It has taken them to within touching distance of becoming the first club to win La Liga, the Copa del Rey and European Cup in one season.

At times this season Pep Guardiola's side have looked unstoppable, not least during their 6-2 demolition of title rivals Real Madrid at the Bernabeu, but Ferguson said Chelsea's semi-final performance against the Catalans gave him reason to be cheerful.

The Blues held Barca to a 0-0 draw at the Nou Camp and in the second leg, a dominant performance resulted in Chelsea entering stoppage time 1-0 up before the visitors equalised to go through on away goals.

"I watched their game against Real Madrid and it was an absolutely magnificent performance," stated Ferguson.

"I said to myself, 'Christ, we might have to play them' but then Chelsea showed that they can be beaten so I take some encouragement from that."

United have won three, lost two and drawn four of their nine previous meetings with Barca.

The pair met at the semi-final stage last season, playing out a 0-0 draw in the first leg before a spectacular strike by Paul Scholes gave United a 1-0 win in the return.

Ferguson's men went on to beat Chelsea in the final and are bidding to become the first side to win back-to-back Champions League titles.

Victory would mean United would join Real Madrid, AC Milan, Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Ajax in the group of clubs to have won four or more European Cups.

"I'm well aware of how special it is but sometimes it's more about getting the job done than and the small details of winning the game over what surrounds the occasion," commented United midfielder Michael Carrick. "People keep mentioning about winning it twice along with the league and everything else. Hopefully on Thursday we can sit back and appreciate it but until then it really is about getting the job done and winning the game."

Carrick was pleased to see Barca edge past Chelsea to reach the Rome showpiece and set up a meeting with United, who beat Arsenal 4-1 on aggregate in the other semi-final.

"I wouldn't say I'm glad it's not Chelsea but now that it's Barcelona it really feels like it's a special European final," said the 27-year-old. "They are a massive club and have something special about them.

"To meet them at this time as well - with both of us at the top of our leagues - the time is right for a good game of football and a real test for both teams.

"We're confident for the same reason as them. Of course we respect them and appreciate the likes of Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta - they're special players and there's no doubt about that.

"But we're good enough to win, we've been there, we're the champions and we've done it before. That gives you enough confidence to believe you can do it again."

Match of the season : Barcelona v Manchester United

The battle ground is set for the new kings of Europe when the two best teams in Europe (world ) fight for the ultimate prize tomorrow . Is their any better match than this I doubt so .Manchester United the newly crowned Champions of England and the current Champions of Europe and World takes on Barcelona the newly crowned Champions of Spain. Two teams who are the last words in attacking football.

United reached the final by sending Arsenal home but Barcelona reached final in controversial manner thanks to the referee. United first club since Valencia CF (2000 and 2001) to reach successive Champions League finals; victory will see them becoming the first club to win two successive Champions League titles.

Battles are expected to be drawn all over the ground but much of the publicity is gained by Ronaldo and Messi two of the best players on the planet . But United nad Barcelona have got match winners all over the ground .

Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand is likely to play having come through training at the weekend.The defender, 30, has been out for three weeks with a calf injury and also missed the 1-0 win at Hull on Sunday.He has called his fitness battle the "toughest of his career", but boss Sir Alex Ferguson says he should be "OK".

Barcelona's Thierry Henry and Andres Iniesta appear to have overcome their injuries and trained on Monday.Striker Henry, who played against Barca on the losing Arsenal team in the 2006 final, has had a ligament problem since beating Real Madrid 6-2 on 2 May, while midfielder Iniesta has been struggling with a thigh injury.

Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez is optimistic the two players will take part in Rome."The overall impression is good, as much for the players as us knowing we can have them," he said.Barca have won the Spanish league and cup titles and reached the Champions League final in coach Pep Guardiola's first campaign at the Nou Camp.Henry and Iniesta will travel with the squad, along with young defenders Alberto Botia and Marc Muniesa, the 17-year-old who was sent off on his Barca debut in Saturday's 1-0 home defeat by Osasuna.

It was also announced on Monday that Switzerland's Massimo Busacca will be the referee for the Champions League final.The 40-year-old refereed the all-Spanish Uefa Cup title match between Sevilla and Espanyol in 2007, as well as the United and Barcelona Champions League semi-final last season.

Ferdinand will be delighted to be on the mend, having not played since the Champions League semi-final second-leg win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on 5 May.
Jonny Evans, impressive at the back for United throughout the season, is on stand-by to partner Nemanja Vidic in case Ferdinand fails to recover.

Despite Barcelona boasting the creativity of the likes of Hernandez, Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi, United's Patrice Evra believes his team can use last year's semi-final win against their Spanish opposition as inspiration.

The French left-back said: "I was confident before the games because I train every day against players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney. You have a lot of quality there."

Ferguson has just steered the Old Trafford club to its 11th Premier League title in 17 seasons.

The 67-year-old Scot added: "We both have players who can express themselves in the best possible way.

"The profile of the final is good and I hope it lives up to that profile."

His counterpart Guardiola, the 38-year-old former Barca midfielder, said: "You either play with ambition or you have no chance."

"We will go to Rome with the aim of showing the world what we have done all year."

Iniesta - We fear Rooney

Barcelona playmaker Andres Iniesta says Wayne Rooney epitomises Manchester United's sublime work ethic.

Although Rooney may not have scored the number of goals Barca's forward line have plundered this season, Iniesta believes he plays a key role.

Iniesta, who scored Barca's priceless leveller in their 1-1 draw at Chelsea, says Rooney's versatility and commitment makes him an invaluable member of Sir Alex Ferguson's squad.

The 25-year-old knows the UEFA Champions League final between the sides in Rome on Wednesday will be a tight affair and that keeping mistakes down to a minimum could be the key to success.
Work ethic

"What I value most about the way they play is how hard players like Rooney work," explained Iniesta.

"He was filling in at left-back against us last year in the semi-final.

"Finals are not usually very tactical. We can plan a million things before the game but in the second minute they can strike and all the plans go out the window.

"We cannot commit any mistakes because they have so much firepower up front."

Unstoppable

Meanwhile, former Red Devils defender Gerard Pique believes that on his day Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is unstoppable.

The former Red Devils stopper knows the England international well from his time at Old Trafford before his Camp Nou switch last summer.

"When he is focused he is simply unstoppable," explained Pique.

"I have never seen a player as powerful as Rooney - the way he goes past people, the intensity of his play, the runs he makes from the first minute to last and the shot that he has. World class.

"Perhaps he does not get the credit he deserves because he should score more goals, but he offers so much."

Ronaldo - I'm still No.1

Cristiano Ronaldo reckons he will remain the world's best player regardless of what happens in the UEFA Champions League final.

Wednesday's showpiece in Rome has been billed as a battle between Ronaldo and Barcelona star Lionel Messi to decide who is the world's number one footballer.

Ronaldo became the first Manchester United player to be crowned World Player of the Year for 2008 and the first since George Best 40 years ago to be named European Footballer of the Year.

Messi, 21, was runner-up for both awards and has been tipped to prise those titles away from Ronaldo after a fine season with the Spanish champions.

Yet despite failing to hit the heights of last season, Ronaldo is confident he will still be recognised as the world's best.
Confidence

Some may see that as arrogance but the 24-year-old Portuguese forward reckons it is that self-belief that has enabled him to emerge as an Old Trafford great.

"Every time I play football I go out on to the field believing that I am the best," he told the Sunday Mirror.

"And that is the same whether I am training or playing in the Champions League Final.

"For me, you have to have that confidence at all times. That's what makes me the player I am.

"It made me proud to be recognised as the best. I always believed I was the best, but it was an honour to become the official number one - and I still think I am at the top.

"Sometimes it is clear that if it is a close fight between two players for the European or world player of the year then winning the Champions League can decide the outcome.

"I won it last year because Manchester United won the Champions League and the Premier League, but I also won it because I scored 42 goals myself.

Honour

"It made me very happy. It was a big honour for me personally but also for Manchester."

While Ronaldo and Messi's personal battle will provide an extra dimension to Wednesday's clash, Ronaldo believes it will have no bearing on whether United retain their European crown or the Champions League trophy heads back to the Nou Camp after a three-year absence.

"This game we play is about the team, not individuals," he added. "This final is not about me and Messi. It is between Manchester United and Barcelona.

"Both are winners of their national titles and I predict that it will be a spectacular duel."

United youngsters stuns Hull

Much was talked about this match for the last one week after United won the title about the team Sir Alex is going to put. As expected he put a team which is almost like a reserve game except for the likes of Nevile , Fletcher and Brown . Still the kids showed why United is currently the Champions in United .Darron Gibson's stunning 20-yard drive was enough to give United victory over Hull. It would have been much worse for Hull if they United have converted all their chances . Still Hull managed to stay in top flight for one more year Newcastle's defeat at Aston Villa saw the Tigers preserve their top-flight status by the narrowest of margins.


Ferguson retained only Darren Fletcher, who will miss the Rome showpiece because of suspension, from the side that drew 0-0 with Arsenal to seal the title.

Hull boss Phil Brown, however, had insisted his team would be focused only on victory and not United's team sheet.

Ironically, Brown's own team selection was also determined by United as Alberto Manucho had to be left out because the on-loan striker was ineligible to play against his parent club - Dean Marney took his place in the only change to Hull's starting XI.Hull started brightly and two crosses from Geovanni caused momentary panic in the United defence, which was lacking the injured Rio Ferdinand, who must now be considered a big doubt for Wednesday.

But their play generally lacked conviction and soon United's youngsters began to settle into the match.

United probed with a Nani free-kick before a lunging Lee Martin was close to converting a low cross and Danny Welbeck wasted a good headed chance.

Then came the hammer blow that all Hull fans had feared when Gibson smashed home a ferocious shot into the far corner and United should have doubled their lead soon after but Federico Macheda could not convert Martin's centre.

Macheda also shot wide after working space well, and Wellbeck did similarly after a long run, while Hull's only efforts of note were a Michael Turner header over the bar and a stinging shot from Andy Dawson that Tomasz Kuszczak palmed away.

Yet while home supporters were seeing little to make them cheer, they soon heard some news that had them roaring their approval as Villa took the lead against Newcastle.

Guardiola warning for Fergie

Pep Guardiola has warned Sir Alex Ferguson that Barcelona know how to exploit Manchester United's weaknesses.

The two teams are set to meet in Rome on Wednesday for the UEFA Champions League final and Barca are looking for revenge after last season's semi-final defeat.

Guardiola, who took over at the start of this season, has been studying video footage of the games from 2007/08's last four, which Barca dominated but lost 1-0, while also researching this season's fixtures.

And the Camp Nou coach has spotted chinks in United's armour that his team can take advantage of when they face the holders, live on Sky Sports 1 & HD1.
Hurt

"The games against United are the ones I watched first," he said in The Sun.

"I saw things where we can hurt United and things where they are dangerous.

"I saw many games from the league this season as well as the games against Arsenal in the Champions League semis.

"We're still studying United's game so I still don't know exactly what I will be saying to my players."

History

Barcelona, who have already won the Primera Liga and Copa del Rey, can make history by becoming the first Spanish team to win the Treble, if they lift the Champions League.

And Guardiola is well aware of the opportunity, adding: "We have to win at all cost because we can make history."

The Barca boss also added that he would give Thierry Henry and Andres Iniesta late opportunities to prove their fitness as they struggle with knee and calf injuries, respectively.

"We'll decide on Wednesday. I have to see them train before I make a decision," said Guardiola.

Fergie - United out to win

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has reassured Hull City's relegation rivals that he will be sending out a team to win at the KC Stadium on Sunday.

The Premier League champions tackle 17th placed Hull in the final league game of the season just three days before facing Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League final.

Reports earlier in the week claimed that Middlesbrough, Newcastle United and Sunderland were ready to sue the Red Devils, if they sent out a weakened team against Hull.

Ferguson admits he considered speaking to the respective managers of the North East clubs to confirm he would be picking a side capable of winning at the weekend.

However, the United chief opted against that idea, believing Gareth Southgate, Alan Shearer and Ricky Sbragia are aware he would not damage the integrity of the Premier League.
Responsibility

"I don't think it's wrong to concern yourself with what's going to happen on Sunday," said Ferguson on Sky Sports News. "I think it's important that we have got the league that's got the best integrity in the world and we'll play a part in that on Sunday.

"No matter which team I play, it will represent Manchester United in the normal way. We're expected to win and we'll go to win, that's the responsibility we always have.

"Nobody should worry themselves unduly about our intentions on this particular occasion.

"I did contemplate phoning the three managers involved - Gareth Southgate, Ricky Sbragia and Alan Shearer.

"But I thought to myself that Ricky Sbragia worked here, he knows this club and knows exactly what we're going to do. Gareth Southgate and Alan Shearer played against us many times and they know exactly what it's like to play against Manchester United, so I dismissed that idea because they must know we'll be doing our best."

Ferguson admits he could send out a team similar to the one which lost to Everton on penalties in the FA Cup semi-finals, which would see the likes of Darron Gibson, Federico Macheda and Danny Welbeck involved.

He added: "If I can trust them to play in a semi-final, why can't I trust them for the last game of the season when we've already won the league?

"It's just a natural thing for us to play players who will give everything for us."

The Scot also believes the Premier League should have scheduled the final round of games for a Saturday, rather than a Sunday.

"Barcelona play on the Saturday night and we've got a programme on the Sunday," continued Ferguson.

"An English team has been in the final for the last five years, so it's not as if the Premier League are short of knowledge.

"They could easily put the whole programme to a Saturday and that may have helped the situation.

"I still wouldn't have played my strongest team, of course, but there may have been one or two who would have played."

Last day drama Hull City v United

The title already found it's place in the trophy cabinet at Oldtrafford and what remains is the battle at the bottom . Hull who in the start of the season claimed the third spot are now looking to avoid drop to the Championship . United who have last week won the Title have the luxury of resting their key players before the Champions league final . There has been much debate about the strength of the side Ferguson intends to play against Hull ahead of Wednesday's final in Rome.Much has been made over whether the title winners have a duty to Hull's relegation rivals to field their best line-up, but Sir Alex Ferguson can surely be forgiven for giving his key players a rest ahead of next Wednesday's UEFA Champions League final.

United boss Ferguson is certain to make changes to his team, with the trip to Rome in mind, but Rio Ferdinand could feature.
Kuszczak is likely to start, while Brazilian twins Rafael and Fabio could be at full-back, with captain Gary Neville used at centre-half.

Darren Fletcher seems set to play due to the midfielder being suspended for the Champions League final, and the likes of Darron Gibson, Rodrigo Possebon and Nani could be involved.

Teenage duo Federico Macheda and Danny Welbeck are in contention for a starting role and Carlos Tevez could be handed a start for potentially his final Premier League appearance for the club.


Hull will be hoping to welcome back Kamil Zayatte and Bernard Mendy for the game. Midfield pair Ian Ashbee and Jimmy Bullard are long-term absentees, while Brown will have to make a change up front as on-loan striker Manucho is ineligible to face his parent club.Caleb Folan is back from suspension, so could replace Manucho, although Craig Fagan and Daniel Cousin are other options for Brown.

Fergie singles out duo

Sir Alex Ferguson has named Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as the two top players in world football today.

The pair will be in direct competition with each other when Manchester United and Barcelona go head-to-head in the UEFA Champions League final next Wednesday.

Ronaldo is the current FIFA World Player of the Year but the little Argentinean is the hot favourite to take the title this year.

The United boss also added that the duo's natural ability was not the sole reason that makes them stand out from the pack, with the Scot highlighting how much work the Portuguese ace puts in after each training session.

Ferguson also pointed out that AC Milan star Kaka belonged in the same company as Ronaldo and Messi but stated that the Brazilian had never 'taken his breath away' despite the 27-year-old almost single-handedly knocking United out of Europe in 2007.

"There are some players such as Kaka, Messi and Ronaldo who are innately gifted," he told The Technician.
Practice

"But this is not enough and there is a practice element which becomes very important. If you watch Cristiano Ronaldo, he practices after every training session and quite a few of the others do the same.

"As a coach we dedicate parts of the training to improving touch, movement, passing and speed of play, but the special quality, the detail, depends on the player being willing to sacrifice himself after training - this is the hallmark of the great players.

"If the big talents only rely on their natural ability, they won't have that extra edge. They must do something extra on their own.

"When I think of the current generation Lionel Messi is top level and although he has never really taken my breath away Kaka has impressed."

The 67-year-old also believes that the Champions League is of a higher standard than the World Cup, as his United side aim to become the first team to record back-to-back titles since the competition changed format in 1992.

"There are many good games at the World Cup but in general the quality in the big Uefa Champions League games is, in my view, higher," he added.

Drama

"I think that overall, the Uefa Champions League is hard to beat when it comes to consistency, quality and drama.

"The World Cup, of course, is every four years and big changes always take place with the departure of many players and coaches and continuity then suffers."

Ferguson also name AC Milan defender Paulo Maldini as his favourite and most admitted opposition player.

"He has a wonderful presence, competitive spirit, athleticism, and although not the world's greatest technically he has influenced all the AC Milan teams during his wonderfully successful era - a truly marvellous player," he stated.

Vidic is unbelievable

Sir Bobby Charlton reckons that every team would die to have a player like Nemanja Vidic.

The Serbian ace scored big on Sunday as he took home two Player of the Year awards, holding off strong competition from United teammate Ryan Giggs.

The Sun reported that Charlton was proud of the defender's achievement and went on to heap further praise on the giant sweeper.

Charlton said: "It's normally the glamour players who get these prizes, but Nemanja deserves this.

"He has been such an influence. He is the envy of the whole league and he has been a brilliant, brilliant player for us.

"He is unbelievable in the air and wins absolutely everything.

"He is so powerful and brave, and has a fantastic leap to get above the strikers.

"And he also comes up for set-pieces and scores goals.

"As a defender he makes the full-backs, the goalkeeper and the midfielders in front of him all feel secure.

"He is a player you can depend on and put your trust in, and that's important.

"I like that he doesn't try to do too much, he sticks to his task of defending, and does that job very well.

Charlton is also surprised that the current United team have been able to juggle both attacking abd defensive duties so well.

"It's hard for me to imagine that Manchester United would be congratulated and lauded for our defensive capabilities. We're not supposed to be defensive!

"But alongside Rio Ferdinand or young Jonny Evans, Nemanja has dominated our area this season.

"You also have to give credit to Edwin van der Sar and his other colleagues in defence."

Vidic will hope to add one more trophy to his already bulging cabinet when United travel to Rome to take on Barcelona in the Champions League final.

Macheda dreams of Rome glory

Federico Macheda admits he can think of nothing better than lifting the UEFA Champions League for Manchester United in his home city of Rome.

The Red Devils have the chance to become the first team since the competition's inception in 1992 to win successive titles when they face Spanish champions Barcelona at the Stadio Olimpico next week.

Macheda must first secure a place on the bench for the game and could get a chance to stake his claim against Hull on Sunday, with manager Sir Alex Ferguson almost certain to rest his star names ahead of the final.

The 17-year-old has already made a name for himself at Old Trafford this term after scoring two decisive goals in his first two appearances for the club, against Aston Villa and Sunderland respectively.

Plucked from the Lazio youth team in September 2007, the Italian has made no secret of his love for his home city as he looks to cap off what has already been a memorable season.

"It's a dream I've had many times in the last few days. Me with the champions in my own stadium, he told Corriere dello Sport.

"I hope it happens but I don't even know if I will be on the bench. Manchester have many great players and there is a big competition for places. It would be fantastic playing for just a few minutes."

Despite scaling heights that seemed unimaginable at the start of the campaign, the striker insists his feet are firmly planted on the ground.

"Here people think I am a hero but I have only scored two goals in the Premier League. I have done nothing and I must show my value.

"The most beautiful things arrive now and it is necessary to keep my head on my shoulders and continue playing football."
Warning

Meanwhile, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has called on all United supporters to be vigilant when they travel to Rome.

The FOC are expecting up to 40,000 English fans to descend upon the Italian capital, even though the club have only been guaranteed 20,000 tickets.

Red Devils fans have also been advised to stay away from troublesome areas such as the Piazzale Flaminio, Ponte Duca D'Aosta bridge and Campo dei Fiori.

"This is a once on a lifetime trip for many fans and we want them all to have a fantastic time but it is important to make suitable preparations before travel," FCO sports liaison officer Alastair Mackie said.

"We have been working closely with the Italian authorities and the British Embassy in Rome to ensure that fans have support in Rome and access to all the information they need to ensure a safe trip.

United - Ronaldo not for sale

Manchester United chief executive David Gill believes there is 'absolutely no point' having a discussion with Cristiano Ronaldo about his future.

Ronaldo was courted by Real Madrid 12 months ago, but United stood firm and persuaded the winger to stay at Old Trafford.

Reports have claimed that the Spanish giants will make a renewed effort to sign Ronaldo at the end of the season to give United another transfer headache.

However, Gill has reiterated that Ronaldo is not for sale and is not envisaging a repeat of last summer's transfer saga.
Model professional

"We've never had that discussion," said Gill. "There's absolutely no point in having that discussion.

"We made it clear last year he's on a long-term contract with us and it's never come up.

"He's been fantastic both on and off the pitch throughout, he's supported us in what we want to do commercially and he's been a model professional.

"He is not for sale. He's a great player and he's part of our club."

Gill would not be surprised to see the rumours resurface regarding Real's interest in Ronaldo, particularly with a presidential election looming at the Bernabeu.

But, having clinched a third consecutive Premier League title on Saturday, Gill believes Ronaldo's ambitions can be satisfied at United.

Confident

He added: "I'm sure the Spanish press will start rumours and start that whole process going again.

"There's a (presidential) election as we know at Real Madrid and we've seen it all before with many of our players over the years since I've been with the club, and that will happen.

"But we're not prepared to use the papers in that way at Manchester United and I think we've got to be confident that Cristiano will stay.

"He's had an excellent season, he didn't score as many goals as last year, but nonetheless is the top scorer in the Premier League, he is a fantastic player.

"All we know is you just have to see our dressing room after the game yesterday, after we win a trophy.

"Footballers want to win things and I think any footballer would recognise he has much more chance of winning things, certainly in the short to medium term, at Manchester United than Real Madrid."

Fergie targets 19th title

Sir Alex Ferguson aims to make it 19 league titles next season after Manchester United equalled Liverpool's record.

United's 0-0 draw at home to Arsenal on Saturday secured a third consecutive Premier League title and lifted the club on to 18 championship successes - the same number as arch rivals Liverpool.

But Ferguson, who took charge at Old Trafford in November 1986, is not happy to settle for simply matching the achievements of the Merseyside club.

Instead, the Scot has his sights on next season and continuing the legacy of success he has created during his time at the United helm.

When asked whether equalling Liverpool's record was a special moment, Ferguson told Sky Sports: "It'll make it more special when we are in front of them.

"Next year we are going for it again."

Ferguson's target at the start of his reign was to match Liverpool's record, but it was not something he expected to achieve.

He added: "That was the target because they were the greatest side in the land.

"But I never thought we could get 11 titles - never in a million years."

Ferguson also revealed that retirement still remains a distant proposition despite his advancing years.

He said: "I'm not contemplating it. I'll carry on. I'm going to stay as a manager and my health will tell me when to quit."

We are the Championsssssssssssssssssss

United again retained their title showing still they are the best in England with a week remaining may be they will have another trophy in Rome . Manchester United were today crowned champions of England for a record-equalling 18th time at Old Trafford.Sir Alex Ferguson's side might not have given Usain Bolt a goal to celebrate on his first visit to the Theatre of Dreams but the Premier League trophy will do as consolation after a goalless draw with Arsenal ensured Liverpool cannot now catch their north-west rivals.

After over three decades as the unquestioned kings of English football, the Merseysiders now have someone else to share the title with.

And, if Ferguson is to be believed it will not be long before the Anfield outfit lose it altogether.

While the first half ended with United still on course for the 11th league title of Ferguson's illustrious reign, Arsenal had every reason to be pleased with themselves.

After two dire displays that surrendered their Champions League semi-final with the Red Devils, plus a hammering on home soil by Chelsea, it was feared the Gunners would suffer yet another embarrassing mauling.

It surely could not be a coincidence that Andrey Arshavin's return from a combination of being cup-tied and contracting a flu bug coincided with Arsenal's return to form.

As Gunners fans search for reasons to be cheerful ahead of what will be another trophyless summer, the Russian playmaker is the main one.

Arshavin went on one mazy dribble from the left flank that would have opened United up totally had Jonny Evans not raced across to clear.

The former Zenit St Petersburg star was also the provider of a cross lone striker Robin van Persie might easily have steered into the net, rather than just over.

However, the world's fastest man did not come to Old Trafford to watch Arsenal.

The hosts certainly started as if they meant business with Darren Fletcher almost sending Cristiano Ronaldo through inside the opening minute.

Yet, as time wore on, it seemed Ferguson's side were adopting a pragmatic approach to the situation, ensuring their goal was tight and secure, pushing forward in numbers only when really necessary.

The energy of Carlos Tevez helped in that regard. Sometimes it seems the South American is doing the work of two men.

And, as the speculation over Tevez's future rumbles on, there is little doubt most United fans would want him signed permanently if at all possible.

It seems highly improbable though. And when he responded to his number 32 being flashed up as the man to be replaced by Park Ji-sung, the response, a little shake of the head and a two-handed wave to all four corners of the stadium, looked for all the world like a goodbye.

There has, of course, never been any discussion over Wayne Rooney.

Had voting for the various player of the year awards been based on the last two or three months' form alone, Rooney would have been top of the pile.

The England striker has added an extra level of consistency to his game that truly deserves him now to be ranked if not at the very top of the game, then only just underneath.

Rooney stole in behind Bacary Sagna to head a teasing Michael Carrick cross wide after earlier having an effort deflected away by Kolo Toure.

On the brink of his 11th championship, Ryan Giggs curled a free-kick over and was then off target with a volley.

Ronaldo had an even better opportunity at the start of the second period after Tevez had failed to manage a shot after Carrick had supplied the cross, but did enough to nudge it into the Portugal superstar's path.

After offering his own sprinting guidance yesterday, Bolt must have thought Ronaldo would offer a fitting payment. Instead, he leant back and skied his shot into the Stretford End.

In fairness, Bolt had chosen to come and watch his team on a rare day that they did not need to win.

For all the side issues surrounding Park's arrival, it suggested even less of an emphasis on attack, although Ronaldo did send one his trademark free-kicks whipping wide.

It marked the end of United's attacking intent.

Fabregas and Van Persie had one last shot at spoiling the party. But with the trophy ready and the tickets sorted, it seemed a shame to stop it.

Wednesday special Wigan v United

United will be hoping to get a result which will help them to clinch the title . Fergie will be taking on his old captain knowing that he needs only 4 points from remaining 3 games

United are in fine form now having recovered from thir recent slump . While Wigan is on a dip . It is interesting to see who are going to start for United . Rooney as a substitute on Sunday and Ronaldo's reaction on being substituted and the important match with Arsenal on Saturday . But this season the strength of United lies on their squad. Whichever team Sir Alex puts they will have quality all over the park

United wins the derby mach

Giggs battles




Ronaldo's rocket





Finally Tevez scores

Tevez too hot for city

United are inches away from retaining their title as they now need only 4 points from 3 games . Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez, who earlier in the day announced he expects to leave Old Trafford in the summer, were on target before the break to settle a derby encounter in which the hosts were rarely troubled.

Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 18th minute as his free-kick took a wicked deflection off Nigel de Jong in the City wall to wrong-foot goalkeeper Shay Given, who got a hand to the ball but could not keep it out.

And the champions were two goals to the good on the stroke of half-time after Dimitar Berbatov's excellent control and pass found Carlos Tevez, who unleashed a thunderbolt from outside the box which curled home via the inside of the post.

Portugal ace Ronaldo was substituted before the hour mark, much to his disgust, and he spent a good part of the remainder of the match pulling glum faces and shaking his head as he sat on the on the bench.

The Red Devils can now secure the title before Liverpool play again as they travel to Wigan on Wednesday evening before welcoming Arsenal to Old Trafford on Saturday lunchtime, with both games live on Sky Sports 1 and HD1.

Ricky Hatton's presence alongside Rio Ferdinand, who suffered a calf injury in training, ensured there would be plenty of banter in the directors' box as Park Ji-sung dragged his shot wide on United's first attack.

Tevez let fly with a long-range effort that did not really test Given but brought the first 'Argentina' chant from the home supporters.

Elano exchanged passes with Ireland, then fellow countryman Robinho before breaking into the United box, only to miscue his shot, which rolled disappointingly wide.

Ronaldo cut in off the left flank and curled a shot at the City goal which Given got right behind.

A brilliant piece of skill from Robinho took him past Rafael, although Nemanja Vidic was able to get back and clear away from Nedum Onuoha, who had charged up in support.
Cannoned

Elano then cannoned a shot into Ryan Giggs, referee Chris Foy waving away rather hopeful appeals for a penalty.

Richard Dunne came straight through the back of Berbatov to win the ball, although Foy ruled the City skipper had fouled his opponent, much to the frustration of Mark Hughes.

A couple of minutes later, Ireland was the man complaining when Berbatov went down again, with City really having something to moan about from Ronaldo's free-kick.

The distance of around 30 yards was small by the world player of the year's recent standards. And he duly strode up with confidence and fired into the corner, Given wrong-footed by the merest flick off De Jong.

City were having plenty of possession without managing to threaten the home goal. Wayne Bridge curled over a shot from the left flank but Vidic headed clear, then Robinho fired wide after shrugging Rafael off the ball.

Play quickly switched to the other end where a piece of impudence from Patrice Evra offered Tevez the chance to run into space and curl a shot towards the City goal which came crashing back off the angle of post and crossbar.

Bridge nearly got himself into trouble when he lost possession to Park inside his own penalty area, although he recovered quickly enough to make the clearance.

Ireland was cautioned for a late tackle on Evra shortly afterwards before Park won another corner off Bridge when the full-back stuck out a foot to turn the Korean's cross wide.

Yet again, United made nothing of it, although they maintained the pressure, even if Evra flashed a low cross beyond the six-yard box without a team-mate getting anywhere near it.

De Jong tried his luck from 30 yards at the other end but did not trouble Edwin van der Sar.

Precision

Then a minute from the break, Fletcher's long ball was neatly controlled by Berbatov. His square pass found Tevez, whose precision shot bounced in off the post.

Fletcher, who will find out on Monday whether he will play in this month's Champions League final, was booked for a foul on Ireland at the start of the second period.

It did not stop United's attacking flow and they came close to grabbing another when Given was nearly caught out by a Rafael cross-shot.

City needed a break and it should have arrived when Elano picked out Robinho with a deft right-wing cross. The £32.5million striker had again got ahead of Rafael and seemed destined to test Van der Sar, only to inexplicably fire well wide.

Micah Richards brought a decent low save out of Van der Sar with an angled drive, then before Felipe Caicedo could get back on the pitch after receiving treatment for a knock sustained on the edge of the box, Paul Scholes and Rooney were introduced for Park and Ronaldo.

Ronaldo did not look too impressed at the decision and was still shaking his head long after he had taken his place in the home dug-out.

Unlike Tevez, only an injury would stop him starting against Barcelona, when he will go head-to-head with Lionel Messi for the world number one crown.

Valeri Bojinov replaced Caicedo shortly afterwards, with Jonny Evans signalling to Ferguson not long after that he needed to come off with what appeared to be a hamstring injury, John O'Shea coming on in his place

Berbatov went close for United before Hughes sent on Martin Petrov in place of De Jong. Giggs let fly with a low volley 10 minutes from time but the effort was always off-target.

The exit of Robinho in the final minute came immediately after Dunne had made a last-ditch tackle to deny Scholes. Fletcher rose to meet the corner, only for Tevez to strike the post with his header as he dived in and made contact less than half a yard out.

Fergie win award

Sir Alex Ferguson has won the Manager of the Month award for April, while Arsenal playmaker Andrey Arshavin has picked up the Player of the Month prize.

Manchester United boss Ferguson has been awarded the April accolade after guiding the Premier League leaders to four wins out of four during the month.

The reigning champions started the month with a dramatic 3-2 home win over Aston Villa, with teenage match-winner Federico Macheda repeating the trick in the following game against Sunderland.

United then beat Portsmouth 2-0 in a rearranged fixture before coming back from two goals down to thump Tottenham Hotspur 5-2 at Old Trafford at the end of the month.

Ferguson's men have started May with a 2-0 win at Middlesbrough before securing a spot in a second successive UEFA Champions League final after a 4-1 aggregate win over domestic rivals Arsenal.

It is the 23rd time that Ferguson has been named Manager of the Month and the second occasion this season after he picked up the honour in January.

Manchester Derby United v City

Manchester United go in search of their sixth successive league win in the 151st competitive derby clash against Manchester City.

On course for their 11th Premier League title, United will be full of confidence after qualifying for yet another UEFA Champions League final.

After a superb performance against Arsenal in midweek booked their passage to Rome, the current league leaders now look to do the double over Mark Hughes' City side.

Bidding to follow up a narrow win at Eastlands in November, United need only a maximum seven of their possible 12 remaining points to land their second hat-trick of Premier League titles.

Having already claimed 14 scalps in 2009 alone, Sir Alex Ferguson's side are on a run of 10 games unbeaten - winning eight of those.

Firing on all cylinders the current league leaders have netted no less than 13 goals in their last five games, all of which have resulted in victory.
City news

City themselves can boast a good run of form at present having won their last three Premier League outings.

Victories over West Ham, Everton and Blackburn have seen City rise to eighth position in the table, leaving them in contention for possible entry into Europe.

Their away record, however, has been far from outstanding - having secured only their second league victory on the road against Everton last time out.

Team news

Gary Neville returns to the squad on Sunday after recovering from a month-long foot problem.

United will, however, have to manage without Wes Brown who is struggling with a persistent foot injury.

Brown, who suffered a setback in training, has been ruled out for the rest of the season.

Carlos Tevez, Dimitar Berbatov and Paul Scholes will all be in contention for a place in the starting line-up after making only the bench in midweek.

City midfielder Shaun Wrhight-Phillips will face a late fitness test ahead of the trip to Old trafford.

The 27-year-old has missed the last five games through a persistent ankle problem and has been rated "doubtful" by boss Mark Hughes.

Pablo Zabaleta could be available for selection after returning to training following a hamstring injury.

United close to retaining their Champions league title

Arsenal were no match for the current rulers of Europe and they are on route for another title .Manchester United produced a virtuoso display to remain on course to become the first team to retain the Champions League - and destroyed Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger's dream of winning his first European trophy.

Arsenal's hopes of wiping out a single-goal deficit from the first leg ended inside 11 minutes as United struck twice to silence an expectant crowd at the Emirates.

Ji-Sung Park pounced on Kieran Gibbs' slip for a close-range finish after eight minutes, while Cristiano Ronaldo fired a 40-yard free-kick past startled keeper Manuel Almunia three minutes later.

It left Arsenal's plans, plus Wenger's bold promise of a "magnificent" performance from his players, in tatters as they were simply unable to cope with the power, pace and energy produced by Sir Alex Ferguson's side.Ronaldo's second goal of the game after 61 minutes summed up his side's display in the space of a few devastating seconds.

Arsenal were undone from their own corner by a superb sweeping move that also involved starring roles for Park and Wayne Rooney before Ronaldo completed the formalities with a flourish. It rubber-stamped United's passage into a final against Chelsea or Barcelona in Rome on 27 May - and on this evidence they will take some stopping.

The only blot on United's otherwise perfect night came 16 minutes from time when Darren Fletcher was sent off by referee Roberto Rosetti, who ruled the midfielder had fouled Cesc Fabregas as he raced in on goal.

Robin van Persie's penalty will not cause United as much pain as Fletcher's suspension for the final.

If United's first-leg performance did not bring the margin of victory it deserved, they were full value for this triumph.

And as Ferguson and United's players celebrated, Wenger was left to contemplate the stark statistic that Arsenal have not won a trophy since they beat these same opponents in the 2005 FA Cup final - and looked light years behind them on the evidence of these two games. United will now press on to try to seal another Premier League title, safe in the knowledge they can take a tilt at winning this European trophy for the fourth time.

Arsenal attempted to crank up the atmosphere inside the Emirates by placing thousands of flags on seats around the stadium but two early blows from United ensured they were swiftly lowered.

United were desperate for the away goal that would leave Arsenal facing a mountainous task and they were gifted it via an error from Gibbs. He looked comfortably positioned to clear Ronaldo's routine cross but he slipped and Park was on hand to take advantage by sliding in to lift a finish over Almunia.

Arsenal's plight became virtually impossible three minutes later when another mistake, this time from Almunia, allowed United to double their advantage and leave the Gunners requiring four goals.

Van Persie fouled Ronaldo 40 yards out and while his strike was sweetly-struck and dipping, Almunia must take responsibility for moving too late to save an effort that arrived at a comfortable height.

Arsenal's players - and their thousands of followers - were visibly shell-shocked and Rooney almost made it three after 18 minutes.Playing with great discipline in a left-flank role, he cut in dangerously to test Almunia with a shot the keeper was just able to turn to safety.

United were in complete control and Ronaldo was just off target with a header from Anderson's resulting corner.

Arsenal had been dominated to such an extent that they were reduced to ignoring Wenger's long-held philosophies as they launched aimless balls in the direction of Emmanuel Adebayor and Van Persie.

Their only response was a tame header from Fabregas that provided little more than catching practice for Edwin Van der Sar.

If Arsenal hoped the interval would inspire some remarkable transformation in a one-sided encounter, they were to be disappointed as United simply resumed with the same air of superiority.

Ronaldo tested Almunia with a low shot at his near post before he added United's third - a goal that summed up the quality of his side's performance.

From an Arsenal corner, Ronaldo found Park just 20 yards from his own penalty area. He played in Rooney and when he served up a perfect pass, there was Ronaldo to complete a picture goal with a finish high past Almunia.It afforded Ferguson the luxury of being able to remove Rooney and Patrice Evra, players who would have missed the final had they had picked up another yellow card.

Fletcher did, however, suffer that fate when he was shown a straight red card by referee Rosetti 14 minutes from time when Fabregas tumbled as the pair collided in the penalty area.

Rosetti awarded a penalty, which Van Persie duly scored, but replays showed Fletcher appearing to get a clean touch on the ball before Fabregas fell to the ground - although there was no suggestion the Arsenal captain dived.

United then simply played out time before taking deserved acclaim at the conclusion of a magnificent team effort - as Europe's elite trophy came into sight for Ferguson and his men once more.

Middlesbrough 0-2 Man Utd

Manchester United took a step closer to retaining the Premier League title with a comfortable victory at relegation-threatened Middlesbrough.

Ryan Giggs gave the visitors the lead in the first half when his low drive found Brad Jones' bottom left corner.

Ji-Sung Park scored United's second when he smashed in Wayne Rooney's neat pass following a delightful move.

Boro's best chance fell to Jeremie Aliadiere whose low shot was saved by the legs of Ben Foster early on.

The league leaders will have been delighted to have come away from the Riverside with three points having performed below the high standards they are used to.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson rested key players with Tuesday's Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal in mind and, surprisingly, Middlesbrough rarely forced United to increase their tempo.

Boro, who remain second from bottom in the table, were bereft of ideas and relied on hopeful high balls into the area, which centre-backs Nemanja Vidic and Jonny Evans coped with admirably.

The home side did have one clear chance when Marlon King played in Aliadiere but Foster was alert to make the save.

At the other end, United's front pairing of Dimitar Berbatov and Federico Macheda were largely ineffective in a 4-4-2 formation.

First goal was important - Phelan

So when United scored, it was no surprise it came from the boot of the PFA Player of the Year, who is as desperate for his 11th league title as some of his team-mates are for their first.

Rooney found Vidic, who had been forward for a set-piece, who in turn laid the ball to Giggs. The 35-year-old Welshman steadied himself before placing his low effort wide of Jones' left from the edge of the area.

His veteran partner in the middle, Paul Scholes, 34, should have tested Jones after the break, but uncharacteristically failed to find the target with both of his long-range efforts.

Luckily for Scholes, United are not short of sharp-shooters. Their second came after a sublime move that saw Giggs and Macheda play a one-two before the fabulous Rooney threaded the ball to Park, who powered in a low drive.

It was the highlight of the match and underlined that gulf in quality between the two squads.

Southgate satisfied by Boro effort

Manager Gareth Southgate brought on £13m striker Afonso Alves and Didier Digard, but neither could ignite a Boro side flattened by United's double strike.

Southgate's side have three fixtures remaining to save their season, and are three points behind fourth-from-bottom Hull, who play at Aston Villa on Monday.

They now travel to fellow strugglers Newcastle a week on Monday, 11 May, in what promises to be a tension-filled clash, knowing they will have to improve tenfold in their remaining three games if they want to stay in the division.

Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate:
"We've gone into the last two games against teams in the Champions League semi-finals and were looking for a miracle. To have a chance you need to take the lead.

"But we did get stuck into them early on but it is very tough mentally when you fall behind because they are so good defensively.

"The second goal killed the game but I have to give credit to my players because they never gave up.

"We have got to put this game behind us and start preparing for our next match against Newcastle, which is a huge game for both sides."

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson:
"It's a big step forward with only four games left now. I keep saying you whittle the games away until there are none left.

"It was a very good performance, they all worked their socks off and once we got a hold of the ball we always looked a danger.

"Once we got in front, that was the key to it because they're a young side, Middlesbrough."

Middlesbrough: Jones, McMahon (Digard 55), Wheater, Huth, Hoyte, O'Neil (Emnes 70), Sanli, Bates, Downing, King (Alves 55), Aliadiere.
Subs Not Used: Turnbull, Arca, Adam Johnson, Grounds.

Booked: Huth.

Man Utd: Foster, O'Shea, Vidic, Evans, Evra (Rafael Da Silva 78), Park (Nani 74), Scholes, Giggs, Rooney, Berbatov, Macheda (Tevez 55).
Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Ronaldo, Anderson, Gibson.

Booked: Macheda.

Goals: Giggs 25, Park 51.

Att: 33,767

Ref: Mark Halsey (Lancashire)
man of the match: Manchester United's Ryan Giggs (8.16 on 90 minutes).