David De Gea looking to adapt quickly at Manchester United

The Spanish goalkeeper has dismissed contrasts between the Premier League and La Liga and wants to improve immediately at Old Trafford

By Adam Hedley

Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea maintains he must adapt quickly to Premier League life in order to fill the void left by Edwin van der Saar.

The 20-year-old completed his move from Atletico Madrid this summer but got off to a nervous start as Manchester City's second goal, a long-range strike by Edin Dzeko, was the result of an error on the part of the Spaniard.

De Gea has refuted contrasts between La Liga and English football and insists he needs to settle in quickly at Old Trafford.

"No, football is football here and in any country," he told Sky Sports.

"I have to adapt quickly and improve on the whole of my game."

Manchester United sparked an impressive revival after finding themselves two goals down at half-time. Chris Smalling sparked the turnround before Nani's brace ensured the Community Shield would be heading to Old Trafford.

"The two goals we conceded in the first half stopped us in our tracks but in the second half we were able to claw back and I think that's the important thing. I'm very happy about the victory," said De Gea.

Nani's first would be of particular encouragement to Manchester United fans as his deft chip over Joe Hart was the finishing touch to a fine piece of build-up play involving Tom Cleverley, Anderson and Wayne Rooney.

"It was a beautiful goal and the lads in the dressing room were very happy," said De Gea.

Manchester United's Chris Smalling believes David De Gea will learn from his Community Shield error against Manchester City

Former Fulham man also pleased with his performance at right-back and says he can contribute in that position throughout the season

By Adam Hedley

“After the 30 odd games that I played last year the aim is to really kick on and play more.

“Hopefully I can start to get some more games at centre-back but if the manager feels that I can play the odd game at right-back then it’ll help if I can contribute.”

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling believes David De Gea will learn from his error in the Community Shield.

The Spanish goalkeeper, signed from Atletico Madrid this summer to replace the retired Edwin van der Saar, was considered partly to blame for Manchester City's second goal as he let past Edin Dzeko's powerful, but sighted, long-range effort, despite it not being in the corner.

United sparked an impressive second-half turnaround and Smalling insists his new team-mate has quickly put his mistake behind him.

"He’ll learn from things like that and he made some good saves in the second-half," Smalling told Talksport.

"It is good to see that he is not going to be down and out about it.”

Smalling played out of his usual centre-back position at Wembley but put in a solid performance at right-back behind Nani, and the former Fulham defender feels he wil be able to aid the team in that area during the season.

“After the 30 odd games that I played last year the aim is to really kick on and play more," he said.

“Hopefully I can start to get some more games at centre-back but if the manager feels that I can play the odd game at right-back then it’ll help if I can contribute.”

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini rules out move for Inter star Wesley Sneijder

Italian insists he is not trying to sign the Dutch star and admits City squad is worse than Manchester United's after Community Shield defeat at Wembley

By Greg Stobart at Wembley

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has ruled out the possibility of signing Inter playmaker Wesley Sneijder this summer.


Reports in Italy over the weekend had suggested that City had agreed a €36 million (£31.4m) deal for the Dutchman but Mancini says Sneijder is not on his radar.

When asked whether City are trying to sign the 27-year-old, Mancini replied: “No, it's not true. Sneijder is an Inter player, we haven't talked about him.”

The Italian admits he does want to make further additions to his squad after City were beaten 3-2 by bitter rivals Manchester United in the Community Shield on Sunday.

United laid down a marker for the season with a stunning second-half performance having been two down at the break and Mancini admits the Red Devils have the strongest squad in the country.

He added: “I think United have the top squad in the Premier League at the moment. They are better than other teams. We need to improve, we need to complete our team and find our best form.

"But United are a top team. I think they played better than us but when you go up 2-0 you need to control the game.

“I think, for us, it's important to understand why we lost this game. We need to have a strong mentality because if we play against another strong squad in the Premier League or Champions League, we need to continue to play football and not dip like we did in the second-half.”

Sir Alex Ferguson hails quality of Manchester United performance in Community Shield comeback

The Scottish manager feels the win was a fair reflection of his side's quality, praising the contributions of the younger players that highlights the depth of his squad

By Chris Myson

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has hailed the quality of football produced by his players after they came from two goals down to beat Manchester City 3-2 in a remarkable Community Shield clash at Wembley.

The Red Devils were shading a tight first half, but two goals in quick succession from Joleon Lescott and Edin Dzeko ensured it looked like the Shield was heading to the Blue half of Manchester.

However, United rallied after the break, and after Chris Smalling struck to give his side hope, two goals from Nani – one of which arrived in stoppage time – completed a tremendous comeback, which delighted the manager.

“I hope it bodes well for the season,” Sir Alex told Sky Sports after the match.

“Certainly I thought the performance over the course of the whole game was very good in terms of the football we played.

“I couldn’t believe we were 2-0 down at half-time, to me we had been controlling the match.

“Goals change games though and they got the first goal then another just before half-time, which was a killer for us.

“But huge credit to the players, they kept their heads, kept playing their football and got the result they deserved.

“The great thing about today was we never got intimidated by City’s tackling. We just kept the ball and kept playing - I thought it was fantastic.

“The players all wanted to take the ball – it’s a great quality to have and our players showed that. 

“We had 13 players under 23 in the squad today, then we’ve got the likes of Chicharito and Valencia – lots of young, talented players not even playing – we’ve got a really good squad.”

The United manager was reluctant to criticise David de Gea for Dzeko’s goal, which found the net from long-range and said he had always planned to make a number of changes in the latter stages of the game with the new Premier League season now only a week away.

“We were always going to make our substitutions,” he said.

“We have to expose the likes of Jones, Evans and Smalling to this kind of top-level football.

“I was going to make six changes, but when we got the second goal I decided to stay with it. We used five in the end and left one alone.

“Dzeko’s shot was bending a lot and the goalkeeper has to react quickly to move back onto his other foot so it’s difficult to say if David was at fault for that one.”

Sir Alex was then informed that the last four winners of the Community shield had gone on to become League champions.

“That sounds good to me - I hope the omen continues,” he laughed.

‘They helped us believe we can score’ – Nani lauds impact of Manchester United’s young players after Community Shield victory

The Portuguese winger insisted that the Red Devils 'always believe until the last minute' after his side secured a late comeback over their rivals at Wembley

By George Ankers

Manchester United’s Community Shield hero Nani insists that the influence of the team’s younger stars helped the Red Devils believe they could come back from a 2-0 half-time deficit against rivals Manchester City.

The Portuguese winger scored twice as Sir Alex Ferguson’s side snatched victory, with Phil Jones, Tom Cleverley and Jonny Evans all being introduced at the break in an attempt to turn the game around.

“I think the young lads that came on in the second half helped us believe we can score," he told Sky Sports after the final whistle.

“We are Manchester United and we always believe until the last minute."

“We said that we just need to score the first goal [in the second half] and then the game would be easier for us and then we did well.”

Despite going in two goals down at the break, United dominated the game in both halves, and Nani agreed that putting one over their local rivals was a boost.

“It is always good to play against Manchester City and win like that,” he admitted.

“I think our fans will be so proud of us. It is a beautiful day and now we just enjoy it.”

And the former Sporting Lisbon player revealed that a smart moment of quick thinking was the key to putting away the last-minute chance that sealed the Shield.

“I was trying to chip, but the goalkeeper stayed on his feet so at the last second I changed my mind and put the ball in the net,” he continued.

After the whistle, Rio Ferdinand also praised the strength of United's squad, and the Wembley atmosphere.

"Great support at wembley today," Ferdinand Tweeted. "Thanks to you all where ever you are. We done it the hard way but that's how we do it every year!! #squad"

Antonio, I salute you

Sir Alex Ferguson is known to recognise a player’s personality and character as much as his skill level or ability on the pitch, and this is arguably why he chose to sign Luis Antonio Valencia Mosquera, or 'Tony V' as he is affectionately known at Old Trafford, from Wigan in June 2009.

In fact, the boss made a point of referencing Valencia’s personal attributes shortly after it was announced the United winger had signed a new four-year contract extension on Monday, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2014/15 season. "He has a quiet, unassuming way of going about his business, which is underlined by great strength of character," said Sir Alex.

Born and raised on the mean streets of Lago Agrio, a rundown oil town in the north-west region of Ecuador, it is easy to see where Valencia would gather said strength. His parents recycled empty glass bottles for cash while their son spent his days playing barefooted football. It wasn’t exactly a pleasant way to grow up, but it did provide the United winger with his most important attributes: hunger and determination.

For it was these qualities that would fuel his rapid return from the potentially career-threatening injury sustained during last September's UEFA Champions League clash with Rangers. Remarkably, Valencia went on to play a pivotal role in United's charge towards a record-breaking 19th English league title, as well as cementing a starting berth against Barcelona in the European Cup final - ousting Players' Player of the Year Nani in the process.

All of that seemed implausible, though, when the Reds winger was felled by a relatively innocuous challenge from defender Kirk Broadfoot – one which dislocated and broke the Ecuadorian’s left ankle, stunning Old Trafford into a shocked silence in the anxious moments which followed.

Fast forward to six months later, however, and the contrast in atmosphere is huge. The Theatre of Dreams is collective in goodwill and it has little to do with a 1-0 half-time lead over Arsenal in the FA Cup. No, the biggest cheers are reserved for the returning Valencia, who springs off the bench to rapturous applause and churns out a surprisingly combative performance. It was as if he hadn’t been away.

Valencia’s return appeared to give United’s title challenge a shot in the arm too, following back-to-back Premier League defeats to both Chelsea and Liverpool, and it was certainly no coincidence that Wayne Rooney was beginning to show signs of his best form following an uncerta.

So it is with great relief and satisfaction to know a player of Valencia’s calibre and underestimated quality will be donning the red shirt of United until June 2015 at the very least. Granted, he's currently sidelined with that troublesome left ankle - but something inside me says he might just be alright.

Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain all interested in Casemiro [agent]

The representative of the Brazilian teenager has hinted that some of Europe's biggest clubs are interested in his client but says that Inter cannot afford the 19-year-old

By Livio Caferoglu

The agent of Sao Paulo midfielder Casemiro has singled out Real Madrid, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain as interested suitors for his client.

The Brazil Under-20 international, who helped his country win the South American Youth Championship earlier this year, was originally tipped to move to Italian giants Inter, but other clubs have since joined the queue to land the starlet it seems.

The Giuseppe Meazza outfit have long been linked with the 19-year-old, but the admission from Jose Alberti, the player's agent, has hinted that they cannot afford the reported €18 million demanded by the Brazilian club.

"Inter were the original favourites, but there is talk of offers of around €18 million, a value that the Italians can not reach," Alberti told Calciomercatoweb. "There is also interest from other teams like Manchester United, Real Madrid and PSG."

The news comes after it emerged that the Italians were closing in on Slovakian midfielder Juraj Kucka from Genoa.

Wesley's the one!

Papers: Wesley is the one!

The Daily Mail reports...

Manchester United legend David Beckham has urged the club to sign Wesley Sneijder to replace the retired Paul Scholes. Sir Alex Ferguson has targeted the Holland playmaker this summer but the move stalled after Inter Milan demanded £35million for their star midfielder. But Beckham, who played for LA Galaxy as they lost to Manchester City 7-6 on penalties on Sunday night, believes his former club should persist with their chase of Sneijder as he is the man capable of filling the gaping hole in United's midfield. "Scholes is the one player they want to replace,' Beckham said. "He is such a great talent and he will be missed. They're going to have to get someone special. There's a lot of talk about Wesley Sneijder. He's such a talented player, a great guy as well. I'm sure he would fit right into a United team."

Patrice Evra thinks Samir Nasri should be the man to fill Scholes' shoes at Old Trafford. The French full-back told The Daily Telegraph: "He said that it’s a privilege that a club like Man United want him, but that he has to think about his future and talk with his agent. I’m not Nasri, I’m not his agent or his dad, but I would definitely tell him to come to Man United. Definitely. I remember I made that little joke saying that he’s a prince now, but if he wants to be the king then he has to join Man United. But that’s the reality and I’ve told him that. I said: 'If you want to win trophies you have to come here.'"

Meanwhile, Joey Barton refuted The Sunday Times' link with United interest on Twitter. "Nice to be linked with some big clubs but I honestly don't want to leave Newcastle. Thanks but no thanks," reports The Daily Express.

Brown looking to the future

Papers : Brown's relief

The Daily Telegraph reports…

Wes Brown has admitted it was a relief when Sir Alex Ferguson finally told him this summer it was time to leave Old Trafford. Brown believes the resulting move to Sunderland has given him a new lease of life after two years on the periphery of Ferguson’s team. Although Brown made 361 appearances for United, he was nothing more than a member of the supporting cast as they lifted the Premier League title last season. “In a funny kind of way, it’s a bit of a relief when someone like Sir Alex sits you down and tells you how it is,” said Brown. “I wasn’t playing last season, so I knew things weren’t really right, and I couldn’t really see myself getting back into the team in any sort of meaningful way. In my mind, I sort of knew which way things were heading, but I guess you don’t really want to admit that to yourself until you have to. Deep down, I think I knew I had to do something. You inevitably start questioning what’s going on, so Sir Alex’s decision wasn’t really a surprise. I saw it coming and I think I’d got my head around it.”
Luke Edwards

The same paper claims that, following David Gill’s assertion on MUTV that there is still time for transfers, United are planning “one last push” for Wesley Sneijder.

Several other papers run with the Dimitar Berbatov quotes we featured on ManUtd.com on Tuesday, in which the Bulgarian says he’s consigned last season to history already.

And The Independent carries a feature on modern-day scouting, praising in particular United’s capture of Javier Hernandez from Chivas last summer.

Manchester United's Wayne Rooney wary of improved Liverpool

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney says Liverpool "will challenge" for the Premier League title in the new season.

Liverpool, who finished sixth last term, have signed midfield trio Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing during the summer.

"They have made some really good signings," said Rooney.

"I am sure they will be fighting harder than they ever have done to be up there. They will think they have a chance of winning the title."

The former Everton man continued: "The main threat is going to be from Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City.

"One of them, plus us, will be fighting for the title."

Rooney will be aiming to collect a fifth Premier League winners' medal this season with United, but he wants to kick-off the season with a victory over FA Cup winners Manchester City in the Community Shield at Wembley on 7 August.

"When you play at a club like Manchester United, the goal is to win all the competitions," said the England international.

 "I don't set targets for myself but it would be nice if I can get through the season injury free"

Continue reading the main storyWayne Rooney

"It is true our priority is to keep our Premier League title, but we won't ignore any competition.

"We want to win everything, starting with the Community Shield. There is nothing better than a derby to start the season."

The 25-year-old also said United's summer signings have made him feel like a relative veteran at the club.

United have bought 20-year-old goalkeeper David De Gea and teenage defender Phil Jones from Blackburn, as well as Ashley Young from Aston Villa.

"There have been a lot of changes this summer and when you look around the dressing room now, suddenly it's a lot younger place.

"The manager is bringing in players who have not won a league title before and they all have that hunger and desire to want to win trophies."

Rooney's return of 16 goals in all competitions last season represented his lowest tally since the 2003/04 campaign, his last at Everton before moving to Old Trafford.

He added: "I don't set targets for myself but it would be nice if I can get through the season injury free. It's always a big thing to get your pre-season under your belt because that is the main bulk of the work you get to do.

"We have trained very hard this week and we are looking forward to all the games."

United continue their pre-seaon tour of the United States against Chicago Fire on Saturday, before they face an MLS All-Stars team that will include David Beckham and Thierry Henry on 27 July.

Concussion puts Manchester United's Hernandez in hospital

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez spent Tuesday night in hospital after suffering "mild concussion" on the club's pre-season tour of the United States.

The Mexico forward, 23, was injured during training in New Jersey ahead of the friendly with the MLS All-stars.

"Chicharito (Hernandez) sustained a mild concussion during training," a United spokesperson said.

"We took necessary precautions, which included a night's stay in hospital."

The spokeman added: "The manager [Sir Alex Ferguson] will give further updates in due course."

DID YOU KNOW?

Continue reading the main story

• Javier Hernandez's father was a member of the 1986 Mexico Wiorld Cup squad

Hernandez, who has 29 international caps, scored 13 Premier League goals in his first season after signing from Mexican side Chivas de Guadalajara for £7m last season.

The MLS All-Stars side will feature former United midfielder David Beckham. United will conclude their US tour on Saturday against European champions Barcelona in Washington.

Reds launch Airtel Rising Stars

CLUB NEWS

United legend Andrew Cole was in Kenya earlier this summer to launch Airtel Rising Stars, an ambitious football talent search across 16 African countries.

While Kenya is perhaps best known in the sporting world for its athletics prowess, the population have a greater passion for football, including the English league. Kenyan fans were therefore greatly excited to meet Cole on his visit to their country.

The former Reds goalscorer and now club ambassador kicked off his visit to Kenya by appearing on a popular morning radio programme; he then attended the Airtel Rising Stars launch at one of Nairobi's leading high schools, Upper Hill School, which has been earmarked as one of the eight centres of soccer excellence in Kenya. Upper Hill has already produced some of the best and well known soccer stars in Kenya, including Macdonald Mariga of Inter Milan and his brother Victor Wanyama now at Celtic.

Speaking at the school, Cole said: "I'm here for the launch of a new programme Airtel Rising Stars that gives an opportunity to young talent to get into football.

"A primary and secondary school sports programme like the one we are witnessing in Nairobi helped Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez to come through in Mexico. Programmes like this can help you realise your potential in football."

After the launch event, Cole took part in a coaching session for the school’s soccer team - a great thrill for the young Kenyan players to practise with one of the most respected strikers in the English game.

A memorable trip ended with dinner at the world-famous Carnivore Restaurant where Cole was offered a wide range of exotic game meat not usually found on the menu in Manchester! There was also time for another high-profile media appearance, on one of Kenyan television's top evening talkshows, Churchill Live, where the United legend was presented with a Masaai warrior costume as a souvenir of his memorable and successful visit.

Speaking on Churchill Live, Cole said, "I've been to Africa a few times before but this is my first time in Kenya, and I've enjoyed my short time here."

Manchester United chief executive David Gill: We are looking to sign one more player

Despite Ferguson claiming his spending was done, Gill reveals that United are interested in filling one more position in the squad, with two or three players on their wishlist

Manchester United chief executive David Gill has revealed that the club are looking to sign one more player this summer.

United have already strengthened heavily since winning the Premier League in May, spending around £50 million on David De Gea, Phil Jones and Ashley Young, and speculation has been rife that the Old Trafford club are interested in Inter's Wesley Sneijder and Arsenal's Samir Nasri.


And despite manager Sir Alex Ferguson claiming yesterday his summer spending was done, Gill stated that United are still interested in signing one more player.

"Yeah, we knew that [it would be busy]," Gill told MUTV. "Edwin [van der Sar] made it known that last season would be his last so we had planned for a new goalkeeper well in advance.

"With the others [Jones and Young], the opportunities came along and we were comfortable with that. So we've made three signings.

"We're looking at one more player to bring in. Nothing's happening - nothing imminent - on that at the moment, but we'll see what happens when we get home [from the tour of America].

"There'll be 31 days of the transfer window to see if anything develops. But I'm not working on anything at the moment, in that respect."

Gill added that while nothing is happening at the moment, the club could sign someone soon, but only if that player is a world-class acquisition.

"We've been looking at a particular position and two or three players in that position, but nothing's imminent at the moment," he said.

"The important thing to understand, and Alex has made it clear, is that we need someone who's going to improve the quality of the squad.

"We've got a great squad and to get into that squad you need to be a world-class player. There's no point, if you can't get the players you want, in buying someone for the sake of buying someone.

"But you never know - there's often movement in August. I'm not sitting here saying I'm working on anything because I'm not, but that situation could change quickly when we get back to Carrington [the club's training ground]."

Manchester United are at the very top & if you go somewhere else it is a big step down – Dimitar Berbatov

The Bulgarian, who has been linked with a summer exit, hints he will not consider a move and reveals that he is not bothered that people criticise his laid-back playing style

Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has expressed his opinion that a move away from Old Trafford would be a significant step down in his career.

The Bulgarian, who was left out of Sir Alex Ferguson's squad for the Champions League final in May, has been linked with a summer exit, but – apart from Barcelona – he does not see how any other side could compare to the Premier League winners and he is focused only on collecting more trophies.


"Smaller clubs might be able to match Manchester United with the way they play, with their organisation, everything. But Manchester United are at the top," he told Press Association Sport.

"Where can you go from there? Maybe Barcelona. At the moment, I don't see anything else.

"If you go somewhere else it is a big step down.

"I come from a small country. I have the good fortune to play for Manchester United. For the time I am here I try to do my best and win everything there is to win.

"There is no other way I can play."

The 30-year-old is often criticised for his laid-back playing style, but insists he does not care what his doubters say and will not change his ways.

"I always play like this," he said. "That is what got me here.

"You are not going to see me puffing around the pitch. There is a saying in Bulgaria that 'great quality doesn't require much effort'."

He added: "I don't like to show my weaknesses. I don't want to show my emotions in public.

"That is why people probably sometimes misjudge me."

While Berbatov may not have endeared himself to pundits, he is warmly received at Old Trafford and saw his reputation enhanced with a stunning hat-trick against Liverpool last season, which helped him finish as the league's top scorer.

"I didn't know scoring three goals against Liverpool would mean so much to so many people," he said.

"Obviously three goals - and the second one was a bit special, it will stay in my memory forever - and after that I scored five!

"What makes me really proud is that there have been so many foreigners playing in English football, I am the only one with five goals.

"But it is something I have to push to the back of my mind. Last season I had highs in my career. But what if we didn't win the title? Then these things wouldn't matter so much."

Arsenal legend Thierry Henry hails impact of Manchester United's Chicharito: He's a great finisher & his debut season was amazing

Former Gunners striker says he was surprised by the Mexican, while Sir Alex Ferguson suggests the forward will be given the time to recuperate from his Gold Cup exploits

By Joe Doyle

Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has hailed the impact of Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez at Manchester United, saying the Mexican's debut season in the Premier League "was just amazing".


United will line up against Henry when they face the MLS All-Stars on Wednesday, and the Frenchman has revealed that he is a big fan of the 23-year-old.

"He's a great finisher," said Henry. "Going to Manchester United and doing what he did was just amazing. I don't think anyone was expecting him to do what he did, but he did it."

Hernandez himself stated how happy he is at United following a debut season which saw him become a fan favourite at Old Trafford.

"I'm happy, I'm enjoying it a lot," Chicharito added. "I'm keeping in a dream. It's a dream come true for me.

"My first game with Manchester United was in [last year's] pre-season, also against the MLS All-Stars and I'm very happy to be with my team again."

However, Sir Alex Ferguson stressed that it may be a while until the striker appears for the Premier League champions after his exploits for his country this summer.

"The first and most important thing is to re-energise him, give him the proper training before we even consider him for the first team because the season will not be decided in the first match," he said.

"When we get to understand where he is in terms of the physical side we then can start introducing him to the team again."

Wes Brown reveals Manchester United frustration led to him leaving for Sunderland

The defender acknowledges it was a "difficult decision" to leave his boyhood club but a lack of playing time meant a move was inevitable, and he is happy with the switch

New Sunderland defender Wes Brown has revealed that a lack of playing time at Manchester United forced him to seek a transfer away from the club.

The 31-year-old left Old Trafford with fellow defender John O'Shea to link up with Steve Bruce at the Stadium of Light, and admitted that he wanted to forward his career by playing on a regular basis.

"I've been with Manchester United my whole career, since I was 12 or 13, so it's a difficult decision but at the same time I've not been playing, wasn't getting picked so [I] had a word with the gaffer and we both agreed it would be best for me to leave," Brown told reporters.

"I've not played, even the season before last, I've not really played that much. I've been fit and I thought it was just time to maybe move on and try and forward my career that way."

The defender spoke highly of Sunderland and said the connections between the two clubs, as well as the influence of Bruce, made him want to make the move north.

"I've watched Sunderland over the years anyway because we've always had some sort of connection there with old Man United players, whether it was the young lads or Dwight Yorke for instance, or Roy Keane. But I spoke to Steve and straight away knew this is where I wanted to come," Brown said.

"I've known Steve for quite a while anyway. I've spoke to a few of the lads and it seems to be a great club, somewhere where I really wanted to come."

Boss' warning for City

The Daily Mail reports... 

Sir Alex Ferguson warned Manchester City that he will use next month's Community Shield as an opportunity to put his 'noisy neighbours' in their place. City beat United in last season's FA Cup semi-final on the way to ending their 35-year wait for a trophy, and Ferguson admitted that Roberto Mancini's side have now emerged as a genuine threat to his hopes of retaining the Barclays Premier League title. However, the Old Trafford boss is determined to strike an early blow when the two rivals return to Wembley on 7 August after reviving his famous comment about City in New York. "Obviously the Community Shield is not a normal one for Manchester United," said Ferguson. "It's about addressing our noisy neighbours again. It's going to be an interesting match. If you look at the possibilities of the top teams, any one of them can win the league. Ourselves, City, Liverpool have improved a lot, and Arsenal and Chelsea are always challengers."

The New York Times cover more quotes from the boss' press conference, explaining why the USA has been a popular destination for the Reds over the years. "It’s always part of our preparation to go abroad. We’ve had four trips to the US in the last nine years and, for me, it’s not about the finances but about creating a fan base for the club, to prepare the team for the season, and that never changes."

Agent claims Manchester United have been in talks over Mirko Vucinic but have not reached agreement for Roma striker

The forward's representative says discussions have begun over a possible transfer but a lot more still needs to be done if the Montenegro international is to move to Old Trafford

By Joe Doyle

Mirko Vucinic's agent, Alessandro Lucci, has claimed he has met with representatives from Manchester United to hold talks about signing the striker from Roma.

Juventus were thought to be favourites to sign the 27-year-old, bringing to an end his five-year stay in the Italian capital, but United have now emerged as surprise frontrunners, although a deal is not close to being finalised.

"I met Manchester United yesterday," Lucci told lasignoraingiallorosso.it. "We spoke about Vucinic, but we didn't reach an agreement.

"United like Vucinic but there's still a lot of work to do to see Mirko at Old Trafford."

Sir Alex Ferguson has already strengthened the squad at Old Trafford with three signings – Phil Jones, Ashley Young and David de Gea – this summer, at a combined cost of around £50 million.

Sir Alex stated on Monday that he did not expect any further signings to be made before the Community Shield match against rivals Manchester City on August 7.

UNICEF's appeal to fans

UNICEF is calling on United fans around the world to support its East Africa Children’s Crisis Appeal.

• MUFOUNDATION_News/Article

The charity has increased humanitarian assistance to countries in East Africa, where nearly two million children under five are currently at risk of starvation.

A major food crisis is looming due to a deadly combination of drought, conflict and rising food prices. UNICEF has warned that nearly half a million children are facing severe malnourishment.

The current drought in East Africa (encompassing Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya and Djibouti) has been one of the worst for 60 years, leaving pastures barren, water sources dry and livestock starving.

Please donate now to help UNICEF's work with children in crisis in East Africa.

Drought and conflict are causing tens of thousands of families to cross from Somalia to Kenya and Ethiopia each month, placing further strain on already overstretched refugee camps.

UNICEF continues to work in this region, delivering lifesaving nutrition and other basic supplies to keep vulnerable children alive and prevent disease.

In the most affected areas of Ethiopia, UNICEF has distributed food to almost 34,000 severely malnourished children, and ensured access to water and sanitation for over 280,000 people.

In South Somalia, UNICEF and its partners are also providing basic health care services to nearly 900,000 people, and water and sanitation to over a million. We are also helping to treat over 12,000 malnourished children in Kenya.

UNICEF urgently requires funds to reach malnourished children in East Africa. Please donate now. 

Napoli, Manchester United & Manchester City have all made enquiries for Shakhtar Donetsk's Douglas Costa [agent]

A number of clubs from Italy, England and Spain have all been taking note of the Brazilian, his representative has said, and any offer from top leagues will be considered

EXCLUSIVE
By Andrea Ghislandi

Napoli, Manchester United, and Manchester City have all expressed an interest in Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Douglas Costa, said his agent Cesar Bottega.

Back in June the 20-year-old, who has three years left on his deal with Shakhtar, said he was pleased after learning of an interest from Napoli and Roma, who were both linked with his services.

His five goals in 27 games for the Ukrainian side last term have not gone unnoticed across the European continent, and Bottega has now confirmed the Italian and Premier League clubs have been sniffing around.

"I have had some contacts with important teams in Italy, Spain and England. Manchester City and Manchester United have informed themselves [about the player]," Bottega said.

"There was an interest from Napoli after they qualified for the Champions League, but in the last few weeks I have not heard from anyone at Napoli."

Yet, despite the links with a transfer, Costa could still remain with coach Mircea Lucescu's squad even though any subsequent offer will be considered.

"The player is happy in the Ukraine and he gets to play Champions League football with one of the most important teams in Europe," added the agent.

"But, if an opportunity from an important league arrives then we will consider it."

Sir Alex Ferguson not planning on signing any more players for Manchester United this summer

The Scot is looking forward to an "interesting" clash with rivals City during the Community Shield on August 7, but doesn't expect to bring in any new faces before then

By Adam Hedley

Manchester United fans can expect a quiet final few weeks of the summer after manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he was happy with his signings so far and is not looking to add any more.

The Scot has brought Spanish goalkeeper David De Gea, Blackbun defender Phil Jones and Aston Villa winger Ashley Young to Old Trafford, but has also been linked with a central midfielder after the retirement of Paul Scholes.

"We lost five players in their 30s this summer," Ferguson told reporters during his team's tour of North America.

"That helped finance the three younger players - Ashley Young, Phil Jones and David de Gea - I have brought to the club.”

He added: "At this moment, I can't see another addition. The type of player we might have been looking for is not available.

"I am happy with the players I have got at this moment in time."

The first test of the new look United will come on August 7 with the Community Shield against rivals Manchester City, and Ferguson admitted it wll be an "interesting" game.

"It is not a normal Community Shield for Manchester United," he added.

"It is addressing our noisy neighbours again. It will be an interesting match."

‘If you want to win trophies, you have to come here’ – Patrice Evra admits attempts to convince Arsenal’s Samir Nasri to join Manchester United during summer break

The 30-year-old reiterates his belief that United offer his French colleague the best opportunity of silverware and claims a move to rivals City would be money motivated

By Liam Twomey

Manchester United defender Patrice Evra has once again urged Arsenal’s Samir Nasri to join him at Old Trafford, saying only United can offer the Gunners star the trophies to match his talent.


Nasri has been heavily linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium this summer after refusing to sign an extension to his current deal, which has one year left to run.

It is currently unclear whether Arsenal would rather sell their prized asset for a reasonable fee this summer or allow him to leave for free in 12 months’ time, but United and Manchester City represent the likeliest destinations for the 24-year-old should the Gunners elect to cash in now.

Evra has urged Nasri to move to Old Trafford before and, with his France team-mate thought to be closer to making a firm decision on his future, the 30-year-old reiterated his stance.

"I've talked a lot with him in the holidays and told him how great it is to play for Manchester United and how important it would be for him to become one of the biggest players in the world,” Evra told reporters.

"I remember I made that little joke saying that he's a prince now but if he wants to be the king then he has to join Man United.

"But that's the reality - and I've told him that. I said, 'If you want to win trophies, you have to come here'.

"In five years I've won 12 trophies and I don't know if I'd have won more than that with another club. So I just told him the truth.
"I don't know how negotiations are at the moment but he has a lot of clubs interested in him and he has to think.

"I just told him how good it would be for him coming here. He will have a nice welcome and I can help as well because I'm French.

"We've spoken a lot in the summer and also when we met up for friendly games with France at the end of the season. It was looking interesting but I don't know, we'll have to see."

However, United’s bitter local rivals City are also firmly in the race to sign Nasri, and their considerable financial resources mean they may be willing to match Arsenal’s valuation of the player, thought to be at least £25 million.

But Evra believes that to turn down the chance to win trophies at Old Trafford in favour of a move to City would be absurd, and hinted any such decision would indicate a preference for money over glory on Nasri’s part.

"If he goes to City it's his choice,” he added. “But I know, as a player, if I have Manchester United and Manchester City, I'd go straight away for United.

"It can be for the money. But I'd prefer to go for the glory. He said it's a privilege a club like United want him but he has to think about his future and talk with his agent."

Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez refutes Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement claims

The Manchester United manager revealed the Argentine, in 2009, told him he only wanted to continue playing football for four more years

By Chris Butterworth JR

Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez has dismissed suggestions he told former manager Sir Alex Ferguson that he planned to retire during his time at Manchester United.

Ferguson had claimed the Argentine told him he wished to play on for four more years in 2009, while the club and the forward were negotiating a new contract.

The United boss told The People:  “He told us at the time of negotiations that he was only going to play for four more years, so if we had signed him on a five-year contract knowing that he was going to quit in four years’ time, there is no re-sale value for us.”

However, a spokesman for the 27-year-old refuted Ferguson's accusation: "At no time did he discuss retiring with the Manchester United management and Mr Ferguson has not mentioned this at any time before.

“In fact Carlos feels he is capable of playing for a further eight years and though he has been in the form of his life, he feels he is only going to get better in the coming years.”

Tevez has once again publicly expressed his desire to leave Manchester City and was on the verge of a £40 million switch to his former club Corinthians before the Brazilian club pulled out over talks over fears the deal could not be completed before the close of their transfer deadline on July 21.

The forward is currently on holiday after returning from Argentina's Copa America campaign where he missed a penalty in their quarter-final clash against Uruguay.