UEFA Delays Rooney Ban Explanation

UEFA is to delay giving a written explanation to the Footbal Association over the reasons for Wayne Rooney's three-match ban by at least another week. Rooney, 26, was handed a straight red card in England's 2-2 Euro 2012 qualifying draw with Montenegro for kicking out at Miodrag Dzudovic. 


The Manchester United striker was subsequently hit with a three-match ban by UEFA, meaning he is set to miss the entire group stage of Euro 2012.

UEFA has yet to provide the FA with written reasons regarding the suspension, and England's footballing body is waiting to receive the explanation before deciding to appeal the decision.

UEFA said the delay was because they had prioritised disciplinary cases with players connected to countries playing in the Euro 2012 play-offs.

A UEFA spokesman said: ''Due to the urgency of disciplinary cases connected to the UEFA EURO 2012 play-off matches, we will deal with sending the full reasoned decision on Wayne Rooney to the FA in due course.''

An FA statement read: "The FA has today been advised by UEFA that we may not be provided with the written reasons regarding Wayne Rooney's three match suspension for another week at a minimum.

"Once the reasons are received, The FA will determine on any appeal after discussions with Fabio Capello and Wayne Rooney."

Cup Game Perfect for Sir Alex

Manchester United eased into the quarter-finals of the Carling Cup on Tuesday night with a 3-0 victory at League Two side Aldershot Town, with manager Sir Alex Ferguson pleased to give his fringe players a run out. 

Michael Owen, Dimitar Berbatov and Antonio Valencia - with only three Premier League starts between them - were all on target for the Red Devils.

Nemanja Vidic, surprising left out of the mauling at the hands of Manchester City on Sunday, got vital game time as he looks to improve his fitness after a stop-start campaign while Tom Cleverley returned from a six-week lay-off.

Sir Alex said: "They'll always give me nudges. It's difficult picking a team when you've got so many good players.

"We have a fantastic squad. That's why I had to play these players. They need the games, they've not had many first-team games to be honest with you because the consistency of the team has been very good - we've not needed to make any changes.

"But there's Michael Owen - every time he plays, he scores. It's a fantastic record he's got. He's a fantastic professional. Dimitar Berbatov had a fantastic game and scored a tremendous goal from great football.

"So they've all done well; Valencia, Thomas Cleverley back is a good thing for us because the boy's an outstanding footballer. Vida's got another 90 behind him. I think he needed it. Until he got his breathing going, he was feeling it.

"Obviously, we had a difficult day on Sunday simply because we tried to play the history book. The nature of Manchester United is to go and win the game, whether it's eight men, nine men, 10 men or seven men. That's their nature and it's very difficult to change that.''

Owen Targeting Cup Glory

Micheal Owen has warned Tuesday night's opponents Aldershot Town that Manchester United have their sights set on lifting the Carling Cup.United travel to League Two side Aldershot in the fourth round of the Carling Cup, the Red Devils having won the competition twice in the last three years.

Owen is expected to play a part at the Recreation Ground and is eagerly anticipating the challenge of continuing United's success on the Carling Cup stage.

He told MUTV: "It's a competition we want to do well in. We've done quite well in the Carling Cup over the years and we want to progress and win a trophy. That's the end game.

"It's obviously going to be a massive game for Aldershot with Manchester United coming into town. I'm sure it'll be a full house and we're treating it as an important game as well."

In the previous round against Leeds, manager Sir Alex Ferguson selected the likes of Owen, Dimitar Berbatov, Ryan Giggs, Michael Carrick, Antonio Valencia and Park Ji-sung.

Fletcher Feels for Man United Fans

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher feels for the club's fans after the 6-1 drubbing in the Manchester derby, but says the players are hurting just as much. "We realise how much this result has hurt the fans and how they'll go into work on Monday and get a lot of stick, but the players are hurting just as much. We live in the city too and we're going to have to deal with it as well," Fletcher told MUTV.

"No-one wants to lose by the margin we did today, but you've always got to look at positives and say you can lose by that score or lose 1-0 and it's still the same amount of points [to lose].

"I said to the lads in the dressing room afterwards that we need to remember how it feels to lose a game like this, but to remember that no medals are handed out now.

"There's still a long way to go in the season. It's a bad result, but by no means is the league over. We've got to respond and win our next game."

The 6-1 result was United's first home defeat since April 2010, and it ended their run of 19 consecutive home league wins.

Vidic Retires from International Football

Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic has confirmed his retirement from international football in the wake of   Serbia's failure to qualify for next summer's European Championship.


Vidic, 29, has established himself as one of the world's finest defenders since moving to United five years ago, though it was with Serbia that he first attracted the attention of Sir Alex Ferguson when playing in the defence that conceded just one goal in qualifying for the 2006 World Cup.


But the former Spartak Moscow centre-back has decided to bring down the curtain on his international career, citing criticism of his commitment to the national team and a desire to give younger players the opportunity to play for Serbia as the major factors.

"The main reason for this decision is that for a long time, especially in light of recent events, the media and therefore the public, have criticised my attitude towards the national team. Even though I played for the national team injured," Vidic said.

"Also, I do not want to be a burden for the new generation of players. I owe gratitude to the fans, all the selectors and coaches and teammates with whom I worked in the past ten years."

Vidic made his international debut against Italy in 2002 and has played 56 times for Serbia since then, representing his country at the 2010 World Cup.

An Serbian Football Federation statement read: "The Football Association of Serbia wishes to thank Nemanja Vidic for everything he has provided for Serbian football, especially playing for the national team.

"His behaviour, commitment and attitude towards the national team deserves praise and a special place in the history of this sport in our country.

"While we respect his decision, we want to emphasise the door to the national team is not closed and, should all the conditions be met, it would be a great honour if he rejoined the team.''

Vidic Set for Euro Return, Rio Out

Rio Ferdinand was not among Manchester United 's travelling party as the squad prepared to fly out for their Champions League clash with Otelul Galati.

United are looking for their first win of their European campaign following draws with Benfica and Basel in the group stages, and they travel to Romania without one of their main centre-backs.

Ferdinand played every minute of the Red Devils' 1-1 draw with Liverpool at the weekend, but he will now be rested ahead of their forthcoming Premier League showdown with Manchester City.

Ferdinand has struggled to string a run of games together in recent season's due to a persistent back problem and United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is selective over when and where the 32-year-old should play.

There is an able deputy flying out to Romania though, with fellow centre-back Nemanja Vidicset for a return to action following a recent spell on the sidelines.

Vidic played for Serbia last week after finally recovering from the calf injury he suffered against West Brom in United's opening match of the season but was rested for the Liverpool clash.

Dimitar Berbatov, who also missed the Anfield contest, is included in the squad while Phil Jones has recovered from a knock he picked up on Saturday.

Tom Cleverley (foot) and Rafael (shoulder) remain on the sidelines, although they are nearing a return to full fitness.

Ferdinand: I Have Plenty to Offer

Ferdinand, 32, is well aware the rapid rise of Phil Jones has led to questions being asked about his own contributions for Manchester United and England. But after an impressive display in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Liverpool, Ferdinand confirmed he has no desire to step aside.

"I have had people writing me off many times in my career," he said. "I just go out and play. I am confident in my own ability.

"Whatever anyone writes doesn't bother me whether it is good or bad. I wasn't in the England squad so I just have to shrug my shoulders and get on with it. I am not one to sit around and moan and mope."

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand says he will continue to ignore the critics as he looks to recapture the form which made him captain of both club and country.

Meanwhile, Ferdinand also urged David De Gea to ignore critcism after the United goalkeeper endured a testing start to his life in the Premier League.

"The difference with clubs like us and others is that elsewhere goalkeepers are always involved in the action. Here, he is not involved for a long time and then bang he has to make a quick save. That is what sets the top keepers apart.

"He is showing why the club spent so much money on him and went out big to get him.

"The game against Stoke was a pivotal moment for him. There was a lot of pressure on him. People expected things to go wrong for him because of the size of the opponents and how Stoke put pressure on the goalkeeper. He dealt with that game brilliantly, which was huge confidence-wise.

"I didn't notice a change in him because he is not an emotional type of guy or someone who is that animated, but you can tell from his performances since that he is looking more comfortable and confident," said Ferdinand.

Gerrard: Rooney Must Go to Euro 2012

Steven Gerrard insists there is no question that Wayne Rooney should be picked by Fabio Capello for next summer's Euro 2012 despite picking up a three-game international ban. 

Rooney will miss all three of England's group-stage matches after being sent off in England's 2-2 draw in Montenegro, prompting some pundits to suggest the Manchester United striker should be left out of Capello's squad.

But Gerrard, who scored the opening goal in Saturday's 1-1 draw against United at Anfield, believes Rooney should be one of the first names to be picked.

"For me he has got to go, the talent that he is," Gerrard told Talksport's Stan Collymore in a telephone interview. "He is that good a player I think you have to take the risk and take him. It is devastating he is out for the first three games, it is a massive blow for everyone.

"We will have to see who we come up against in the group games but we should progress from the group stages and then you need your best player out there with you to push on all the way to the final."

Despite admitting that Rooney's absence will be "devastating", Gerrard believes the striker's absence could have a positive impact on the squad.

"I don't think anyone needs to keep him involved, he is a good character to have off the pitch," Gerrard said."Not having him for the first three games will hopefully galvanise the squad. We all need to pull together and take responsibility with him not being there. Then hopefully if we do get out of the group he will be there fit and fresh to help us push on."

FA to Investigate Evra Claims

The Football Association has confirmed it will look into a report made to referee Andre Marriner after Saturday's 1-1 draw between Liverpool and Manchester United. 
It is believed the investigation will follow claims of alleged racist abuse made by United defender Patrice Evra against Liverpool striker Luis Suarez.

In a statement released late on Saturday, the FA said: "The Football Association has this evening been made aware of an incident that is alleged to have occurred during the Liverpool versus Manchester United fixture at Anfield today.

"Referee Andre Marriner was made aware of an allegation at the end of the fixture and has subsequently reported this to The FA.

"The FA will now begin making enquiries into the matter."

Evra had earlier made the allegation in an interview with French television channel Canal+.

He said: "There are cameras, and you can see him [Suarez] say a certain word to me at least ten times. No place for that in 2011. The referee is aware of what was said."

A Liverpool spokesman said that Suarez has "categorically denied'' the allegation.

Harry Plays Down Rio Rumours

Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has played down suggestions he could make a move for Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand.

Ferdinand's future at Old Trafford has recently been the subject of conjecture as his fitness struggles have continued, with the centre-back starting three of his side's seven Premier League matches this season.

A move to America had been mooted for Ferdinand, 32, but the speculation was swiftly played down, while this week it has been suggested Redknapp could look to be reunited with the England international, the pair having worked together at West Ham.

However, Redknapp said: "I haven't even thought about Rio to be honest. I signed him as a kid. I love Rio as a boy and a player, but it's not something we have ever enquired about. It's going to be difficult for him to leave Man United isn't it?"

Redknapp looks unlikely to renew his search for a defender when the transfer window re-opens in January, after in the summer he failed to sign Bolton's Gary Cahill, who has entered the final 12 months of his contract at the Reebok Stadium.

He said: "I'm not looking to strengthen in defence, really. We are strong in defence. We have [Michael] Dawson, King, Gallas, [Younes] Kaboul and (Sebastien) Bassong. I went for Cahill because at the time I couldn't see Ledley being fit and because William Gallas had a calf strain."

Chicharito Extends United Deal

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez has signed a new five-year contract with the club , according to the player's agent. Hernandez made a stunning impact after arriving in the Premier League last campaign, scoring 20 goals in all competitions, and United have now rewarded the Mexican with a long-term deal.His representative Eduardo Hernandez toldESPN Deportes: "We have renegotiated Javier's contract and he is now committed for five years with Manchester United.
"The initial contract was good for Manchester and for Javier because it enabled them both to see if they could fit together and if he could achieve what was expected of him. Both sides have met their expectations and United were happy to reward Javier after his very good performances last season.

"I will not talk about numbers, but it is a five-year contract. It is a fixed salary with incentives based on the team's success in each of the different tournaments. "Javier was not badly paid with his initial contract, but it was his first contract and, with respect, not comparable with the likes of Wayne Rooney and Nani. But today I can say that the contract has just been signed and everyone is satisfied."

The agent also played down recent speculation linking his client with Spanish giants Real Madrid, saying: "It was never likely that Javier would leave.

"Talks began some time ago and United came up with a very good offer and I have nothing but praise for the way they have recognised Javier's performances."

The new deal for Hernandez follows that signed on Monday by United midfielder Tom Cleverley, while striker Danny Welbeck has also been offered a new deal.

Vidic Could Return Against Liverpool

Nemanja Vidic looks in contention to make his Manchester United return against Liverpool this weekend after playing what could be his last game for Serbia on Tuesday, 

Vidic, 29, has not featured for United since August after he suffered a calf injury in the club's 2-1 win over West Brom, but he made his comeback during midweek, playing the full 90 minutes for Serbia.


He was, however, unable propel his nation to Euro 2012 as their meeting with Slovenia ended in a 1-0 defeat, with Vidic missing a 64th minute penalty.Reports have since suggested Vidic could now call an end to his international career following his country's failure to book their place at next summer's tournament.

Vidic's Serbian team-mate Dejan Stankovic has since announced his retirement from international football. Stankovic made his senior debut in 1998 and scored 15 goals in 102 appearances for his country.

The potential return of Vidic on Saturday for United against Liverpool would be a huge fillip for manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who has seen his defence unusually shaky of late.

It is also claimed Tom Cleverley, who recently signed a new deal with the Premier League champions, could make an early comeback from a foot injury he sustained against Bolton.

Beckham Open to United Role

David Beckham has been quoted as stating he would "love" to one day take up a sporting director role at Manchester United.

France legend Zinedine Zidane occupies the same position at Real Madrid after developing a rapport with manager Jose Mourinho, having previously been a special advisor to president Florentino Perez.

Beckham's future is the subject of conjecture as he nears the end of his current contract at LA Galaxy, amid rumours of interest from several clubs, including PSG and QPR, and he has indicated his keenness to one day return to Old Trafford.

When asked about the possibility of following former Real team-mate Zidane's lead, Beckham, who left United for Real in 2003, said in The Sun: "I'd love to do that.

"The best memory of my career came in 1999, no doubt, when Manchester United won the treble. In my opinion, no club can repeat that feat."

Evra Ready to Fight Youngsters for Place

Manchester United defender Patrice Evra welcomes the competition provided by the club's talented young defenders, but insisis he is not ready to give up his place in the first team.

Sir Alex Ferguson has put his faith in the likes of Phil Jones, 19, and Chris Smalling, 21, to lead United's defence this season, while Jonny Evans, 23, has also featured regularly.

And with 21-year-old Brazilian twins Fabio and Rafael Da Silva also competing for a starting berth at the back, Evra knows he faces a challenge to hold onto his place as first-choice left-back, which he has held for almost six years.

But the former France captain, who has skippered the reigning Premier League champions on several occasions this season, believes he is capable of maintaining the high standards he has set during his time at the club.

"I'm only 30 but I feel like the oldest player in the team,'' Evra said. "I just have to show the young players that I'm still here and I want to play every game.

"I need to prove I am still fit because they are young. Maybe they have more energy and think they can steal my place.

"Of course, though, you also have to help them and talk to them if anything is wrong. We are here to protect them and to show them that it's easy to reach the top, but to stay there is the most difficult thing.

"But before we can say anything to the young players, we have to show our own example on the pitch because the competition is really fierce. The boss is not afraid to put the young lads in and it's working well.''

Cleverley Signs New Contract

Manchester United midfielder TomCleverley has signed a new contract which will keep him at the club untilthe summer of 2015.

Cleverley made his first competitive start for the Premier League champions in August's win at West Brom, two days after his 22nd birthday. Such has been the academy graduate's impact, he has already won a call-up to England's senior squad, though he has yet to play for Fabio Capello's side.

The England Under-21 international's football education came in the form of loan spells at Leicester City, where he won the League One title, Watford and Wigan Athletic before being welcomed into the United first-team squad this season.

He is currently out injured with ligament damage to his foot suffered in the 5-0 win at Bolton Wanderers a month ago, but is in contention to return on Saturday in the Premier League clash with rivals Liverpool.

"Tom is one of the brightest prospects in the English game,'' United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said. "For a young boy, he has a good footballing brain which, when coupled with his energy and ability, makes for a player with a fine future ahead of him.

"It's the United way to encourage our young players to make their mark in the first team and Tom has grabbed that chance with both hands."

Cleverley said: "It's been a fantastic start to the season for me, breaking into the first team and getting an England call-up. Having grown up at the club, I'd love to be able to make a contribution to United winning more trophies.

"We have a squad with great ability and I can't wait to get started again.''