Man Utd's De Gea Faces Eye Surgery

David de Gea, who has been dropped as Manchester United's first-choice goalkeeper, may need laser eye surgery to correct a problem with his vision.

Spaniard De Gea has suffered with a condition that affects the long-range vision in one eye since childhood and regularly wears glasses, switching to contact lenses when he plays.

United employ a full-time optometrist, based at their training ground, and the £18 million summer signing from Atletico Madrid has been recommended for treatment to restore his sight to normal as he tries to eradicate the mistakes that have cost him his place.

The Guardian newspaper claim that De Gea has been at fault for as many as six to nine goals in his first five months at Old Trafford and although there have been times when his goalkeeping has been exceptional, his first season in the Premier League has been a difficult one.

Whether there is any link to his vision is not clear, but wearers of contact lenses often find their eyesight is strained under artificial light. United want De Gea to undergo the surgery to make sure.

De Gea, 21, has lost his place to rival Anders Lindegaard in the last three games and the Demark international insists he has no intention of giving up the No.1 spot.

Lindegaard said: "I am very proud of what I have made out of this. Three years ago I was in Denmark's second division. Nobody knew my name. When I first came here nobody could pronounce it.

"It has been fantastic to this point and right now is not the time to relax about it, but to keep pushing on, to get better and to get the best for yourself and the club.

"It is the first time I have played three games in a row and that is what I want, to play as much as possible, but I don't need a definition of my position.

"I am doing everything I can to help David. I enjoy working with him. He's a great lad. He is happy, intelligent, always with a good attitude and we have to push each other.

Asked if he thought De Gea could one day be the best in the world, Lindegaard said: "Of course I do. He has extraordinary attributes, extremely explosive and powerful.

"He is only 21. His potential is massive and there is no doubt he will be United's best goalkeeper at some point. My job is to make sure it is not until I have retired. Which is ten years away."

Smalling and Jones Return for Man United

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed on Friday that defensive duo Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are both fit for Manchester United's trip to Arsenal on Sunday.

The pair both sat out last week's home Premier League win over Bolton after failing to recover from the after-effects of a collision during the previous week's Manchester derby in the FA Cup.

However, Ferguson reported both have trained this week and should be involved at the Emirates Stadium. "Phil and Chris will be fit,'' said Ferguson.

Ferguson also confirmed long-term absentees Ashley Young and Tom Cleverley were making good progress in their bids to return to fitness. And Ferguson hopes the latter will return in early February.

"I am hopeful in ten days' time, he [Cleverley] will be playing football on the training side of it. That is the plan anyway, unless there is any recurrence. We can kick on and then it depends how he does in the training.

"His fitness levels should be fine and if that is correct, he could cope right away. You are talking about a week.''

Carrick: Gunners Out for Revenge

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick believes revenge for the 8-2 humiliation earlier in the season could be Arsenal's prime motivation when the two teams meet in the Premier League on Sunday.

This weekend's clash at Emirates Stadium will be the rivals' first meeting since the humbling at Old Trafford in August and the sheer magnitude of that defeat could be a factor in the Gunners' approach.

"Maybe,'' said Carrick when asked if Arsenal would be out for revenge. "Arsenal against Manchester United is always a massive game. They will want to win and so will we.''

It is not so much a case of the Red Devils wanting to win. By the time they kick-off, it might be a clear case of having to.

If Manchester City overcome Tottenham in the other title crunch taking place on Sunday, United will be six points adrift of a team that will only get stronger once Yaya and Kolo Toure return from African Nations Cup duty with the Ivory Coast.

"Manchester City have done well. You have to give them credit. They set an early pace, had a funny Christmas period, and have now bounced back," Carrick said in an interview with Betfair. "It's close at the moment, so we want to catch up with them. The bar has been raised this year.''

However, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists games between his side and United remain as fascinating as ever, despite new title contenders emerging.

"It is not the only game any more because you have Chelsea and Man City coming in, with Liverpool still there. But it is a game that is watched all over the world," Wenger said.

"We do [lift ourselves], we think we are on a similar level. I still think that when we have everybody available we are a strong force in this league. That's why it is important that we fight very hard not to drop points.''

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has tended to pack his midfield for games at the Emirates, but Wenger believes his team have what it takes to win at the weekend.

"They sometimes have a very compact midfield to kill our passing game and get us on the counter-attack. They do that very well,'' he said.

"I believe that sometimes it works for them, although last year we beat them 1-0 in a convincing way. It depends on how well we play on the day, how well we pass the ball through their lines, no matter how many are in there.''

Wenger will hope to have defender Thomas Vermaelen back on Sunday, but Thierry Henry could struggle to renew his rivalry with the Red Devils.

Centre-back Vermaelen has not played since he limped out of the 1-0 victory against QPR on New Year's Eve, while Henry has been hampered by a calf problem following the disappointing 3-2 defeat at Swansea and has only just returned to full training.

Midfielder Mikel Arteta could also still be sidelined this weekend having missed the trip to Wales with a calf strain.

Wenger is short of defensive cover, but as yet has not moved in the loan market, with left-back still a priority as Bacary Sagna, Kieran Gibbs, Carl Jenkinson and Andre Santos are all out.

Fergie Quiet on Morrison Rumours

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has refused to comment on reports linking Ravel Morrison with a £500,000 move to AS Roma.

Highly-rated youngster Morrison, who has made just three first-team appearances, is currently negotiating a new contract with United and is reportedly demanding £30,000 a week - a figure the Premier League club are not willing to meet.

The 18-year-old has subsequently been linked with a move away from Old Trafford and speaking in his Friday press conference, ahead of United's trip to Emirates Stadium, Ferguson refused to discuss the controversial midfielder.

"I have nothing to say about that," he said. "It is nothing to do with a game against Arsenal."

Morrison has dismissed reports that he would consider a switch to arch-rivals Manchester City, but Italian side Roma are now preparing a bid for a player who is rated the best to come through United's academy in years.

However, despite the youngster's quality on the pitch, his short career has already been tainted by a series of disciplinary problems off it. Among them was a caution for assaulting his mother and he has been urged to seek counselling.

United boss Ferguson did play down claims that negotiations over a new contract for striker Danny Welbeck had hit a stumbling block.

"There is no issue," he said. "We know the situation well with Danny. There is nothing to worry about there."

Welbeck is expected to have recovered from a minor knock sustained as he scored against Bolton in time to face the Gunners this weekend.

It will be the first time the two sides have met since United's staggering 8-2 win over Arsene Wenger's men in August.

"They have recovered well from that," said Ferguson. "They have had a really good spell of results and qualified for the next stage of the Champions League, despite having quite a few injuries. It will not be easy."

Hannover in Diouf Talks

Bundesliga side Hannover 96 have confirmed their interest in signing Manchester United striker Mame Biram Diouf.

Diouf, who has failed to hold down a first team place at Old Trafford following his move from Norwegian club Molde in July 2009, has also been linked with Wigan, Hoffenheim and Nurnberg.

The Senegal striker has scored seven goals in six appearances for the United reserves this season and has featured in the Carling Cup, but a loan move could provide valuable game time for the 24-year-old.

And Hannover sporting director Jorg Schmadtke has confirmed his club are aiming to sign a Diouf, a player they have been tracking for a long time.

Schmadtke said: "Both clubs, his agent and the player are in talks."

"He is fast, resolute and runs straight at goal. We have been after him already some time ago, unfortunately he then moved from Molde to Manchester United."

United, Chelsea Make Vorm Approach

Swansea director John van Zweden has claimed Manchester United and Chelsea have made enquiries about goakeeper Michel Vorm.

Dutch keeper Vorm has been one of the stars of the Premier League season, with his consistent excellence winning him many admirers.

Swansea paid just £1 million for his services from Dutch side Utrecht and could well cash-in for a sizeable profit.

Losing Vorm would represent a major blow for Swans boss Bredan Rodgers but with the club thought to be willing to accept a decent offer, the big boys appear to be circling.

"Clubs have enquired about Vorm," Van Zweden told VI Radio. "Manchester United have asked, in addition Chelsea and for that matter Newcastle United.

"Tottenham Hotspur have cautiously announced they are interested. It would be a nightmare for us if he left."

Manchester United shelled out a fee in the region of £18 million for David De Gea last summer, but he has not convinced and it would appear the reigning Premier League champions are considering other options - while Chelsea may well be planning for life after Petr Cech.

Tottenham have veteran Brad Friedel in goal at White Hart Lane, while Tim Krul has impressed for Newcastle and he too has been linked with a move.

Berbatov Linked With Germany Return

Interest in Dimitar Berbatov's signature is said to be mounting, with his former club Bayer Leverkusen as well as Bundesliga counterparts Bayern Munich reportedly interested.

Berbatov's contract at United expires in the summer, and his future has been the subject of conjecture with the forward having made just four Premier League starts this season.

The Bulgarian is free to hold talks with clubs from abroad, while speculation has suggested his former-club Leverkusen could entertain a deal, having sold him to Tottenham for £10.9 million in 2006.

Bayern and Russian big spenders Anzhi Makhachkala have also been linked with Berbatov, who, according to reports on Sunday, flew to Germany to hold talks over a potential exit.

United, though, are in command of Berbatov's situation as the club could exercise an option in his current terms which would extend his contract by another year, therefore avoiding the risk of losing the striker for nothing in the summer.

Indeed, in December, Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson said: "We'll be exercising (the option to renew]. I think it kicks in in March."

Berbatov, 30, joined United from Tottenham in 2008 for £30 million and has since made 105 league appearances, scoring 48 goals.

Morrison Rejects Fergie Claim

Manchester United starlet Ravel Morrison insists that he has never turned down a contract offer from the club, despite manager Sir Alex Ferguson claiming he had last week.

Morrison, 18, is highly-rated by United and has been tipped for a bright future in the game. Indeed, Newcastle were reported to have put in a bid of £500,000 for him, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the season, but it was rejected by the club.

Ferguson stated that Morrison was not ready to sign a new deal and, speaking at his press conference before Saturday's clash with Bolton, he said: "His agent has been working hard to get him another club. We've offered him terms which he has refused. We've rejected an offer from Newcastle. We'll see how that progresses. His demands are unrealistic as far as we're concerned."

However, Morrison has now taken to Twitter to insist that he has not rejected any offers.

"I have never 1s [once] turned down a contract off Manchester United," he tweeted.

Morrison is believed to be attracting interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona, as well as numerous clubs in England, but has yet to make his full debut for United.

Meanwhile, Hull City have signed Man Utd striker Joshua King on loan for the rest of the season.

Scholes Returns to Inspire United

Paul Scholes' first Old Trafford goal for almost two years set Manchester United up for a valuable 3-0 Premier League win over Bolton.

On only his second appearance since his shock retirement U-turn, the 37-year-old tapped home Wayne Rooney's cross-shot at the far post in first-half stoppage time to give the hosts a priceless lead after Rooney had seen his penalty saved by Adam Bogdan.

After a frustrating second-half, Danny Welbeck and Michael Carrick eventually sealed victory late on, ensuring United now only trail neighbours Manchester City, who do not play until Monday, on goal difference.

After Thierry Henry's matchwinning effort for Arsenal on Monday, it was perhaps destined that Scholes would come up with something special once he was confirmed as a member of the United starting line-up.

Had referee Peter Walton not been feeling charitable, it could easily have been a red card, for Scholes' thigh-high assault on Mark Davies was pretty poor in a week when refereeing inconsistencies within the English game have been a talking point.

However, after a couple of cracking long-range shots, Scholes saved the drama until first-half stoppage time.

Having peeled away to the far post, he was perfectly placed to turn home a Rooney cross-shot, which Danny Welbeck had failed to get a touch to.

It the 151st United goal of Scholes' career, and his first since August 2010, meaning he has equalled last season's tally in just two appearances after abandoning his job coaching the club's reserve team.

It was tough luck on the visitors, particularly their goalkeeper Bogdan, who had performed heroics up to that point to keep the hosts out.

Beaten from 92 yards by Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard on his last league outing, Bogdan got the better of Rooney from 12 today.

When Zat Knight was beaten to Antonio Valencia's through ball by Welbeck, the Bolton defender pushed his opponent in a desperate attempt to reach the ball.

There was no debate about the penalty. However, as at Manchester City last week, Rooney's spot-kick was saved.

And on this occasion, after plunging to his right, Bogdan got enough on the ball to steer it away from any possible rebound.

The young keeper's place is at risk as Jussi Jaaskelainen nears a full recovery from a thigh strain.

But he must have been pleased with his fine personal display, in particular two saves to deny Welbeck.

And with Mark Davies bundling a Rooney header off the line, Bolton were gaining in confidence, although the ease with which United got behind them explained why USA defender Tim Ream was in the stands, pending his arrival as Chelsea-bound Gary Cahill's replacement.

Bolton wasted an excellent opportunity to equalise straight after the restart when United's defence, not for the first time, got themselves into a tangle, which allowed Davies to race into the area.

He found Ngog but with an unmarked Martin Petrov screaming for a lay-off, the former Liverpool man scooped his shot high over the bar.

This was a warning for Sir Alex Ferguson's men, although there was no immediate end to the chances being wasted.

Evra Confident of United Title Success

Manchester United defender Patrice Evra expects his side to win the Premier League this season, and points to the Red Devils' strength in depth as a decisive quality.

United beat Bolton 3-0 on Saturday to move level on points with leaders Manchester City, who have a game in hand against Wigan on Monday night.

City have set the pace for most of this season, with their 6-1 thrashing of United at Old Trafford a real statement of title intent, but Evra is confident Sir Alex Ferguson's men will have bragging rights, and a 20th championship crown, come May.

The France defender, who has been made captain in the absence of Nemanja Vidic, believes United's injured players - the likes of Ashley Young, Darren Fletcher, Tom Cleverley, Michael Owen - will make a big difference when they return.

"Everyone's coming back and in great form," Evra told MUTV. "We still have some injuries but I think when everyone is back fit, it will give us the strength to win the title.

"We have to keep talking about Manchester United. The most important thing was winning today. After that, it doesn't matter if they [City] win, lose or draw.

"We just need to have a rest and focus on the next game. I think people talk a lot about City, but we just need to be focused on what we do and how we play, and I think we're going to win the league."

Fergie Hails Pass Master Scholes

Sir Alex Ferguson has rejected the suggestion that Paul Scholes' Manchester United return is a step backwards.

The United manager sprang a major surprise when he confirmed Scholes had come out of retirement ahead of the FA Cup tie at Manchester City last Sunday. Ferguson had not even told his players, so determined was he for the news not to leak out prematurely.

Yet, once the shock had subsided, many began to question why United needed the services of a 37-year-old and today's departure of Darron Gibson to Everton has brought yet more claims that books are being balanced at Old Trafford.

"There were no negatives as far as I was concerned,'' Ferguson said. "One or two people have been negative. They're making out it's been a 'regressive step' for Manchester United.

"How can it be regressive? You're getting a player for nothing who's been part of the club for 20-odd years. He's not going to play every game but in terms of composure and passing ability, is there a better player going around? Definitely not.''

Once the decision was made, Ferguson's biggest dilemma was ensuring the news did not leak out, not even inside his own dressing room.

"I don't know how we managed it,'' he said. "We registered him on the Friday, and thought somehow it would get out. But we didn't let any of the players know simply because of the impact. value.

"We were going away from home in a very difficult FA Cup tie against City. We had 5,000 fans at that end of the ground and as soon as they knew his name was on the team sheet they were fantastic, there was a great response.''

Ferguson has always reflected on the fact Scholes is one of the easiest players he has ever had to manage. The demands are getting harder though as star names become wealthier and surrounded by an increasing number of agents and assistants to cater for their every whim.

"What you have to do is (ensure your players) understand how fragile that celebrity status can be,'' said Ferguson. "One minute you're a star, the next minute you're not.

"Dealing with success is a bit more difficult today, because of television and the headlines they can get. So you do a lot of work with them to keep their feet on the ground.

"I say to them all the time: 'Go back to your mother the same person you were when you arrived. That's important, because I'm sure your mother doesn't like to see you change'. And we don't like to see them change either.''

Ferguson Rejects Toon bid for Morrison

Manchester United have turned down a bid from Newcastle United for Ravel Morrison, Sir Alex Ferguson said on Friday.

Morrison, 18, is yet to play in the Premier League - and has made just three senior appearances - but has been tipped for a bright future in the game after impressing in the successful FA Youth Cup campaign last season.

Newcastle are reported to have bid £500,000 for his services, but the Red Devils have held firm and are not willing to sell the young winger.

Speaking at his press conference before Saturday's clash with Bolton, Ferguson said: "His agent has been working hard to get him another club. We've offered him terms which he has refused. We've rejected an offer from Newcastle. We'll see how that progresses. His demands are unrealistic as far as we're concerned."

Morrison is out of contract at the end of the season and he has had problems off the field in his brief professional career, most recently when he was fined for throwing a girlfriend's mobile phone out of a window and he has also pleaded guilty to two charges of witness intimidation.

However, United have worked tirelessly to keep the Manchester-born youngster on the right tracks, recognising the ability that has led to a widespread claim Morrison is the best young player to emerge from United's youth ranks since Paul Scholes.

Gibson on Brink of Everton Switch

Everton are expected to tie up a £1 million deal for Darron Gibson on Friday, with the Manchester United midfielder believed to have passed a medical on Merseyside.

Gibson, 24, has been marginalised at United this season and after making just two appearances in all competitions will likely relish the opportunity to move elsewhere in the Premier League in search of regular football.

He will become David Moyes' second signing of the January transfer window after the arrival of Landon Donovan on loan from LA Galaxy last week, and it's thought United could eventually recoup up to £2.5 million depending on how successful the midfielder is for the Toffees.

Gibson has struggled to assert himself on the first-team picture after emerging through the club's academy and reserve team, and had been set to sign for Sunderland last summer before a move collapsed after he was unable to agree personal terms.

The Ireland international will have plenty of ex-United players for company at Everton, with Phil Neville, Tim Howard and Louis Saha having all swapped Old Trafford for Goodsion Park in recent years.

While Gibson has often been viewed as a figure of fun during his time at Old Trafford, he has enjoyed some notable highlights - including Champions League quarter-final and semi-final goals against Bayern Munich and Schalke respectively, as well as a place in the starting line-up in the 2009 Carling Cup final triumph over Tottenham.

Cahill in Line to Face United

Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle has confirmed that Gary Cahill will play against Manchester United if the defender's protracted move to Chelsea is not completed by the weekend.

The Trotters have agreed a fee with Chelsea, reported to be around £7 million, for the transfer of Cahill, but personal terms have proved a stumbling block, with the England centre-back's wage demands on a five-year contract more than the Blues are willing to pay.

Newspaper reports on Thursday morning suggested that Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas is becoming frustrated with the impasse and the deal could be called off if terms are not agreed by the end of the week.

If a deal is not struck by Saturday, Coyle will be happy to call on Cahill for the trip to Old Trafford.

"Dialogue continues between Gary's agent and Chelsea," Coyle said. "We accept it has probably been long-drawn. It is over two weeks ago that we agreed a fee. But sometimes that is the nature of football business. It can take that period of time.

"Gary is a Bolton player and until I hear something different in terms of negotiations being concluded between both parties, he will be in line to play against Manchester United."

Cahill only has six months left to run on his Bolton contract and it has been suggested that rival suitors have made their interest in the defender known. However, this is news to Coyle, who insisted Chelsea remain the only current option for Cahill.

"If other clubs are linked with him it is just speculation," he said. "We have agreed a fee with Chelsea. I have had no dialogue with any other club.

"We recognise it is the silly season but I don't deal in rumour. I only deal in fact. The fact is we have agreed a fee with Chelsea. We have not spoken to anyone else. That is where we are."

Coyle did not confirm USA international Tim Ream was coming in for a medical. However, having had the New York Red Bulls star on trial, he is a fan.

"You could reel off 30 or 40 names that we have been linked with. That is the nature of the transfer window," Coyle said. "Tim Ream is a player we had in. He has been at West Brom. They were very keen on him as well and Arsenal tried to sign him in the summer.

"He is an outstanding young player. A US international, 24, and no doubt destined for a very bright future. Whether anything transpires with Bolton time will tell."

Coyle also said goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen had an outside chance of being fit for the Old Trafford trip, although he will not be taking any chances with the long-serving Finn.

"Jussi is responding to treatment with his thigh knock, although Saturday may just come too soon."

Ba Hits Back at 'lying' Agent

Demba Ba has hit back at claims from an agent claiming he represents the Newcastle United striker and that Manchester United have demonstrated an interest in his services.

Ba, 26, has been a revelation since joining Newcastle from West Ham on a free transfer last summer, scoring 15 goals in 19 Premier League matches for Alan Pardew's side.

His form has led to rumours he could be the subject of a January swoop, amid suggestions from Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp the forward's release clause is less than £7 million.

And on Wednesday, Armand Doorn, claiming to be a member of Ba's management team headed by the player's brother, suggested the Red Devils were one of a number of clubs considering lodging a bid for the Senegal international.

However, responding to the quotes, Ba posted on his Twitter account: "Really, I don't know how desperate this "armand doorn" can be to talk like he's my agent!! He's nothing for me. Stop lying and show respect."

Ba's actual management team have also rubbished the comments made by the rogue agent, with a spokesman telling talkSPORT: "Armand Doorn is not Demba's agent. Alex Gontran is the only person who can speak on his behalf and Newcastle have not had an offer for him.

"Demba feels good at Newcastle. He has just started something there. There is a release clause in his contract but the figure will remain confidential. If a club wants to speak to Demba, then they must go to Newcastle first. We respect the process.

Rooney Reveals Anger over United Axe

Wayne Rooney has admitted there was tension in the Manchester United camp after he was dropped by Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ferguson laid down the law to his star man, fining him and then leaving him out of the clash with Blackburn on New Year's Eve - a game United lost 3-2 - for turning up in no state to train fully following a Boxing Day night out.

Rooney returned to the side for the trip to Newcastle, but threw in a moody display - and was hauled off as the Red Devils slipped to defeat.

The England forward looked back to his best as United beat Manchester City in the FA Cup and the pair were on good terms at the Ballon d'Or gala in Zurich.

But there was bad blood between the pair over the festive period. When asked if he was angry about being dropped and fined, Rooney said: "Yes, but for reasons that I can't make public.

"I accepted it. But I was tense when I got back on the pitch and I believe it showed," he said in an interview with La Republica.

Lifting the lid what life can be like in a dressing room, Rooney said: "You can't always live in harmony. Football is made up of conflict, in all senses.

"The life in a dressing room, between players, between us and the coach, between us and loads of people, it's continuous confrontation and at times it's harsh."

Wenger Hails Henry's Fairytale Return

Arsene Wenger says Thierry Henry's match-winning return was like "a dream" as the striker fired Arsenal into the fourth round of the FA Cup with a 1-0 win over Leeds.

Henry, the Gunners' record goalscorer, rejoined the club he left for Barcelona in 2007 on a short-term loan deal from New York Red Bulls - and did not disappoint on his return when he came off the bench to slot home the winner on 78 minutes.

The 34-year-old will be available for a six-week spell which will take in matches against Manchester United and, in the Champions League, AC Milan, possibly even the showdown with arch-rivals Tottenham on February 26.

"It was a little bit of a dream, because it was a story about football you would tell some young children," Wenger said. "Unfortunately it is not often like that in our game, but sometimes it happens.

"When he got in that position I thought 'oh, that's your angle', but it was a bit too close. That is where he surprised me.

"He still didn't force the shot, he still made it look easy. At the start I thought he was too much on the left, but he had that special finishing that he has shown tonight. That was the Thierry Henry finishing."

Wenger rested captain Robin van Persie for the FA Cup tie, allowing the Dutchman some time away on a family break to Dubai. The Gunners boss, though, suggested he may throw both Henry and van Persie together when their Premier League campaign resumes at Swansea on Sunday.

"Thierry can play behind or in front of Robin or on the flank, Robin can play on the flank too, but I don't know yet what I will do. They can play together, of course, and they did play together," said Wenger.

Arsenal lost another defender when Francis Coquelin limped off with a hamstring problem. Wenger confirmed after the Leeds match that he is looking to bring in some cover at the back.

"I hope I can get [Johan] Djourou [from suspension] for Sunday and if we find a solution we will take it. But at the moment we are not close [to a deal]."

Rooney Sings Ferguson Praises

Wayne Rooney has reaffirmed his commitment to Manchester United by stressing his belief in manager Sir Alex Ferguson and says he wants to play under him for the rest of his career.

A report from The Independent on Saturday speculated United could part company with Rooney in the January transfer window following an alleged rift between the striker and Ferguson.

But the Premier League champions swiftly reacted with a statement that denied the rumour, insisting there are no plans afoot to sell Rooney, who joined the Red Devils from Everton for an initial payment of £20 million in 2004.

And, speaking to The Sun, Rooney has reiterated that stance, saying: "Sir Alex is the greatest manager of all time. Of course I would like to play under him for the rest of my career.

"He's a great manager and is a big reason why I joined Manchester United. If I could finish my career playing under Sir Alex then I won't have gone far wrong.

"As I said before he is, in my eyes, the best ever. His success and his trophies speak for themselves. He's an incredible manager and has done so much for football and so much for my game as well.

"His every-day commitment to his job is what makes him stand out. He's in before the players every morning and leaves after you. His commitment, his desire to win and his dedication is incredible."

Cantona Aims for French Presidency

Manchester United legend Eric Cantona has taken a new career path as he steps into politics and says he will campaign to run in this year's French presidential election.

Cantona, who was appointed director of soccer at future MLS side New York Cosmos last year, wrote to France's mayors in a plea for support as he attempts to gather the 500 signatures needed from them to endorse his bid.

French newspaper Liberation quoted his letter as saying: "This engagement obliges me to speak, more earnestly than usual, but also with a keen sense of my responsibility, at a time when our country faces difficult choices which will be decisive for its future."

In the letter, he said he intends to "make a simple but clear message, a message of truth but of respect, solidarity and a powerful message".

The outspoken Frenchman will be running independently and, should he get the required support, will become a candidate in the first round of the elections on April 22.

However, in an editorial, the newspaper said Cantona was only using the publicity from his unlikely presidential run to secure his real aim - help for the poorly housed.

Speaking to Liberation, Cantona said he "chose the housing issue as it seems to me to be essential and concerns tens of millions of people. I had to act at a time when I was likely to be heard."

Rooney Proclaims Innocence

Wayne Rooney has rejected suggestions he flashed an imaginary red card to persuade referee Chris Foy to dismiss Vincent Kompany in Sunday's Manchester derby.

Manchester City captain Kompany was ordered off after just 12 minutes of a pulsating FA Cup third-round tie at the Etihad Stadium, which Manchester United eventually won 3-2.

He committed a two-footed challenge on Nani, and Rooney admits he had his say to Foy over the tackle.

But United striker Rooney told The Sun: ''I didn't wave any imaginary card. I clearly pointed out, and a few other players did as well, that it was a two-footed tackle. It was down to the ref to send him off.

''As professional footballers, when you leave the ground and go in two-footed we've now been told by the referees it's a red card. Refs come and see us before the season starts. I felt Kompany had done that.''

City manager Roberto Mancini said of Foy's dismissal verdict: ''It was not a red card. Rooney told him his decision.''

Kompany faces a four-match suspension, although City lodged an appeal after the match and were hoping to have the ban overturned at a hearing on Tuesday.

Smalling Delight at Scholes Return

Chris Smalling is convinced Paul Scholes' shock Manchester United return can provide the kick-start required to the Red Devils' flagging Premier League title quest.

Sir Alex Ferguson revealed that Scholes was coming out of retirement an hour before Sunday's 3-2 FA Cup win over ten-man Manchester City.

He wasted no time in putting the 37-year-old's talents to good use as Scholes was introduced on 59 minutes in a bid to preserve their lead.

As one of those who felt Scholes was retiring too early in the wake of United's Champions League final defeat to Barcelona last season, Smalling is delighted about the U-turn.

And he feels it could have a major spin-off for the club, who have slumped to successive league defeats against Blackburn and Newcastle as their midfield resources were stretched to breaking point.

"Paul is going to be a real positive addition to our squad,'' Smalling said. "I was disappointed when he called it a day last year.

"I saw first hand the things he could do on the pitch and I know he can still do them. All of us were hoping he would come back and I am sure a few of the older lads have been saying things to him about it.

"It does pep up the dressing room when you see a player of the calibre of Paul Scholes in there. It gave the young lads a lift just to see him preparing for yesterday's match.''

City to Challenge Kompany Card

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has confirmed the club intend to appeal against Vincent Kompany's red card in the 3-2 defeat to Manchester United.
Defender Kompany was sent off for a tackle on Nani 11 minutes into the FA Cup third-round tie. As the City captain has already been sent off for a straight red card offence once this season, he is facing a four-match ban unless he can overturn the suspension.

''We will appeal,'' said Mancini. ''I am sure we will win.''

Mancini opted not to criticise referee Chris Foy. However, he thinks little can be read into the defence offered almost immediately by former top-flight official Dermot Gallagher, who claimed Foy had got it right.

''This is normal. If I talk about the players, I defend the player. The referee is the same. He defends the referee,'' said Mancini. ''I don't want to talk about the referee because I want to stay on the bench for the next game. But I think it is impossible.''

Kompany stands to miss both legs of the Carling Cup semi-final with Liverpool, in addition to Premier League games against Wigan and Tottenham.

Sir Alex Ferguson pulled no punches afterwards, claiming it was the right decision and that Kompany has been guilty of similar transgressions before.

''It was a sending-off,'' said the Manchester United boss. ''It was a two-footed tackle. I have seen him do it before. He has got off with it in the past. But if Nani gets caught, he has a problem. It was a real bad one.''

However, Mancini had his own gripe after Wayne Rooney gestured to referee Chris Foy in the aftermath of Kompany's challenge, seemingly encouraging the referee to dismiss the Belgian.

"It was not a red card. Rooney told him his decision. This type of tackle happened with Rio Ferdinand and other United defenders many times," Mancini said.

Mancini, vilified for waving an imaginary red card during the win over Liverpool on Tuesday, said: ''When I did this against Liverpool, people told me not to do it. I said I was sorry and made a mistake.''

Scholes back at Man United

Paul Scholes has sensationally returned to Manchester United, and made his return to action in the Third Round of the FA Cup as United knocked out holders City.

Scholes, 37, retired from professional football at the end of last season after an illustrious career with the Red Devils, though has continued to play the game and remains in good condition. He is part of the the club's reserve team coaching staff.

Newspaper reports over the past couple of days had suggested Scholes could be about to rejoin the club where he won 10 Premier League titles, three FA Cups, two League Cups and two Champions Leagues. However, Scholes' inclusion in the team to face City on Sunday means he had already re-signed before the press speculation began.

"It's fantastic that Paul has made this decision,'' said United boss Sir Ferguson. "It's always sad to see great players end their careers, but especially so when they do it early.

"But he has kept himself in great shape and I always felt that he had another season in him. It's terrific to have him back.''

Scholes said: "I've been pretty clear since I stopped playing that I miss it. I'm delighted the manager feels I can still make a contribution to the team and I'm looking forward to playing my part in trying to bring more success to this great club.''

It is believed Scholes was pressed into reconsidering by a number of senior colleagues, who felt the midfielder could still be a major influence on United's quest for honours at a time when so many central midfielders are absent.

"He came to see me and said he wanted to come back, he was missing it too much,'' Ferguson told ITV. "There were no negatives as far as I'm concerned. The players were fantastic about it, the fans I'm sure will be happy and I'm happy.

"Everyone knows he's one of the greatest players in Manchester United's history. He's a fantastic footballer and there's no loss to his real fitness which is important. He's sometimes missed three or four months with injuries, so it's more more or less the same kind of scenario.''

Sneijder almost certain he will stay

Wesley Sneijder is "90% certain" he will remain at Inter Milan during the current transfer window despite renewed speculation over alleged interest from Manchester United.

Sneijder, 27, was heavily linked with a move to United last summer but a transfer failed to materialise, following suggestions the Premier League champions were unwilling to match the Dutchman's wage demands.

But, in light of United's recent dip in form that has seen them lose back-to-back league matches, conjecture has been reignited that they could be back in for Sneijder, amid calls for Sir Alex Ferguson to strengthen his midfield.

However, Sneijder told Voetbal International: "If I must give a percentage for it, I think I am 90% certain I will stay [until at least the summer].

"I enjoy myself here at the moment and at this point I don't have anything to choose from. I don't say that I am 100% certain, because something unexpected can always happen."

Diouf tempted by Wigan loan

Manchester United striker Mame Biram Diouf has admitted that a loan move to Wigan Athletic is a tempting proposition.

Diouf, 24, has struggled for regular first-team football at United this season, making just three Carling Cup appearances such is the competition for striking places at the club.

The Senegal international spent last campaign on loan at Blackburn, where he scored three times in 27 Premier League matches, and he admits another temporary spell away from Old Trafford could benefit him.

"It is an option at the moment and a good one. I want to go and play week in, week out and try to impress Sir Alex Ferguson," he toldskysports.com.

"If I can finish the season strongly, I can challenge for a position next season like Danny [Welbeck] has done this season.

"Wigan could be a key for me. I have done okay for Blackburn, but need to do well on my next loan. There are other teams interested as well."

Ferguson: Advantage to Manchester City

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists there is no need to panic after his side's 3-0 loss to Newcastle, but does admit Premier League title rivals Manchester City are now in the box seat.

Ferguson watched on as United were kept three points behind City in the league table, after Roberto Mancini's side cruised to a home victory over Liverpool on Tuesday. However, the Scot is remaining calm despite a second successive league defeat.

"Advantage to them [City] of course," Ferguson told Sky Sports. "They played yesterday and got the three points, and we played today and didn't manage to win - so of course they have the advantage. It's not a time to panic - we have the experience to cope with that.

"Losing a game at this time of the year, you don't want it, but it sometimes can happen - you have seen some of the results recently. But obviously, we need to get the show on the road in terms of the run-in, particularly in March and April."

Ferguson also conceded that Newcastle striker Demba Ba was too much of a "handful" for his side. Ba got the ball rolling as Alan Pardew's side claimed the victory, punishing Rio Ferdinand for some sloppy defending as he volleyed past Anders Lindegaard.

Strike partner Shola Ameobi also played a key role in the build-up to the goal - flicking onTim Krul's deep free-kick - and Ferguson acknowledged after the game that the two powerful strikers had caused his side huge problems, before Yohan Cabaye's free-kick extinguished their hopes of coming away with something.

"They are very strong, big aggressive lads," Ferguson said. "They didn't tear us apart but they were a handful.

"The story of the game was they had two fantastic strikes which put them in the driving seat. The second one was a killer for us, it was a marvellous strike.

"But we didn't make enough of our possession of the ball anyway. It was one of those nights."