Author: Doron

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United ended 2011 with a home game against Blackburn, the league’s bottom side before kick-off. It marked the halfway point in the league season and enabled United to end the year at the top of the table should they get at least a point. Blackburn however had other ideas and despite conceding more away goals than any other side, they recorded their first away win of the season to move off the foot of the table.

Below, we discuss the talking points and invite Blackburn fans as well as United fans to join in the discussion.

Team selection and missing men

United made four changes from the team that beat Wigan with De Gea, Jones, Welbeck and for his first league appearance of the season, Rafael coming in. Most telling though was that the centre back pairing of Carrick and Jones was the successful centre midfield pairing at QPR less than two weeks earlier.

United’s lack of fit central midfielders and in general squad was evident as Valencia and Carrick continued at the back; Park and Rafael played in central midfield and Welbeck was asked to play on the left. Only Diouf and an unfit Anderson represented senior players on the bench.

Whilst no explanation was offered for Giggs’ absence, Rooney and Gibson were dropped following an evening out a few days prior. Evans was also fined for the alcohol-fuelled adventure but was injured anyway. Personally I think Fergie got this wrong – he was right to fine the players but given how low on numbers United were, Rooney and Gibson should have at least been on the bench. It meant that excluding Macheda who was finalising a loan to QPR and Giggs who was unaccounted for, United had 11 players missing and were forced into involving unfit players.

Various poor performances and goalkeeper rotation

Despite Jones and Carrick winning 9 of their 11 tackles in the game, the pair got bullied by Yakubu. Carrick of course isn’t a centre back but lost out in the physical battle with Yakubu and was drawn out by him too easily. Jones at centre back is more of a concern. He’s yet to look convincing playing in that position; he’s turned way too easily and a combination of lack of awareness leading to poor positioning let him down too often.

As expected, Rafael’s enthusiasm was endearing and his energy despite missing so much football was good. He isn’t a central midfielder though and seemed way too static in possession:

Chalkboard 1: Rafael passing heatmap

As shown above, Rafael seemed concerned with ensuring he stuck to his side of the pitch, often covering for Nani’s runs forward or doubling up with Valencia. A key characteristic of United’s central midfielder though is there ability to drift all over the pitch – even Carrick when instructed to sit deep doesn’t stick to one side of the pitch.

What Rafael and Park did bring though was work-rate and bite. With Blackburn playing 55% of their passes in the middle third of the pitch, Rafael and Park were kept busy and did reasonably well at winning the ball back.

Chalkboard 2: Rafael and Park tackles

The biggest disappointment of the afternoon came from De Gea. He’s only just turned 21 and it’ll take plenty of time for him to grow, bulk out and get used to English football but his flap for Blackburn’s third goal was one flap too many. He needs to learn and has to do so fast. It was suggested to me on Twitter by David Evans that De Gea may have actually been fouled:

De Gea fouled?

Even if he was fouled, he never really looked like getting close to the ball and had flapped at a cross a few minutes earlier in the game. Even the second goal was a bit dodgy, he seems to like to go down with his feet in front of him and whilst this has seen him make some extraordinary saves, he also has a tendency to get beaten through his legs as a result.

The important thing now is to pick a number one. I’d pick De Gea – he’s been bought as the long-term goalkeeper and he will come good, I don’t doubt that. The only way he’ll learn now is to play games and gain experience of the Premier League even if there are more mistakes to come. He’ll of course be helped by a settled and experienced back four consisting of defenders – it’s hardly been the easiest start for him in that respect.

The problem of course is Lindegaard – when he’s played he’s done well but he has been picked in ‘easier’ games and whilst I don’t have the stats to hand, De Gea’s been considerably the busier of the two goalkeepers. Ferguson quite emphatically said on Friday that De Gea would start against Blackburn and Newcastle and said that the reason for the rotation was to protect David and allow him time to observe and learn. The way forward now is with De Gea, even if it takes him another year to learn, he will do so – the lack of a consistently settled back four cannot be underestimated too.

Worth pointing out by the way that once again, De Gea’s distribution was exceptional – he only gave the ball away twice and some of his long-ball passing, as a sweeper-keeper was scarily accurate.

Valencia continues good form and Evra too does well

If one had to pick out some positives from the game, aside from two more goals from Berbatov, it would have been the fullbacks. After performances below the standard we’ve been used to, Evra’s recent form (with the exception of the first half at QPR) has been superb. Once again, against Blackburn he was excellent and at his best as an attacking force.

Chalkboard 3: Evra and Valencia heatmap

Amazingly, Evra and Valencia played 74% and 78% (respectively) of the their passes inside the Blackburn half. Valencia in particular was always looking to get crosses in and as a result Blackburn were forced into making an amazing 81 clearances and 8 blocks. Valencia was though rewarded with his 7th assist in 5 games and is now United’s leading joint assister.

Two teams with Academy products

Our preview highlighted some of the youngsters who are currently getting games in the Blackburn side. Hanley, Henley and Lowe in particular were excellent. Despite his failings, Kean’s persistence and faith in youth hasn’t been praised enough and maybe that’s one reason why Fergie seems to like him so much.

It wasn’t just Blackburn who were showing off some of their new generation though; United finally gave a debut to William Keane who played the last 9 minutes. The young striker was singled out for praise by Ferguson on Friday in his press conference and has been excellent in the Reserves this season. His appearance off the bench ahead of Diouf just shows how far he’s come. Larnell Cole, Paul Pogba and Zeki Fryers were also on the bench. United’s youngsters are making progress into the first team much sooner than anyone expected yet caution must still be preached. Fergie’s use of them so far has been perfect and no doubt he’ll continue to give them minutes where possible.

A big week ahead

United travel to Newcastle on Wednesday – a tough fixture at a side who’ve been good this season. Yet the defeat to Blackburn will only spur them on and actually, Newcastle’s home record isn’t nearly as good as one might think. They’ve taken 15 points from 27 and thirteen clubs have scored as many or more goals at home than them.

Following the trip to the north-east, United are at City in the FA Cup on Sunday – a huge chance to try and disrupt the form of their rivals. City though have a big task up against Liverpool in the league beforehand and like United, the lost in the last round of fixtures.

Summary

United suffered a shock home defeat to Blackburn despite dominating the game and having nearly 30 efforts on goal. It was Blackburn’s first away league win of the season, lead by Yakubu who now has 12 league goals for them. His first came from the penalty spot after Berbatov hauled down Samba. His second was a goal of his own making as he broke through all too easily before beating De Gea at his near post. United did get back level as Berbatov twice turned in crosses from Rafael and Valencia. Despite pressure on their goal, Blackburn went ahead as Grant Hanley beat De Gea in the air from a corner before heading home unchallenged.

Luckily, United remain joint top after City slipped up at Sunderland but with Spurs chasing hard, only a win will do at Newcastle.

Author: Doron

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United can ensure they end 2011 at the top of the table with a draw or win over Blackburn. The fixture marks the halfway point in the season and so far United are on course for a record haul of points. Injuries are tearing into United’s squad again and Blackburn may fancy getting at the United defence. Blackburn themselves are in a relegation battle, their season has been riddled by off-the-pitch protests, conspiracy theories and grumblings.

The opposition:

After some decent summer business, Blackburn’s squad looked ok, certainly it appears better than some other squads on paper – a good mix of experienced Premier League players and exciting youngsters. However, just two wins later they’re bottom of the table and already five points from safety. With the January window looming, Blackburn will almost certainly have to bring in reinforcements with some defenders near the top of the ‘wanted’ list.

The club’s current owners have been heavily criticised by the fans. They recently gave Kean a new contract and appear to be out of touch with the fans and the requirements of running a Premier League club. I had the pleasure of sitting in the suite next to them for United’s trip to Ewood last season – despite it being illegal, they were constantly lighting cigarettes during the game and smoking inside the stands and in the stadium (their box has an open front, no glass on it). Like the owners, Steve Kean is wanted out of the club by the supporters – they voiced their discontent loudly during the recent home defeat to Bolton.

Form:

With 16 points taken from their last 18 available and seven clean sheets in the last nine, United are the league’s form team. United are level on points with Man City and surprisingly have been better away from home than at home this season. Only City and Newcastle have taken points off the Reds at Old Trafford and no team has scored more home goals.

Consecutive 5-0 wins have been handed out to Fulham and Wigan; can the game against Blackburn continue the pattern?!

Surprisingly, despite not winning away from home, Blackburn don’t have the worst away record in the league – that belongs to Swansea; nor are they the least in-form side in the league, QPR and Bolton both have picked up fewer points in their last six games. Amazingly, Blackburn haven’t kept a clean sheet all season and have managed to score in every away league game they’ve played (only City, Chelsea, Everton and Cardiff have kept them out). They do have the joint worst away defence in the league though (with Arsenal).

Only Yakubu has scored more than 3 league goals for Blackburn, he has 10 this season. Rooney is United’s top scorer with 13 and both Hernandez and Nani have 6. Nani also has 8 assists, Valencia and Young have 6 and Giggs has 5. Blackburn’s leading assist-makers are Hoilett and Samba, both with 4.

Team news:

United’s missing list is quite substantial: Vidic, Fabio, Smalling, Evans, Cleverley, Fletcher, Anderson, Young and Owen. Jones may be fit in time and Rio could make the bench.

Blackburn have their own injury issues too – Givet, Nelson, Dann and Grella will all miss out whilst Robinson, Olsson, Hoilett and Dunn are big doubts.

United formation and starting XI prediction:

My team makes a few of assumptions: 1. Jones will be fit; 2. Rooney will play; 3. Berbatov will keep his place

After two games for Lindegaard, De Gea should be recalled to the side. Defence will provide the biggest problems with so many players out and there may even be a first league start for Zeki Fryers. Rooney could be used centrally although it would be harsh to drop Gibson after a good display against Wigan. Welbeck appears to be first choice at the moment and he could partner Berbatov with Hernandez missing out.

Once again, there’s the prospect of some of the younger attacking players being included on the bench: Pogba and Morrison most notably.

Who’s he?

Instead of picking out the key battle, I thought I’d introduce a couple of Blackburn’s younger players given their regular involvement this season.

Grant Hanley – recently turned 20, Grant’s a big strong centre back. He’s good in the air but slow on the turn. He’s already made over 20 first team appearances for Blackburn having left Rangers aged 16. He was quickly made Blackburn’s U18 captain and has been capped at various levels for Scotland including the full national side.

Adam Henley – aged just 17, Adam got his first start at Liverpool a few days ago. He can play in either fullback position and despite being born in America, he’s played for Wales at U19 level. He’s quick and likes to get quickly into a tackle.

Jason Lowe – Jason’s primarily a central or right sided midfielder who can cover at right back if needed. He turned 20 at the start of the season and after getting his debut at the start of 2011 he went out to Oldham on loan. Lowe returned and has forced his way into the first team this season getting regular minutes. He’s won England U21 caps and recently captained the England U20 side. Lowe’s relatively quick and has good feet, Blackburn will try to get him on the ball regularly if Dunn isn’t fit.

Ruben Rochina – he joined at the end of the January transfer window last season from Barcelona. Despite high hopes, he never really made a huge impression at Barca. However, since joining Blackburn he was a regular goalscorer in their Reserves (including a wonder-goal at Old Trafford) and has gone on to play regularly this season in the first team. He has a sweet left foot and a penchant for the spectacular strike – giving him time and space would be criminal.

History and last meeting:

United and Blackburn have met 96 times in the league previously with United winning just shy of half of them. In the Premier League this will be the 35th meeting of which Blackburn have won five and just one at Old Trafford. On average United score more than one goal in this game and concede less than one goal a game. Blackburn’s win came in September 2005. This fixture has only ever had two goalless draws – in 1914 and April 2005.

United recorded their biggest winning margin over Blackburn last year with a 7-1 win; Berbatov famously scored five goals whilst Nani and Park got the other two.

Prediction:

Despite injuries, United’s form has been excellent lately as goals have returned alongside a solid defence. Blackburn haven’t won away from home this year and are yet to keep a clean sheet. Goals will be on the menu and I suspect that Blackburn may even have a say themselves. I’m going to predict a 5-1 Man United win with Blackburn taking the lead!

Referee:

Mike Dean – Dean’s refereed more games than any other referee this season in the league and this will be his 15th. He’s shown just one red card and averages just over 3 yellow cards per game with no clear favouritism for the home or away team. However, over 75% of his yellow cards are given out in the second half of games. He last was in charge of a United game in the 1-0 win at Swansea.

Connections:

Phil Jones was signed from Blackburn this summer and is a supporter of the club. Nick Blackman, Blackburn’s young striker, spent some time in United’s Academy as a youngster.

Quick facts:

- United have taken the lead inside the first ten minutes of their last three league games
- United are the only club to have scored in every league game this season
- David Bentley scored a hat-trick in Blackburn’s last win over United

They say:

Ferguson on form: “Hopefully we can keep the momentum going. The form is good and the players are enjoying themselves too.”

Jones on Blackburn: “I’m still a massive fan and have a lot of friends at the club. As soon as we come off the pitch I always look to see how Blackburn have got on. I am sure things will improve.”

Kean on Fergie: “Sir Alex left a long message and I called him back. We had a good chat and I was very appreciative of his message of support, along with most other managers who have been in contact.”

Links:

For all pre-match banter, tactical discussions, team and score predictions click here.

To read about the young defenders from the Reserves who may be needed, click here.

Videos:

AUTHOR: – Doron

United’s first foray into the transfer market this summer has seen Phil Jones join from Blackburn Rovers for an undisclosed fee (for now), meeting a release clause that was in his contract.

Jones, who turned 19 back in February has been linked with a move to United for 18 months and was according to the press odds on for a move to Liverpool last Tuesday morning. However United have moved fast to seal a deal for the youngster – possibly forced by other clubs (Liverpool, Spurs and Arsenal) showing an interest. United have met the player’s release clause in his contract, however Blackburn wanted more money which result in a legal dispute between the two clubs causing a delay in the move. Blackburn have said this deal has the potential to be their record sale (which is currently £17.5m for the sale of Santa Cruz) therefore indicating that United are paying a fee up front with various add on clauses included. However, on Saturday evening, journalist Paul Smith, confirmed he’d had a text from Jones’ agent saying the deal had now been completed and today the club have finally announced the signing with Jones inking a five year contract.

Jones is at present with the England U21 squad and plays as their first choice centre back alongside Smalling. He is perfectly adept at playing as defensive midfielder in front of the back four too. This therefore seems to signal a nice replacement for a combination of Gary Neville, Hargreaves and possibly Wes Brown if he leaves as is speculated too. With Smalling able to cover at right back, Evans able to cover at left back, and Jones able to play ahead of the defence; United appear to be covering all angles left by players who’ve moved on.

He was born in Preston and was said to not be keen on having to move away as he wanted to be near his family and girlfriend. Despite being young, he’s already made 39 first team appearances for Blackburn with 34 coming in the league. He stood against United in the recent 1-1 draw at Ewood Park – we singled him out for praise post-match.

The club have said the player will be presented and the deal completed when he returns from the U21 tournament.

AUTHOR: – Doron

AUTHOR: – Doron

A record breaking 19th title was clinched at Ewood Park on Saturday. The game itself was a forgetful affair for United fans with the full time whistle kicking off celebrations in the away end. For Blackburn though, it was an important point won as they attempt to survive in the league. Here we discuss the talking points of the match and welcome both sets of fans to contribute to the events.

Talking Points

Blackburn defending

Understandably, post-match the majority of the focus was on United, however for our opponents, Blackburn, this was a huge point gained as they now travel to Wolves next weekend. Wolves are level on points with Blackburn (40), both sides are just one point away from the relegation zone.

Blackburn set up with just one striker and with Phil Jones shielding their back four. Despite United not playing particularly well, just about every attack was repelled by an organised defence lead by captain, Chris Samba.

Click on images to enlarge

Blackburn vs. Man United heatmap*

*United’s heatmap is only until the 73rd minute when Rooney scored, it is otherwise incredibly skewed by the passing across the back for that ensued during the remainder of the game

N’Zonzi vs. Giggs heatmap*

As shown, Blackburn were prepared to sit deep with their three man midfield. They played 52% of their passes within their own half. By comparison, United were only in their half when 38% of their passes were made. Ferguson had said pre-match on Friday that United would go for a win and they put Blackburn on the back foot territory wise, however they were unable to turn that dominance into chances. This was mainly due to resilient and well-drilled defence (see chalkboards below). Giggs and N’Zonzi lined up opposite each other in midfield – considering the latter was part of a three man midfield with license to break forward knowing Phil Jones was behind him, their positioning is in comparison incredible. N’Zonzi made 59% of his passes from within his own half whereas Giggs made 73% of his passes in the Blackburn half.

Blackburn tackles (41) with Martin Olsson leading the way with 9

Blackburn clearances (38) with Chris Samba leading the way with 8

Blackburn interceptions (30) with Phil Jones leading the way with 6

In Samba and Phil Jones, Blackburn certainly had two star performers both with crucial blocks, interceptions and clearances. Martin Olsson should also be credited for his display. United went attacking with both Valencia and Nani selected. However, Valencia struggled to have the same beating of Olsson that he had against Ashley Cole only last week. Olsson was supported by other Blackburn players ganging up on Valencia but the attacking fullback fulfilled his defences duties with aplomb.

It was a point won for Blackburn – they blocked 5 Man United shots on goal, throwing their bodies in front of players in order to get a vital point in the relegation battle. The result was perfect for United but could be almost as important for Blackburn’s season.

Tomasz Kuszczak

Does the name Jan Tomaszewski mean anything to you? For younger readers it may seem like a made up name in Pro Evolution that you’d assign to a player with ’99′ for every attribute going, however it is indeed the name of a famous Polish keeper that Brian Clough once famously labelled a ‘clown’. Tomaszewski stopped England from qualifying for the 1974 World Cup Finals, however Tomasz Kuszczak nearly stopped United winning the title on Saturday with his clown like antics. Our Polish deputy, who will no doubt leave the club at the end of the season, has a stinker of a game and nearly cost United two goals with his hesitance and lack of concentration. Below are two screen shots highlighting his erratic display.

Kuszczak Mistake 1: Carrick back pass should just be booted into touch -

Kuszczak Mistake 1: Kuszczak hesitates and fails to clear his lines and needs Vidic to help out-

Kuszczak Mistake 2: Kuszczak receives a back pass from Rio Ferdinand-

Kuszczak Mistake 2: David Hoilett gambles and closes the keeper down but is a good distance from the keeper-

Kuszczak Mistake 2: The keeper is now in trouble as he hesitates to clear and Hoilett is closing in-

Kuszczak Mistake 2: Both players end up on a heap on the floor with United awarded a goal kick for the challenge-

Although the goal was not his fault, his calamitous attempt to divert Emerton’s cross come lob combined with his Almunia style ball collection highlighted his inadequacies as a top class goalkeeper. How on earth could a player of his calibre replace a legend like Edwin van der Sar? Although I have no doubt that Ferguson has a player in mind (whether it be De Gea, Stekelenburg or Lloris), but I think it is fair to say that Kuszczak is not that man. A nightmare of a game that could well have cost United.

Champions again!

A record low away points was secured in the Premier League years for United – just 25. In fact it was the worst ever away form of a Premier League winning team at an average of just 1.32 points per game (source: Opta). Yet, whilst that’s an obvious concern it mattered little to the 7000+ travelling fans at Ewood Park.

A record breaking 19th title was secured as United became the most successful English club ever. On an individual level, Ferguson and Giggs won their 12th titles whilst for Scholes it was his 10th. Players such as Fabio, Valencia, Chicharito, Smalling and Owen will all be getting their first ever winners medals.

It’s been a strange campaign – United were being written off by the majority of the footballing media before the season had even started. As Chelsea ran away with an early lead, bookmakers were even offering odds as long as 10/3 on United to win the league as November started. A run of good results saw United close on on a title lead though and on January 1st they were top with games in hand. Despite defeats at Wolves, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal, United saw off Chelsea last weekend to all but confirm the title.

After 92/93 this will probably go down as the most special for United fans. Breaking Liverpool’s record means so much to the club and its supporters. This season has encapsulated so many of the characteristics that makes United such a special club – the hunger, the desire and the never say die attitude have brought late goal after late goal. Regardless of whether the media believe the best footballing side haven’t won the league, the team that comes top is not only usually the most consistent side but the most deserving.

Match Conclusion

Sir Alex Ferguson chose not to shuffle the majority of his side that beat Chelsea. Fabio kept his place at right back whilst Evans was chosen to start at left back after he replaced O’Shea there last weekend. In the midfield Nani came in for Park in what was an attacking move. As hinted, Edwin van der Sar was rested with Kuszczak given a rare start. Blackburn chose to start in a 4-1-4-1 formation with Roberts as the sole striker and Phil Jones protecting the back four.

Both teams started cautiously with possession being thrown away however it was United who created the games first meaningful chance. Rooney’s cross was met by Nani’s header however it hit the bar and fell to safety. Kuszczak looked shaky in goal and mis-judged a Carrick back-pass to nearly allowed Roberts the opportunity to score. Blackburn’s goal unsurprisingly came from a Kuszczak error – he failed to deal with a cross and allowed Olsson to fire in a cross which was well finished by Emerton. Blackburn sensed United were shaken and pressed for a second goal but to no avail. The best United could come up with before the break was a Chicharito should that Robinson was able to save.

Despite being sent out early for the second half, United still struggled to create an opening. Instead it was Blackburn who should have got their second. Scorer nearly turned provider as Emerton’s cross was headed onto the post by Emerton. It came just after Scholes had come on for Fabio with Valencia drafted in as a right back. Scholes’s introduction did at an assurance to United though and they started to build up more pressure on Blackburn again. Finally a chance game – Giggs’s wonderful pass set Chicharito through on goal, despite going away from the net he touched the ball past Robinson who brought him down. After a minute consulting with the linesman, Dowd awarded a penalty. Rooney slammed the ball into the net and a title was just over 15 minutes away. Nani could have even grabbed all three points but he failed to convert Rooney’s cross.

Berbatov was thrown on as a late substitute but had little chance to impress as United saw out the last 12 minutes in a boring fashion passing the ball about amongst the midfield and defence. Blackburn were happy to let them do this despite the boos from their own fans – a point was good enough for them. At full time, the players and staff swarmed onto the pitch and after a brief huddle in the centre circle, celebrations ensued in front of the away fans – a 19th title was won.

United’s next game is home to Blackpool in the final league game of the season on Sunday 22nd May.

AUTHOR: – Doron

AUTHOR: – Doron

One point away from making history. One point from a record breaking 19th title for United. A party like few seen before could just be 90 minutes away for players, staff and fans alike. However, it was at Ewood Park last year that our title challenge came unstuck and with Blackburn desperate for the win that would all but seal their survival in the top flight, there’ll be no premature celebrating from the United camp. Fortunately for United fans, this is the season’s last away game, the torture ends here!

Last time United faced Blackburn it was Sam Allardyce in charge. That day, United thumped Blackburn 7-1 at Old Trafford, still their biggest win of the season to date. Since then, he’s been sacked by the new owners, the Venky’s Group, and replaced by Steve Kean. With just 1 win in their last 13, Kean is already under pressure at the club and now has the task of making sure they remain in the Premier League next season. Blackburn can still finish as high as 10th and as low as 20th. They are though just three points ahead of Wigan and Blackpool who are both in the relegation zone and are at home this weekend with very winnable games.

Under Kean, Blackburn have tended to play a 4-1-2-1-2, with a diamond in the middle. It’s anchored by talented young defender come midfielder, Phil Jones whilst on-loan Jermaine Jones and one other usually play ahead of him. David Dunn heads the diamond linking the midfield with the strikers. Both Dunn and Phil Jones were injury concerns for Blackburn but have been passed fit. Mame Diouf is unavailable due to the terms of his loan agreement from United so two of Kalinic, Santa Cruz, Roberts or Benjani will play. This is a game Blackburn cannot afford to lose so they may choose to go one up top in order to make sure they avoid defeat rather than play for a win.

The aim for Blackburn is of course survival, a mid-table finish may have been possible after a slow start but solid period from the end of October to mid-December; however their form in 2011 has seen them drop deeper and deeper into trouble. Their form at the moment isn’t great, they’ve taken only 6 points from the last 18 available – only five teams are in worse form but importantly, four of them are below Blackburn in the league. Similarly, at home, Blackburn have taken 6 from the last 18 which ranks as the 3rd worst current home form of any Premier League side. This is their last home game of the season, they’ve managed to take 27 points from 54 which is below average in the league. Their defence though has been tight, 15 goals conceded is the best record outside the top five teams yet they’ve been let down in front of goal, only managing to score 21 at home, the same number of goals they’ve scored away from home!

The Blackburn squad isn’t quite fully fit – Grella and Nelson are long-term absentees whilst Rochina is reported to be unavailable despite scoring two wonderful goals at Old Trafford midweek for Blackburn’s Reserve side. As already mentioned, Mame Biram Diouf is unable to play either.

In the Premier League, Blackburn’s record against United at Ewood Park isn’t great with this fixture overall tending to be a rather drab affair. On 5 of the 16 meetings, Blackburn have failed to score, yet it’s 6 times that United have failed to hit the net. Each game played there averages just 2.5 goals scored. Blackburn have managed just four wins over United on their own patch with the last one coming in February 2006. The two sides met at the end of Novemnber at Old Trafford with United winning 7-1 – goals from Berbatov (5), Nani and Park. The last meeting at Ewood Park was just over a year ago and ended 0-0 with Valencia guilty of missing a fabulous chance to score. The result was a huge blow for United’s title chances that year. Scoring is something that has troubled Blackburn in 2011, no team has scored fewer than them, and if they fall behind that’s likely to be it as they’ve never come from behind to win this season.

Enough on Blackburn… onto Man United and my predicted line up:

It’s been a recurring theme to start with a list of absentees, however for a change, that list is but a mere name this week! Only Owen Hargreaves is definitely ruled out of this one. Evra, O’Shea and Fabio were doubts but all have trained ahead of the weekend. Both Rafael and Fletcher got minutes for the Reserves midweek with Fletcher likely to get some time from the bench tomorrow.

I’ve gone for a 4-4-2 – United may only need a point to tie up the title but Ferguson has said they’ll be going to get the win. Edwin is likely to be given a rest ahead of the Champions League final so Kuszczak may deputise in goal. Ahead of him is likely seems to be a similar back four to the one that beat Chelsea, with Evra being the only change, coming in for O’Shea.

The midfield to get the job done and seal the title should be the same one that beat Chelsea, however I’ve selected Nani rather than Park on the left. Despite Salgado having an excellent season, I think he’d struggle against Nani’s pace and trickery. With various players needing minutes to keep them sharp, Scholes and Anderson could also come into contention. Fletcher isn’t ready to start but if the score is right, he may come off the bench. Up front, Rooney and Chicharito should continue their excellent partnership. Berbatov’s patience must be praised, few would keep as cool and quiet as he has.

United remain top with a lead of 6 points now – just 1 more point will seal a record-breaking 19th title. The victory over Chelsea last weekend was one of the great Old Trafford performances of the past few years. The team were outstanding in demolishing Chelsea’s title threat and it was capped with Fergie bowing down in front of the Stretford End.

Recent form shows United 3rd in the form league with 13 points taken from a possible 18 in the last six games. At home, United have been almost unstoppable but away from home their form has been rather subdued this season. Their current away form is the 4th best in the league with 7 points taken from the last 18 available. In fact, United’s away record isn’t so bad compared to other teams, it’s the fourth best in the league and could be better if they weren’t the side that had drawn the most number of games away from home. United have had no problem finding the net on their travels (28 goals), with only Chelsea and Arsenal scoring more, however their 24 goals conceded is bettered by 4 other teams including Fulham.

In Dimitar Berbatov United have the league’s top goalscorer (21 goals) as well as the 6th and 8th top scorers (Chicharito with 12 and Rooney with 10), whilst Nani is the league’s top assister (18 assists; Rooney is joint 3rd with 11, and Giggs joint 6th with 8). It’s been 34 years since a team has won the league with just five away league wins. Regardless of how the game finishes, it’ll be the lowest number of points in that United have ever taken away from home since the start of the Premier League. There are some individual landmarks to be had too – Rio Ferdinand’s 600th club career appearance and Michael Carrick’s 150th league appearance for United. Ryan Giggs can equal another two records tomorrow – most appearances for one club in the top flight (613) and David James’ Premier League appearance record (573).

United are unbeaten against Blackburn in 10 games and I can see that being extended to 11 tomorrow. United are so close to the title now that there’ll be no more slips. I’m expecting them to do it in style and therefore I predict a 3-0 win for United.

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Remember the last time United won the league away from home?

AUTHOR: – Doron

Former Southampton, Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer has revealed in an interview with FourFourTwo that United took too long to sign him, which is why he opted to sign for Blackburn Rovers. United ended up signing Eric Cantona in the November of 1992 and went on to lift the Premier League title, with Blackburn finishing in 4th spot.

Shearer did pick up a league title in 1994/95 after his side beat United by a point to the crown. The England striker enjoyed a four-year stay at Ewood Park, scoring 112 goals in 138 league appearances – however, could he have gone on to win more trophies had he waited a little?

The interview with Shearer is featured in the latest issue, which marks the 200th edition of the magazine (and also includes a Giggsy interview). Shearer was quoted as saying:

“There was interest from Manchester United, but I was told I had to wait three or four weeks for them to get the money together. I felt if they really wanted me then they would come and get me immediately. I had already spoken to Blackburn and told Kenny Dalglish, Ray Harford and Jack Walker that I would give them an answer in three of four days – and my answer was yes.”

Shearer again turned down the opportunity to sign for Manchester United in the summer of 1996, opting for hometown club Newcastle United instead. Former United captain Bryan Robson wrote in his autobiography that he couldn’t understand, even as a fellow Geordie, why Shearer choose to turn down United for a second time.

Shearer’s goal scoring record speaks for itself, whilst he also finished top goalscorer at Euro 96 with five goals – so was obviously in high demand, with rumours that Italian clubs were also keen to sign England’s top marksman. He eventually move for a world record fee (previously held by Gianluigi Lentini of Milan following his move from Torino to AC Milan in 1992) of £15million to his home town club. United went onto lift the 96/97 crown, whilst Shearer never really eclipsed the trophy winning season of 1995.

Manchester United 7-1 Blackburn Rovers

Dimitar Berbatov scored 5 goals, equalling a Premier League record, as Manchester United produced their best performance for over 3 years to destroy Blackburn Rovers and move to the top of the table for the first time this season. It was a truly stellar performance with star turns all over the pitch, however the haul and overall performance from Berbatov and a supporting role from Anderson will last long in the memory.

 The tone was set as early as 72 seconds in, when Anderson charged down a loose ball, causing keeper Paul Robinson into a panicky clearance. The ball fell to Nani, who crossed in towards Berbatov, with the Bulgarian converting easily from 5 yards. Blackburn’s response was not forthcoming so United accepted the invitation; Anderson was involved again as he pushed Blackburn up the pitch with a probing run, bulleting the ball in towards Park – the South Korean exchanged passes with Rooney (with Rooney’s return, it has to be said, an exceptional ball) before coolly finishing. 

The assist for the next goal – on 28 minutes, just 4 minutes after the second – was equally as inviting, unfortunately from the visitors point of view,  it was from Pascal Chimbonda – his woeful pass back to the keeper gifted Berbatov all the time in the world, and he made no mistake. 3-0 could have been 4 as Vidic headed a Nani free kick against the post, and it should have been 4 when Berbatov’s sensational footwork was stopped in its tracks by Salgado who cynically blocked him in the box – referee Lee Probert didn’t award a penalty, though. 

Any lingering disgruntlement after half time was extinguished as United added two goals within 5 minutes of the restart – Berbatov fittingly the architect and scorer of the fourth. Deep in left back position, his control was exemplary, with a backheel finding Evra. Berbatov ran into midfield, and Evra played the ball back inside – the forward spread the play wide to Nani, who raced into the box and delivered a perfect ball onto the boot of the onrushing Bulgarian to complete his hattrick. 

Less than 60 seconds later it was 5 – a stunning slide rule pass from Anderson caught the defence cold and Nani cut inside Chimbonda to score with aplomb. With such breathless attacking exploits – which by this stage, had forced Rovers into making all their changes – it was time to take stock and take in what was happening. One of the observations to be made at 5-0 could be that Rafael was surprisingly not imposing himself, but he made amends for that when making a trademark bombardment down the right side, exchanging passes with Nani before playing in Park. Park, just 5 yards out, should have registered his second, but his shot was blocked. Fortunately Berbatov was there to pounce for his fourth goal. 

United’s scoring was done by the 70^th minute, when Anderson fizzed another incredible ball into the number 9 – Berbatov’s first effort was blocked, but he made no mistake with the second bite. After the inevitable changes, chances still followed as United attacked with purpose, but with the best chance, Obertan saw the chance that was wonderfully provided for him by Rooney well saved. Rovers grabbed a consolation in the last minute when Samba headed in; the reborn Rooney almost gifted Berbatov a double hat-trick but it was not to be. 

Recent positivity has surrounded the club after what was essentially a year of negativity; with the team finding form somewhat ironically 29 games into an unbeaten run, United fans can look forward to the Christmas schedule. Special praise should be reserved for Berbatov who was outstanding and rightly man of the match with this stunning effort; but Anderson, whose link away from the club on Friday was the strongest yet, was absolutely magnificent. In fact, everywhere on the pitch was a player giving a strong performance; if Ferguson is tempted to stick to 4-4-2 in the upcoming games, the chemistry displayed by the eleven he picked today have surely made certain their selection for their next game. 

Ratings : van der Sar 6, Rafael 8, Ferdinand 8, Vidic 7 (Evans 6), Evra 8, Nani 9, Carrick 8, Anderson 9, Park 8 (Obertan), Rooney 8, *Berbatov 10

United still remain unbeaten in all competitions this season. Blackburn Rovers come to Old Trafford in a game that feels like it has added importance. United players, staff and fans still look back at the away game at Ewood Park last year where vital points were dropped. Whilst Old Trafford has been a stable enough fortress in recent times, every game must be treated with genuine magnitude, no longer does the Premier League offer a straightforward match, three points are vital.

Blackburn are a team in up-and-down form. They sit comfortably in 11th in that poistion where a win could take them within touching distance of a European place but at the same time a loss could mean that a relegation spot is all too close. Three wins in their last four games suggests some kind of short-term form – Blackburn picked up as many points in those games as they did in their previous ten!

One can comfortably predict the type of football a Sam Allardyce team will play (even if the new owners have hinted they want wins with ‘style’). A combination of tough tackling, physicality and the odd long ball will be the challenge facing United tomorrow. It may not be pretty but it’s a proven formula for Premier League survival and a mid(ish) table position. Mame Diouf on loan from United will be unavailable for selection but in David Dunn they have a very clever midfielder who unlike the style his team play in, can still unlock a team with some intricate passing. Alongside him in midfield Blackburn have Morten Gamst Pedersen whose left foot has rediscovered its scoring touch; and the young but talented Steven N’Zonzi. Blackburn’s real strength may well be at the back. Nelson and Samba are imposing and experienced, but behind them is Paul Robinson. Once a teenage prodigy, once a scapegoat, he’s quietly got himself back into form and is once again playing to a very good level. The experience that runs through the Blackburn team will be important at Old Trafford in making sure the younger players keep their shape and discipline.

Blackburn, as one of the founding members of the football league, have been around for a long time meaning that this fixture has some history. Whilst Blackburn were one of the first teams to win the Premier League they have been relegated during the modern era. Even so this is a regular fixture with which United have had a lot of success. Their last win at Old Trafford came in 2005/06, more recent than most teams can boast. However the past four years have seen Blackburn go home with 0 points, just 2 goals scored and 10 goals conceded. Last year a goal each for Rooney and Berbatov sank a battling Blackburn performance.

Key players – Emerton, Givet, N’Zonzi and Pedersen – will all have their fitness assessed pre-match. All are not guaranteed to make the game. Young Phil Jones in centre midfield (even though the player is primarily a centre back) will no doubt be looking to impress as his is a name that has been linked with United in the not too distant past.

Here’s how I believe United will line up:

With European qualification assured Ferguson can focus full attention on the league. The mid-week game against Rangers all Ferguson to rest his first choice back four. Therefore Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic and Evra will (should) all return for this game. The Carling Cup match in a few days will once again allow for rotation so theirs no excuse for not going with the strongest team available tomorrow.

United have some injury doubts in the centre of midfield for this game. Fletcher is out with an ankle injury and isn’t expected back until the games against Arsenal and Chelsea. Scholes has a slight groin strain and may not make this game, I wouldn’t expect him to be risked. Hargreaves remains unavailable. This leaves the in-form Carrick to be partnered by either the returning Anderson or Giggs. Park would also be an option but I expect him to return on the wing. I think Anderson will be the one to start. Giggs played a full 90 minutes at Rangers and even though Anderson starting may make him an unlikely starters at West Ham in the Carling Cup, the league has to be prioritised.

Off the back of a goal and an apology Wayne Rooney is expected to continue up front. The nature in which he celebrated against Rangers won’t have ‘fooled’ some fans but the genuine joy on his face will go a long way to reminding some people that he probably does care. Certainly the noises Rooney has been making this past week have all been positive and are the kind of things the fans want to hear. Berbatov still is yet to score since the 19th September but Ferguson will be keen for him to be given a chance to rectify that having dropping him for the Wigan match last week. This might be harsh on Chicharito who seemingly has done little wrong and lots right since joining but his time will come.

United go into this game as still the only unbeaten side in the country. The wins against Wigan and Rangers were a welcome return after the two draws prior. As I somewhat bizarrely predicted on Twitter two weeks ago, last weekend was very much a Manchester coloured Red weekend. Chelsea and Arsenal will not drop points all that often so United must keep up the pressure and hope that should either slip up, first place will be United’s outright. Should Giggs feature against Blackburn he’ll need just 10 more league appearances to equal Sir Bobby Charlton’s record of 606 league appearances for United. Rio Ferdinand will be looking to continue his run of playing more minutes than any other outfield player this season without a booking (720mins).

I’m going to predict a 3-1 United win.

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Man United Vs Wigan Atheletic Betting Odds (correct at time of publishing)
Man Utd to win 1/4

Correct score markets:
1-0 is 11/2
2-0 is 5/1
2-1 is 7/1

First scorer:
Rooney 3/1
Hernandez 4/1
Berbatov 4/1
Vidic 18/1
Anderson 20/1

To score a hat-trick:
Rooney 9/1

Time of first goal:
41st minute to half time 10/1

Any time own goal 7/1

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If last weeks defeat against Chelsea was the defining moment then after a season full of near fatal blows to Manchester United’s chances of making history, the two points dropped at Ewood Park after an abysmal display not only finally signalled the death knell of the Champions hopes of winning a 4th consecutive title but indicates a probable 3rd place finish behind an abysmal Arsenal team.

Fingers last week could have been pointed at Mike Dean’s defining intervention; excuses could be made to a justifiable extent about the extremity of United’s injury crisis that in this game alone forced United to field 35+ veterans Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs in central midfield and 18 year old Federico Macheda up front while being able to give Patrice Evra a rest after having played every minute in the Premier League this season. Ultimately though, in those close games such as todays, a lack of class or urgency within the plan B – never more perfectly illustrated than the pitiful showing from Dimitar Berbatov – has rendered United unable to conquer those other obstacles.

The game against Blackburn Rovers had seen some tabloids and tabloid websites indicate the Red Devils’ Lancashire rivals would lay down on account of Sam Allardyce being one of the few managers in the top flight who dares to openly confess his admiration of the most successful manager in the history of the game but this was never going to be the case, and wasn’t – chances could have been counted on one hand and you’d still have fingers to spare.

Antonio Valencia did break through twice and saw his shots denied by Paul Robinson in the first half – the only other breakthrough, if you could call it that, being a nudge from Rovers sub Nelsen on Berbatov though it would have been harsh to give a penalty. The second of those chances from Valencia highlighted Berbatov’s only worthwhile contribution in the side with a decent ball. The Bulgarian has often been unfairly singled out for criticism in the past but in the last few weeks he has been given more than enough opportunity. He has been far too inconsistent and more importantly has not at any time provided a telling breakthrough, a match turning contribution, when it mattered. Today was a new low for United’s record signing – his lack of conviction and ability to perform at this most cutting edge of level was fully on show when late on he was unable to do anything other than timidly strike a shot at Robinson after being set up by Scholes and Gary Neville.

It said most about the game that it was Neville, one of the few to actually dedicate to the cause, who nearly snatched an unlikely win in stoppage time. It wasn’t to be, and deservedly so.

Chelsea should comfortably stroll to the title, and probably a Premier League and FA Cup double, and Arsenal’s favourable run in will see them even pip the reigning Champions to second. United were simply carrying too passengers and not enough game changers – Giggs was forced off with an injury in the second half, replaced by Gibson, who offered little. Macheda was harshly brought off for Park when at least he had shown he was on the pitch, unlike Berbatov. There was never enough on the bench to galvanise the side, and though unfortunately we have to single out the Bulgarian again, it was his mere presence in the side that made United the lumbering side that ultimately relinquished their title this afternoon.

He has won a Premier League title, two Carling Cups and a World Club Cup in his 20 months at the club without so much as a tangible contribution that would illustrate his value. He can’t and shouldn’t be single handedly given the blame for this seasons failure either but his lack of effort in the game was indicative of the side that seems to have been complacent and expectant of someone else to rescue them. No Ronaldo or Tevez, no Rooney, no Macheda, no Giggs or Owen, no-one ever likely to produce the spirit late on that would snatch a result.

The defining period of the last 11 days has proved that United have been not good enough. What opportunity, if any, Sir Alex Ferguson has in the summer to rectify this with the funds at his disposal remains to be seen, though one would expect any funds at all to be bolstered with the proceeds of the sales of the likes of Berbatov.

Ratings: van der Sar 6, Neville 7, *Ferdinand 7, Vidic 7, O’Shea 5 (Evra), Valencia 7, Scholes 5, Giggs 6 (Gibson 5), Nani 7, Berbatov 4, Macheda 5 (Park 5)

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Strikes from Dimitar Berbatov and Wayne Rooney settled this game against Lancashire rivals Blackburn Rovers who put up a stubborn and resolute defensive performance against United.

Blackburn had been Premier League whipping boys on the road this season with recent heavy defeats at the Emirates and Stamford Bridge but predictably managed to stiffen their resolve when visiting Old Trafford. For their part, the Champions offered very little in the way of convincing that they could break down their opponents with just 2 chances in the opening 30 minutes.

On the half hour however an expected burst of action that brought 4 times as many chances in the remaining 15 of the opening period was initiated by a hat-trick of Dimitar Berbatov chances – the first blocked by Givet, the second denied by Robinson after wonderful work from Rooney and Valencia and the second stopped by the Blackburn custodian again.

Berbatov then found the net after a good Rooney pass but the goal was rightly disallowed as Rooney was offside in the build up – then Rooney himself almost fashioned an opening only to be denied by Givet whose heroic defending helped the visitors get to half time on level pegging.

Urgency was resumed after the break and the pressing was finally rewarded on 55 minutes with a goal that resembled a combination of both goals in United’s last home league game against Sunderland – Evra’s surge forward and seemingly mis-hit cross cum shot was killed beautifully by Berbatov who span and then brilliantly half volleyed past the helpless Robinson.

With Rovers now chasing the game Sir Alex Ferguson saw an opportune moment to give Gabriel Obertan his Premiership bow from the bench. Obertan impressed in his half an hour while giving truth to the general opinion that his unquestioned exciting potential is seemingly sometimes undermined by his lack of self belief. Certainly it seemed to be this that stopped him opening his goalscoring account for the club as he had two real openings to do so – the first weakly hit with his left foot and the second completely screwed with the goal gaping after substitute Michael Owen had left a Valencia ball to roll for him.

The security of a second goal came with just a couple of minutes remaining when Anderson’s good ball after interplay between himself and Obertan was cleverly converted by Rooney who scored his first goal since the Manchester derby six weeks ago. There was still time for Blackburn to have a goal through Kalinic wrongly ruled out for offside and for Michael Owen to drag a chance wide after a great flowing move, but neither incidents threatened to change the result.

The media will no doubt report the performance as one that was unconvincing but the reality of the situation is that playing against, at times, a 9 or 10 man defence who never even tried to chase a result even when they went behind was never going to result in a game that would yield a number of goals. The performance of Berbatov after the first half an hour was promising and Anderson continues to put in the kind of shift that makes you think he must surely be starting to force his way into Fergie’s trust for the bigger occasions.

Given Blackburn’s recent results it was never going to be a pretty occasion and with a comfortable victory and encouraging signs United fans should surely be thinking of this performance as a treat when a trick looked like it may have manifested itself.

Ratings : van der Sar 6, O’Shea 6, Brown 6, Evans 7, Evra 7, Valencia 7, Carrick 6, Anderson 8, Nani 6 (Obertan 7), *Berbatov 8 (Owen), Rooney 7