Author: Bricki

Follow Bricki on Twitter – @Bricki‎

In the great moments we all remember where we were. On the night of the FA Cup Semi win over Arsenal, this is where i ended up…

The 98/99 season saw me in fifth year at high school and preparing to take my GCSEs, determining my future. I had watched the original tie at home and despite Keane’s dubiously disallowed goal i still expected us to win. Only after the final whistle and confirmation of the replay date did i realise there would be a slight problem.

The replay being on the 14th April presented a couple of issues, the first was it clashed with my sisters birthday. Being a United family though this shouldn’t be a problem but the second issue presented a bigger problem. As part of the schools drive to convince us to stay on at the 6th form after our exams, they had arranged an evening out for prospective pupils. The evening consisted of a trip to the Trafford Centre and the Odeon cinema located inside.

It was a situation i was unable to get out of going on so i had to think of ways around this travesty. I was stuck in this predicament with a fellow red so we decided the way forward would be to use the radio and listen with an ear each in the cinema. Not the greatest way to hear but we had little else choice.

The film had been chosen for us and unfortunately it was a rom-com, ‘You’ve Got Mail’ starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. We were lucky that the film would be a by the numbers affair we could easily dip in and out of. This wouldn’t arouse too much suspicion as to what was really going on.

So we positioned ourselves to one side at the top of the theatre so we were not in view of many people. Back row of the movies is usually for love of a different kind but for us it was 11 men in white shirts tonight. The game and the film started at roughly the same time, we lowered ourselves into the seats and listened as the game unfolded.

Then Beckham struck, as he hit his shot we knew it was on it’s way. The ball hit the net and as the commentator shouted his acclaim we rose from our seats to cheer as subdued as we could. It must have been reminiscent of Meg Ryan’s most remembered film moment, her ‘orgasm’ in ‘When Harry met Sally’. Our fellow classmates probably knew what we were up to but we did not want our teachers to discover our game. In my mind it was Tom Hanks himself who had whipped the ball past David Seaman, the big man in midfield many today are crying out for.

Half Time arrived and allowed us to catch up on the film. It was something about book shops and the big conglomerate taking on the little man (sounds strangely like a potential football film if it were made now)

Suitably informed on the film that we could get away with reciting the plot if needs be, we settled down for the second half. Arsenal seemed to be more in charge and the film was drawing to a close. As the emotional climax in the film built, Arsenal seemed to be building up pressure also.

As Hanks and Ryan got close it happened, Bergkamp’s deflected effort went in. It was at this moment i rose from my seat and the game was up. ‘You Bloody Dutch TUGBOAT!!’ NB. I’ve replaced the most awful swearword for Tugboat. You can imagine it kind of ruined the moment for the rest of the cinema.

The film ended and we left the Trafford Centre to board the bus for the 20 minute trip back to school. I was both a hero to some of the lads on the bus and also villain to the teachers who witnessed my outburst but bloody Bergkamp, the git.

Keane’s sending off occurred and just as we pulled up at school, Neville gave the penalty away. We started the walk back towards our houses thinking that was that. Just then a huge cheer went up from a local pub and we went sprinting back. The pub was busy and we couldn’t get inside so we resorted to looking through the window at the big screen. It was clear the penalty was saved and now the full time whistle was blown.

We had a dilemma, we both lived about 15 minutes away so did we risk heading home or watch through this window? We’d spent enough time in the dark ages tonight having to listen to Alan Green so a window and muted commentary was good enough. The window was slightly raised and being on the smaller side i kept having to cling on and then drop down for a few seconds. It was for this reason i missed Vieira giving the ball away and jumped up just in time to see Giggs set off. As he got closer and closer we started to shout… ‘Go on.. GO on…. GO ON……’ ‘YEEESSSS!’ You little bloody Tugboat!!’

(i don’t use the word that Tugboat replaced anymore, Honest)

We screamed and jumped up and down, going crazy by the side of the road as cars whizzed past. As the final whistle went we sang down the road, heading home after a surreal way of experiencing such an emotional game.

As i stepped in the house the first thing my dad said was ‘Missed a great game there’ my reply of ‘Oh we saw it and what a goal from Tom Hanks’ left him looking bewildered.

It wasn’t the greatest way to experience such a game but it was one of the more unique ways I’ve taken in the reds over the years

Follow Bricki on Twitter – @Bricki‎

The post The Night Tom Hanks Played In United’s Midfield appeared first on Stretty Rant.

Stretford-end.com have got hold of a Manchester United shirt signed by ex left back and legend Denis Irwin as a prize give away. Irwin signed for Manchester United in 1990 from Oldham and went on to make 529 appearances for the club, which puts him 8th on the all time list – a remarkable achievement. Irwin won seven League titles, a European Cup, three FA Cups, a League Cup and a whole host of other honours at his time at Old Trafford. Read onto to find out more!

Here is the shirt we were lucky to get hold of when we met Irwin at Old Trafford at the end of May:

All you need to do is ‘LIKE’ our Facebook page here and then answer the following question:

In what season did Denis Irwin hit six goals – his best for Manchester United?

You must send your answer to our email address – strettyrant@gmail.com

Good luck!

Note: This competition is only open to UK entrants and the editors decision is final. The closing date is Monday 17th June 2013.

The post Win a signed Denis Irwin Manchester United shirt appeared first on Stretty Rant.

Sometimes its best to go your separate ways. You’ve achieved as much as you can together and its best to depart on amicable terms. Nope, its not what tons of couples up and down the country are thinking – it is the sensitive guff that usually accompanies the opening paragraph of a summer transfer story. Wayne Rooney has been one of Manchester United’s greatest players in history. He has netted more goals than George Best, Ruud van Nistelrooy & Dennis Viollet and is closing in on Jack Rowley – but his future is uncertain at Manchester United.

It is nine seasons since an eighteen year old Evertonian walked through the Old Trafford doors, fresh from Euro 2004, to sign for the club. Will United’s troubled number ten pack up his things and leave for pastures new? Or will the new gaffer be able to turn Rooney’s fortunes around?

Wayne Rooney’s latest transfer request could be compared to you threatening to leave your attention soaked girlfriend due to paranoia issues, despite two years earlier nearly finishing it with her as you thought she’d put on a few pounds. Whether it be his ‘emotions’ as Gary Neville discussed post Swansea City celebrations, or whether it be United’s number ten has had his nose put firmly out of joint – Rooney appears to be frustrated with life at Old Trafford and feels a move is his only form of escape. There have been numerous rumours over the years of a rift between Sir Alex Ferguson and his talisman, which of course exploded as the 2012/13 season came to an climax.

In the end, the outgoing Manchester United boss no longer had to rely on his prized asset and could afford to substitute Rooney, something which Sir Alex thought was a contributing factor in his request to leave the club. With Fergie heading upstairs, one of David Moyes’ first challenges will be to ensure Rooney that he has a future at the football club. A future just off Robin van Persie, not out wide or deeper in a midfield role.

Many will slate Rooney and assume that the club should get rid. I do not disagree. If a player doesn’t want to be there, then why keep them? Eric Cantona was reported to have driven around Paris on a motorcycle, pursued by Alex Ferguson, who was desperately trying to assure the Frenchman that his future, his destiny was at M16. If Cantona had have received his wish at that time, and United had of allowed the disgruntled star to leave for Italy (where there were heavy links with Internazionale) – then the 95/96 double may well never have happened. Cantona’s apparent reason for wanting to jump ship was due to the hounding of the media in the UK during his suspension from football.

The first time; Rooney’s transfer request was surely down to money and status at United. The club met his City bluff and rewarded him with a handsome salary and contract extension. Second time around, its a little more hazy. Did his relationship deteriorate so much with Ferguson that he felt the only option left was to leave? Did van Perie’s remarkable introduction and iconic fan status touch a nerve with the now mortal number ten? We may find out a bit more over the close season.

Some football fans believe that Wayne Rooney has somewhat unfulfilled a football prodigy that was benchmarked to roll Paul Gascoigne, Alan Shearer and Roy of the Rovers all into one. Winning five league titles, a champions league and becoming Manchester United’s fourth top goalscorer of all time, for me – any footballer would be pleased with that on their CV. At 27, he still has years ahead to achieve even more. From a technical perspective, his vision is top class, but at times – his mind this season looks elsewhere. Anyone that has played the game at any level knows that you need to have your head right if you’re going to deliver a top performance.

Over the years we’ve seen through balls, reverse balls and cross field balls to switch play that you simply can’t teach, regardless of the amount of money or time you spend on an individual. Rooney’s electric pace may begin to desert him as his Benjamin Button hair style evolves even further, but his ability to pick passes will remain forever more. This is one of Rooney’s greatest strengths that leads to his biggest frustration, his versatility. United managed three direct assists from their own half this season. One was Jonny Evans punt up the pitch for Rooney to score against Fulham, whilst one of the other two was the sublime pass from Rooney, the central midfielder, to van Persie to score United’s goal of the season. The pass was played down to be honest, but that amazing technique Robin van Perise has, flourishes on delivery like that.

Rooney has been sacrificing his own game for years. Ronaldo was the obvious beneficiary, especially in Champions League games. One of the great European goals of all time saw the galloping Ronaldo, surging through the midfield and into the Arsenal penalty area, whilst Rooney’s perfectly weighted ball from a left sided role ensured United were on their way to a second successive Champions League final. Ronaldo can play anywhere across the front line, but you would never give him defensive responsibilities, unlike what has been cast on Rooney’s shoulders over the years.

So should United get rid of Rooney following his latest outburst? He was depicted as the villan of the piece as Sir Alex Ferguson took his final curtain bow. He was greeted with boos at the parade, and rightfully so – if he wants to leave, its fair game right? But what if that move is what he needs to reignite the quality we all know he has? The ‘no brainer’ of a transfer involving Robin van Persie to United from Arsenal saw a player playing at the top of his game, help a team push on and easily win the league title. Van Persie needed the move and so did United.

Arsenal finished fourth, arguably – where they would have finished had they kept hold of the Dutchman – so they achieved what the Wenger Emirates blueprint entails. If indeed Rooney left United for the London club, he would surely push Arsenal nearer to the top? A reinvigorated Wayne Rooney would be a problem if he moved to a domestic rival. Many will, rightfully, state that after United “the only way is down”. Other than Cristiano Ronaldo and Jaap Stam, it would be hard to argue otherwise for the players that have left over the past twenty years.

However, Rooney should be now at his peak years and David Moyes will surely continue to be as defiant as his predecessor was regarding where he will be playing come August. Chelsea are now leading the way, according to Bwin, to sign the forward, following Jose Mourinho’s comments in his opening press conference the other day.

Its easy to throw about the idea that Rooney would be comfortable in Munich, Madrid, Paris or at another European superpower, but with the extremely weak English export conveyer belt, can you really see Rooney setting up in a foreign land, learning a new language and adapting to another style of football? Don’t get me wrong, he has an abundance of quality and can play in any top European side, when his head is on his game. The big question is, can he become that player again at Manchester United under his first manager? That volley against Newcastle, that chip against Portsmouth and that overhead kick against City. When Rooney does finally leave Old Trafford, the usual over romanticised SkySports montage will be packed to the rafters with pure quality. The main issue will be the cover song; the boys are back in town or bittersweet symphony.

The post Wayne Rooney leaving: better for him or United? appeared first on Stretty Rant.

Ex Manchester United full back Denis Irwin believes that Cesc Fabregas has ‘zoomed up’ the club’s priority list and feels that the ‘all action midfielder’ is exactly what the champions need next term. It has been widely reported that Arsenal have first option to resign the midfielder, who left for Barcelona two seasons ago. The Spanish midfielder, who has played a part in Spain’s three recent triumphs (at Euro 2008, World Cup 2010 and Euro 2012), has found his playing time limited this term but will surely want to stay around a little longer at his boyhood club? The transfer speculation season is sadly upon us!

We’d like to remind our readers that we have a fantastic competition where you can win a signed Denis Irwin shirt! Read on here for more details.

Denis Irwin was quoted as saying the following about the Catalan star:

“Cesc Fabregas has zoomed up Manchester United’s transfer target list to the top position and the champions are going to move heaven and earth to get him. The Barcelona star wants out of the Nou Camp and United want him badly, so the deal should be done easily enough. Fabregas is just the sort of all-action midfield player United need if they are to make a run at next season’s Champions League. Cesc won’t be short of offers for I believe this is going to be a transfer season where eye-boggling amounts of money will be spent.”

Arsenal fans will surely hope history doesn’t repeat itself with an ex-captain packing up and heading for M16. Even without Fabreagas, United are favourites to win the Premier League next season – the addition of a world class midfielder will no doubt strengthen that further. The 26 year old has played his fair share in a title winning season, 41 in all appearances for Barcelona, but with the competition so great at the Nou Camp – he may feel that he needs a move at this crucial time of his career.

The ex-Arsenal man would be an unbelievable signing for United, to link up with Michael Carrick in the midfield, but I can’t see the Spaniard joining this summer. Having said that, I thought the same about Robin van Persie last June!

The post United to move ‘Heaven and earth’ to get Cesc Fabregas says Irwin appeared first on Stretty Rant.

Although extremely rare, there are opportunities that come along in your life that simply do not make sense. In early May I was offered the chance to run a competition for a lucky Stretford-end.com reader to play at Old Trafford alongside some of the Manchester United legends squad. Our blog was also offered the chance to send two representatives along to participate in the match and a training session run by coaches who teach the academy. Read on to see some of our photos of Denis Irwin, Gary Neville, Dion Dublin and Andy Cole.

I don’t usually post about my personal experiences as my original objectives for the blog was to create a Manchester United community, which offers insight on club news, chants and statistical information. Hopefully we’ve kept to that original ethos, which could be one of the reason we were asked to run such an amazing prize. Bwin ran the competition and were excellent hosts – it truly was a money can’t buy experience and I’m grateful we were invited.

Andy Cole and Dion Dublin joined us in Wings restaurant the night before for a superb meal and discussed the match the following day. No one fancied going in goal (why would you?), so Mr Wing – the restaurant proprietor – threw his gloves in the ring and he was installed as our captain on Andy Cole’s team. I put my case forward to play in the centre of midfield, and was duly rewarded. Bwin picked up the bill for all the food and booze – although it was an early night ahead of the match in the morning.

We met at Old Trafford around 10 O’clock and were sent to the Stretford suite where we met Andy Cole and Dion Dublin who were joined by Denis Irwin and Gary Neville. Andy Cole and Denis Irwin were on my side, whilst Dion Dublin and Gary Neville were on the opposing team. We changed in the home dressing room and I was given the number 11 shirt to play in the centre of the park alongside Andy Cole. Alan Keegan, United’s stadium compere, introduced us to Old Trafford in an extremely surreal experience.

I won’t bore you with a match report that included players who looked a bit like picking up a new football game on the Xbox and not knowing what is the shoot, pass or cross button – but I did manage to open the scoring with a glorious 40 yard chip (honestly) and notch up another goal later in the match. We were allowed to take some pictures on the pitch, have a bit of keepy uppy and then dine with the legends in the Stretford suite. This was followed by a Q&A with the players, who spoke fondly of their time at Old Trafford and of Sir Alex Ferguson in particular.

I doubt I will ever experience something like that ever again and I’m so grateful that we could attend. My mates poked fun at me (and still do) when the blog was started in 2006 – but events like this make it all worth the while.

Below are some of the photos that you can view on our Facebook page. Please visit our Facebook page to view a few more pictures from the day.

The post The day Stretford-end.com graced Old Trafford appeared first on Stretty Rant.

Apparently, the Brazilians invented the fullback. The 1958 World Cup tournament saw the 1950 beaten finalists scrap the universally approved WM formation and adopt a 4-2-4 approach. The Brazilian fullback was born! Djalma Santos, Nilton Santos, Carlos Alberto, Jorginho, Roberto Carlos, Cafu and Daniel Alves are a few of the great players to grace the world game and Rafael looks to follow in their footsteps, despite the fact that ‘A Seleção’ have adopted more of a cautious European approach, sacrificing their famous flair and creativity in favour of tactical discipline and athleticism.

It should come as no surprise that the two most capped Brazilian players, Cafu and Roberto Carlos, are indeed fullbacks – a position that has been pivotal to the success of Brazilian football over the years. One of the most iconic moments is the galloping Carlos Alberto latching on to a Pele pass to hammer home the final goal in the 4-1 victory over the Italians in 1970. If you didn’t know where Rafael was from, you would immediately associate his style of play with a Brazilian.

His attacking runs have graced the Old Trafford turf since 2008, however – this season has seen a real breakthrough in his development as he reached 40 appearances for Manchester United. Below is a chart highlighting the progression of Rafael since he made his debut as a substitute in the 1-1 draw with Newcastle United in 2008. The chart only includes starts and not substitute appearances:

Click to enlarge.

This season, Rafael has made the right back slot his own. Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Antonio Valencia have all featured there – but the Brazilian has been the most prominent right back since Wes Brown in 2007/08 and I believe will reach the same level of consistency as Gary Neville did if he continues to perform at the levels of last season.

His twin brother, Fabio, moving on loan to QPR could well have lifted any burden or responsibility he may have felt. Playing at Manchester United is one thing, but when you’ve also got an invested interest in another player, this that can impact on your performances, so the move will have done both players a favour. The fact that Rafael had to step up on his own really highlights his character and determination.

Always a tenacious competitor and dogged in the tackle, Rafael’s enthusiasm can get he better of him. His two yellow cards and subsequent dismissal against Bayern Munich in 2010 cost the team greatly, especially considering how dominant United had been in the first half, racing into a 3-0 lead against the eventual finalists. His rash tackle on the experienced Van Bommel was a glimpse at how naive United’s young prodigy was. His tackle wasn’t a last ditch attempt on a flying winger, but a lunge that had him struggling not to end up in the east stand, the end United were attacking.

His second yellow resulted in Sir Alex Ferguson summarising the event as “Typical Germans”, however – the youngster was already on a yellow card and was up against Franck Ribery, who was starting to pull the strings. Ironically, it was the Brazilian’s pull on the Frenchman that cost him and the team dear. That sending off will always haunt the Brazilian, but it is clear that he has learned from his experiences that evening, which is evident in his style at present. Yes, you get games like Reading and Real Madrid away where he has a bit of a nightmare (and I’m sure he would have got sent off in the 4-3 victory had he not been substituted by Sir Alex).

He may still get very close to an attacker (especially a quick one), kicking wildly at times to win the ball, but you wouldn’t want to take this aggression out of his game. His discipline and intelligence (to press high up and start a counter) is a superb asset to United’s attacking arsenal. He has also demonstrated his goal scoring ability, notching up a screamer at QPR to opener the scoring in February. Right out of the Brazilian book of sublime goals. The 22 year old has established himself in United’s back four, but the next challenge for him individually, is to break through and become a regular in the national team ahead of Daniel Alves and Jean. He has, so far, only amassed two caps for his country – both coming in friendly matches before the Olympics in London, but he does have time on his side.

He clearly, as we all do, holds Sir Alex Ferguson in an extremely high regard - so it will be interesting to see how David Moyes uses him and how he responds now that Sir Alex has moved on. Regular readers will know that I spend too much time betting online and although Moyes has already dipped into the transfer market for a right back, my money is safely on Rafael keeping his full back spot.

Valencia has had an indifferent season to say the least, but can do a job at right back when United are chasing a goal. Likewise, Chris Smalling has also slotted in well at fullback – and can be used against more physical sides that have a lot of height. Jones offers the same attacking bursts as Rafael, but he will surely end up at centre half in the next few seasons. Rafael epitomises what United stand for. Young, attacking and full of character. He is clearly a well liked member of the squad and will no doubt be encouraged with his progression this season. O menino cresceu.

The post Rafael continues to play the Brazilian and United way appeared first on Stretty Rant.

Its been over ten years since Dwight Yorke left Old Trafford for Blackburn Rovers, but Manchester United’s former number 19 still holds the club in high regard and paid tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson and Paul Scholes. Sir Alex is to manage United for the final time against West Brom on Sunday, whilst Paul Scholes is also set to retire.

Yorke was part of the famous treble winning side and formed a superb partnership with Andy Cole – as United swept all before them. We’re extremely luck to talk with Yorke, who answered a few questions for us. We discussed Maldini, the treble and Fergie’s hairdryer.

Dwight Yorke was answering questions exclusively for Streford-End.com at an FA Cup with Budweiser trophy event ahead of the final. Watch Budweiser’s fan film TV advert here http://youtu.be/s4QIYr-12-M And follow them on Twitter and Facebook to win FA Cup prizes and tickets for next season’s tournament
@BudweiserUK and facebook.com/budweiseruk
#tothedream

The post Dwight Yorke on Sir Alex Ferguson and Paul Scholes – the best appeared first on Stretty Rant.

So, after 1,500 games – Sir Alex Ferguson is to wave goodbye to English football and Manchester United as he bows out a champion at The Hawthorns on Sunday. United’s legendary manager has won 38 trophies since he took over from Ron Atkinson (who ironically left WBA to join Manchester United) back in November 1986.

Although the title was wrapped out weeks ago and the game, for United fans anyway, will be about saying goodbye to the greatest manager of all time – Sir Alex will want to go out with a win. United beat WBA 2-0 at Old Trafford in the last game of 2012, with an own goal from and a a last minute strike by United top scorer Robin van Persie.

Here we discuss the match preview including a potential line up, team news and a superb view from the opposition. We welcome comments from both sets of fans.

A view from the opposition

We caught up with Warren, who kindly caught up with us in the middle of a lads week away, on the final act of Sir Alex Ferguson, losing at Reading and poor old Peter Odemwingie. You can following Warren on Twitter @warren_stephens.

1) Sir Alex Ferguson manages Manchester United for the last time. What are your thoughts on Fergie’s reign and do you think he is the best manager of all time?
His record certainly suggests he is. I went to my first football match in 1986 and even though I’m now in my 30′s he’s all I’ve ever known, it’ll certainly be a different place without him. The emergence of that golden youth team probably helped him, as did the inception of the Champions League elite, but there’s no questioning what he’s achieved. To continually revamp the side and keep his players hungry year-on-year, there will probably never be another like him.

2) Do you think David Moyes is a good appointment?
I think Moyes is a natural appointment. With Fergie still in the background I’m not sure a Mourinho-type character would have quite fitted. He has similarities to Fergie in terms of character, I guess we’ll find out if their similarities extend to winning trophies!

3) How would you sum up Steve Clarke’s reign thus far?
I’m personally quite pleased. He inherited a well-organised side and if anything we’ve improved in an attacking sense without losing too much defensively. Next year will be a bigger test I feel.

4) There was a point earlier in the season were WBA looked like competing for a European place. However, since losing to United in December, the Baggies have only won four games – what went wrong?
I would say a culmination of things, between December and February there were barely any games where we fielded all of our best players in the same starting XI. It was thereafter difficult to retain the same level, if you took key players from most sides in this league they’d probably suffer. Once we slipped away there was arguably a sense of complacency, that we’d already achieved enough. The Odemwingie saga hasn’t particularly helped either.

5) Reading away was a ridiculous game. How did you not win that? And even worse – ended up losing?!
I wish I could tell you! We were 2-0 up and absolutely cruising, I don’t recall Foster making a save all day. They then put three balls into our box and scored three goals. To have drawn would’ve been a sickener, that we lost, it probably took a lot of momentum out of our season.

6) Who has been your best player this season? And the worst?
Gareth McAuley has been our most consistent performer. He’s in his 30′s and we picked him up on a free from Ipswich Town a couple of seasons ago, a few people questioned that, particularly as Wolves forked out 7m for Roger Johnson at roughly the same time. I think it’s fair to say their careers have gone in different directions since!

Most disappointing was probably Markus Rosenberg. We picked him up last summer, he’d scored goals in the Bundesliga and La Liga. However the signing of Romelu Lukaku pushed him down the pecking order and he’s been restricted to substitute appearances in unfamiliar wide positions in which largely, he’d done himself no favours. He has however started our last three games and arguably been man of the match in two, so maybe we’re finally starting to see what he’s capable of.

7) Do you need to strengthen in the summer and, if so, in what areas?
It looks likely that Peter Odemwingie will leave the club, there’s also the possibility that Romelu Lukaku will go back to Chelsea. If that happens we’re effectively losing 25 goals a season. Other than a striker or two we could do with a wide player with pace and maybe adding a bit more depth to the back four and midfield for when key injuries set in. The club has gradually built year-on-year for the last decade or so, but most fans will tell you that this is a crucial summer.

8) Will Peter Odemwingie be at the Hawthorns next season (Clarke recently said he was doubtful) and what did you make of the QPR fiasco!?
It certainly looks unlikely. I don’t doubt that Odemwingie was told to drive to QPR, but his mistake was doing the interview saying he was a QPR player. That in itself, whilst infuriating, isn’t what’s alienated most supporters. It’s his continual Twitter rants against the club and refusal to acknowledge any wrong-doing that’s the reason for the extremely audible boos you’ll hear whenever he plays. He’s even had the cheek to publicly complain that he isn’t starting every week in the aftermath of the QPR saga. Initially the reaction to him was very mixed but now I’d say it’s come to far, it’s best for both parties if he leaves. We will miss his quality though.

9) How will you line up on Sunday and what is your prediction?
We have only Gera missing to injury so it’ll be a much stronger starting XI than the one you saw at Old Trafford. We usually play 4-5-1/4-3-3 but Clarke recently experimented with a 3-5-2 at Manchester City and we arguably should’ve got a point so our line-up’s not cast in stone. We were shocking at Norwich last weekend so I expect a reaction of some sort, hopefully it’ll be a competitive game that does Fergie justice as he bows out.

10) For the final question of our 2012/13 season – how would you sum up the season as a spectacle and are United worthy Champions?
It’s been a fantastic season overall for us. It’s a bit disappointing that the only issue to be resolved on the final day is the race for 4th. United are certainly worthy champions, for me City’s defence of their title, with the squad they have and the obscene amount of money they’ve spent, has been shocking, really poor. Massive credit to Sir Alex Ferguson though, probably fitting that he bows out on top.

Team News

Manchester United
Rafael will miss the game through suspension, having been sent off in the 1-0 defeat against Chelsea two weeks ago. The Brazilian kicked out at fellow countryman David Luiz and was shown a straight red. Ashley Young will miss the match with an ankle injury and Darren Fletcher is a long term absentee.

WBA
Zoltan Gera will miss the visit of Manchester United with a knee injury, whilst right back Steven Reid faces a late fitness test. Youngster George Thorne is a long term absentee.

Potential Manchester United team

Sir Alex Ferguson gave his last press conference as Manchester United manager on Friday and promised that Anders Lindegaard would feature in goal. He will replace David De Gea, who has been excellent this season. He hinted that Vidic and Ferdinand could be on the bench, meaning a central partnership for Jones and Evans. Sir Alex remarked that both players are “the future” at the heart of the United defence.

Expect Michael Carrick to pull the strings in a midfield two with Tom Cleverly, with Nani wide right and a man who isn’t retiring, Ryan Giggs on the left hand side. With Wayne Rooney’s future still in doubt, it is unlikely he will feature in the match, so we’ve opted for Danny Welbeck up top, with the Premier League’s golden boot winner – Robin van Persie, just off of him. This would be my Sir Alex Ferguson final Xi -

How would you line up?

Conclusion

Alas, the final game is upon on. The transfer of Robin van Persie is a distant memory, with the Dutchman making the most appearances this season for United, and of course all the eventful games over the course of the season. We also say goodbye to Sir Alex Ferguson, the greatest manager there has ever been, and Paul Scholes – the most gifted centre midfielder of his generation, who will definitely hang up his boots this time around.

Ferguson’s men travel to The Hawthorns to face a WBA side that although faded in the second half of the season, should be very pleased with their overall campaign. The Baggies have beaten Liverpool (3-0) and Chelsea (2-1), but since the turn of the year have only won four matches, beating Liverpool away (to do the double), Sunderland, Swansea City and Southampton. Romelu Lukaku, who has been linked with a season long loan to West Ham for next season, has been a revelation this term scoring fourteen goals to become Albion’s top goalscorer. Shane Long trails in second place with eleven and want away striker Peter Odemwingie is in third with five goals.

Manchester United have scored 36 goals away from home this season (in the league), which works out at 1.9 goals per game away from Old Trafford. The last time United didn’t score away from home was the last time the Champions lost on their travels, going down 1-0 to Norwich City way back in November. We can talk formations, we can talk about players but – the afternoon belongs to one man alone – Sir Alex Ferguson. In his 1,500th game as manager of Manchester United, can Sir Alex win his 896th match as boss before he departs? History would suggest he probably will, and maybe, just maybe – the winner coming in Fergie time.

Prediction: WBA 1-2 Manchester United

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Sir Alex Ferguson today spoke of his feat of reaching 1,500 games at Manchester United and labeled it ‘incredible’. The outgoing United boss, who will be replaced by David Moyes, will take his seat in a Premier League dugout for the very last time against West Bromich Albion on Sunday.

Sir Alex was in fine form as he addressed his final press conference and was greeted with warm applause, a speech and a hair dryer cake! Fergie stated that he was ‘lucky to be here’ for such a long time and looked to United’s future.

The boss was in bullish mood ahead of his final appearance and was quoted as saying:

“So, my last game. God, 1,500 matches. Quite incredible. It couldn’t be more difficult than at West Brom, who I think have done fantastically. Good, strong side. Every team wants to win their last home game, I think that’s a fact of life, but also I want to win even more than last week.”

He spoke about Evans and Jones being the future of the Manchester United defence for years to come:

“I’ve no injury problems. I’ll make a few changes, I think some of the younger players should play. I said to Anders you’ll definitely play in two of the last games to get your 10 games (for a Premier League medal). The Premier League have changed that rule now but I’ll still stand by my word and he’ll be in goal. I don’t have Rafa so I have to make a decision about that. And I maybe want to play Jones and Evans together at centre-back because they could be the future and Vida and Ferdinand will just have to make do with a place on the bench. Protect their age.”

Lastly, he spoke of his fondness for Manchester United football club and his twenty six years at the helm:

“Twenty-six years at Manchester United is fantastic, so just the whole thing. The day I came here was a privilege and the day I left I’ve been honoured. You run the gamut of emotions of course, it’s such a great football club and I’ve been lucky to be here that time. The whole being here is something to be proud of.”

Sir Alex Ferguson has the best win percentage ratio for any post war Manchester United manager as highlighted in the table below:

His trophy haul of 49 (total) surpasses some of the greatest, most legendary managers of the game – as illustrated in our Sir Alex infographic.

We’ve collected some best betting odds ahead of the WBA match on Sunday for you:

• Manchester United look a solid bet at 1.83 with bet365 to round of their season in style with victory over West Brom at the Hawthorns.
• Javier Hernandez scored the opener in United’s 2-1 win over Swansea last weekend, and looks worth a punt at the 5.5 on offer with Betfred and Coral at to repeat the dose and bag the first in this.
• He can also be backed at a tasty looking 2.38 with Boylesports to net anytime, and that looks big given that he is as short as 2.05 elsewhere.

The post Sir Alex Ferguson: Reaching 1,500 games is incredible appeared first on Stretty Rant.

Author: Bricki

Follow Bricki on Twitter – @Bricki‎

Life is an ever decreasing circle. The older we get and the more we experience, the closer we feel to the end. We need things in our lives to lift our spirits and take us to heights that everyday existence just cannot do.

Ever since I’ve been hold enough to understand, I’ve been fortunate enough to be surrounded by a football mad family and friends. It became all encompassing at one point with me running a team as well as following United.

United have always been the heart and soul of my football love and the genius behind this was Sir Alex. Growing up seeing one fantastic team after another take on the best of England and Europe, taking defeat on the chin and going again. It’s a true metaphor for anything in life and its safe to say that football has an impact on our lives that other things cannot come close to.

In the very worst days of my short 30 year existence, when I have felt that life is becoming uncontrollable there has always been Manchester United. For me Sir Alex is Manchester United and today felt that a large part of my life that has now finished. For differing reasons I have shed tears at the last two United home games and today it was because I will never feel the same for football like I did for the last 25 years.

I and other United fans of my generation have been some of the most fortunate people to follow a football club. We have experienced 5/6 high points for every 1 low point. A setback usually resulted in the bar being raised the season after. The one constant in everything growing up was United being at the very top. As I’ve gone from school youth, spotty teenager, love struck fellow and finally husband, I’ve always been able to rely on Sir Alex to be there bringing me football other fans could only dream of.

Seeing Sir Alex step out today to the acclaim he so richly deserves and the realisation that this is it was a hammer blow. You become so used to knowing that the team and the boss are there that it becomes difficult to imagine it coming to an end. The thing you assumed would always be there was no stepping away. Sure we’ve lost great players, Cantona, Ronaldo and Keane but you always knew Sir Alex had a plan and it was more than likely going to work. Now the Godfather is no more and we have a new leader.

The new leader may turn out to be fantastic but he’ll never be the leader we had. The fact it’s been referred to as ‘The Impossible Dream’ tells you the challenge facing David Moyes. That debate and discussion is for another post however.

The certainty of having United to brighten those dark and slow days still remains but the confidence of success is not the same.

I don’t feel I’ve been a proper football fan until today. Other clubs and fans have experienced the upheaval and uncertainty of a new leader or regime. This is my first experience of such a moment. Next season will be a new way of supporting the team. Many fans go to games expecting success and greatness, the guarantee of this is not what it was. The team will require our backing all the more.

The cheers and happiness of win after win brightened my days, from next season it’ll be being there and showing the team we are with them all the way.

Sir Alex has given me something I cannot fully describe but has kept me safe. From now on I’ll need to give this team so much more of myself and become there shadows on the pitch.

Providing comfort and security for a team and fan base largely entering the unknown.

It’s been a hell of a ride Sir Alex and i personally cannot thank you enough.

Bricki

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