Manchester United Banter Archive March 06 2013

06 Mar 2013 23:10:08
Just a point to any of the people who I have spoken to today or who are posting on here that 'Ronaldo got booed'. The reception Ronaldo got when his name was announced is something I will never forget, I have never seen old Trafford rise and applause so loud in the 20 years I have been to the stadium. He must have been so taken aback and it showed in his performance in the first half.

Once the game started the united fans booed him like we did with beckham as he was playing for the opposition. I am pretty sure Ronaldo didn't even notice as he was still on the bubble from the amazing reaction earlier.

After the match the whole Stretford end (and others I may add) applauded the united team off and then sang 'viva Ronaldo' at the top of our voices until he slapped his heart to show us where his heart lies, and left down the tunnel.

The fans and the player showed each other the love and respect they both deserved. To me he will always be one of the best players I ever saw play at united and will always be a club legend. I hope that he does grace the turf again before the end of his career.

Hope that clears it up for the people who are saying 'can't believe you booed Ronaldo after everything he did for you'. {Ed007's Note - I think that is ridiculous GDS, stating one of your top memories in over 20 years of going to OT is the reception an ex-player got. Man Utd have enough players that deserve it better for the simple reason they are still at the club. Where do you draw a line, a statue outside OT, retire the No.7 shirt. Was it ok when he scored because 'hey it is Ronaldo so that's allowed'..I've never heard so much bollocks in all my life. It's a bout time fans realised if they actually support Utd or just support Ronaldo. Utd players gave their all out there and yet the fans are singing the name of a player that scored against them, there is something very, very wrong with that, how do guys like Giggs and Scholes feel, they gave their career to Utd but the fans are singing for someone else, oh wait, he beat his chest to show where his heart lay more bollocks to wind in the gullible young fans. Would it still happen if he was at City or Chelsea?}

Bond,

I never said it was my top memory in 20 years I said it was the loudest I have heard a reaction for a player in 20 years, pretty sure anybody at the game will agree with me, it was hard to hear yourself think.

I also heard many many songs sang about giggs, Carrick, van Persie, Rooney etc throughout the night but my post was aimed at the people who have said we booed Ronaldo and we are out of order. I was clearing up what actually happened in that situation.

I could post a lot of things about last night but nothing that hasn't already been said, I have just seen a few posts on here and people say things to me today that seemed misguided. {Ed007's Note - What you said is:

'The reception Ronaldo got when his name was announced is something I will never forget, I have never seen old Trafford rise and applause so loud in the 20 years I have been to the stadium'

If folk wanted to boo Ronaldo they they are quite entitled to he is a opposition player, he doesn't play for Utd. Get over it, I would love to see him back at Utd as much as you and remember Madrid are my Spanish team. No set of fans should EVER applause an opposition player, unless is is a bit of banter for relegating LFC or some other wee diddy team. If you want to cheer Ronaldo or pick PMT fights with people booing him then go to Madrid and enjoy your love in. I thought Utd fan were proud to support their team/club, not players that used to play for him. And according to report he wasn't 'fisting' his chest because of his love for his 'home' team, it was a bit of phlegm he couldn't get up, if you are interested in it as a souvenir I will see what I can do for you. Players like Giggs and Scholes deserve the applause more than Ronaldo ever will, they have gave their career to the club. As I said if he scores for City or Chelsea would you be booing or applauding him, we might find out next season.....}

Well said ed007 couldn't agree more

Calvin

Bond

There is a difference in ex players playing and winning a tie against a team and celebrating like Adebayor in comparisson to Ronnies muted one and the level of respect shown between the fans and such players. We all roundly and correctly abuse players who show zero respect for teams that payed their wages and they played for and technically made them as players but Ronnie got the respect he deserved IMO.

Was celebrated beforehand (for his previous exploits), treated as the enemy during the game and again at FT celebrated for what he did for us previously.

What else can you ask from dedicated fans who have seen and still love a previous player whoo showed respect to the club? {Ed007's Note - Nonsense. Tevez, Berbatov, Paul Ince, Kanchelskis etc etc, where was there applause? If a player isn't wearing your colours you can respect him, don't worship him over your own players.}

007,

Why would we cheer Tevez, he left u for city, Berbatov got a decent welcome but didn't achieve what Ronaldo did, Ince didn't really leave under exceptional circumstances and went to play for Liverpool, Kanchelskis never achieved the heights Ronaldo did for us.

GDS, said it was he will never forget, it was an exceptional response to an ex player but he never said it was one of his best memories? We booed him during the game, but before and after we showed our appreciation for a player who won the worlds best player with us, who has never said a bad word against the club and has openly spoken very highly of the our club.

Traditionally ex players who have returned as players or managers who have shown our club respect have always been given a fantastic welcome. You say will it happen if he played for City or Chelsea, we he has never shown any inclination or intent to play for them so until he does that is irrelevant.

Another moment I won't forget is when the fat Ronaldo went off to a standing ovation after scoring a Hatrick and putting us to the sword, were we wrong to show respect and appreciation to a world class performance? Maybe that is what sets the majority of united fans out from the others, a bit of class and appreciation to players who have achieved great things in the game.

I bet you still sing 'oh ah cantona' evrytime, only was with us for 5 seasons, 1 pretty much was banned and nearly walked away from the club and then retired early anyway, but we know what he did for us, we appreciate his talent and what a great he was.

Nothing wrong with showing appreciation to and respect to people who show it back.

Again, I never said it was one of my top memories as the quote you showed proved, I said it was the loudest I've heard in 20 years. Surely that shows it wasn't just me mate, there was a lot of people showing their respect to what we see as a club legend.

I never said people couldn't boo, in fact I said people did boo during the game as he is an opposition player but showed him the respect he deserved before and after the game.

I am shocked at your reaction to my post to be honest bond as I know that most united fans feel the same way I do, hence why the noise was so loud when his name was announced. I wasn't saying anything controversial just explaining to opposition fans why he was booed during the game.

You clearly have a bee in your bonnet about it, so will have to agree to disagree on this one, but I know a lot of fans who were at the game would disagree with what you are saying. It's a fact that it was one of the loudest receptions for a player in 20 years, not my opinion, and there is a reason why the players you named didn't get the same reception.

We all have players we would like United to sign, but I'm convinced that some people support players from other teams more than our own players.
What is the obsession with selling players, we talk about loyalty to the club playing for the badge then want to sell a player as soon as they have a drop in form.
With the success the club have had the mentality of the average fan has changed its all about winning it's all about buying big name or the new fad players.
Some fans really don't appreciate what they have, but then you need to experience the bad to appreciate the good

That's not nonsense bond!

Take it you were roundly against EVERY Celtic fans cheering larsson even though he scored against you at park head? Would you say utd fans couldn't cheer players like schmiecs before and after te games as a mark of respect for previous exploits but for the 90 mins have him as part of the enemy?

Where do you draw the line then? What about ex soldiers then? They left the forces yet can they not be respected by current serving personnel as they have left?

It's not like he left under a massive controversy or showed no respect during the whole process so why can he not be celebrated as a part of the clubs history?

Btw Berba also gibson I can remember getting applauded when they returned to OT as I think larsson probably would aswell!

Jono

"What about ex soldiers then?" lol. You can't seriously be comparing footballers to people that protect and serve your country can you?

Melbourne CFC

Ed, to say that an opposition player should never be applauded is rediculous. I think its childish and very unsportsmanlike. Players shouldn't be booed just because they play for the opposition. Do you boo people that work for different companies? Its the same principle.

Fresh! {Ed007's Note - How many times have you applauded opposition players, Steven Gerard hitting the net from 25 yards..or what about Tevez. What about Darron Gibson or John O'Shea? Or is it only saved for Ronaldo? I prefer to cheer players playing for the team I support rather than opposition players.
There are more supporters on here sticking up for Ronaldo than for Rooney, has it escaped your notice that Ronaldo's team knocked Utd out of the CL? Or is that only a side issue to the Ronaldo show?}

I didn't see a problem with applauding Ronaldo personally as like has been said he has shown the fans respect in his interviews and and in his celebrations.

I agree Giggs and Scholes should be our hero's but the truth is they do get sung about at every game too. At every game I've been to though I've constantly heard songs about ex-players - maybe even moreso than our current crop!

To compare Ronaldo with Tevez seems strange due to the totally different circumstances surrounding them leaving and the fact the fans clearly dn't respect him or like him.

I also think Ronaldo lost 5-10% of his quality due to being overawed by the reception so if we could turn the clock back I would ask the crowd to react in just the same way!

HBadger

Melbourne CFC

Yes I am comparing the support us fans give our current players and respect shown after they have gone to the support soldiers get while serving and respect they recieve after they leave.

Now going by the 'don't respect due to not being part of the team anymore' reasoning would mean every veteran is shown no respect after leaving the forces, which wouldn't happen so why is it different in sport?

I think it shows a massive level of mutual respect and mayurity in a modern day sport full of tantrums and disrespect mostly motivated by money!

Because soldiers put their life on the line everyday and if they make a mistake it could result in death. As much as SAF might like to believe footballers do the same with balls getting kicked at heads etc, it simply isn't the case.

The soldiers deserve far more respect then some arrogant Portuguese footballer that won a couple of titles at OT.

Using your ridiculous comparison, Ronaldo leaving Utd for RM would be like a British soldier leaving the English Army for the Spanish. Would you still support a soldier who was great when he killed for England but then left and started killing British soldiers? No? Then Bond is right, isn't he?

You brought the comparison into play, so you have to accept how silly it is when logic is applied.

Melbourne CFC

In agreement with Bond here. Whilst I am shall I say, "indifferent" to people cheering or chanting Ronaldo's name. it is frankly appalling to see people sticking up for him rather than Rooney. Having a look at the page and the "Sell Rooney" cavemen are out of hiding. Ronnie was superb till he was with us, left for RM, has been respectful. end of story. But take a moment and go back to the CL 2nd leg versus Bayern. Wayne Rooney was played 60% fit (ankle/metatarsal). He couldn't complete the match and IMO that particular injury has definitely had an effect long term. People indeed have a short memory.

Again completely in agreement with Bond. Have nothing against GDS/Ports. atleast you guys have never slagged Wayne off. But for all he has done, I think it is a huge disservice and disrespect.

Deeps.

Melbourne CFC

Few points wrong there!

There is no England Army and I think you will find my logic applies even more in the battlefield.

Soldiers have the greatest of respects for other armed forces, now if you compare in your 'army' scenario England (haha) and Spain's armies would be respectful of each other before the battle, enemies during it and respectful again after!

So the same as we were with Ronaldo then yes?

Deeps

Look at the club mate. We have erected statues outside our stadium of past players Best, Law and Charlton and outwith Sir bob the other two are finished with the club (rip), so why did we do that do you think?

Oh yeah to respect and honour their names, their legacy what they did for us!

The exact same as all utd fans were doing for Ronny on Tuesday.

I could guarantee you Bond and all of the Celtic fans would be screaming larssons name if he arrived managing the opposition, why?

Out of respect!

Bond, we booed him throughout the game but before and after when the football was done with he applauded the fans and we gave him acknowledgment back, I don't see what your problem is?


NOTW {Ed007's Note - Just for the record I think it was ridiculous what Larsson done with Celtic. He told CFC he wanted to go back home to Sweden when his contract expired, allowing him to see out his deal and earn a £1 million bonus for doing so. Instead of paying the £1 million out of club funds a pathetic 7 year testimonial was set up to raise the pay-off. I never went to the game for that reason. I would NEVER applaud an opposition player, no matter who it is especially when he is playing against a team I support. I go to matches to cheer on CFC, not individual opposition players, no matter who they are. The minute they left CFC to play for another team is when their ties ended. If they come back to appear after retiring that is totally different.
Maybe Man Utd fans should spend more time cheering on the guys that are out there busting a gut to secure No.20 than a player that left 4 years ago and who's team had just put them out of the CL, or as I said is that treatment only reserved for Ronaldo, would he be applauded if he joins City or Chelsea?}

06 Mar 2013 22:29:43
Disappointing result but proved were a a top side. Would still spend in the summer. Realistically I can see us buying agood cm either strootman wanyama and possibly cabaye. Selling nani and going for Rodriguez. What I would prefer would be selling Valencia or young or both and going for bale or ronaldo but can't see us paying spurs prices or been able to afford ronaldo. It looks likely we will buy Lewandowski but how's he going to fit in a few month ago I would of said sell wellbeck but he's been quality recently and am drawn more to the idea of selling Rooney unless he ups his game. Another debateable area is lb but evra has risen his game last few month and was class against Madrid he always gives 100% and can see him having another season as Baines isn't as good as value for money as he is 28. Cb? Another year for rio and vidic I would be happy. Vidic is still the best cb around.
One last thing rafa is gona get a hammering on subday as we will be disappointed and up for it - FACT

I've been thinking about the Lewandowski link, if we sell Rooney how would you feel if we played a similar line as we did yesterday but had Lewandowski in for Nani and Kagawa in for Giggs. The front four would be very fluid with RVP Welbeck and Lewandowski all moving from left to right or up top.

Shappy, Lewandowski and RVP play identical roles although they have different qualities, so fitting both in the same starting 11 might be problematic as we saw with Newcastle's Ba and Cisse experiment. Unless of course RVP drops to a more creative role as a second striker?

07 Mar 2013 08:19:54
Mick, they are both class players and will be able to adapt as all class players can. RVP has always drifted out wide then cut in, he also has more than enough ability to drop deeper. Hernandez is an out and out striker yet he has played very well with RVP when together. Also RVP will be 30 next season, so maybe Lewandowski will be the long term replacement.

06 Mar 2013 21:19:48
Just watching the celtic game and juve have a young player called pogba who looks pretty decent, do any of the regs or eds know much about this guy and what are the chances of us looking to sign him?

Still too soon

No name? Or John Scouse Bishop?

Is that a joke or do you not know anything about united?

06 Mar 2013 20:38:24
Does anyone know if our game against chelsea is on tv and what channel
Ed?

Cheers {Ed004's Note - Itv 4:30 on Sunday}

06 Mar 2013 20:24:10
Can I just say how bitter Roy Keane is what a clown. it must have stuck in his throat last night to see and hear the reception ronnie got and he knows he will never be held in the same regard but us, and on that note what a classy bloke ronnie is the way he conducts himself bot on and off the pitch he just oozes class, would be great if he came back but if not thanks for the memories ronnie and I hope he gets his hands on the European cup this year he deserves it more than anyone left in the comp after being ignored for years in regards of world player of the year.

I'll always respect Keano as a player and for what he achieved at the club. And it's because of that I won't slate him or abuse him.

It has to be said though, I was so disappointed with his view last night. Obviously he's entitled to his opinion, but he was determined that it was going to be the heard point of view, he shot down those other clows at any attempt to dispute the card.

He's always had an attitude about him, but I thought he was more of a stand up bloke than that.

You say he won't be held in the same regard as ronaldo, not many will. I know for a fact though that many United fans still love keane for the player he was, it's a tragedy in itself that he and the club aren't in better terms though.

Ronaldo was getting booed, or did you have the sound off

06 Mar 2013 19:58:46
I do not understand why people have a go at Rooney. If he is made available for sale you can bet EVERY top team will make an enquiry about him. Apart from RVP he is the only player we have who regularly gets into the top ten world players. We need to strengthen not weaken our team. He DOES work so hard for the team and often in not his favourite position.

I understand that SAF uses this ability and willingness to help the team for the benefit of the team as a whole but if we had really top midfielders we could leave Rooney up top with RVP and once he had a settled position and run of games he would be scoring for fun.

Last night showed the difference between us and the very best sides. RM brought on Kaka and Modric. we had no-one in our first eleven never mind our subs of comparable quality. Yes we played well with Giggs amazing for his age but honestly RM played well below their full capability. Mourinho said he was disappointed with them after the match and he wasnt doing it to put us down. For whatever reason they really didn't get into their stride except for twenty mins after the sending off.

We need to keep Rooney and buy two top midfielders. One defensive and the other a truly creative attacking player. I like Cleverley especially as he has been brought through the ranks but he is never going to be a worldbeater. Anderson has the potential but will never fulfill it. Valencia is a true servant of the club and really tries but he has lost something this year to rediscover his form. I would give him one more year. Ashley Young is never going to be more than decent premiership level. Nani can be a match winner but for a top top winger he falls short. Get Rodriguez in. Welbeck played very well for us but ultimately he is supposed to be a striker and that means he should be getting 20 goals a season. He is nowhere near that figure. Hernandez also is a great player but he deserves to be in a team where he gets game not bench time. As we are Welbeck helps the team more than Chicho. but if we had great midfielder providing the ammunition I bet Chico would score more than Welbeck.

Lastly although playing quite well again it was from Evra's side that we left a player loose to deliver the killer cross for the second goal. And it wasnt the first time that happened last night.

Sigh, Rooney is not in the top 10 players in England, never mind the world. Believe the hype all you want, good player but not at the level you seem to think he is.

Kaka and Midric, are you serious? Kaka was a great player 5 years ago, now he wouldn't get into our team. And stop with the Evra hating. He has been a warrior most of this season.

If not for the sending off, we would have won and we would not be having this debate. As I have said so many times, get a grip

06 Mar 2013 19:40:51
Yes. the ref robbed us, it was a disgraceful decision and spoiled what was turning out to be a classic game. But I would like to make a point, and this doesn't really have anything to do with the red card decision I would like to add. I firmly believe we lost the tactical battle, even before we went ahead. Leaving Rooney, Kagawa and Evans out were huge mistakes I believe. Genuinely believe that the game would have turned out differently if those 3 had of been in the starting XI.

I sincerely hope that this loss gives us the drive to complete the domestic double. it's the least we deserve in my opinion.

Your wrong that's my opinion

CAIN

Utter drivel. until the sending off we were winning the game and Real had no answers. What game were you watching?

The line-up was close to perfect and we shouldn't be starting Rooney if 1. He is unfit and 2. He hasn't been up to standard all season.

The red card cost us for most of the game mainly due to losing morale and a player.

-JakeW

I'm just making the point that I believe if there had of been a more creative element to our game in the first half we could have taken the lead a lot sooner. I never said we played badly. I just think we could have made a bigger impact with some more creativity in the line up. I see how my post can come off as a bit harsh. that wasn't my aim at all! I was incredibly proud to be a United supporter watching that game, the lads on the pitch did a fantastic job.

But nonetheless. faster passing that Kagawa brings and the link up between RVP and Rooney that we all know is fantastic was sorely missed. Welbeck and RVP have never been a great combination up front, on quite a few occasions I saw RVP having to drop deeper to look for the ball that, I believe, Rooney and/or Kagawa would have provided a lot sooner.

Giggs was outstanding, Welbeck a constant nuisance. For me, the selections were justified. Rooney was to be added later as an impact sub IMO

Andy, take the hint, your 1st point was misguided, put your shovel down mate, your hole is deep enough.

AJH. calm down pal, i'm giving my opinion about the game just as countless others have been since the final whistle. My first point was not mis guided. it was how I felt while watching the game. Come up with some better points or don't reply to someone's post.

AJH that's nasty. ;)

CAIN

I don't necessarily agree with Andy!'s point but I can see the thought process behind it. We did a good job keeping Madrid out but had we been a bit more ambitious we may have been 2-3 goals up by the time the red card came. Problem with that is that it's assuming we wouldn't have conceded or assuming we would've been any better going forward.

TK-Red

Andy, I don't like to gang up on you but did you watch the game?

SAF's selection was spot on, only mistake was not reacting to the introduction of Modric sooner but even then we were up against it.

We'll never know but I think the plan was to keep it tight and introduce Rooney for the counter attack when Real reached the point of having to over commit.

Kagawa was never going to play in a 3 man midfield that had a number one priroty of keeping it tight at the back.

06 Mar 2013 19:10:11
any body else think we need about 3 midfielders
schoels giggs fletcher ando not good enough I mentoned giggs because he's getting oldand will leave after another season schoels will retire fletcher woun't be back as a starter againn and anderson should leave powell is there but should be loaned to a premier club like clevs was so who's left carrick and a cleverly TWO midfielders i'd buy one first choice to play beside carrick and two to sit on the bench ramos would be a nice adition if we have the money

Well we have Carrick and Cleverley as first choice with Powell and Tunnicliffe coming through, Jones can also play a key role in midfield. So that's five good options with four of them under the age of 24, so depending on what our tactics are going to be and how we intend to play I feel we could have a very good team with just one addition in midfield. Also Anderson is good enough, just not fit enough. If he could overcome his injuries he could be a great player for us, sadly though it doesn't look like this will happen. But I wouldn't be suprised to see him stay one more year to give the younger midfielders a chance to develope further. Plus Giggs has signed an extension for next season, so inesscence we'll lose Flecther and Scholes from our midfield options for next season, neither are first choice players atm, but Jones and Cleverley will be another year older and more experianced to step up more.

If we start next season with midfield options of: Carrick, Strootman, Cleverley, Anderson, Jones, Giggs, Powell and Tunnicliffe then I don't see much wrong with that. Then maybe we can let Giggs and Anderson leave the following summer and assess whether Jones will be better suited long term to CB or CM, then sign another midfielder then to complete our transition rather than try and sign too many players in one go and risk losing the team balance.

06 Mar 2013 19:06:59
With all the doom and gloom last night, I thought we played brilliantly. Some say we should have been able to win the game with 10 men ( chelsea vs Barcelona ), but we are an attacking team. Sitting back and defending a lead is not how we do it.

On a funnier note, a United fan in Nottingham, rather amusingly, actually called the police to complain about the ref's decision ( the red card ). he took the words " criminal decision " way too seriously.

Chief inspector Ted Antill said :
While this recent example may be amusing, it illustrates the sort of insincere calls we have to deal with on a daily basis in the Control Room.

"They waste our time and they direct us away from genuine victims of crime, particularly if we dispatch officers out to something that turns out to be a bogus report.

"I would ask people to think before picking up the phone for emergency services. I would also advise parents to ensure your children are aware that prank calls and the reporting of made-up crimes is a crime in itself. "

06 Mar 2013 18:47:43
I have to say, it was a red card and the ref and Roy Keane got it correct.

Holmes

Thanks Holmes but I'll take the verdict of proffessional referees the majority of which have come out and said it was either incorrect or incredibly harsh. Surely any sliding tackle/overhead kick or high foot is a straight red then? Ball or no ball?

Supasub

Well said lad.

Chris.

Have to agree, just been watching a replay for the 100th time, Arbelloa is actually 2 feet off the groung as he is jumping to head the ball and Nani still catches him on the chest, my point being Nani would have kicked him in the head had Arbelloa not jumped up.

Then clearly the punching Lopez should have received a red then too Sherlock. Time for a new profession. Suggestions welcome. lol

Its not even on his chest! he's caught arbeloa on the arm (whilst controling the ball I might add) and arbeloas arm momentum has caused the "extra movement" of nani foot as it went into the gap between chest and arm if we are going to be technical. So why was whoever broke demba ba's nose the other week not sent off? Because they were playing the ball?

Supasub

No name when your walkin past a door an stub your toe do you cut your foot off

CAIN

Yea but keepers do get a lot of protection from the refs and if you read letter of the law if it could be potentially dangerous for the opposing players its a straight red. If arbeloa stood his ground Nani's foot would have been head height. Its annoying sometimes as we complain to the high heavens when something dosen't go for us but now when its quite obvious we complain again.
Look again defiantly red.

Holmes.

And if its "reckless" by the letter of the law, which it probably was then its yellow. by the letter of the law.

Supasub

06 Mar 2013 17:57:58
Dennis Law.
Roy Keane.
Now Christiano Ronaldo.
Who's the next "legend" to break your hearts?

Agent Arbeloa

None of these broke my heart. Denis is the King and ended up where he ended up at the end of his glorious career. Cristiano was always bound to head off to Latin climes and has behaved with class since. Keano, where to start? A very troubled man with a very troubled mind. I know it's not popular but not in my top 10 or even top 20. Slag me off all you want but too many downsides for me. Bring it on people

AJH

Ouch, just seen it was a bitter scouser posting. Hey ho

AJH

None have ever broke our hearts mate they are club legends and will always remain that

Ronaldo didn't do anything wrong, keane is a tool.

alonso left you because he knew how crap you were. same as mascerano, torres. even gerrard wanted out.

Like dalglish, Carroll, sourness, hodgson,
Gillette and CANTONA! You mean?
Come back when you qualify, goodbye forever.

I've spent many a time arguing wiv drunken Irishmen (I am Irish too) about Keane, defending him like mad after his ego got too huge in Japan. But last nyts comments were the straw that broke the camels back. He has a grudge, and yearns for hate from those who love him

When did Roy Keane break our hearts? We got the best out of him them passed him on when we were done with him. Yeah. terrible that isn't it.

TK-Red

06 Mar 2013 17:20:49
Hi all
Older Liverpool fan here in peace. definitely not a red card, yellow yes. Don't care what Keane said about it being a red. If nani had stayed on the pitch I think that you would have won. What was funny though was seeing Fergie doing the gangnam pensioner style dance. Wonder if it will go on YouTube. Seriously though I think that you may have gone on to win the tie but the ref did make a monumental boo boo with that decision. Look forward to Mourinho being your next manager though.
Robbie

06 Mar 2013 16:46:57
What is the difference of Nani trying to win the ball in the air and take out an opposing player and the Real Madrid goalkeeper coming out to win a ball, totally miss it and punch vidic in the head?

REDP

The keeper saw the man!

Nani knew he was getting a red, that's why he stayed down so long to give the ref time to change his mind, didn't work though. about time a ref with backbone at old trafford.

The reason Nani was sent off as for endangering another player, Lopes did exactly that except he could see what was infront of him, admittedly nani did foul arbeloa and at most a yellow card should have been given.
James

Vidics head is so big he couldn't miss it

06 Mar 2013 15:37:52
So apparently, the Turkish Ref from last night follows Real Madrid and Ronaldo on twitter. suspicious or not?
Also I can understand a booking for Nani's foot being high, but no chance it was deliberate as you could clearly see from the replay he was watching the ball at all times so a sending off was very harsh IMO and that decision is what cost us even though afterwards, the Utd team should of showed that they could handle the pressure and reorganise themselves a lot quicker then what they did

06 Mar 2013 20:32:48
I follow Ronaldo on twitter too mate. Maybe it was my fault?

Nani watching the ball! I'm watching the tele but can still see the missus scoffing a cheese sarny across the other side of the room

06 Mar 2013 15:50:41
Dnt go to harsh on the bitter poor pathetic liverpool fans, last niye was there cup final
Chris the REDman

The silly scousers need to understand if United, Chelsea, City & Arsenal have similar Champions League runs next season, the season after there will be just three spaces for a UCL slot. And where it is already HIGHLY unlikely they will make the top four anytime soon, a top three finish would be impossible for them.

Sydney!

Plenty of "silly scousers" have sympathy over that decision to send off nani. Go on their page and read some of the posts. Football is football no matter who you support. A bad decision is a bad decision.
Robbie

What's it got to do with the Liverpool fans? Blame anyone if you want but in reality it was a stupid challenge that was a yellow card only and not a red.

Well said Robbie. Every team has reasonable fans an person fans. Please excuse my rant on your page, I'm usually fairly sensible :-)

Yes maybe, but when Liverpool are in the CL at least they go a long way in the competition to help more teams qualify, I mean really, what is the point of Arsenal being in it every year?

06 Mar 2013 14:26:33
Sir Matt.

In spite of the disappointing result, we should be proud of our team.

We didn't park the "bus".

We didn't play defensive.

We played like Champions, with nothing held back.

You didn't play like champions, champions win their games. Take all the emotional stuff out, you got beat fair and square. You didn't score last night, that's why your out.

Nani deserved red despite protestations, along with Rafael who got away with the penalty. Be honest at least guys, you just wernt good enough last night, end of

Tel 1949

Tel, you do not know football if you think we weren't good last night. I have spoken to many neutrals today and they said United were very good. We are getting stronger, leaving the paupers like yourselves behind.

Sydney!

Tel you've not been taking your medication again.
Admit that's your best result of the season.

Supasub

Is the 1949 bit the last time you won the league?

Love how the fans have such in depth analysis of our performances when they hate us? I would shut the curtains if they were playing in my back garden. But they only get to see top European players by watching mighty manchester utd in our regular competition! Bitter fools! United99

06 Mar 2013 13:10:55
Tough on United last night for sure, and on another day they probably would have won. But this is football and sometimes things can go against you. And last night United finally felt what it means to suffer some woeful decisions.

Maybe its because United aren't all powerful in Europe or because Madrid are the bigger team but your influence on the officials was certainly neutralised. let's face it how many times have teams in the Prem suffered at the hand of officials giving United decisions that changed games. How many times have United fans chose to ignore those decisions and told other fans to just suck it up and accept they were beaten by the mighty Man United.

Well you now understand how it feels to denied a fair game. But at least you can console yourselves in the knowledge that it doesn't happen too often to United especially in the Prem and you will soon be back to telling us fans of other teams to suck it up. But for a while, and it won't last long, just probably until this weekend games, we can all for a change tell the United fans to suck it up and accept it.

Totally Hotspur

I expect the next controversial decision to go against Spurs will be taken with silent good grace then, will it?

TK-Red

Yea he's right,
like the phantom newcastle penalty,
or drogbas offside or the countless penaltys at stanford bridge or the penalty at the lane this year that wasnt given to name a few. good point tho.

Nonsense post, we suffer appalling decisions every season in the EPL too. It's swings and roundabouts bitter Spurs fan.

Sydney!

I think you should look at what that referee has done in high profile games with British club/international teams in the last year or so. Is this all a slap on the wrist for the FA making accusations at officials within Fifa regarding the World Cup?
If I were you when Tottenham are in Europe next year you should be a little afraid along with other British clubs. Look at Celtic recently, look at what Juventus have been involved in in recent years.

Supasub

Bless him, he's only come on here because he knows Bale will be playing for us next season and is already bitter and twisted!
Cheer up mate, your team are doing well so why don't u just support them and stop being so bitter.

Sydney, if its swings and roundabouts, then just accept the defeat and move on eh?

Tel 1949

Tel, I accepted the result last night.

Sydney!

06 Mar 2013 13:58:04
What a game, truly proud of Manchester United FC yesterday from the players on the pitch to the fans in the stands, BRILLIANT!
We were unlucky, but there's no point in pointing fingers at who is to blame, footballing fans and champions league supporters where robbed of a classic game. Normally I am very nervous when United play, but last night I was able to enjoy the game of football, the reason it was developed! I could not see us losing for the first 50 minutes, then an unfortunate and shocking decision took place, but the way we responded after the two goals and the way the fans stepped into the game were incredible. We lost a player on the pitch but gained 70-odd thousand more.
That is what Manchester United is, we come onto this site, we squabble and question each other's opinion, but at the end of the day one thing unite us, and that is this fine football club. Well played lads, we were bitterly unlucky over the two legs, through decisions that were given and not made, to the run of the ball and excellent performances of the goalkeeper.
On a small note and it probably means very little, but it may be quite interesting to some of you lads, I heard the ref from last night follows Real Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo on twitter. Probably nothing, but I thought officials had to have a degree self-control and bias.
In addition, who heard Roy Keane last night! Never have I been so upset by him. I used to look up to him as a leader and player, but he still holds grudges. Never have I heard such hypocrisy, "Nani gave the ref no choice" Sorry Keano, if you were still captain would you not of bollocked Nani if he pulled out of that challenge or did not attempt to gain possession.
Once again, English football is looked down on; Chelsea did England proud last year and as usual, the rest of Europe did not like it. No matter if you detest Manchester United every English fan should be proud of that performance last night. Even if you hate to admit it, England and the premier league is neglected and unfairly treated, but aye what can we do!
Well played last night, we cannot be greedy now boys can us. Premier league and F. A cup now!

aaallj5

Last nights game had all the ingredients of a classic Manchester United game in Europe. Superb atmosphere, great team ethic, controversey and a bold selction by SAF. We can argue about the decision to send Nani off until the cows come home, but it will not change the outcome. What weneed to focus on now is winning our next game against Chelsea. We can't afford to feel sorry for ourselves, we just have to make other sides pay for it. The best way to do that is to win the Double. And come back even stronger in Europe next season.

06 Mar 2013 13:23:06
Seen a few comments below about using last night to push us on in the run in. I think last night will have wider repercussions. Fergie used the last day of last season to inspire the team for this season. He'll use last night to win next seasons champions league. This will be a big summer for united.

06 Mar 2013 12:52:21
In recent Champions League campaigns our Manager has sometimes got our tactics wrong. As this season has progressed I have seen an improvement in our tactical awareness and previously wondered if the influence of Meulensteen has had this impact. Certainly he travelled with Ferguson and the ubiquitous Phelan to Madrid to assess them and the word is he has Fergusons ear and confidence. Certainly last night we got our tactics right. Pre game I heard the team sat in the car, initially thought madness. Then I sat back and thought that Welbecks running had caused issues in the first leg and that Giggs had experience of such nights and has been playing well so maybe there were some good tactics in there. What I couldn't understand was Nani, after being not good enough for nearly all the other games, is suddenly first choice for this one. My thoughts were that in this particular game we needed a bit of directness and pace from somewhere and even inconsistent Nani offered that more than Young, Valencia or Rooney recently. If we look at how Madrid played Barcelona they had DiMaria, a very pacey player and of course Ronaldo to break, it appears we almost used their own tactics against them. So tactically we got it right.

Rooney has not been himself this season, going through a patch not unlike Giggs did a few years ago, not using his head and giving the ball away with flicks and misplacing passes. The only point on Rooney is that Madrid feared the goal he might bring. Welbeck did his defensive job well, Alonso was ineffective, however Danny becomes overawed in the penalty area and despite scoring in the first leg, composure in the box has become an issue with him.

Nani did what Nani does, some good, some brilliant, many ordinary ball losing passes and situations, his corners simply awful, that is just Nani. I rarely criticise referees but like everyone else the sending off decision defied description or logic. At the time I looked at it and thought something and nothing, I was actually a bit surprised the referee was lining up to book him, the card was flashed but the colour red was a complete shock and made it an utter farce. Up to that point we were in control of the game, Madrid looked like they didn't know what to do and we would pick them off later in the game for a second goal. , they were going out and given Barca's situation it looked like the loss of both Spanish giants, which would be a severe loss to some. Rarely have I felt so comfortable in a European game. Then the decision changed the game, gifting it to Madrid. As soon as it happened I was saying substitute, reorganise, concentrate, yet our Manager was spending time arguing and trying to get the crowd to turn the volume up, at the same time Mourinho changed the team and tactics, canny.

The writing was on the wall, yet in 45 years of following United I don't recall the same feeling of being robbed by a referee as this one where the decision was such a game changer. I listened to Phelan covering for what he described as a too distraught Ferguson and wondered if the anger, frustration and high stakes had got the better of our manager, was he feeling unwell. We should not forget what happened to big Jock. Even the most biased City fans I have spoken to have said the referee made a complete mess of it. What got me is how a referee from one of Europe's minor leagues can be put in charge of one of the biggest games in world football. If he had done the big Turkish derbies like that they would be a five a side game. There are questions to be asked of this referee, we need to know what is Collini's opinion? Yet I have no doubt little will come out of the authorities.

Credit to Ronaldo, he has matured significantly, his interview showed real feeling for us and I hope there is an option to bring him home.

Finally there was much to be pleased about, the tactics, the performance of the players who tried to the end, they made it look equal numbers for the last ten minutes, pushed Madrid back and should have scored. It had the feeling of that 4-3 game where if the goal went in we could get another. That is spirit, desire and determination that referees can't send off. I have a feeling Ferguson was circling the wagons last night, the major sense of injustice will drive the search for the remaining two trophies. The banner last night said we'll never die, that is what we are about and we must right a terrible wrong. Today is a new day and we have a double to fight for and history to make, don't let a very poor referee destroy our season. Next season buy the players we need, hopefully including Ronaldo and truly right last nights wrong

Fergy has taken a bit if stick over the tactics in the past but he got it spot on last night.
Still gutted about the result what a crap way to get knocked out

Meulensteen is very highly thought of and the only reasoning behind him not being the number two IMO can only be SAF not wanting to lose him to another club as a number one like he did with Carlos Queiroz.

Sydney!

Very good post Red Man.

Agree also with jred - SAF has come in for flack over his tactics over the years but got them spot on in both legs. I wish we had have reacted quicker after the red card but that's easy to say in hindsight. The starting 11 was bang on.

06 Mar 2013 12:32:27
On a different note, anyone else noticed that, during a period when Nani has been showing us all what he is capable of, Percy is nowhere to be seen.

All that time Nani was getting slated on here, Percy was on every waking hour, defending his man. Now? Nothing.

What's happened to him? I think he's sitting with his feet up, nice cup of tea in hand, watching all the pro-Nani posts on here with a self-satisfied smile on his face. Or maybe he's just 'tired' after 'supporting' Nani, furiously, these last few weeks, and his right hand is too sore to type.

Either way, I think he should come on here, type left-handed if necessary, and put us all out of our misery with a resounding, 'I TOLD YOU SO'!

StevieK

Ok then, I told you so. Nani's been excellent recently and at the moment I'm utterly perplexed as to how he could see red last night. Never a red, it was especially painful as he'd just changed the game!

I think Percy is infact Nani.

he is now happy that everyone is supporting him again so no need for him to come on here and check

hehe

06 Mar 2013 12:00:43
Obviously disappointed about being knocked out of the UCL, but I really want the League title back and IMO this just may have cemented it. Couldn't give a monkey's about the FA Cup although I still want to win it as it would be great experience for the younger players and Rio will finally win one. The League however is the main target here and if we can win that it would be a successful season for the club. A club still in transition.

City will be having a transitional season next season with many of their players leaving and a few bought in, they will probably have a new manager too so if we can win this League title then we would be strong favourites for the season after too. Chelsea will still need time to sort themselves out so I think we will be in a good position to take the title next season if we can win it this season.

I think we will be better placed to challenge for the UCL next season with our transition nearing an end. Chin up lads, we still have much to play for and we as a unit are getting much stronger.

Sydney!

We will be a much stronger team next season as well. We could have quite a number of changes and line up with a team like this:

__________De Gea
Rafael__Evans___Vidic__Evra
_______Stroot__Carrick
_Kagawa____________Ronaldo
________Lewy__RVP

That would be unbelievably good.
Might be a fantasty, but I think we would clear up on all fronts if we got that next year.

Good post, couldn't agree more. We always move forwards, no point looking backwards.

Highly doubt we will sign Ronaldo, he'll end up staying at Madrid.

Something like this would be more realistic;

DDG

Rafael Evans Vidic Evra

Strootman Carrick

Nani/Zaha/Valencia Kagawa/Rooney Rodriguez

RvP

rpc

06 Mar 2013 11:48:15
these thinks happen, when you are down to 10 men you need to have a lot of luck inorder to win the match.

everyone should forget what happened and concentrate on other competetions

nikz

06 Mar 2013 11:19:32
I am a die hard United fan but I think Keano got it right. It was reckless challenge so no suprise with red card.

What annoyed me most was Fergie. What kind of message does his behaviour send out to the kids of the world behaving the way he did. Refs jobs are hard enough as it is.

Fergie is a legend but he brought shame on our club yesterday with the world watching. He should accept that refs decision is final.

Football is a sport and he should be gracefull in defeat as well as in winning.

A bit gutted today; however we need more competitive league as we are being left behind by German, Italian and Spanish leagues. We need more competition from Chelsea, Arsenal, City, Liverpool, Tottenham, Newcastle etc as the Premiership is just to easy for us at moment.

stevethered

Are you drunk pal that wasn't a challenge it was an attempt to control a high ball an he clashed wit a player he didn't know was there the ref was an person an should be sacked we played great an we're admribal I'm so proud of the troops but the decision determined the out come of the game which is wrong considering

CAIN

How can trying to control the ball in the air, with his eyes fixed firmly on the ball be deemed as reckless?in that case they should send players off for attempting overhead kicks?utter rubbish. did he use excessive force?dont think so, it wasnt even an attempted tackle, just a player trying to control a football, i'm afraid the powers that be a turning football into a game for wimps, quite sad really.

phil

A) It wasn't a challenge. Nani tried bringing the ball down. It was a collision.

b) Keane is so anti-SAF it's frightening. Keane has become a very bitter little man.

I can understand why Nani was sent off, but the fact he never acknowledged a player being there and all he was doing is trying to bring the ball down, it was a yellow IMO.

Also a "reckless" challenge in the rules is a yellow card.

Sydney!

What a stupid statement fergie should be ashamed are u for real he showed passion cause despite what bitter goon Keane says in million years it wasn a red card there no way it was. Last night was nt only sad night for us Manchester united fans but also for football as two giants came head to head and was such enjoyable match. the biggest looser in all this was football cause was ruined by a silly ref.
Red D

Cain whether it was a red or not the actions of Fergie did not show of our club well to the world.

I am guessing that red card will stand as it was a reckless dangerous challenge that could have killed their player.

On that sort of logic every over headkick should be a red card. The player performing the scissor kick (even if he doesn't know the other player is there) is by the nature of the action engaging in dangerous play. Silly logic. If that is dangerous play then how about the Real goal keeper punching Vidic in the head after vidc had already headed the ball away. must be a red card on the above logic. {Ed007's Note - I have just said the exact same thing on the Celtic site about overhead kicks, and a great point about GKs coming out to punch balls, missing the ball and contacting with a player.}

Keane is a hypocrite that I have come to loathe and detest. He was a disgrace of a player and morally a terrible human being, just read his book. Not often a a United fan truly is repulsed by an ex Man united captain, you can call me and question my opinion, but my feelings will not change towards keane. If he was playing last night and that was him in Nani's position would he pull out, knowing him he would of tried to hurt the player. Or what about his fantastic leadership qualities, if Nani pulled out or didn't attempt to gain possession would he not of belittled Nani by calling him a bottler. Keane what does it feel to lift that European cup over your head after playing in the final! ohh oh wait were where you again you hypocrite!
As for this every other league is better than England debate, please tell me how you judge the best league? How many of you fans watch these leagues on a regular basis? I'll ask you question how many of you watch a game in Spain that doesn't invole Barcelona or Real Madrid. Bayern Munichs doing well this year. How good is Kevein prince boatang doing in italy. Beckham and Barton are tearing up the french league as well. You can't compare leagues if there is no evidence to back it up. Which country is defending European champions? Please realise the Premier league is the most competitive, while being the most watched!

aaallj5

It wasnt the challange he went for the ball and was closer and had no ideal about the other player yes sir alex wants to be heard if they want to give him penalty and make sure those things won't happen again and u not the fan my guess is u r blue

Bond - 'a great point'. even if you say so yourself :) {Ed007's Note - I meant your point about their keeper connecting with Vidic. I always make great points anyway.}

Great point on overhead kicks like Crouch (I think) at the weekend belted someone in the head whilst going for one - wasn't even a yellow card I think? You can't send someone off every time a player raises a foot.

There's at least one incident in every single game where a striker goes for a bicycle kick from a corner and boots a centre-half in the face (when the CB sticks his head in there).

Surely, that should mean a red card in every single game given a boot to the head is far more dangerous than a kick to the ribs?

It was a shocking decision. Keane's a bitter little man scowling behind the scenes because his own career after football went absolutely nowhere.

RED_SKY

Did'nt Crouch for Stoke overhead kick and catch the defender flush in the face and knock the guy unconscious last week.

Did he get sent off? I think not. More inconsistent refereeing. However, remember we have to take into account that the refereeing on the continent is a little diferent.


Crouch should have been sent of in my opinion as it was reckless knowing that there were so many people close to him.

stevethered

If the goal keeper comes out and misses ball and punches player in face then it should be pen. Simple as that. We need stronger refs, the ones in Prem bottle it all the time.

Keeping the logic going, every goalkeeper who kicks the ball from his hands should be sent off 'cos their feet definately get over waist height. All the opposition have to do is put a player near the goalkeeper when he does it and there you have dangerous play and a red card offence.

Still can't believe that ref ruined what was developing into an amazing cup tie. My jaw dropped when he pulled out that red card. Muppet.

Andrew B {Ed007's Note - And just another wee tuppance from myself, I would be saying exactly the same thing if it had been a Madrid player. I'm not Nani's biggest fan but I felt heart sorry for him last night.}

In that case crouch should of been sent off at weekend?

the refs history against english teams is horrific. no doubt that's why he was picked!

dissappointed about it all and like someone put football as a whole was the biggest loser last night. ruined an epic game.

ms85

Rember collocini breaking bas nose against chelsea he got him straight in the face did he get SENT OFF NO
PADDY THE IRISH MAN

06 Mar 2013 10:41:40
I imagine this is going to be one of many posts surrounding this but for me, Nani's sending off last night was not even a booking, I am gutted, completely deflated and angry.
So proud of our team, we were 40 minutes away from the next round.
Whatever peoples opinions on the sending off, one thing is certain and that is that the decision changed the game. Take a moment to re-watch the decision ref, you absolute nut case.

PJ

06 Mar 2013 10:38:56
I think we can all agree last night was a joke and a bad joke at that,
But can I just say I've never been prouder to be a Manchester united supporter it summed up what our club is about, we never give up we never back down and never take a backward step now matter how much the cards are stacked against us.
And those inside old Trafford last night WOW! My tv was shaking! I'm just as proud of them as I am the boys. wish I could have been there.

Warrington red

06 Mar 2013 10:18:24
Just askin if nani had not of clashed wit the player an if the player wasn't even there an nani went that high controlled the ball took it down would the ref still whistle an stop play for dangerous play I don't think so an can 100% say it was a really bad decision he might as well of booked him for not having eyes in the back of his head the ball was over his shoulder the player came in from the back these things happen people clash there was no malice in the challenge an for people sayin we should of being able to deal wit it come on its Madrid an we shut them out the ref made a right cock up an it cost us the game there is no other way to put it if he wasn't sent off we would of won the tie no doubts we were more disciplined an calm, regrouping wel an pushin forward nicely. We were robbed an the ref has some questions to answer if fergie has not of ate him already.

CAIN

06 Mar 2013 10:01:05
Is it just me, or did anyone else saw the way Fat Rooney missed that sitter yesterday? A few yrs ago, I would have thought he'd be up there with the likes of Messi and Ronaldo. But he's declined rapidly. Right now even Bale and Suarez are better, fitter footballers.
ManUp

Support him and the team. He has had a lot of injuries lately.

He is a legend and human so he will have dips in form but remember he was outstanding a few days earlier against Norwich.

We do not need supporters like you.

stevethered

06 Mar 2013 09:24:13
Liverpool fan in peace here. I know I'm the type of person that you probably don't want to hear from right now, but you all were absolutely robbed last night, terrible decision, and as Mourinho said, the better team lost. Just thought I'd put it out there.

Celtic fan here, I totally agree with the first post, also thought Welbeck was top class lastnight! I wasn`t his biggest fan but he proved he deserved to be in the team, really quick feet and constant threat to a top quality defence. Up to the sending off of Nani I thought you were going to get another goal and win it, Keir

Nice1 guys, thanks.

06 Mar 2013 09:17:29
On a different note, anyone else noticed that, during a period when Nani has been showing us all what he is capable of, Percy is nowhere to be seen.

All that time Nani was getting slated on here, Percy was on every waking hour, defending his man. Now? Nothing.

What's happened to him? I think he's sitting with his feet up, nice cup of tea in hand, watching all the pro-Nani posts on here with a self-satisfied smile on his face. Or maybe he's just 'tired' after 'supporting' Nani, furiously, these last few weeks, and his right hand is too sore to type.

Either way, I think he should come on here, type left-handed if necessary, and put us all out of our misery with a resounding, 'I TOLD YOU SO'!

Right hand pains are one of the main problems with teenagers.

06 Mar 2013 08:49:25
I just wish some of you would actually read my posts rather than flying off the handle because I don't kick and scream and blame it all on the ref. Of course it was a bad decision we all accept that but we were still leading at that point and needed to organise ourselves. At no point did I say I wasn't very proud of the team and unlike most of you keyboard warriors I was there supporting the team. What I am guilty of is being a realist about some of players ability. Sometimes I am right and in players like Evans I like most people was completely wrong. I state that Wellbeck gives his all and ran his heart out but he can't do what attackers are there for and that is put the ball in the net. Then there is the question of the spud headed nipper. I said at the time that Sir Alex never forgets and now maybe holding him and the club is coming back to haunt rooney. I think Fergie is getting fed up with his fitness level and form. This was the biggest game at Old Trafford for 5 years and Sir Alex not me decided he wasn't what he wanted. When he did come on and had a golden opportunity he blasted over the bar. As for the Brand I just want him to concentrate on his football improve at that and prove me wrong so far I have seen nothing to make me change my mind so far and think that he is the quality or answer we are looking for. He is as Eric would say "A Water Carrier" and nothing more. I then notice people criticising my so called "man crush" RVP and this just about sums up some of the persons who post on this site. The reason we are in the position we are this season is because of a truely world class player. With little or no supply last night he still carved out opportunities for himself and the one that the keeper could only parry out to Wellbeck should have been put away. It really amazes me when I read this Stallanist attitude of if you criticize you can't be a real fan. This coming from people who have probably never even seen Old Trafford. If you are going to have a go just a few things: Please leave your name and put a bit of thought into it. At least Sydney or GDS back up their arguments with some rational argument not just juvenille name calling as per HoneyBadger. I GOT 99 PROBLEMS BUT VIDIC ain't ONE

"this Stalinist attitude of if you criticize you can't be a real fan"

Is this the same Stalinist attitude that prevents some people from recognising other people as real fans, just because they're not from Manchester or wear replica shirts?

I'm no big fan of Cleverley either, but most big teams need a 'water carrier', to let the more creative players do their thing.

Bloody hell a compliment ;)

You don't help yourself with the 'never been to old Trafford so you aren't a real fan' argument that you use once a month, you know there will be a backlash is that why you use it?

I haven't seen one person have a go at rvp on here to be honest but maybe you can show me otherwise.

I hope that cleverley does prove you wrong, he has the ability to do so but at the moment he is no more than a squad player and hopefully we will sign somebody world class in his position in the summer.

You may be right about Rooney also, and your arguments are rational sometimes when you put your clear hatred for him aside.

I am a season ticket holder so your comments don't really affect me but again, you really don't help your arguments with some of the things you say about 'keyboard warriors'. I would imagine every fan on here who does not go to the games would love to live close enough / be able to afford a season ticket and you saying they aren't a real fan is very petty, surely you can see that?

“. I just wish some of you would actually read my posts”

We do read them Kloot – that is the problem.

“…What I am guilty of is being a realist”

No mate – what you are “guilty of” (not a phrase I would have used) is thinking that your sometimes bitter and twisted view – is reality.

It seems that everything in your reality is tainted by your views of money, especially other peoples: The Glazers are bad – because they bought the club with debt (something I utterly disagree with – but something – you, I or the rest of the fans could have done), they bought it before Murdoch did, or a rich Sheik – using his people resources – or an Oligarch with a highly dodgy back story.

SAF and Gill are bad, because they won't join you in condemning the Glazers, Rooney is bad because his agent – did what he was paid to do (although Pogba is good – because his agents did the same). Etc etc - gawd knows what your problems are with Cleverly or Wellbeck are.

“…it really amazes me when I read this Stallanist attitude”

Funny you should mention Stalin; one of the greatest mass murderers – as I have visions of you selling copies of “Socialist Worker” with Ken Loach (another miserable b*s*ar*, who only ever made one half decent movie) around the sort of depressing pubs that feature the “drab” music of “I am Kloot”.

And as for Stalinist ; how about your condemnation of anyone who doesn’t live in Manchester – as non Manchester United fans – because I live elsewhere nowadays – we are not worthy?


“…. juvenille name calling as per HoneyBadger”

Pot – black; heh Kloot?.

Kloot – I am sorry that after your post last night, I suggested (even if I gave you the benefit of the doubt) that you weren’t a Manchester United fan.
It seems to be clear from many of your posts especially those that relate to the history of our great club and to matters that don’t involve certain players / staff – that you are a very knowledgeable and passionate fan.

Just (occasionally) lighten up.

Cue - Jester Hats, Pubs, Replica Tees

Anything that we haven't heard aye KLOOT? If RVP would have connected with his left foot atleast once, w e would have been in the Quarters. Not a downer on him, but just a lil point. These are players not machines, anyone can have a poor game. As fans we would rather support, than criticize. And you very conveniently forget to notice those gilt edged chances that RVP missed. But then you concentrate on watching a few ugly ducklings, don't you?

Deeps. ("Un"real FAN - Source KLOOT)

KLOOT

At no point did you say you weren't proud of the team - true, but at no point did you say you were either!

Instead you took the opportunity - following an heroic effort from the team - to pick out negatives and once again make jibes at certain players. You personally state that Evans has proved people like you wrong, yet you seem determined to write off Welbeck/Cleverly in a similar situation?

Roy Keane has strong opinions, that is fine. All I'll say is that IMO, from seeing his comments on TV over the last few years he clearly has something against the club and shows that through bitter comments. I think the other 2 pundits were stunned last night at his views. But anyway, we'll all move on from that, who cares what he thinks in reality. Don't come on here telling people not to 'condemn' him or whatever. I will never forget what he did for us as a player but if he talks sh!t about the club I will also lose respect for him and his integrity (he should be unbiased as a pundit surely - see Gary Neville).

Your point on being 'Stalinist' is a classic - I think other's have put you right on that one already though.

Then out comes the Manchester jibe again. How many United fans watched the game last night? And what % of them were in Manchester? And without those fans from outside Manchester where would United be? All valid questions I feel.

I live in South Wales so sorry if my opinions don't count quite as much but I'll air them anyway. I do try to get to games 2/3 times a season and went to 2 of the CL group games this season. So yes I have seen Old Trafford, though millions of our world wide fanbase haven't been lucky enough to do so.

Last point - you said I was 'name calling'? Well I looked back at my post as I may have had 5 or 6 too many by that point :) The only things I could find were that I suggested you are not actually a United fan (clearly meant in jest) and I also called you 'your grumpiness'. Well sorry but aft last nights game to read your OP - I don't think calling you grumpy is that off the wall surely! More factually correct than any of Keano's comments ;)

06 Mar 2013 08:31:10
Hi guys. I am a first time poster. just wanted to relieve my thoughts. moments like last night is what makes supporting united all the more special through bad and good times and through extreme emotions like when norman whiteside curled in for the 85 cup final, losing the title to leeds in 92, the 95/96 double, last years title heartache. I was proud of the lads for the commitment, intensity and hard graft they displayed. Well done lads. now let's fight for the double.

06 Mar 2013 08:16:47
Heartbreaking to see us going out after such a brilliant performance. Ref was the only reason why we lost till nani's red card we were in control and crusing. Every utd player can have their heads held high. When the team sheet was announced and nani and giggs were starting pundits said real will dominate this midfield but the lads were top class and every utd fan is proud of them. On the hand last season when we lost title to city on the last kick we learned our lesson and we came stronger this season and we are 12 points ahead of them. This defeat will make as stronger then before we are united we wil get our revenge. On for the double. sry Chelsea you are facing us at wrong moment. the FA and the Premier league is ours. GGMU

Sid

06 Mar 2013 07:42:46
I really don't know why are the fans complaining on the decision?
intentional or not. saw it or not. that was a dangerous play. and ae per rules. its a red card.
the ref will have just one view. no the replays. or other words.

gigs shouldn't have started for me. scholes should have.

the best tactics u did was man marking alonso.

correct untill send off.

its not ronaldo who changes the game. its alonso.
he is the best living midfielder in this generation.

Thankyou for making my day. You are clearly a scouser.

-JakeW

Forget the decision, your post is laughable, scholes should have started instead of giggs?hes injured you muppet, read things up before making silly comments, giggs was the best player on the pitch along with welbeck.

phil

And Liverpool wanted to swap him for Barry ha united99

Tbh all a typical uefa shambles as usual.

going back to 1st leg how the hell was Varanes challenge on evra not even a booking? but the second a utd player does something BANG a red card.

cant enjoy football when uefa are ruining it by putting clowns in the middle. load of crap if you ask me world cup, euros, CL all the same. boring lame and always fixed.

First off, wrong decision but based on what you said then Arbeloa's should of got a red for his tackle on Evra!

Defo a pool fan though banging on about Alonso!

U must be an person to comment such.
All the world. Commentators. Great coach. Footballing experts said its never a red card. Maximum yellow. And u think u know batter then them?

U r trying to be good to who? don't show off.

Rodio17

06 Mar 2013 08:40:45
yes I am a scousser. and massive respect for UTD. becoz. you actually have something in you.
But lest face. it. how many times ref had favoured you.
the whole world says. when howard webb is in charge.
alex called New castele a wee club denying a penalty.
there are plenty of incident. torres sent off. hand ball. etc etc.
BTW. why on earth you want to sell nani?
he is one of the most out and out winger for me in the league.
his pace is faster than lenon and walcot combined

I wasnt aware scholes injury. but him and carrikc would have sit perfectly well in midfield.

You guys did played well. so did chelsea against barca back in 2009. when they were thrown.
But most of the times UTD get the better decicion. but not this time.

there is always a next year.

good luck.

How I love scousers. Is there something in the Liverpool water that causes delusion?

Andrew B

06 Mar 2013 07:27:08
So much I want to say but the majority of you have summed it it up. I am proud to be a Manchester United fan, Old Trafford was electric and the fans were outstanding. Anyone who can question SAF should give their head a shake, no manager in the world would of been as brave as SAF to make the decisions he did and the tactics were spot on.

Welbeck and Cleverley really stood up to the task last night they had and Giggs, well, not his greatest game but showed he still can do a job and for anyone who questions the man, you should be embarrassed. At one point he was keeping up with Ronaldo when chasing back, ridiculous, YOU'RE NEARLY 40 RYAN :)

I'm afraid tonight could be the end for Rooney, I always back him and always will but I think SAF sent out a big message dropping him.

Saddest thing tonight was hearing what Roy Keane said, one of my favourite players but he has shown what a bitter, sad man he is, don't really know what else to say about the man.

Ronaldo has only fuelled rumours he could return, he knows where he is appreciated and loved, big decision for the boy in the summer, with the situation with Rooney, this could really happen.

Undecided if Mourinho showed class tonight or not, seemed genuine, really wants the top job in football doesn't he.

Sorry, know I said the majority of you summed it up and should of been a short post but started typing and couldn't stop, like therapy.

Proud to be a red today, love United, bring on the double!

06 Mar 2013 04:35:59
With Rooney not starting against real is this a sign that he may be sold in summer or am I just reading to much into it?
Kennedy

06 Mar 2013 03:19:50
Obviously the red card will be dominating discussion in the coming days. But I'd like to take a minute and acknowledge the performance put on by united tonight. There wasn't a single poor performance by a single player and while benching Wayne Rooney was controversial I believe Ferguson has been proven right in his tactical selection. I personally don't believe this will affect Wayne staying or leaving this summer, I just think it didn't fit tactically as we needed speed on the wings. I was also amazed at some of the post game interviews with Ronaldo and Jose. Both were gracious and respectful even somber. I for one would love to bring both to OT, with Mourinho serving as #2 for a year or two before SAF moves to a different role. But most of all, so much respect to our team tonight, they played hard, disciplined and deserve to be in the quarterfinals. Thanks for the effort boys! Your supporters appreciate it! Now let's go invade Turkey.

Why on earth would mourinho join us as a number 2?apart from that couldn't agree more with what you said, every player did their job and I never want to see a negative post about giggs again, he was just immence and an absolute warrior.

phil

06 Mar 2013 01:39:43
Who is this Carl Liverpool and why has he suddenly turned up on our page. Ah it's because he hates united more than he loves Liverpool, I get it.

Carl, come back when you are in the champions league.

06 Mar 2013 01:07:08
In my post two days ago I just wished for a great match that wasnt ruined by the ref. oh well.

True its a shame that after two legs with Utd proving very much the equal of Madrid that all that will be remembered is the referees. Not the superb performances of our team collectively and individually. Wilbur

06 Mar 2013 00:50:13
though welbeck rafael and nani were the stand out players tonight, rio and vidic looked solid.

cleverley and carrick did brilliant against one of the best midfields.

RVP didn't really do too much.

i'm sure KLOOT will be on soon to have a go at welbeck cleverley and rooney.

06 Mar 2013 07:47:47
I've thought RVP has been abit jaded for the last few games, he played all last season then at the euro's and now all season for us. This is the longest uninterupted period he has played since he was in his early 20's normally he'd have either had a break in the summer or been injured at some point during the season. Persoanlly I think he needs to be rested for a few games or we run the risk of him getting injured.

Shappy

06 Mar 2013 00:47:19
gotta laugh at the bitter scousers acting like madrid fans. another club added to the list that the "have a soft spot for". man city, madrid and barcelona now.

oh well, "there's always next year".

05 Mar 2013 23:43:10
What does everyone think of Rooney's future? How can your best player not start in the biggest game of the year? I think Fergie has his mind made up and will sell Rooney in the summer. He has 2 years left on his contract and we aren't going to extend at that salary. I think the writing is on the wall, I'm not saying I want this to happen but I think the odds are definitely on him leaving. I don't think Fergie ever forgave him for that stunt and now RVP is Fergie number 1 choice

05 Mar 2013 23:59:10
Hi guys

I'm an Irish man and was a fanatic about keane. Tonight we were by far the better team. And I swear I hit the tele with my remote hoping to hit that ref. Nani was class and had no intention of hurting Arbeloa. He was simply playing the ball

Any man that says we get our way at old Trafford should be shown that red card. It's an absolute disgrace and had our boys not lost there mind with this rubbish we would have went on to win easily. As I said Nani was great and Giggs played like he was a young 20 year old boy. We were robbed

I would like to say that I no longer have any likeness for keane he is a proper arrogant plonker. The tackle he did in the semi in 99 was more a red than poor Nani so go to bed keane you lost a devoted fan tonight. Well done united apart from being robbed by a Turk you all played great and showed what champs are made off. Outnumbered you still played them off the park with 10 men and were not afraid to play football. You attack and unlike Madrid did not stay close to our goal. Very very proud

Champions well played

Reddevilfan