Wednesday, 9 April 2014

Moyes determined Rooney will play at Bayern

Moyes determined Rooney will play at Bayern

Moyes determined Rooney will play at Bayern

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 09:41 AM PDT

The England striker suffered a toe injury in the 1-1 first-leg draw, causing him to miss Saturday's 4-0 triumph at Newcastle United, but returned to training on Tuesday. With Robin van Persie already ruled out after picking up a knee injury in the UEFA Champions League round-of-16 second-leg clash against Olympiacos, United are eager for 17-goal forward Rooney to play his part at the Allianz Arena as they seek a last-four berth. "We'll do everything we can (to get him on the pitch)," Moyes said. "He's happy to take an injection to play." United had been widely tipped to struggle against Bayern in last week's meeting at Old Trafford, but Nemanja Vidic's headed goal threatened to condemn the defending European champions to a rare loss. However,Bastian Schweinsteiger levelled matters - and was later dismissed - meaning that United will have to score in Germany in order to progress. Moyes knows his men will be up against it, but backed them to perform under pressure. "I expect us to play better and I believe we can," he added. "To get through, we will have to. "We'll need a good performance from everybody. We can't have any passengers."

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Pjanic to address his future after World Cup

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 07:58 AM PDT

The 24-year-old has been in fine form for the Giallorossi this season, notching five goals and six assists in 31 Serie A appearances. His performances are reported to have aroused interest from Manchester United, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain in recent months. However, despite admitting interest in moving on, the playmaker maintains he is yet to make a decision regarding his future. "I'm used to these rumours but at Roma I am fine," Pjanic told Gazzetta dello Sport. "I still have a year of the contract and I do not know what will happen. "There will come a time to think about the contract and transfers but it will be after the World Cup." Pjanic joined Roma from French side Lyon in the summer of 2011, and has been a key figure this season as the Stadio Olimpico club secured a return to the Champions League for the first time since 2010/11.

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Man United tried to sign Sneijder last summer

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 07:35 AM PDT

Sneijder has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford after leading Serie A giants Inter Milan to an historic treble back in 2010, but a transfer has never materialised. "Sneijder received an indirect offer from Manchester United last summer but it was not accepted," Tulun revealed. The 29-year-old Netherlands international also confirmed the rumours, stating: "There were clubs who wanted to sign me like Manchester United, but I have no intention of leaving and my club have no intention of letting me go. "Leaving in January didn't even cross my mind and the club have never told me to leave. I feel at home here, and that's not something you feel everywhere you go." But Galatasaray president Unal Aysal admits he would not stand in the Dutchman's way if the right offer came in. "If Chelsea were to offer a deal worth over €15 million I would give Sneijder permission to leave if that's what he wanted," he declared. Sneijder has made 35 appearances for Galatasaray in all competitions this season, scoring 13 times and racking up eight assists.

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Excited Evans on Man United comeback trail

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 07:18 AM PDT

The defender was injured in United's 2-1 defeat at Stoke City on February 1, but made his comeback on Monday as an over-aged player in an Under-21s match against Aston Villa. Evans concedes the second leg of his side's UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich could come too soon for him, but takes heart from being back in training ahead of Wednesday's game in Munich. Discussing his injured calf on MUTV, Evans said: "It's still a bit tender but nothing too serious.It was good to get 60-odd minutes (on Monday) and to get a bit of game time. "It's been frustrating as it's been over two months now since I last played. "I don't know if I'll be involved or not (against Bayern). Maybe it's touch and go on that but I just hope the lads can do well and get a good result. "In terms of my injury, it may have come too soon for me but, in terms of excitement-wise, the game cannot come quickly enough – especially for the fans and players. Everyone is looking forward to it." Although United have struggled in the Premier League this term, they performed well when holding European champions Bayern to a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford last week. "We've had a great record in Europe but I think the mentality of the players has always been the case that we're not underdogs," Evans added. "We're Manchester United and want to make sure we put on a good performance. "Teams have to make sure they try to beat us and teams do fear us. "We know it's a big task against Bayern but we've had that experience of nights like this before. I think the lads still fancy themselves to win."

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The FourFourTwo Preview: Bayern Munich vs Man United

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 07:00 AM PDT

The lowdown Manchester United can't really knock Bayern Munich out of the Champions League, can they? How we got to the point of last year's Premier League champions and three-time kings of Europe versus the reigning Champions League winners being billed as a mismatch is anybody's guess. But a mismatch it is – judging by the first-leg stats, anyway. Bayern had an incredible 74% of possession at Old Trafford, more than twice as many shots as the hosts and double the number of corners. Yet one pundit called United's performance "very, very good", despite the fact that they spent the majority of the first half camped on their own 18-yard line, while Bayern Munich seemed disappointed to have left what was, until recently, one of Europe's most daunting away grounds with a draw and an away goal. Yes, the German champions failed to test David de Gea from close range. Sure, Danny Welbeck had the game's best untaken chance. But despite the absences of Javi Martinez and Bastian Schweinsteiger through suspensionfor the second leg, Bayern remain overwhelming favourites to progress. First-choice centre-back Dante would have returned in place of Martinez anyway, while Toni Kroos is likely to drop deeper to replace Schweini. Mario Götze will probably fill the playmaker's berth. It hardly weakens die Roten - whatever Pep says. Perhaps the Spaniard is still reeling from what he saw on Saturday as his weakened side lost their 53-match unbeaten run with a 1-0 defeat at Augsburg on Saturday. United will take some comfort from the fact Bayern have failed to win their last three Champions League games against English opposition at the Allianz Arena, but not a lot. Still in the tie they may be; in pole position David Moyes' beleaguered side most certainly are not. Key battle: Wayne Rooney vs Philipp Lahm Lahm was immaculate in the first leg, with a 100% success rate in defensive tackles and interceptions, as seen in the graphic below. But with Schweinsteiger missing alongside him and the more attack-minded Kroos likely to replace him, Wayne Rooney may get more joy in the 'transitions' as United try to nick a goal on the break through the pace of Welbeck. Rooney received the ball from Marouane Fellaini more than any other player in the first leg, mainly in central areas. If Lahm can block off this supply, United will struggle to relieve the pressure and need to look elsewhere for an away goal. But the skipper will need help in Schweini's absence –something United could exploit. The managers Moyes declared himself "happy" with United's performance in the first leg but will know Bayern are unlikely to be so toothless in the return, even if keeping it tight and nicking a goal remains his team's best hope. Pep Guardiola seemed strangely rattled at Old Trafford, preferring to dwell on Schweinsteiger's suspension-clinching second yellow card and United's "handball" tactics rather than the positives. His side didn't make the most of their possession, however, so Guardiola might be tempted to replace Thomas Müller with recognised centre-forward Mario Mandzukic from the start. Facts and figures Man United have kept a clean sheet in 5 of their 9 CL games this season; no side has kept more. Since the 1999 final, Man United have won just 1 of their 7 CL encounters with Bayern Munich (W1 D3 L3). United have scored in each of their last 15 CL meetings with German clubs, but the last one to stop them scoring was Bayern in March 2002. Franck Ribery has created more goalscoring chances than any other player in the Champions League this season (23). More FFT Stats Zone facts FourFourTwo prediction United to score, but Bayern to score more. 3-1. Bayern Munich vs Man United LIVE ANALYSIS with Stats Zone

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Dante highlights Rooney threat to Bayern

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 06:09 AM PDT

Manchester United visit the Allianz Arena on Wednesday having drawn 1-1 with Bayern in the first leg of their quarter-final tie last week. Bayern coach Pep Guardiola expects Rooney to feature in Munich, after the forward participated in training on Tuesday following a toe injury, and Dante feels United's main threat will come from the 28-year-old. Dante missed the first leg against United due to suspension, but has played against Rooney while on international duty with Brazil. "I watched the first game on TV (and) I am looking forward to the game. We have to be very concentrated to win the game," he said. "Once I played against Rooney in the national team. He is a world-class striker; he has everything a striker needs. We have to try to control him as well as possible. "My great goal is to qualify with Bayern for the semis (of the Champions League) and the final. "After that I want to go to the World Cup and win it in Brazil."

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Rio Ferdinand: Some days I think, “I want to be a manager

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 05:53 AM PDT

Manchester United are at home tonight, in their final Champions League group match against FC Cluj, and the place is packed with pre-match punters, many of whom stop to point out the centre-back as he greets us. Not that they should be too surprised – he does own the gaff, after all. Restaurateur, magazine publisher, clothes designer, philanthropist… Rio's one busy businessman these days, although he's quick to assure us that, fitness permitting, nothing will get in the way of his football for a few years yet. "I've had a few low, low moments," he admits. "And some people have told me, 'You'll be all right without football, you've got all the money in the world.' That type of comment doesn't help when you're sat there not being able to do the one thing you love." With a Manchester derby at the weekend and United having already topped their group in Europe, the 34-year-old was due to be rested against the Romanians, but the postponement of Nemanja Vidic's expected return had left us nervously texting his agent all the way up from London. Fortunately for us, young centre-back Scott Wootton gets the nod from Sir Alex, freeing up Rio to tackle your fine questions, covering everything from him missing a drugs test to missing the Euros, and why Hoddle and 'Arry beat Hodgson. But before all that, Rio's footballing journey begins in a rather unique place… ballet school. Is it right you were so good at ballet as a kid you won a scholarship to London's School of Ballet. How did that go down with your mates on the estate in Peckham?! Don Berry, via Facebook That's right. At first I didn't tell my mates because they would have ripped me all day long. I just told them I was doing drama. I did it for two years, then in my third year I told my mates. I was one of the lads anyway and they were fine to be fair to them. It was a big commitment though because it used to take me two hours to get there and I had to go three times a week. Then I got to a point where my dad said, "Do you want to be a footballer or a ballet dancer? You have to make a decision because it's taking up too much of your time." Luckily I chose football! But the ballet had a good effect on my football career because of the flexibility, strength and balance you learn. How easily do you think you might have got into trouble as a youngster – and was it football that kept you away from mischief? Lukas Sans, Oslo My dad would have killed me as a kid so I kept my trouble to a minimum, but when I got to about 13 I knew I wanted to be a footballer so everything revolved around that. I'd only hang around on the estate until a certain time when my bus came to go to training, whereas some of my other mates who also had training would say, "No I'm gonna stay and have a few fags and drinks". At the end of the day because of my application and my desire to become a footballer I am where I am today. Brother Anton, cousins Les and Kane, yourself – who makes up the Ferdinand five-a–side team? Can you think of another family from the history of football that could beat you lot? Lisa Williamson, London The Nevilles would have a good go, their sister's a bit of sporty as well. But there's no one else coming through just yet for the Ferdinands. My kids [two sons and a daughter] are a bit young to really have an opinion on whether they'll like football, but I don't want to put any pressure on them. So we're stuck on a four-a-side team for now. After shining in their youth-team you spent four years under Harry Redknapp at West Ham. What's your funniest memory of him as manager? And how does his hairdryer compare to Fergie's? Steven Ruffhead, via Facebook Harry could never hide that he was upset or angry at you for anything. He'd walk out to training and we'd be like "Oh god, he's had a bad day on the horses or he's had a bad phone call." So before he even started going bananas you knew what was coming because his face told you the picture straight away. Harry could lose it but Fergie is different – you don't know it's coming and he gets the last word in no matter what. It's normally a strong, strong, strong word! Harry was brilliant for me, though, I've always felt indebted to him for giving me my debut. Would you and your brother make a decent defensive pair? Has reuniting with him and Harry Redknapp at QPR crossed your mind? Sam Greene, Oxford No, I want to continue trying to win things and challenge for stuff. All those sentimental things go out of the window for me to be honest. I've never played with Anton. He's seven years younger than me so I always just slapped him around the house or bullied him down the park but he's a big fella now. People forget the age gap… it must be because I'm so young looking! Glenn Hoddle said he intended to use you as a Matthias Sammer-style libero for England before he got sacked, coming out of defence in a 3-5-2. Is that a role you'd have enjoyed? Tom Wales, via email Yeah, one of my biggest regrets was that Glenn didn't continue as England manager. I really felt the team would have gone on to better things if he'd stayed and the players loved playing for him. I think his ideas were too much before his time. Glenn encouraged me to take the ball and run out of defence with it, whereas managers like Sven didn't like centre-halves running with the ball. I loved taking on players as I grew up, and I've always looked back and thought if only Glenn had continued… who knows how much my game could have changed? Is it true you never wanted to leave West Ham? Olly Adkins, via email I never asked to leave. I love the club, it's still the first result I look out for after a United match. It's where I grew up and I learned my trade. The two summers before I did leave I remember going to the chairman [Terence Brown] and asking: "Are we going to spend some money?" We had some good young players and I wanted the club to bring in some top players but it never materialised. There's loads of what-ifs but when the club accepted the bid from Leeds I knew my time was up. I've heard John Moncur was the biggest nutcase at Upton Park during your time there. Surely he wasn't worse than Di Canio? Ant Gibson, South Shields Yeah he was! Monks was the funniest man I've ever met in football. If we'd been out on an all-dayer, we'd be walking to a place and he'd be jumping in bins, seriously he'd be there with his feet hanging out the top! We were in TGI Fridays once and he took a run up at the bar and flew over it headfirst. He was on the floor around the barman's ankles. Monks would stay out with the lads till late afternoon and then say: "I don't know what I'm capable of after this moment in time" and just go home. So fair play, he knew his limits. You became the world's most expensive defender in 2000 when Leeds paid £18m for you, yet you had a nightmare debut – 3-0 down to Leicester after 29 minutes! What was going through your mind then? Gary Bass, Staines "What on Earth have I done!" is what I was thinking. Honestly. "Have I made the right decision here or what?!" I think West Ham won that day as well and went above us, so I was in a bad way. The manager [David O'Leary] played me, Woody and Radebe as a three-man defence, but when he changed that we went on to do some really good things. I had a great time at Leeds. Great team, great fans, great bunch of players. I've been so lucky to be at three clubs where I haven't got a bad word to say about any of them. That Leeds team came desperately close to glory in the Premier League and Champions League. What have the victorious Man United teams you've since played in had that that Leeds team lacked? Kerry Simmons, Leeds Experience. There was no real experience in that team of winning other than David Batty. No one else had the mentality. No one else had even been close to winning the title except maybe Gary McAllister but he wasn't really playing in the end. So we were all new to it, and to be honest we didn't really lead the club forward because of the lifestyle we had. We were all young lads, all 19 to 25, all living the high life. And because we were young we were getting away with it to some extent, but when it came to the crunch time and we needed to win certain games against certain teams we didn't have the mentality. I think if that team had played together for two more years and added to it, they would have challenged Manchester United, but it never materialised. At what point during your time at Leeds did you realise all was not right with the finances? Was there any noticeable penny-pinching,like washing your own kit? Brett Carpenter, Horsham It was never that bad, but before I went to the [2002] World Cup someone told me a few things about the club and I remember thinking, "It can't be that bad". But then the rumours got stronger and then I heard talk in the papers about me going to Man United in the papers. The people in the know then told me the club was in a bad position and they'd have to sell some of their big assets. I know footballers always say they pay no attention to the transfer fee, but surely becoming the world's first £30m defender when you joined Man United must have put some pressure on you? Scott Duncan, via Facebook Not really. The most nerve-wracking time was the first training session. We're playing a piggy in the middle-type game and I could hear Ole Gunnar Solskjaer saying "How much? Thirty million? What?!" I would have expected that from Keano or Butty, but not him. These are your team-mates and you want to impress them. But when you step out onto the pitch it's second nature. I've never spoken about the transfer fees, except with the media. The TV show Rio's World Cup Wind-Ups was brilliant – but did Rooney or Crouchie ever get their revenge on you? Do you still like a practical joke? Ever done one on Fergie? Steve Marsh, via Twitter I love a practical joke but none of the lads have got me back. I'm too smart! That was a great show and something I'll probably do again in the future because a lot of people on Twitter and Facebook ask me about it, but I haven't had the time. Fergie? No. Ronnie used to, he'd hide his shoes and stuff, but Ronnie was like his pet so he'd get away with stuff. How did your ban by the FA for missing a drugs test change you as a person? And was that the lowest point of your career? Josh Hanson, via Twitter If that sort of thing can't make you more responsible then I don't know what can. People assume I must have had something to hide but I did all the tests that were asked in the end and the judge said I proved beyond any doubt I had nothing in my system – those tests trace stuff from months back. So I never had any doubt in my mind, it was just irresponsible of me not to go to the test at the time and I got punished severely for it. Eight months of my career just gone, just like that. It was easily the lowest point of my career, especially as I knew people were trying to tarnish my name by saying I was into drugs. That's the most disappointing thing for me, that people assumed I was involved in drugs or had something to hide. How did you feel when you first heard your England team-mates planned a strike to support you over your drugs ban? Kerry Tia, via email Uncomfortable. It was a nice gesture, don't get me wrong, but it was my problem. I didn't want them to sacrifice anything on behalf of me. There were some good lads in that squad. It took you three years to score for us, Rio, but I'll never forget that last-minute winner against Liverpool in front of the Stretford End. Most enjoyable goal of your career? Jeff Hale, Swindon Either that or the exquisite volley, also against Liverpool. I scored against them for Leeds at Anfield as well. But that moment when you score in the last minute against your rivals at the Stretford End is like a dream. It was Roy of the Rovers stuff. Have you ever been to Rio, Rio? With the World Cup in Brazil and the Olympics in Rio, I could see you hosting a travel series, Rio on Rio. Something you'd fancy doing? Fred May, Manchester He's bright, isn't he this guy. Has he written me off going as a player then? He obviously has. I've never been to Rio, no. I've dabbled in TV and some days I think, "You know what, I want to be a manager, I can't leave the game". With the experience I've had, I'd love to pass that on. But then on other days I think I'd like to give my family a bit more time and delve into other things... but I still don't know yet. I won't be doing that Rio TV show though! Who's the toughest centre-forward you've ever faced? Warren Bedil, via Twitter Raul, in the Champions League. I've always found it more difficult against players who play further away from you. You can't really get a grab on them, you can't give them a shove or a kick every now and again, or even get near to them and dictate to them where they have to go. Raul was always away from you and if you got too tight he'd pop it off with one touch; if you didn't get tight enough he'd stick someone in behind you or something like that. Raul was really good for my education. [FFT: And in the Premier League?] [thinks for ages] Bergkamp. He's another one who plays in that position where it's hard to even get near them. Guys like him ghost about and while they don't necessarily hurt you, they hurt your team once they start dictating things. Is it true that a hooded gang of United fans turned up on your doorstep after the tabloids ran a story about you meeting Chelsea chief exec Peter Kenyon? Charles Davey, Bristol Yeah. I was in my house on a summer's evening when the door goes. But the security cameras are just black so I'm thinking it's a wind-up. So I answer the door like "Who's this?". "Is Rio there?". "Who wants to know?". "Tell him to come outside". I didn't have a clue who it was but I didn't think it would be any fans. So I go to the side door and grab a big bit of wood, jump on the side of the wall and I'm just about to scream "raaaah!" when I see there's a massive group of people, with hoodies and caps covering their faces. I just thought, "I'm going to get served up in a moment, so go bananas and they'll think you're a nutter!" Then one of them was like, "We're the United boys, f***ing sign your contract" and I was like "What you talking about? I've only just started negotiating two months ago, what you worrying about?". Basically I went to see my agent for half an hour and Kenyon was with him. Someone's taken a picture and made out like we're having a bloody meal together. So I'm saying to these guys: "If I'm going to do a deal with another club, do you think I'd be doing it in broad daylight?" One of the neighbours had called the police by then and they got off when they heard the sirens. You captained United to the Champions League in Moscow in 2008. Is that your happiest moment on a football pitch? And what's the lowest you've felt after a game? Gene Moss, Weston Super Mare One of them, yeah. I got to the semis with Leeds, the quarters with United and I was thinking I was never going to win it. So when we did the emotions got to me. When I saw my family and mates I welled up a bit then I looked around at the lads and thought, I can't start crying in front of them. Sir Bobby Charlton came over and had a few great words to say and it was a real, real nice moment. Lowest moment? I couldn't pick one... the Everton semi-final at Wembley, the Portsmouth quarter-final, the Chelsea FA Cup final… we destroyed Arsenal in the FA Cup final and lost, the two finals against Barcelona, Bayern Munich at home… losing is horrible. You know what, I don't know if I actually enjoy winning more or it's just that relief of not losing that's drives me on. Because the feeling when you lose is a bad feeling man, it kills you inside. Which hurt more: being stripped of the captaincy or left out of Euros squad? And why? Dave Franks, via Twitter The Euro squad. The captaincy was more inevitable, to be honest, as I hadn't really been playing as I'd been injured after the World Cup. I almost felt that might have been something I might have done myself anyway, just based on the fact that to be the captain of England you've got to be available and I probably hadn't been. But as a footballer you love going to a tournament no matter what happens. If you're not disappointed you should probably hang your boots up. In 2004 you told FFT that "you'd never turn your back on England", despite the FA banning you. Considering how you've been treated of late, do you still feel that way? T Hammet, Egham Yes. Playing for England.. I make sure I never forget the feeling, that's what I've always done. I think of that first time I played for my country after coming through the ranks. The adulation, the feeling I had of being able to go back to my mates on the estate and be like, "I'm going to play football with England under 18s". And when later I was told I was in the squad and I went "What, the under-21s?" and they're like, "No, the first team". When I play for England, I try to give myself that same feeling of what it felt like the first time. You've played under Hoddle, Keegan, Sven, McClaren, Capello and Hodgson for England. Which one have you enjoyed playing under the most? Mark Aitken, via Facebook Er, I haven't played under Hodgson so you're wrong there mate! Hoddle was best. He'd make you go out on the pitch with no fear. There was talk of him returning as manager after Capello, but I don't know why he hasn't got a job in the FA. Seriously, how has he not got a job there? He's one of the best footballers we've ever had. Forward thinking, continental-style approach, wants people to play football the right way but he ain't got a job! What is that? I don't understand it. You've been in and out of the treatment room for a few years now. How is the body holding up, and how long do you plan on playing for? Simon Pinto, Milan I've not really been in the treatment room much in the last 18 months. I played 35 games last year, I've been more or less ever-present this season, but before that, yeah, I had two years of real bad luck. It was just my back. I couldn't get to the bottom of it and I found a way of working it and now hopefully there won't be any more issues. But yeah, I had some low times. You're a proud Londoner, Rio. What have you made of the backlash against football since the London Olympics? Is it something you and your team-mates have noticed? Jim Weston, via Facebook All these other sports have covered themselves in glory, but they don't get the same attention as football the rest of the time. We're in the public eye, not just on the back pages but also the front pages, and there are going to be times when footballers let themselves down. That's unfortunate, but it becomes headline news and people start tarnishing all footballers with the same brush. I'm sure if you went out with a bunch of rugby players, hockey players or athletes you'd probably get the same end results, it's just that they're not hot news. So to say we're the bad eggs among sportsmen is a bit far fetched. [FFT: But inevitably people will focus on the money footballers earn…] It's weird, because people do focus on that, but you look at Rory McIlroy, who's probably earning ridiculous amounts of money, but that never gets mentioned because he's not a footballer. You look at our players that we've got over in the NBA, Luol Deng and that lot, they are earning unbelievable amounts of money but nothing gets said. We're not without our faults, don't get me wrong, but I think it's an easy excuse for people to hit footballers with the money argument. I have to ask you about Twitter, Rio. How wary are you before you press that 'tweet' button these days? And what does Fergie make of it? James Shelton, Bedford If the boss could shut it down, he would! There are situations where I've been punished for certain things that I find laughable but it's happened and you've just got to get on with it. I enjoy Twitter and I think if I'd have had it back when I was a child I'd have been buzzing to have been involved with some of the players I looked up to. That's why I've embraced it. Sometimes I run tweets past a couple of people I know but I think you've just got to be as honest as possible on there and try and not get into any trouble. Pre-match handshakes – worthwhile or a total waste of time? Joe Wong, Dubai Waste of time. I don't think handshakes are even needed before a game. After the game we shake hands anyway so what's the point in doing it beforehand? It's a load of rubbish, just a PR stunt that I think is not working. Music and clothing labels, TV host, executive producer, magazine publisher, restaurateur… what's next, Rio? Would you be up for being a movie star like Vinnie Jones? Sol Campbell's mentioned acting too – maybe the two of you could reform your partnership as a pair of henchmen in Guy Ritchie's next gangster film? James Wilson, Nottingham Henchman? You're undervaluing my acting potential, man. I'd go for an emotional part, something off the wall, I've got too much for a henchman role. I'd need for it to be… I dunno, like Luther. Or if they're looking for a new James Bond I wouldn't say that's out of my comfort zone at all! [laughs] Portraits: Jill Jennings Check out Rio's latest #5 products at the new #5 store now

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Agent: Man United winger likely to leave

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 04:49 AM PDT

Despite signing a new five-year deal last September, the Portugal international has only made five Premier League starts under David Moyes, and is understood to be frustrated with the lack of opportunities at Old Trafford. Ashley Young is often preferred at his expense. However, agent Andrea Pastorello believes the financial situations of several Italian clubs may prove to be an obstacle. "Nani is a very important player and at this time the only thing I can say is that he is likely to leave Manchester," he toldViolanews.com. "The problem for Fiorentina and other Italian clubs is the player's salary. But we will evaluate all bids. "Our relationship with United is great. Fiorentina have to speak with Manchester United about Anderson [who is on loan from the Reds to the Florence club], and maybe there will be an opportunity to talk about Nani too." Since his transfer to Old Trafford back in 2007, Nani has failed to reach the lofty heights expected of him. This term the 27-year-old has made 11 appearances in all competitions, scoring once in the 5-0 demolition of Bayer Leverkusen.

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Why Manchester United fans should ease off struggling Marouane Fellaini

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 03:50 AM PDT

Things haven't exactly gone to plan for Marouane Fellaini since he followed his old manager David Moyes along the M62 to complete a £27.5m move from Everton to Manchester United last summer. Last week's poor performance in the Champions League quarter-final first-leg draw with Bayern Munich was probably the Belgian's most difficult display in a red shirt. He conceded possession readily when United won the ball on the edge of their own box, often dribbled forward aimlessly, and even his famous aerial skills seemed to desert him. He became the target of abuse for many Manchester United fans. Yet Fellaini has been in an extremely difficult position. He was signed on deadline day, and arrived at United without having the benefit of pre-season to familiarise himself with his team-mates and become accustomed to the style of football at the club. "When I arrived, I didn't know the players and the team at all," he told Manchester United's website earlier this week. His full league debut, for example, was the 4-1 thrashing at Manchester City, when it had already become clear things weren't working out for Moyes at United. Fellaini wasn't being asked to adapt to Manchester United's football, he was being asked to do something entirely different – to raise their level of football. In his first weeks at a genuinely big club, that was an incredibly tough task, and the pressure has proved too much. It seems peculiar, however, that Fellaini has received so much criticism when other, more experienced players have also underperformed. Veterans like Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra, Michael Carrick and Robin van Persie have fallen short of the standards they've set in previous campaigns, and it's those leaders in the dressing room who should be most disappointed by their underperformance. Newcomers like Fellaini and Juan Mata should be spared real criticism for now. A change of position Nevertheless, it's difficult to disguise the fact that Fellaini's displays haven't been impressive. Part of the problem, it appears, is that his best position hasn't yet been determined. Last season he was often excellent for Everton in a support striker role, including on the opening weekend in a 1-0 victory over his future employers Manchester United, where he battered the defence and scored a headed winner. At United, however, Moyes has generally deployed him in a deeper role, alongside Carrick but with license to move forward. In all honesty, from United's attempted recruitment last summer, it seems Fellaini wasn't the type of player they truly wanted – moves for Cesc Fabregas, Luka Modric and Ander Herrera, much smaller, more technical creative players, suggests they wanted a proper playmaker. Fellaini was something of a back-up, and recruited partly because Moyes was familiar with him from his Everton displays. Interestingly, in recent weeks Fellaini has generally been better away from home – which tallies with Manchester United's overall performance. The champions actually have the best away record in the Premier League this season, compared with only the 10th-best home record. Again, pressure is playing a part. For example, Fellaini's performance in the 3-0 win away at West Brom was very good – he consistently made key defensive interventions on the edge of his own box, then played out calmly from the back. He also did something similar away at West Ham, where he dropped deep to assist makeshift centre-back Michael Carrick against the aerial threat of Andy Carroll: But his performance unquestionably dipped against Bayern, with fewer defensive contributions and sloppier passing in midfield: Most surprising, however, was the fact even Fellaini's aerial stats were so poor against Bayern – he pushed high up the pitch to challenge for long balls, helping United to get around Bayern's midfield press, but he won only one from seven aerial duels, compared to all four against West Brom, for example. Fellaini believes his recent performances have shown promise. "I feel more confident in myself now because I know the players and I know how to play in this team, which is important," he says. "Now I know everybody and I am benefitting as a result. I have played well in quite a few games, so I am happy with that. I am excited about what is to come and I am determined to be successful for this club." It's been a season to forget for Fellaini so far, but there are signs his performance is improving. The Belgian has yet to handle the pressure that comes with a move to Old Trafford, but there's no reason to consign him to the dustbin.

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Everything you need to know about... Matthias Ginter

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 03:30 AM PDT

The 60-second story After modest beginnings at SV March, Ginter secured a move to Freiburg's youth team in 2005, where he won the Junior DFB-Pokal. He was initially regarded as a bright midfield prospect, but various injuries in the first team and the departure of a number of players in the winter transfer window of 2012 led to the tall youngster playing in defence. The management didn't need much convincing. From then it was obvious he had all the attributes to make it at the back, and he's retained his place ever since. Ginter has featured in every game of the Bundesliga season so far, and made his Germany debut against Chile in March.He'd previously represented Die Mannschaft at U18, U19 and U21 level, and won Fritz Walter gold medals (awarded to the best youngsters in Germany) for the former pair in 2012 and 2013. Unsurprisingly, his feats haven't gone unnoticed. Manchester United (among others) are circling, having deployed David Moyes to watch him in action earlier in the campaign. Why you need to know him Given the embarrassment of riches at Joachim Löw's disposal, it's testament to Ginter's ability that he is already involved with a Germany squad featuring the likes of Mats Hummels, Jerome Boateng and Per Mertesacker. A World Cup isn't a bad place to showcase your talents to prospective employers, especially with a departure from middling Freiburg not far around the corner. Even if he doesn't feature in Brazil, as is likely, expect him to become a household name in years to come. Strengths The imposing stopper is blessed with a fine reading of the game, and remains surprisingly nippy on his feet. His height means he's clearly well suited to the physical demands of his position. Physically imposing with excellent distribution, it's unsurprising that Ginter found his natural position as a centre-back after starting life as a goal-getting attacking midfielder. He was pretty good at that too, mind, netting 21 goals in 39 appearances for Freiburg's U19s. Weaknesses Inexperience. At 20, Ginter still has a lot to learn, and with no Champions League experience playing in a team battling relegation it is clear he needs to turn out for a club with greater European ambitions in order to make the step up. Freiburg qualified for this season's Europa League, where Ginter played in five games, but they won't do it this time out. Luckily for him there's still plenty of time for that yet. They said… Freiburg chairman Fritz Keller said (hopingly): "He has a long-term contract and for a player his age, it may be interesting to stay another year for stability. It's better to stay than sitting on the bench for one of the big clubs." Keller is hopeful that a new stadium may entice him to stay for another season. Did you know… Ginter was the 900th player to turn out for Germany. He also became the youngest-ever player to score for Freiburg two days after his 18th birthday. What happens next? Much depends on the fate of Freiburg and their battle against relegation, as well as the defender's opportunities with Germany at the World Cup. Expect his stock to rise whatever happens. Freiburg will certainly want paying appropriately for their star man's services, but with Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand out of the door at Old Trafford this summer, the time could be nigh for the Reds to re-stock and look to the future. Talentspotter ratings Shooting 6 • Heading 8 • Passing 6 • Tackling 8 • Pace 6 • Dribbling 7 • Creativity 5 • Work-rate 8

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Pep lacking options for Man United clash

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 03:17 AM PDT

The sides drew 1-1 in the first leg at Old Trafford, leaving all to play for between the respective German and English champions. Bastian Schweinsteiger cancelled out Nemanja Vidic's opener last week, but the midfielder is suspended for the return leg along with Javi Martinez. Guardiola has also been hampered by recent injuries to Thiago Alcantara and Xherdan Shaqiri, further limiting his options for the visit of David Moyes' men. "We only have 14 first-team players so I haven't got too many options," said the Spaniard. "We're playing at home. That's an important factor (but) it's never easy against English teams. I think they'll sit very deep. "They play very defensively and always look to counter - it's something they do very, very well. "United is a very big team. Before the first game, everybody just was talking about Bayern. But now people know that Manchester can win in Munich. "But we will play at home, with our fans we can win this game." Victory at the Allianz Arena would keep Bayern, who retained the Bundesliga last month, on course to secure a treble for the second season in succession. Guardiola feels the game against United could come down to "small details" but revealed he has not had Bayern practising penalties in case of a shootout. "If we win, we're through. If not, we're out. It will come down to small details," he added. "(Penalties are) less about technique and more about courage. It's all in the head. "In the quarter-finals you never have a second chance. The pressure is high and we always have done well in this situation. "It is all about small tactical details. Our players know, after the experience in Manchester, how United plays. My players know their strength and weaknesses."

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Rooney back in training ahead of Bayern trip

Posted: 08 Apr 2014 03:04 AM PDT

The England forward suffered a toe injury during the first leg of his side's quarter-final against Bayern, which ended in a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford last week. Rooney subsequently missed a 4-0 victory over Newcastle United in the Premier League last weekend, but has a chance of featuring in Wednesday's match at the Allianz Arena. United confirmed on their official Twitter page that Rooney - together with fellow injury victims Patrice Evra, Jonny Evans and Ashley Young - had taken part in training on Tuesday. "Wayne Rooney, Ashley Young, Patrice Evra and Jonny Evans are all training this morning ahead of our trip to Germany," read a tweet. Young suffered a hand injury in the win over Newcastle, while Evra was replaced just after the hour due to a knee problem. Evans (calf) has not featured for United since their away defeat to Stoke in early February.

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