The Dutch Striker believes he should be doing better at United.
You voted. They won. We took the pics!
Roll of Honours Editor in Chief Darren Lamb Ass. Sub Editor Keith McDonnell Sean McGuire Design Managers Omar Thompson Sale Print FX Photography Ben Harrison Natalie Lamb Lydia McKay Wild Ginger Photography Contributions Ryan Peasland Ben Harrison Matthew Jones Advertising Enquiries 0161 962 1999 advertise@redarmy.co.uk Website Manager Jason Pickston Thanks to Lierre J H-Matthews Lulu Lamb Taylor Lamb Published By Red Army Media Ltd. 156 Northenden Road Manchester M33 3HE. Company Reg. No. 08243731
As things stand Manchester United’s treble dreams are very much alive and when United’s hunt for the impossible dream gets into the latter stages, there is always comparisons made to the great squad of 1999. The first element of this is United’s quartet of strikers who have all impressed in their own way this season. In 1999 United’s four frontmen Yorke, Cole, Sheringham and Solskjaer notched up 76 goals between them. This year, Rooney, Van Persie, Hernandez and Welbeck have collectively bagged 52 goals; and with many games in league and cup to go there is no reason why today’s strike force cannot match this feat. We must not forget that we have a player in the squad who is as good as coming off the bench as Old Gunnar Solskjaer. In the treble season, the baby-faced assassin scored eight goals from the bench. This season Hernandez has chipped in with four goals as a substitute so far. One of the other trademarks off 1999 was United’s ability to come back. During that season Fergie’s men came back from a losing to win or draw 14 times in all competitions. This year the Reds have already won 12 games after conceding the first goal, and by the end of the season you would expect Fergie’s men to beat the treble winning season’s tally of comebacks. United’s strikers will all have to continue to play an important part this this season if they wish to go far in all three competitions this term, as games will start to come thick and fast which means all four frontmen will be needed; Moreover, squeaky bum time is just around the corner, so hold on to your hats and shuffle to the edge of your seat, because something big may be about to happen.
Sean McGuire Red Army Magazine www.redarmy.co.uk
RedArmy issue 9 3
Page 14-15 Manchester United striker Robin van Persie reflects on his return of 22 goals since joining from Arsenal in the summer.
Page 16-17 De Gea has provoked a lot of criticism recently putting the spaniard in a big fight to stay United’s Number 1.
Page 24-26 Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo is expecting an “emotional” occasion when he returns to Old Trafford for his side’s Champions League last-16 second leg clash with Manchester United.
Page 31-33 We take a look at the best attackers that have donned the United shirt over the years. Page 45 The former Manchester United Goalkeeper and World Cup winner has taken up a new sport...
Page 13 From talks of another treble like the great 1999, to Shinji Kagawa and how he thinks he should be doing better...you name it - we’ve got it!
Page 09-11 Jam-packed with news on Darren Fletchers absence, Fergie’s big runner in the Grand National this April, plus Paddy Powers odds on United Winning this season. Page 08 This issue we talk to Manchester band ‘The Electric Stars’ on their love for The Red Devils.
Page 46
Page 18
Nicola & Jade
This month’s two (yes thats right, TWO!) winners of our Red Army Babes Facebook competition turn up the heat for this issues shoot...shall we say its the best yet?
David Beckham, Denis Viollet and sexy Sam Cooke are all at the bar this issue...make ours a double!
More Online!
More football, more news and more babes online at: www.redarmy.co.uk
KEITH M DONNELL C
Joins the Red Army Team this issue, we ask him about his thoughts this season
Most of the things I have to write are other people’s words and thoughts. Occasionally I am privileged enough to be able to give my own view but even then there are usually constraints regarding content or opinion. To write about Manchester United is the fulfillment of a long ambition but to write for Red Army magazine is something really special. It is the most honest of the United fanzines because it is written by fans for fans. There is no misplaced loyalty to either the club, the plc or any particular campaign or mindset. So it is no wonder that Red Army is the fastest growing Manchester United football magazine available. Every writer longs to hear the words ‘write what you think’ and, as a writer, you come to expect that your words will be given back with the dreaded phrase ‘could you just?” It is so refreshing to know that when Red Army magazine ask for my words they really mean my words. It’s a great time to be a United fan and even better to be writing about them. All the reasons for a really successful season are there; the need to teach the “noisy neighbours” a lesson; the rediscovery that scoring more goals than the opposition wins games and the looks of pride and sheer exhilaration on each of the United team’s faces whenever they run out at Old Trafford. Of course, as a fan, you know that there are going to
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be a few times when, with less than five minutes to go, the team is behind and defending like crazy. But as a fan you also know that, come the final whistle, they will have managed to score two or more goals and allow Alan Hansen to say that the ‘mark of a great team is to win even when they’re not playing their best.’ There have been a number of other games where words like sublime, awesome and great have peppered his comments. I am really enjoying writing about Manchester United, come the end of the season, I expect to be writing about their new collection of silverware.
THIS MONTH’S
Hot Spots Where to go. What to do.
Hilton Manchester Located in the landmark Beetham Tower, the Hilton Manchester Deansgate hotel spa and event
Australasia Restaurant
A stylish but laid back slice of modern Australian life, down-under in Manchester. Get your taste buds at the ready!
Chill Factore Home of the UK’s longest indoor real snow, Chill Factore is the perfect destination for all the family.
Wild Ginger Photography Red Army have teamed up with Wild Ginger Photography and Glitzy Tips to provide a red hot photoshoot for the Red Army Babes competition winners, Jade & Nicola!
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Europcar The world’s leading car rental company, with rental car locations in and around Manchester.
issue 9 RedArmy 7
Hi Guys, how long has the band been together? Jason: The Electric Stars have been together for about 18 months. We all joined from other local Manc bands. We signed to Detour Records & played some big gigs including festivals with The Charlatans, Kaiser Chiefs & Macy Gray & our album ‘Sonic Candy Soul’ came out last September! Important question; who is the biggest Manchester united fan in the band? Keef: That will be Jason, he never shuts up about United! Your schedules must be quite hectic, how often do you get to go to the matches? Jason: I get to nearly all the home games & the odd away! It is tough though because we gig all over the UK & Europe. But wherever you go United are always on the TV so we never miss watching the boys! Favourite ever match? Jason: That’s tough! United have had so many games when you think they are dead & buried, then they do something amazing & win the game...Owen’s goal against City...Killing Roma at OT...but for
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me its got to be the FA Cup semi replay in 99 at Villa Park. That game had absolutely everything & then just when you think you had seen it all, Giggsy scores one of the best goals of all time! Pure United! Favourite all time united player? Keef: Has to be Ronaldo for me! Many are comparing our squad this season to the one of ’99 – what do you think? Jason: They are full of potential, but the 99 boys did it. They won the lot. This team has to win the treble to lay claim to that. Will we win the league this season? Keef: Yes! Jason: We have to put them lot in their place! They might be the richest club in the world but thats all they got, money ! No history, no tradition, no class ! United always come back fighting & this season we will get that league title!
If you are a die hard red, then we want your say! Right here in our fans column! Email us at: editor@redarmy.co.uk
March buys that you need in your life.
Aeroskull iPhone speaker
Paul Smith Jeans Cotton Print Shirt £110 Harvey Nichols
Uniquely designed to arouse fascination and curiosity, the Aeroskull is our best buy this month!
£379 Selfridges Co.
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Manchester United Core Hoodie £40 Man Utd Store
Marc by Marc Jacobs grey grained leather tote £6 Amazon
JOOP! Homme Wild Eau de Toilette £22 Debenhams
Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher has been ruled out for the rest of the season after having surgery to resolve a bowel condition. Fletcher, whose career has been severely interrupted since November 2011 by the debilitating bowel condition ulcerative colitis, underwent surgery last month and will miss the remainder of 2012/13. Sir Alex is optimistic Darren Fletcher will return to first-team football next season, an expects a totally different player.
Fergie’s horse set for National! Sir Alex has confirmed that his horse ‘Harry the Viking’ will be handed an entry in the John Smith’s Grand National in April! But the timing could not be much worse for Ferguson, with the big race at Aintree scheduled to take place on Saturday April 6, the same day as the Manchester derby! Hopefully Fergie will bring back success from both the Manchester derby and Aintree!
Can Zaha be United’s next Star?
Wilfried Zaha has been tipped to be a superstar at Manchester United by manager Sir Alex Ferguson after sealing his £15 million move to Old Trafford.
Zaha will officially join United on July 1 and then head off with his new club for a tour of Australia and the Far East. Is Zaha the missing piece in Fergie’s Jigsaw?
Keep up to date with all Man. United News at: redarmy.co.uk 10 issue 9 RedArmy
Our favourite tweets from the players & fans Wayne Rooney @WayneRooney Just watching liverpool game. The pitch looks terrible. ***********************************************************
Rio Ferdinand @rioferdy5
Anyone else feel like they seen that @cristiano header against us somewhere before?? #Moscow2008
***********************************************************
Gary Neville @GNev2
Danny Welbeck gives Sir Alex Ferguson’s side an early lead and a crucial away goal from Wayne Rooney’s corner - but former United golden boy Cristiano Ronaldo inevitably responded with a classic header to draw Real level before the interval.
For the record I think De Gea can be a great GK. He is young in an unforgiving environment and will physically mature in next 2 years. ***********************************************************
FAN TWEET OF THE MONTH!
Mark Graham
This month we take a look at Paddy Power’s odds on United bringing home the bacon!
@mufcinfodotcom
@CH14_ currently ranks 52nd in the all time #mufc goalscorers listing 47 goals 107 apps 0.439 strike rate
odds as of date magazine published.
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Shinji has promised fans that there is much more to come from him. Midfielder Kagawa, 23, admits he is unhappy with his form since moving to Old Trafford. Although Kagawa started life at Old Trafford impressively, with two goals in his first six games, the Japanese playmaker’s progress was stunted by a knee injury which kept him sidelined for 10 weeks. Following his £17 million move from reigning Bundesliga champions Borussia Dortmund last July, Kagawa feels he must perform better and needs to contribute more to the team. “I’m really feeling that I need to perform better,” Kagawa told reporters. “I’m not satisfied with what I have done here at all. It’s a big and really famous club in the world and I need to overcome lots of pressures and be mentally stronger. “Unfortunately I got injured, but I have to be better and grow as a player and a person,
in terms of contributing to team’s wins and succeeding here.” The former Bundesliga player of the year, however, has backed himself to improve and is determined to emulate the mental strength shown by United’s established stars and ensure he will not be considered an Old Trafford flop. “I feel that we have a strong ability to bounce back when we are behind, so people in this team must be really mentally tough,” added Kagawa. “We have a really strong squad with many world class players, so it’s lucky for me to have opportunity to train with them and play games with them.”
Kagawa so far...
12 Games - 2 Goals - 2 Assists By Matthew Jones @Matt_the_hack
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UPFRONT
UPFRONT
Manchester United striker Robin van Persie reflects on his return of 23 goals since joining from Arsenal in the summer, but feels he could - and should - have done even better. ROBIN van Persie has been nothing short of sensational since his summer switch to Old Trafford – yet the Stretford End’s latest hero believes he should have scored even more than the 23 goals he’s bagged so far this season The 29-year-old Dutchman has also said he has felt like a “kid in a sweet shop” since his £24million move from Arsenal and is “surrounded by champions”. Despite taking to life in Manchester like a duck to water, he claimed there is always room for improvement and when pressed about how successful he has been, he said “Not really well. It is going well but if you start to believe it’s going well, you’re going down.” Van Persie hailed ageing stars Ryan Giggs, 39, and Paul Scholes, 38, who he likened to Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry when he first arrived at Arsenal in 2004. “If you look at the last couple of months, it explains it all. I’m seeing things again that I didn’t see for a long time. When I first came to Arsenal years ago, I saw things from [Dennis] Bergkamp and Thierry Henry I’d never seen in my life before. Now I’m seeing those things again and that makes me really happy. It’s like a kid in a sweet shop. It’s like: ‘Yes, this is nice, this is good, this is having fun,
this is enjoying yourself.’ All these little things added together make a big difference. It makes me feel that I’m surrounded by champions.” Two of those are Giggs and Scholes and Van Persie says their longevity is inspiring him to play for as long as he can. “To be fair I always thought that I would go until very late [in his career]. When I see these boys, against West Ham [in last week’s 1-0 FA Cup third-round replay] Giggsy just ran the show. He was incredible.” “I always thought they were great players but when you’re with them every day in training it’s great fun to be part of that. Giggsy – every single touch is the right one, every single move. He’s so experienced,” Van Persie added. By Matthew Jones @Matt_the_hack
van persie stats
Apps: 27 Goals: 23 Assists: 07 Shots: 96 RedArmy issue 9 15
De Gea has provoked a lot of criticism recently not least because of that goal at Tottenham but the criticism has prompted not only Sir Alex Ferguson to respond but also Tim Howard of Everton, Tony Cotton and ex United legend, Peter Schmeichel. There is a common theme running through these responses. De Gea, while young, is already an exceptional keeper. Yes, he makes mistakes but he will learn and he has the potential to be brilliant - given time. So the question about David de Gea is; will he get the time, from Fergie, from the fans and from himself? There is something about De Gea that seems to inspire confidence and that is often the
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cause of the so-called blunders that seem to haunt him at the moment. When there is another keeper between the sticks at Old Trafford the defence seem constantly vigilant, nervous even. If a shot is parried away by the keeper the defence are on-hand to clear the ball straight away but with De Gea they seem to expect him to be able to deal with almost anything and so they are slightly slower to react if he spills the ball or, as at Tottenham, redirects it into the path of an opposing forward.
Fergie
When Sir Alex Ferguson defended David de Gea it wasn’t the knee-jerk reaction of a manager disparaging the press comments about a player.
“We are okay with him.” He said. “It is unfortunate for the lad but he has to deal with it. We will help him. I think we are quite good at that.” Those are not the words of a manager who believes, as the press seem to at the moment, that United have a goalkeeping crisis. They are the words of a manager who believes in his player and is seeking to alleviate some the pressure that adverse headlines and critical TV pundits have heaped upon his shoulders.
Potential
Is De Gea at United for the long term? Is it to be hoped that he is. It isn’t just United’s defence and manager who have confidence in the young Spaniard. There is a large cadre of dedicated fans who see in David
de Gea the potential to be one of the best goalkeepers in the world. He is causing problems in Spain’s national sides as well but because of his ability not his (few) mistakes. He is both the number one keeper for Spain’s Under 21 side and the number two keeper for the national side. Del Bosque, the national manager, has mooted that it will not be long before De Gea is Spain’s number one. The press, it seems, would have David de Gea on a plane to Spain in a heartbeat. Alex Ferguson, one suspects, would prefer him to stay at Old Trafford realize his potential to be one of the best goalkeepers of all time. By Keith McDonnell
Share your De Gea views online: Redarmy.co.uk RedArmy issue 9 17
Hey Girls! How does it feel to become this issues Red Army Babes? Nicola:There were a lot of beautiful girls that entered for this issue so I’m feeling very lucky that everyone voted. Jade: Yeah, it feels quite surreal, it’s amazing to be part of it, A huge thank you to everyone who voted for me!
How about you Nicola? N: I’m quite independent, competitive and hate to lose, whether it is a competition like this or a game of Monopoly. I’m very driven to get what I want.
Nicola, you received a lot of support on our twitter page, what made you enter? N: Manchester United is one of the biggest clubs out there, why start at the bottom when you can start at the top?! I can’t thank your twitter followers enough they really did me proud, as did my stunning army!
What is the best asset you look for in a guy? J: Humour and honesty is what I look for, he has to be intelligent and knowledgeable also! N: Yeah, I’d have to agree. It has to be honesty.
It’s obvious why you two won you’re both hot! But what would you say is your hottest asset? J: It’s going to have to be my legs, they are pretty long and get a lot of attention when I’m out.
Jade, we hear you’ve been a die-hard red since you were little, …what has been your best-united memory? J: It’s got to be when we won the champions league in 2008, nothing can explain the emotion I felt, I was crying my eyes out!
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Ronaldo is on the front cover this issue He’s known for his skillful tricks – what’s your best trick? N: I’ve always been a fan of dancing I have done pole, and burlesque in the past. I’ve recently invested some time into learning the art of twerking (if you don’t know, look it up, its mesmerising haha) J: The only trick I have is being able to do different things with my tongue, I can do a 3 leaf clover, some sort of wave motion and twist it around! If you could have any player at Man Utd, past or present, who would it be? J: I don’t even have to think for this question, I’d love to have Ronaldo back no doubt about that!
N: Cristiano Ronaldo. Or David Beckham if he was unavailable! Can I have both? You have both donned boxing gloves in the photoshoot. Who would you love to get in the ring with? J: I hope he doesn’t have to be an actual boxer because after having watched ‘Warrior’ it’s going to have to be Tom Hardy! WOW. N: Mine would be David Haye because he’s massive and it would be so cool if I won!! He might feel sorry for me and go easy, what u saying Dave? Let’s get this thing set up!! I’ll start training.... We are sure you both get a lot of attention on nights out – what’s the best chat up line you have had? N: I haven’t heard a good one yet. It’s always better when someone just has the confidence to strike up an intelligent conversation without any cheesy lines, if they can be cheeky & funny that’s always a bonus. J: The best one is when a guy came up to me and said “Apart from being beautiful, what do you do for a living?” I’ll be honest I found it pretty cute and the fact he asked me a question about myself rather than the guys I usually get that just talk about themselves constantly and don’t seem really interested in much else.
High Heels or Trainers? High Heels Ronaldo or RVP? Robin Van Persie! Champs league or Premiership? The Premiership Lingerie or Onesie? Lingerie Night in or night out? Night in Chick Flick or MOTD? MOTD
RedArmy issue 9 21
What about the worst chat up line? N: The worst one was, “Do you wanna come back for mine for a f*ck and a pizza? No? I get it, I can’t believe you don’t like pizza. Lets just skip that bit...” J: One of the worst has to be “Great legs, what time do they open?” they are lucky they didn’t get a slap for that one! That’s embarrassing! What is the most embarrassing thing that’s happened to you? N: My ex boyfriends dad walked in on us at it one night, then shouted “oh, sorry!” and made the quickest exit I’ve ever seen. That was pretty awkward at the breakfast table the next morning! I really wanted to laugh and he looked mortified and avoided all eye contact. This is our first double babe shoot! How has it been working with each other? N: I like girls, who like girls! Jade’s one of them, pretty, down to earth and not a bad word to say about anyone (unless they deserve it!) I’m glad I’ve had the opportunity to do this with her. J: Same! Nicola is a lovely girl! So will we see you both gracing our pages again soon? J: Definitely if I’m invited again! N: That depends on if I’m allowed back and you haven’t banned me from the premises! Haha
Photography: Ben Harrison, Wild Ginger Photography.
Check out the full interview with Jade & Nicola, plus exclusive pictures on our facebook page:
facebook.com/redarmybabes
High Heels or Trainers? Heels are always hotter Ronaldo or RVP? PERSIIIIIIE! Champs league or Premiership? Premiership Lingerie or Onesie? Lingerie Night in or night out? Night Out Chick Flick or MOTD? Chick Flick
d l a n ro Comes
! d r o ff a r T d l back to O
When Real Madrid entertain Manchester United in the Champions League I want them to lose. In fact, I want them to lose big. Eight - nil or a similar scoreline would leave me smiling for days. But I am caught in something of a dichotomy because there’s one player in a white shirt that I want to see do well, even against United Cristiano Ronaldo. As United fans we are very spoiled. We get to see not just good players but truly great players, season after season and we have done for many, many years. But every now and again someone comes along who is truly special. There are great players in the present team and we know that they can turn a game on its head in a heartbeat. We trust our team to deliver results and, unlike so many other fans, we are rarely disappointed.
Gifted
However there are some players who are worth watching no matter what the final result. Players so gifted that you watch and wait for a little bit of magic as they do things with the ball that you wouldn’t think possible. Things which, no matter how many times you see
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them, leave you wondering ‘how on earth did he do that.’ Such a player is Cristiano Ronaldo. He follows in the shoes (or boots) of such august names as Pele, George Best, Johan Cruyff, and (sometimes) Zinedine Zindane. Fans of their various teams would go to watch these players just to see them play and come away from the games discussing not the score, the ref’s mistakes or the club’s position in the table but the performance of the player they had come to see. Ronaldo inspires the same kind of awe. When he gets the ball you just want him to do something special with it. You want him to be greedy and beat three or four defenders with one or two of the vast array of tricks that he has in his boots. You will him not to take the easy option but to give us a glimpse of the kind of football that invite as many Youtube hits as Ryan Giggs’ wonder goal. You want him to let you witness something special. I know I am not the only Reds fan who has continued to watch Ronaldo play since he left United in 2009.
do RedArmy issue 9 25
. . . d e u n i t con Divided
The trouble with asking for something special from Ronaldo is that he actually delivers. His goal against us was spectacular, not because he managed to outwit a brilliant United defence and David de Gea but because he overcame the laws of gravity to do it. Well for the return leg at Old Trafford I will wish him well and hope that he falls flat on his face. Actually that isn’t entirely true. I want us to win and I want us to beat Real Madrid convincingly but I would still like to see Ronaldo do something memorable again – just without a goal at the end of it this time! Cristiano Ronaldo was given a phenomenal reception by the United Fans at the Bernabeu and returned the compliment by muting his goal celebrations. He is convinced that Real will beat Manchester United at Old Trafford and he will be the difference between the two teams. With due respect I think that Ronaldo should celebrate any goal he scores at the Theatre of Dreams because, come the final whistle, the team celebrating victory will be Manchester United.
man. united (1)
vs
real madrid (1)
5th March 19:45pm kickoff ITV 26 issue 9 RedArmy
By Keith McDonnell Photography: Blinksy
Manchester United are on track for yet another treble and, according to some fans – including a few very knowledgeable ones, all the signs and portents are favourable. I don’t believe in portents and omens but in this instance I could be swayed. Talk of the treble is probably a little premature. In fact Sir Alex Ferguson has banned his players and staff from making any reference to the possibility at all. But realistically the potential – and all those portents - is there. Once again we have a young team - with a few old heads – who don’t seem to know the meaning of the phrase ‘lost cause’ and, as a result, don’t seem to know how to lose too often.
The premier league title is entirely in United’s own hands and SAF has seen it slip too often to let that happen again. He has a brilliant squad with a winning mentality and a fantastic attitude summed up by players like Van Persie - who doesn’t want to be rested even for the least significant games; or Rooney who has transformed from out and out goalscorer to main provider judging by the number of assists with which he is credited this season. (as well as defender,
midfielder, forward, counsellor and all-round motivational speaker - the latter two being surmised from the way he cajoles, threatens and coaxes his team-mates throughout the game) In the FA Cup we have to overcome either Middlesbrough or Chelsea. (1999 out of every 2000 United supporters are already supporting Middlesbrough for the replay) and then there is the Champion’s League. The clever money is on Bayern Munich reaching the final. Is this beginning to sound a little familiar – spooky even? I hope, I pray that once again it’s time to dust off the hats and party like we did in 1999. In 1999 a large number of United fans who made the trip to the Nou Camp left, disappointed, with a minute to go. They were deep in the bowels of the stadium when the first United goal went in and still trying to get back to their seats as the second hit the back of the net. I bet that the number of United fans who leave early this time could be counted on the thumbs of one hand.
Party Like it’s ‘99 Canvas
Available on our online store: redarmy.co.uk/shop
EXCLUSIVE
TOP 10 Attackers This issue you voted for your favourite attackers to grace the Red Shirt.
9 & 8. Andy cole and dwight yorke (duo) Salt and pepper, steak and chips, Yorke and Cole - some things just fit. The pair enjoyed an unparalleled understanding and an infectious enjoyment of playing the game.
apps: 366 goals: 126
Cole- apps: 275 goals: 121
Yorke - apps: 152 goals: 66
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10. ole gunnar solksjaer
The Baby-Faced Assassin is one of United’s most intelligent strikers. Analytical, clinical and etched into the history with his 1999 European winner.
apps: 404 goals: 237
6. Brian mcclair
127 goals over 11 years at Manchester United Choccy banged in 20 goals in one season for the first time since George Best.
apps: 471 goals: 127
5. Wayne rooney ‘The White Pele’ announced himself with a debut Champions League hat-trick and we knew he’d be special for years
apps: 385 goals: 190
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4. ruud van nistlerooy Scoring in eight consecutive league games, the clubs’ record European goalscorer at the Stretford End on their feet at every opportunity. A sheer clinical finisher who lapped up the kind of service a striker gets when playing for United. £19 million well spent.
apps: 219 goals: 150
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One third of the legendary ‘United trinity’, Denis Law carried the mantle for the post-Munich resurgence of the club. The original king.
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................................................................................................................ 7. Denis law
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3. bobby charlton
What can be said about what Bobby Charlton means to United? He epitomises it’s spirit, courage, history, flair and what a striker he was. A Munich survivor, Charlton has flown the flag for United with his goals, his leadership and his commitment to the club.
apps: 758 goals: 249
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2. george best
The genius of the Belfast Boy was there for all to see at a young age. Eleven years in the red of Manchester United proved reason alone for people to flock to Old Trafford and fill the terraces. Jinking his way past defenders, linking fluidly with his teammates and scoring goals to boggle the mind - Best was one of a kind. The United Trinity was complete.
apps: 470 goals: 179
...................................................................................... The collar, the genius, the goals - The King. Cantona was the attacker who captured the imagination of many a watching United supporter. Proving just the catalyst United needed for their rise to dominance, the Frenchman’s five years at Old Trafford will live long in the memory. A mix of eccentricity, character, flair and ability that many had never seen before. Cantona didn’t just score goals, he made people fall in
apps: 185 goals: 82 Share your views at: redarmy.co.uk
.................................
1. eric cantona
King Eric Loses Plot
United Lose Crown! Before the 1994/1995 season began the Premier League advised the match officials to clamp down on dangerous tackles and dissent. However, in a quirk of fate it was be a violent incident that would grab the headlines in this topsy-turvy season. The omens were good for United as they beat the previous season’s runners –up Blackburn Rovers 2-0 in the Charity Shield; and it appeared on early league form that it would be the two Lancashire clubs vying for the title again.
Europe In August Tony Blair topped the polls to become the leader of the Labour Party; and at the end of this month it was United who topped the Premier League with three wins in their first four games. In Europe United started well with a 4-2 win over Gothenburg in their first group game, which was followed by a steady 0-0 draw away to Galatasaray when they were welcomed back to ‘Hell’ for the second season running. However it was a League Cup tie against Port Vale sandwiched between these two fixtures that lit up the back pages.
Saturday Night by Whigfield dominated the charts in September, but it was on a Wednesday night on September 21st that Sir Alex Ferguson put faith in all of his youngsters at once when he fielded a youthful team at Vale Park; and it was a nineteen-year-old debutant Paul Scholes that stood out the most by scoring two goals in a 2-1 win. United’s then faced their two biggest games of the Season. After a pulsating 2-2 draw with Barcelona at Old Trafford, the then went to Ewood Park to face Blackburn Rovers. With Pato Banton’s Baby Come back ringing out in the charts, it was United who had to make a comeback of their own when they won 4-2 having been 2-1 down to the league leaders.
Luck In November many punters who were feeling lucky bought the U.K’s first National Lottery tickets, yet it was this month that United’s luck started to take a turn for the worst in Europe as they were first humbled 4-0 in the Nou Camp against Barcelona before losing 3-1 in Gothenburg which ended their Champions League hopes for another season. Despite
United Stat: Gary Pallister played in a staggering 58 games during the 1994/95 season!
this United’s league form was picking up, and an Andre Kanchelskis hat-trick in a 5-0 win over Manchester City at least displayed their domestic superiority. 1995 started promisingly with the amazing transfer coop of Andy Cole, who cost £7million from Newcastle United. However it was United’s record signing’s new striking partner that would send shock-waves throughout the football world.
Red On January 25th United made what seemed to be a low-key trip to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace. Eric Cantona was shown a Red Card in the second half and as he was walking off the field he received a tirade of abuse from one of the home supporters. Cantona retaliated by jumping into the crowd and planting a kung-fu kick on his abuser. The Press soon had a field day with the papers being dominated by the Frenchman’s antics, hanging him out to dry and calling for a life-time ban. Despite this set-back United’s quest for
another double seemed on course, and with Celine Dion’s ‘Think Twice’ dominating February and March, United were thinking about two prizes themselves. They went on an unbeaten 13 match run until they were beaten by 1-0 by Everton at Goodison Park. The Reds soon made amends a week later on March 4th when Premier League records were thrown up in the air, as United won 9-0 with Andy Cole scoring five.
The Double
As Father Ted aired on our screens for the first time in April that year, United were hoping that their own prayers would be answered. However the Reds season ended in disappointment as they lost the league on the final day with a 1-1 draw at West Ham and then 1-0 in the F.A. Cup final to Everton. The Double winners of 1994 could not repeat their achievements in 1995; and perhaps the manager thought the next season was time to give his young players a try.
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the number seven shirt By Ryan Peasland Since the late, great George Best flabbergasted the watching terraces with his gliding unpredictability, his effortless genius and impressive goal-scoring ability, the number seven jersey has meant more to supporters and players than any other. It’s not surprising that it has become such an icon given the impressive shoulders the shirt has adorned at Old Trafford over the years. Seven years after the ‘Belfast Boy’ relinquished the shirt, along came ‘Captain Marvel’. Bryan Robson was a footballer with the natural ability to warrant his British record fee of £1.5 million and the stature to be afforded the esteemed number to be emblazoned on his back. Often heralded as the club’s best ever, Robson added the attributes of competitiveness, bravery and leadership to what it meant to wear the number seven.
king In 1992 Eric ‘The King’ Cantona brought a new set of attributes to the table when it came to fulfilling the expectations of the famed jersey. Eccentricity, audaciousness and arrogance joined his artistry to form the player that proved the catalyst for Manchester United’s dominance in the top flight for the coming years. Picture THAT goal against Sunderland; the run, the dinked finish, the celebration, the captain’s armband and yes, the number seven jersey. Sometimes a United starlet is not automatically draped in the number seven but must earn the right to be.
BECKHAM
A fresh-faced David Beckham emerged from the crop of Fergie’s Fledglings into the first
team with a number 28, then 24,10 and in 1997, when Cantona emoved his crown and cape for the final time, it was handed toBecks. The number seven shirt under Beckham’s tutelage was propelled into stardom. The ‘Beckham Brand’ saw record numbers of a new generation begging parents for a United shirt decorated with the famous name and number. On his departure, there seemed nowhere to turn to for a natural replacement and a worthy successor to the shirt.
Left:
The number 7 shirt is now iconic at United, being the most popular shirt choice by fans. Pictured: Lierre Joseph Henry-Matthews.
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ronaldo £12 million was subsequently spent on United’s first Portuguese player, a winger by the name of Cristiano Ronaldo.
That feeling of expectation with the ball at his feet that we remember from watching Robson or Ronaldo has been encouraged by the donning of the number seven shirt.
expectation
Despite fans’ early frustration with his pirouetting and seeming lack of end product, the former Sporting Lisbon starlet blossomed into the Ronaldo we all know and love.
The expectation could weigh heavy on the shoulders of many but not the sturdy neckline of the Ecuadorian who, over the next couple of seasons, could enshrine himself in
Michael Owen’s short tenure as a seven-wearer included a sensational last-gasp winner against City - say no more. Special individuals have been awarded the number seven jersey over the years - some work they way up to it, some are rewarded with it for what they already achieved but some are entrusted with it to coax their development into a Manchester United star - a world-beater.
Manchester folklore if his wonderful wing-play inspires United to claim back the Premier League title and deliver European glory.
After easing his way into life at Old Trafford by slipping into the number 25, Antonio Valencia has become an edge-of-your-seat player.
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‘’There is no extra pressure. The club asked me if I would like to wear the No 7 shirt and I said I would be delighted.” Antonio Valencia
Benifica Defender, Ezequiel Garay could be a possible replacement for Rio in the summer.
Writers page
42 issue 9 RedArmy
Red Army takes a look at where United and Sir Alex may be looking to splash the cash at the end of the season... With the title looking increasingly likely to move back across to the rightful red side of Manchester, Sir Alex Ferguson will already be casting one eye over his squad - assessing what will be needed to ensure domestic and European supremacy. Red Army takes a look at where United may splash the cash.
Isco With the world and their dog slobbering over the talent in Spain’s midfield over the last few seasons, it is no wonder that Manchester United have been keeping an eye out for a Spanish starlet of their own. Francisco Román Alarcón Suárez, better known, as ‘Isco’ is an attacking Malaga midfielder who has made viewers of La Liga and the Champions League sit up and take notice.
Kevin Strootman Another likely target to dictate the ‘Champions elect’ midfield could be PSV Eindhoven’s Kevin Strootman. With 16 caps for the Dutch national side, the 22-year-old, six-foot-plus central midfielder is a clever playmaker and would be a welcome addition to the heart of the Reds’ creative engine room.
Ezequiel Garay As much as the signing of attacking players will excite the ‘Red Army’, an apt replacement for 34-year-old Rio Ferdinand will prove vital over the summer. Sir Alex has been keeping tabs on Benfica defender Ezequiel Garay, who could prove the perfect partner for Nemanja Vidic. The 6 ft 5 Argentinian centre-half has had spells with Racing Santander and Real Madrid and could be Old Trafford-bound should United cough up the £17 million required to trigger his release clause. With Wilfried Zaha penning a five-and-a-half year contract at Old Trafford, the writing could be on the wall for Nani. With the winger failing to sign a new contract as yet, the Portuguese trickster’s six-year spell in red could be over with plenty of European suitors keen for his signature. United have already snapped up Zaha from Palace.
Former United keeper has taken up a whole new sport... We all know that a lot of United players have a love affairs with fast cars. Stories of racing to training (and the high-profile accidents that resulted) are not news to United fans but one ex player has taken it to a new level. Fabien Barthez, once a United Goalkeeper of some stature (by reputation if not height) is now a racing driver in the French GT Championship and he is getting better and better as
time goes on. He began racing French GT in 2008 but had to wait until 2010 for his first podium finish. This season he has started 14 races and has already managed 1 win and three podium finishes. Barthez played for United between 2000 and 2004, winning two Premier League titles (20002001 & 2002-2003) as well as winning the UEFA Europeans Championships with France in 2000. He is also the most capped French
National Goalkeeper and joint holder – with Peter Shilton – of the ‘Most World Cup clean sheets’ records. After leaving United Barthez’s career was strewn with contention. His move to Marseilles was delayed as it was not properly completed before the closure of the transfer window. A year later he was suspended for six months for spitting on a referee and, when his suspension was completed, then released by Marseilles. It was over four months before he played again; this time for Nantes but within six months he was again out of contract and never played professionally again. Now Fabien Barthez is gaining a substantial following in French motorsports circles. A number of French websites are very complimentary regarding his new sporting achievements and his change of persona from the ‘bad boy’ he once was. Barthez cannot (and probably does not want to) avoid controversy. Just ask Brad Friedel. Nonetheless he is an ex United player and as such we wish him well in whatever he does.
Fred the Red celebrates his 19th year as Manchester United Mascot this year! That night in Barcelona ‘99...
The game attracted an average of 15 million viewers on British television with a peak audience of 19 million in injury time. The climax of the game was voted as the fourth greatest sporting moment ever by Channel 4 viewers in a poll in early 2002.
In 1980, goalkeeper Gary Bailey saved three penalties in a match against Ipswich Town but United still fell on the day, 6-0.
Chris Smalling
You voted Sexy Sam Cooke as this month’s WAG. Smalling’s Manchester born and bred lass just nipped Cleverely’s Georgina Dorsett on our Red Army Babes Facebook Poll earlier this month!
1. Ryan Giggs is United’s all time leading premier league goal scorer? 2. Eric Cantona scored his last united goal against Fulham?
Roy Keane
The former United Captain holds the clubs record for the most Red Cards a total of 7 in his 379 games. Cantona comes second with 6 in 143 games
Mr Dennis Violett is still the king of league goals for Manchester united, scoring an outstanding 32 in the 59/60 season. All hail Violett!
Andy Cole was the first player to score five goals in a Premiership match for Manchester United vs. Ipswich in the 1994/95 season. United won that game with an impressive 9-0!
3. Dion Dublin bagged Manchester United’s first ever premier league winner? 1. True - 2. False (Blackburn) - 3. True.
David Beckham made an impressive 394 appearances for Man Utd in his 10 seasons at the club. (85 Goals)
There are approximately 350 million Manchester United fans around the globe! That’s 5% of the World Population!
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