Barca the better side - Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson graciously admits his Manchester United side simply lost to a better team after Barcelona win the Champions League final.

We'll learn Champions League lesson - Fergie

SIR Alex Ferguson has promised United will return better than ever after losing their Champions League crown to Barcelona.

Goals from Samuel Eto’o and Lionel Messi ensured no team has successfully defended the trophy in the Champions League era – but Fergie insisted his players would be all the better next year because of the disappointment.

Giggs: Barcelona deserved it

VETERAN midfielder Ryan Giggs admitted United did not play to their potential and were beaten by the better team after the 2-0 defeat against Barcelona.

Goals from Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi ensured that United did not retain the Champions League trophy.

Dejected Ferguson admits "the best team won"

Sir Alex Ferguson admitted Manchester United lost to the better side as Barcelona secured the Champions League crown in Rome, but he vowed to come back even stronger.

United were bright in the initial exchanges but after Samuel Eto'o opened the scoring after 10 minutes, there was only one team in the game as Barca over-ran their opponents in midfield.

Lionel Messi made it 2-0 after 70 minutes and the Red Devils could muster nothing in response.

Ferguson told Sky Sports 1: "In fairness we were beaten by the best team. We weren't at our best. The first goal was a killer, it was a bad start to the game. If you give them the ball they will keep it all night.

"But the best part of the game is that in adversity you always move forward quicker. We're all disappointed but we're a young team.''

Ferguson added a second striker at half-time, with Carlos Tevez replacing the ineffective Anderson.

Reflecting on that decision, the Scot said: "I brought on Tevez simply because I took the gamble of playing two through (the middle). Ryan Giggs, in the first half, provided something and some parts of his game were good but what we needed was someone to be there all the time.

"But they defended quite well. We had plenty of time and we had some half-chances which we maybe should have done better with.''

Barcelona 2 - 0 Manchester United

Manchester United discovered what it is like to lose a European Cup final as brilliant Barcelona ruled Rome on Wednesday, securing a comfortable 2-0 win.

If there is any consolation in failure to become the first side to retain the trophy in the Champions League era, it is that they lost to a side as fluent and brilliant to watch as they are.

Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi scored the goals either side of half-time but to single those two out for special praise would be unfair on their team-mates, and particularly Xavi, who was simply awesome.

For once Cristiano Ronaldo could provide no magic of his own, instead getting increasingly frustrated as defeat loomed.

It was a shame really. Although having done so much damage to others down the years, he does now know how it feels.

Twenty four hours earlier, Sir Alex Ferguson had spoken of reaching into the far corners of his brain for an inspiring word or two prior to kick-off.

As half-time approached, that same grey matter might have preferred a word or two about Barcelona's performance.

Sublime would have been one. Bewitching, mesmerising would do equally as well. For a football man like Ferguson it would have been a joy to watch if his side were not the ones trying to stop it.

The kind of football that allowed the Catalans to hit six goals past Real Madrid at the Bernabeu Stadium last month was not in evidence for the first eight minutes or so as United held sway.

However, once it began to emerge, Ferguson's side had precious few answers.

The shape of the contest might have been so different had Park Ji-sung been able to snaffle the rebound after Victor Valdes had failed to hold a stinging Ronaldo free-kick.

Instead, former United man Gerard Pique shot across to block what proved to be his old club's best opportunity of that opening period.

Like his team, Ronaldo was clearly in the ascendancy in his personal duel with Messi.

How rapidly things changed. In the twinkling of an eye Andres Iniesta, one of the brightest starts in the Barcelona firmament, slipped a pass to Eto'o.

The Cameroon striker cut inside Nemanja Vidic, then held off Michael Carrick as he prodded the ball goalward with enough strength to take it past Edwin van der Sar.

Suddenly the strategy of containment and hitting at pace on the counter-attack suggested by the inclusion of Park and the exclusion of Carlos Tevez and Dimitar Berbatov did not look such a good idea.

Ferguson's team shot across the pitch, able to do little more than firefight as Messi, Iniesta and Xavi lit bonfires all around.

Had a Messi flick found Eto'o in the area, it would have probably brought Barcelona's second. Rio Ferdinand's agility saved his team.

Xavi curled a free-kick just wide, Vidic pumped the ball away after Van der Sar had failed to hold a cross shot, the slick passing wearing United down all the while.

The arrival of Tevez at half-time had to come, and with it a more overtly offensive approach.

Yet in taking such bold action, Ferguson knew he was playing right into Barcelona's hands.

Xavi picked out Thierry Henry with a brilliant pass. The former Arsenal star cut inside Ferdinand with ease but could not find the finish, a similar mistake to the one that proved so costly for Arsenal in Paris three years ago.

When Xavi saw his free-kick come thumping back off a post, memories of 1999 and the mauling United nearly took at the hands of Bayern Munich sprang to mind.

Yet this was different. Ferguson's team were poor until the unforgettable ending. This time they were simply ripped apart by the only team on the planet who can match them.

The introduction of Berbatov midway through the second half was effectively Ferguson throwing his book of tactics out of the window and not worry about the consequences if it all went wrong.

Sadly it did. Quite quickly as Xavi's curling cross dropped perfectly for Messi, who guided his header over Van der Sar.

Ronaldo's world player of the year crown was slipping and Valdes managed to get in the way of a close-range effort that would have given United some hope, as would the volley from Berbatov that followed.

Berbatov had another chance too, although by then Carles Puyol had seen two efforts saved by Van der Sar.

In truth, the Dutchman was his side's best player, which just about says it all.

Ronaldo wants to secure history in Rome

Cristiano Ronaldo's driving force as he prepares for Manchester United's Champions League final against Barcelona is the prospect of making history.
United will become the first club to retain the trophy in the 17-year-old rebrand of the former European Cup if they defeat the Spanish champions in the Stadio Olimpico.

And Ronaldo, who admits his affection for Spanish football, claims that means much more to him than winning the world footballer of the year trophy last season when he beat Barcelona's Lionel Messi into second place.

Ronaldo said: "I like the Spanish league. I feel well in England in the Premier League, it is the strongest league. Barcelona have a great team which deserves respect but I believe we are better than them and we will show it.

"I respect Barcelona profoundly. Messi is playing marvellously well. I want to be sincere. I have to play well tomorrow for the team and the supporters. I look forward to it and I think it will be really special.

"I don't care about the Ballon D'or. What I want more is to win the Champions League. That's it.

"I just want to be the first team in history to win it twice."

Ronaldo has dismissed any fears about playing in white, like the Real Madrid side who were annihilated 6-2 by Barcelona recently.

He also insisted he is happy to carry the burden of the spotlight which constantly surrounds him.

"It's normal that people speak about me but I am 100% focused on this game," he said.

"I try to help my team 100%, score a goal and win the game. That's it."

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson also gave an insight into what makes Ronaldo United's most potent threat and why he constantly conjures up feats such as the 41-yard free-kick screamer which broke Arsenal hearts in the semi-final second leg at the Emirates.

Ferguson said: "There's no mystery. He's always out there after the team training has finished, practising his shots. The great players don't rely on their natural ability, they practice to make sure they have that something extra.

"In the semi-final against Arsenal I could tell he was going to hit it, from the body shape, even though it was so far out."

United fan suffers stabbing in Rome

A Manchester United fan is recovering in Rome after being stabbed ahead of the Champions League final.

The supporter was attacked near his hotel in the Italian capital by up to four suspects in the early hours of this morning, according to Sky Sports News.

The man received stab wounds to the left leg and was later discharged from hospital.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police in Rome said: "I can confirm that we have received reports of a stabbing in Rome. "We have no details yet of the incident but we are making full inquiries."

The 54-year-old male victim discharged himself from hospital after his condition was not deemed as serious. A Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We have been receiving reports of an incident and are looking into it."

In Rome, British Embassy spokesman Pierluigi Puglia added: "We know that a British man was stabbed in the left leg overnight and was later released from hospital.

"We have spoken to two of his friends who contacted us but we are still trying to trace the man himself to check he is well.

"I do not believe any arrests were made in connection with this incident and we have no reported arrests elsewhere."

Giggs tells Ron: United a better bet than Real

Ryan Giggs claims Real Madrid have only their glittering history to offer his Manchester United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo as the pair stand on the brink of winning yet another trophy.

With United enjoying such dominance in recent times, Giggs can see few reasons for Ronaldo to leave when Real resume their inevitable pursuit of the Portugal winger this summer.

"He is at the best club," Giggs told The Sun.

"Cristiano has proved he is the best player in the world over the last couple of years and he has done that at United, so why leave?

"He's still a young player, still learning the game and can still improve. He can do that at United."

Real have been a distant second to Barcelona in La Liga this season and were also thrashed 5-0 by Liverpool over two legs in the Champions League last 16.

Giggs added: "Real Madrid will come back purely because of the club they are and the history they have got.

"But United are more stable."

The Dream Final?

Barcelona versus Manchester United - for many it's the dream Champions League final: Two of the best supported teams in the world contesting the most prestigious club competition, and all in the Eternal City.
Wednesday's final at the Stadio Olimpico has all the ingredients to be a classic: the meeting of two great teams, the clash of great two managers, one vastly experienced, the other a relative novice, both men favouring an open attacking brand of football, and the small matter of the showdown between the two best players of their generation. The meeting of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo on the biggest stage provides a unique chance to watch two masters at work. If witnessing the two most prodigiously, outrageously gifted players clash when the stakes couldn't be higher doesn't whet your sporting appetite, there's something wrong. For many it is the unofficial title decider to see who can lay claim to the being the best player in the world; the reigning European and FIFA World Player of the Year from Portugal, or the 21-year-old Argentine. Going into the final the weight of history appears to be on the side of Manchester United. They are aiming to secure their fourth European crown and are spurred on by the chance to become the first side since AC Milan in 1990 to retain the famous trophy - plus United boast a proud record of never having lost a European Cup final, playing and winning in three. By contrast, Barca have two European Cup titles to their name, but have twice been runners up, and given the vastly differing levels of experience between the two managers it would be a brave soul who chose Barca over United. Not only is Ferguson old enough to be Guardiola's father, but he has more trophies, more experience, more nous and arguably more will to win than his counterpart. The European Cup is the fuel that fires Ferguson; at 67 the Scot's last remaining ambition in the game is to cement his name, and that of Manchester United, in the annals of European football history. It is the one area he feels his remarkably successful tenure as United coach can be criticised. The European Cup remains his Holy Grail. The public's imagination is fired by the thought of United and Barca slugging it out on the Roman turf, knowing that both play football in "the right way", that is to say with the will to win rather than the will not to lose. Too often European finals have been disappointing affairs with two cagey teams playing attritional, defensive football, wary that the slightest error could be exploited by talented opposition. In the case of Barca and United it is likely that both will play to win, both will choose to pass and move, playing to their strengths: their attack prowess. While both teams are missing key players, it is Barcelona who are the more under-strength. While United are missing the calm assurance and disruptive qualities of the suspended Darren Fletcher and have doubts over the match fitness of defender Rio Ferdinand, Barca are in far worse health, missing three first choice defenders: the injured Rafael Marquez and the suspended Eric Abidal and Daniel Alves. Playing a second-choice backline, in the biggest game of the year against one of the best sides in the world is far from ideal. Much of the pressure will fall on the young shoulders of former United player Gerard Pique - deemed surplus to requirements by Ferguson - and Carles Puyol, who has had a disappointing personal season by his own standards. The mouth waters at the prospect of seeing two of the most exciting attacking sides in Europe. While United's foursome of Berbatov, Rooney, Ronaldo and Tevez are healthy and intact, Berbatov and Tevez can expect to start on the bench and all four will only share the pitch in a desperate search of a goal or in celebration. Barca's much-vaunted attacking trio of Eto'o, Henry and Messi is sadly not on top form or fitness. Messi will start and could steal the show, but he has never scored against English opposition, while Eto'o is out of form, having failed to find the net in his last three Champions League games. He has looked lacklustre in recent La Liga outings and doubts persist over Henry; even if he does shake off the injury that has kept him out of action since May 2 he will be well short of match fitness and sharpness. Likewise Iniesta, who scored the goal which fired Barca into the final. If fit he could play a key role, but half-fit or short of match fitness Iniesta could be a passenger. Along with injuries and suspension, two successive defeats in their last La Liga games may not have been the best preparation, but it would be foolhardy to write off Barca. In less than 12 months, Guardiola has transformed Barcelona's fortunes, galvanising the Catalans into a close-knit unit of players who know what it takes to win. One interesting subtext to the final is that Spanish and English sides have notched 11 wins each over the European Cup's 54-year history, meaning the final in Rome will give one country the ascendancy, for one year at least. In Rome, against a United side at full strength and in form, Barcelona will need to draw on all their inner strength to lift the European Cup.

The defender injured himself against Arsenal.

Rio Ferdinand has declared himself fit to face Barcelona in the Champions League final. The Manchester United defender has been struggling with a calf injury, but said: ''The injury is fine. I have been training and feel good. I am glad to be back.''

Evra tells Ribery to join Manchester United

Manchester United full-back Patrice Evra is trying to convince Bayern Munich star Franck Ribery to join him at Old Trafford.

The France international is sure his compatriot would make a huge impact at United and would be an ideal signing if Cristiano Ronaldo were to leave.

"Many say Cristiano will leave but only he knows the answer," Evra told The Sun. "It's clear a guy like Franck would be the ideal solution for United if Cristiano left."

"Of course I talk to Franck about it, I tell him you had better come here."

Ribery has been in scintillating form for under-performing Bundesliga side Bayern this year and is attracting plenty of interest from Europe's biggest clubs, including Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Just a few weeks ago United rubbished reports that the club had tabled a £62.5m bid for the 26-year-old forward.

Speaking to ESPNsoccernet at the time the alleged bid for Ribery was made by United Evra said: "I don't know where they are at in the discussions and if they exist, but it would be a pleasure to see him here. Since he is made for the club.

"He has everything to succeed at Manchester."

Van der Sar 'on his toes' for Barcelona challenge

Manchester United's veteran goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar insists he does not fear facing Barcelona's free-scoring attackers in Wednesday's Champions League final.

The 38-year-old has a wealth of experience, having played in three finals and won two of them - with Ajax in 1995 and United last year.

He is also Holland's most-capped player, having been involved in a World Cup and two European championships.

So the thought of facing Samuel Eto'o, Lionel Messi, Xavi and possibly Andres Iniesta and Thierry Henry hold no additional worries for the Dutchman.

He said he just has to ensure he is focused at all times and maintains his concentration.

"As a goalkeeper you always expect every team to give you nightmares," said Van der Sar, who believes last year's penalty shoot-out victory over Chelsea in Moscow gives them the slight upper hand,

"Every flaw you have or lapse of concentration can cost you a goal so you have to be on your toes every minute of the game.

"You work hard the whole year to come to certain parts of the season when you can get your hands on some silverware: we did it with the league title and we want to do it now tomorrow.

"We have experience. We went last year and we know how big the game is. Let's hope we can have some advantage with that."

Van der Sar has played a Champions League final in Rome's Stadio Olimpico before back in 1996 when Ajax failed to defend their title after losing on penalties to Juventus.

However, he did not think that would have too much bearing on his approach to the game.

"Maybe I'm less nervous but there is 13 years in between," said the Dutchman, who won his first Champions League with Ajax when they beat Milan 1-0 in Vienna.

"There has been a lot of activity and games in between so you know certain situations a little better than at that time."

Van der Sar, who has one year left on his United contract, knows he must savour every moment and seize every opportunity as there will not be many more occasions like this before he has to eventually hang up his gloves.

"It is coming closer and closer," he said on his looming retirement.

Berbatov reluctant to take penalty

Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov is already having doubts about taking a penalty in the Champions League final.

Berbatov was on the end of some harsh criticism for a tame spot-kick against Everton in the FA Cup semi-final defeat and the Bulgarian has admitted the incident has shaken his confidence ahead of Wednesday's meeting with Barcelona.

He said: "That hurt. I'm not sure I'd step up now."

Berbatov also claimed only victory in Rome would make him feel like an equal in the United dressing room.

"I am part of this team but I don't feel fully part of it as I didn't win the Champions League (last season)," he added.

"If we can do that again this year, with me in the team, it will mean so much. I was jealous watching last year."

Pique to share knowledge

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique believes he has the inside track on how to stop Manchester United danger man Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Spanish champions meet the English Premier League winners in the Champions League final in Rome next week with former United man Pique, 22, determined to seal European glory for his home town club.

The performance of Portuguese star Ronaldo could be key to United's chances of retaining the European Cup, but Pique believes his four years at Old Trafford have given him an insight into what makes Ronaldo and co tick.

"I know most of the players inside-out because I have spent hours and hours with them in training,'' he said.

"I have passed on some of that knowledge to the coach (Pep Guardiola) and my team-mates and I'm sure it will help.

"I think I know all Ronaldo's tricks by now - he's a great player and he can hurt you, but I've spent a lot of time playing with him and against him in training, and I believe we can stop him.''

Pique revealed his pride at having worked under United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

"I have huge respect for Ferguson - he has an aura about him, he has won it all in an amazing career and he commands respect,'' he added.

"He is a big personality and tells you exactly what he wants from you - I feel honoured to have played for him.''

Pique, who was not part of United's matchday squad for their Moscow success against Chelsea in the 2008 final, admits it would mean more to him to win the competition for Barca.

"It was great to be there last year, but I wasn't involved and didn't play much in my time at United,'' the 22-year-old said.

"This year is different because I've been a Barca fan all my life and hopefully I will be playing - it will mean so much to be out there defending the badge of the club I have supported all my life,'' he said.

Pique began the season as Barcelona's third-choice centre-back behind Rafael Marquez and Carles Puyol, but he has now played 41 games for the club in all competitions this term - just one less than skipper Puyol.

And since the injury to Marquez, Pique has taken on the role of chief ball-playing defender, usually occupied by the Mexico captain.

Pique has been a revelation in that function and has been nicknamed 'Piquenbauer' by the local press, due to his likeness in style to Germany great Franz Beckenbauer.

"I knew when I came here that I wouldn't be starting every game,'' Pique added.

"Rafa is a fantastic player and Puyol is the captain, so it was always going to be difficult to start ahead of those two, but I've played a lot of games and I've had more responsibility since Rafa's injury,'' he said.

After moving back to Catalonia, Pique is now playing under one of his idols in Pep Guardiola and describes the former Barca captain as the perfect modern coach.

"Guardiola is different - he is more hands-on during the week and is always close to the players.

"He has been there and done it in a Barca shirt, and is a symbol of this club - he has Barcelona's philosophy in his blood and all of the players love him.

"He has got us playing wonderful football and what we have achieved so far has been incredible, especially when you consider it's only his first season.

"He is the perfect modern coach,'' he said.

Hull City v Manchester United: Preview

Hull pair Kamil Zayatte and Bernard Mendy are in contention for Sunday's crunch clash with Manchester United in the Barclays Premier League.

Both missed last weekend's draw at Bolton with head and toe injuries respectively.

Left-back Andy Dawson is also expected to start the match at the KC Stadium despite struggling this week with illness.

Striker Caleb Folan is available again after suspension but on-loan Manucho is unable to play against his parent club.

Manager Phil Brown claims speculation over the make-up of United's team has hindered rather than helped his preparations.

Brown's side face the champions needing to win to guarantee their place in the Barclays Premier League for a second season.

It has been claimed the Tigers could gain an unfair advantage over their relegation rivals if United boss Sir Alex Ferguson chooses to rest players ahead of the Champions League final.

Yet Brown has dismissed those suggestions and is preparing his Tigers for a stern examination.

He said: "We have more or less second-guessed managers on a number of occasions.

"To know who the team is has been a strong point. So to not know who the team is could be a massive advantage for Manchester United.

"That is the most difficult part of the training of late.

"The tactical awareness of the players has been second to none, I haven't worked with a better group of players as far as tactics are concerned. But whatever team comes out of that changing room will be sufficient to play at this level.

"Whoever does come out will play in the same manner as Manchester United teams do. It doesn't matter who is playing, they have that kind of standard.''

Ferguson will give Rio Ferdinand a late fitness test and is expected to include Wes Brown and Darren Fletcher.

Ronaldo deal would be 'madness' - Real candidate

Buying Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United for a figure of up to 100 million euros would be 'madness', Real Madrid presidential candidate Juan Onieva said on Friday.

The former vice-president, who has said he will stand in next month's election for the Real presidency, told a radio interviewer that he was aware of a pre-agreement with the Portugal winger that was set up by former president Ramon Calderon.

Although the agreement has never been confirmed or indeed given any credence by Manchester United, Calderon has referred to it for several months.

He said there was an obligation on both parties to come up with an indemnity payment if either changed their mind by June 30. So that means if Real Madrid pulled out of the proposed deal then United would receive a payment.

"I wouldn't go through with it. If I had to take a decision I would contest the deal. I think it's madness," Onieva told Onda Cero.

"I only know the terms in general; I haven't seen the document."

The interviewer mentioned a figure of 100 million euros, to which Onieva replied: "I think it is a little less than this, because the deal was made in pounds.

"In terms of the figures, as far as I am aware, it is not right to pay that amount of money especially in times like these. It's almost offensive. Also I don't think he is the solution for Real Madrid."

Onieva, former president Florentino Perez and the little-known Eduardo Garcia have said they will stand in the election which is due to take place on June 14.

Sir Alex will put Cristiano Ronaldo up front

The Sun claims Manchester United will field the same team which secured a place in the Rome final with a 3-1 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, and that means Sir Alex will opt for the industry of Ji-Sung Park over a second striker.

The only change to the starting line-up will be an enforced one with Darren Fletcher suspended for the red card he picked up against the Gunners.

It means PFA Player of the Year Ryan Giggs will come into the side as he looks to win the Champions League for a third time.

Cristiano Ronaldo will again be deployed as a striker, with Wayne Rooney out on the left, as Sir Alex hopes to utilise the pace of the Portuguese star against a suspect Barcelona defence which is without Daniel Alves, Rafael Marquez and Eric Abidal.

This also suggests that the Red Devils' boss has already decided skipper Rio Ferdinand will be fit enough to play, regardless of whether he gets a run-out against Hull City in Sunday's pivotal final Premier League game.

Tevez and Berbatov to be benched by Sir Alex?

A leading British newspaper claims to have discovered Sir Alex Ferguson's team for next Wednesday's Champions League final - and there's no place for either Carlos Tevez or Dimitar Berbatov.

Rio is looking for another trophy when United travel to Rome

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand is confident of being fit for the Champions League final on Wednesday despite Sir Alex Ferguson casting doubts over his chances of making the match.

The United manager said on Wednesday that Ferdinand would have to play against Hull City on Sunday to prove his fitness ahead of the showdown against Barcelona, but the player himself believes that will not be necessary.

The skipper has already started ball work and feels he is completely on track to play in Rome against the Spanish champions. It is news that will delight fans of the Old Trafford club who feel Ferdinand's superb central defensive partnership with Nemanja Vidic will be key to their hopes of shutting out the Spanish side's attacking talent.

He said: "I've not thought about not playing in the final. It's as simple as that, no chance. I trained with the ball today [Wednesday] and did some running, so I'm doing all the movements I need to be doing before a game.

"This has been perhaps the hardest and most important injury battle of my career. There is so much at stake. I haven't even thought much about the actual details of the final.

"I've been so engrossed in my injury that I haven't thought about much else. I'll start thinking about the actual match when I'm sitting on the plane to Rome.

"You'll have to ask the manager if I'm playing, but physically I'd be able to do it, no problem.''

In Northern Ireland star Jonny Evans, Ferguson knows he has the perfect replacement.

"I would not be bothered one bit if Evans played in the final,'' said Ferguson. "The kid has had a fantastic season.

"I am hoping Rio will be fit for Sunday. If not he will be doubtful for Wednesday that is for sure because he needs a game.

"I think he will probably be fit to play next Wednesday but to go into the Champions League final after three weeks without a game is just too much.''

Definitely involved will be John O'Shea.

"John takes his place in Rome because he deserves it,'' said Ferguson. "He is ahead of everyone now. To my mind he is one of the unsung heroes, like we had when Denis Irwin was here.''

Park hoping to banish pain of missing Moscow final

South Korea midfielder Ji-Sung Park has admitted missing out on last year's Champions League final was the most heart-wrenching moment of his career.

The 28-year-old did not make the 18-man squad for the penalty shoot-out victory over Premier League rivals Chelsea in Moscow.

It was a decision even hardened manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted "almost broke my heart'' and one he will not be repeating in Rome on Wednesday.

The fact Ferguson has gone out of his way to stress Park is definitely part of his plans to face Barcelona is testament to the improvement the hard-working midfielder has made this season.

"No one knows until the start [who will be selected]. If I play I will do my best,'' said the Korean. "It was very disappointing [last year] because players want to play in big games like the Champions League final.

"If they do not play it hurts. I think it was the biggest disappointment of my career. Our team wins titles and I am happy because I am in a good team but still it was heartbreaking.

"But after that I believed Manchester United would again reach the final and I worked hard and now I have one more chance and this time it is different to last season.''

Ferguson has yet to decide who will miss out this time around but Park said even after his experience 12 months ago he would not be offering words of comfort to the unlucky few.

"It is a big disappointment but you can't say anything to them because it is heartbreaking,'' he said. "It is something they have to get over themselves and believe next time or in the future they can do something.''

Park is adored by millions in his homeland but he insists he prefers the relative anonymity of England and plans to stay at Manchester United for a long time.

The fanatical following of Premier League football in south-east Asia means the midfielder, playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world, is arguably their greatest star.

He is mobbed every time he appears in public in Korea and admits the relative calm of north-west England provides something of a sanctuary for him.

And he is happy for other members of United's squad to enjoy the celebrity limelight.

"The culture is different. Asian fans chase me and shout - it is different in England,'' he revealed. "When I go back to Korea maybe I couldn't go out in the street.

"But I don't want to be a famous guy or a popular guy, I just want to be a good player. No one knows in the future but I want to be here longer, as long as I can.''

Vidic surprised by United player of the year award

Nemanja Vidic admitted he was shocked to be named Manchester United's players' and fans' player of the year.

"It's a great night for me," Vidic, who moved to Old Trafford from Spartak Moscow three years ago, said on MUTV. "It has been a really good year. I am surprised I got it but I have really enjoyed it."

Vidic has also made his presence felt at the other end of the field, notably scoring the opening goal in their 2-0 second-round second-leg win over Inter Milan in the Champions League.

It was, though, his performances in defence which earned him the accolade from his team-mates and Vidic admitted it was rare for a defender to take home the award.

"To be honest I don't have so many individual awards," he added. "That's why I am a bit confused and my speech is not the best. Next time my speech will be a bit better."

Ryan Giggs, the PFA Player of the Year this season, was full of praise for Vidic.

"Consistently throughout the season he's been brilliant," said the Welshman.

Cristiano Ronaldo took the goal of the year award for his 40-yard strike away to Porto in the Champions League.

Foster to miss Rome final

Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster will not be involved in the Champions League Final in Rome after undergoing surgery to repair a ruptured ligament in his thumb. The 26-year-old will be sidelined for nine weeks and will also miss two England internationals.

RED DEVILS TAKE TITLE

Ferguson revels in another Premier League success

Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted to have presided over Manchester United's 18th league title - but number 19 is the one he really wants.
fter vowing to "knock Liverpool off their perch'' when he first headed south from Aberdeen in 1986, Ferguson is now just one league championship away from doing just that.

A goalless draw with Arsenal today was enough to ensure United completed a hat-trick of Premier League title triumphs.

Yet the champagne corks had not stopped popping in an ecstatic home dressing room when their notoriously driven manager delivered his ominous warning to Liverpool counterpart Rafael Benitez.

"The great challenge now is to try to win it next year because that would be something special,'' he said. "It would be a 19th league and give us a special place in the club's history.

Sir Alex targets more glory

Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted to have presided over Man United's 18th league title - but wants more. "The great challenge now is to try to win it next year because that would be something special,'' he said. "It would be a 19th league and give us a special place in history.

United crowned champions

Manchester United are Premier League champions for an 11th time after drawing 0-0 with Arsenal at Old Trafford. The title was sealed in uninspiring style - they did not have a single shot on target - though that will not concern Sir Alex Ferguson and his players.

Darren Fletcher's attempt to get his suspension from the Champions League fina

Darren Fletcher's attempt to get his suspension from the Champions League final overturned has failed. UEFA have confirmed that the red card that the Manchester United midfielder was given for a foul on Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas will stand.

Fletcher's tackle on the Spaniard looked to have won the ball before the Scot collided with the Gunner. Referee Roberto Rosetti awarded a penalty and then sent off Fletcher for being the last man, a decision which looked harsh on TV replays.

UEFA choose not to have recourse to overturn decisions, eschewing the use of TV evidence and Fletcher will miss a match he seemed certain to start after being an unused substitute in last year's final. There is no formal appeals process in place so United's chances were remote in the first place. Speaking after United's Manchester derby victory on Sunday, Fletcher seemed resigned to his fate.

Barcelona meanwhile will have their own absentee in Eric Abidal, the French defender's attempts to get his dismissal against Chelsea also falling on the deaf ears of the governing body. Dani Alves, to no-one's particular surprise, will also miss out after his yellow card was rubberstamped.

UEFA said in a statement: "All three players are therefore suspended for one UEFA club competition match and will serve their bans when Barcelona meet Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League final in Rome on May 27.

"In reaching its decision, the Control and Disciplinary Body concluded (i) that the protests had not been submitted within the required 24-hour deadline of a match for filing protests - as specified in the disciplinary regulations - and (ii) that even if they had been admitted they would have been rejected as unfounded as there were no grounds for contesting the referees' original decisions."

Following the issuing of UEFA's statement United ruled out any further attempt to overturn Fletcher's ban.

A United spokesman said: "Darren is an honest player and we felt we should do what we could to try and help him become eligible for the Champions League final by initially protesting his dismissal.

"However, we respect the referee's decision and we will therefore not be appealing against today's ruling.''

Fergie wary of Arsenal spoiling Old Trafford party

Alex Ferguson will happily win it anywhere but the prospect of sealing his 11th Premier League title as Manchester United manager at Old Trafford on Saturday is an added bonus.

His side need just a draw against Arsenal to clinch a record-equalling 18th championship but Ferguson was not expecting an easy ride.

"Arsenal will want to do well because they've had a bit of criticism recently," Ferguson told reporters. "They will want to register their abilities on a day when everyone expects United to win the title. They are a threat."

Should United, who are on a seven-match winning streak in the league, avoid defeat it will mean the title was decided at Old Trafford for only the second time in Ferguson's glittering reign.

Only in 1999, when they beat Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford, have Ferguson's United been confirmed as champions on their home turf.

"It's strange that we've won it four times on the last day of the season elsewhere," he said. "We've only done it once, in the 10 times we've won the trophy, at Old Trafford and we have got great fans and it'd be great for them.

"I've never cared where we win it but on a day like tomorrow, when you have the opportunity, it'd be nice."

Arsenal head to Old Trafford on the back of a 4-1 aggregate drubbing against United in the Champions League and a 4-1 reverse at home to Chelsea last week, leading to questions about manager Arsene Wenger.

"We live in a world of instant opinions. I have nothing against that, but it doesn't mean that instant opinions are right," Wenger, whose side will finish a distant fourth, told reporters.

"I live in a job of responsibility and of commitment. There is a difference between the two. I am here to produce what I can. If it's not good enough, it's not good enough.

"That is not down to me to judge that. I feel very proud of the commitment of the players."

Wenger, whose rivalry with Ferguson has often been a bitter one, is respectful of United's achievement but believes Arsenal can re-emerge next season.

"United bounced back very well (after Chelsea took the championship in 2005 and 2006) and that is all credit to them," he said. "For me, today, they look the best team in England and they are -- that is credit to Ferguson, as well. But it also shows that nothing is definite. It can all turn very quickly.

Will Tevez be saying goodbye? Or hello?

GettyImages

Kia Joorabchian's company owns the rights to Carlos Tevez

Kia Joorabchian has reiterated that there has not yet been a bid from Manchester United for Carlos Tevez but insists that his relationship with the club remains "cordial''. Both Tevez and United want the situation resolved with the status quo remaining in place.

Carlos Tevez was again the hero

Michael Carrick struck an 87th-minute winner to sink Wigan 2-1 and move Manchester United to within a solitary point of retaining their Premier League title.

Carrick sealed another comeback win when he drove home John O'Shea's pass from the edge of the box, leaving United a point away from completing a hat-trick of Premier League triumphs.

Only once during Sir Alex Ferguson's 10 previous successes have United done it in front of their own fans. Now all they must do is avoid defeat against Arsenal to render a last-day trip to Hull, for the Red Devils at least, meaningless.

If Carrick was the match-winner, Carlos Tevez was again the hero, producing an impudent back-heel minutes after his introduction as a substitute to peg the Latics back.

Steve Bruce's men gave their all after taking a deserved first-half lead through Hugo Rodallega. But the Wigan boss knows more than most, Manchester United are not beaten that easily.

Any pretensions United had of being in for an easy evening were blasted out of the window after only two minutes.

The Red Devils' record against Wigan may have read eight wins from eight attempts, to an overall score of 23-3, and the Latics might still have been looking for their first league win against a top-four team, but Bruce was in no mood to let his old club saunter to their 18th league title.

Antonio Valencia, heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford as a summer replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo if he leaves for Real Madrid, also had a need to make an impression.

The Ecuador international certainly showed a pretty swift turn of pace to charge clear of Nemanja Vidic once he had nipped in front of O'Shea.

He did not have the finish to match, though, and, with Edwin van der Sar advancing, failed to find the target.

If that failure was bad, Wayne Rooney's was even worse.

Set up by Dimitar Berbatov's deft chip, the England star, selected ahead of Tevez, rose well enough but got his header all wrong despite being totally unmarked in the centre of the six-yard box.

Carrick went close shortly afterwards and it seemed only a matter of time before the visitors opened their account and strolled to their usual victory.

Wigan, though, have proved at various stages of this campaign they have some pretty decent players.

Rodallega is one, the Colombian who arrived in the north west as a virtual unknown but has a sharp eye for goal to go with his strength.

And, after outmuscling Vidic, who was so convinced he should have had a free-kick he was eventually told by referee Rob Styles he would be sent off unless he let it go, he eventually located the loose ball and drilled it low past Van der Sar.

Rodallega had other opportunities, too, but then again so did United, Rooney scooping one shot over after an intricate series of passes involving Paul Scholes, Berbatov and Ronaldo.

It was one of those nights for the world footballer of the year. Too much arm-waving, not enough end product, three of his trademark free-kicks belted into the Wigan wall.

At the start of the second half Ronaldo did manage to create a chance for himself, only to drag a shot badly wide.

With the momentum continuing to favour Wigan, Ferguson introduced Tevez just before the hour - the South American having been left out, proving whatever else his one-man demonstration at Old Trafford on Sunday achieved, it did not influence team selection.

Where Tevez can leave a genuine impression is on the field. And, just as on Sunday, his timing was perfect, diverting Carrick's low shot into the net with a deliberate flick of his heel.

Empics

Evra says pal Tevez did not disrespect United

Patrice Evra insists Carlos Tevez will never disrespect Manchester United.
Tevez launched a last-ditch attempt to save his Red Devils career with a pointed goal celebration at Old Trafford on Sunday.

After claiming he had never even received an offer from United to try and extend his stay beyond a two-year loan spell that expires after the Champions League final, the Argentina star declared in an interview that he was now open to other offers.

Yet he could not resist one final attempt to persuade Sir Alex Ferguson to sign him, running straight to the dug-outs and cupping his hands behind his ears as the noise rolled round the stadium demanding that he stays.

It has been viewed as part of a challenge to Ferguson's authority. But Tevez's close friend Evra views it differently.

"Carlos is a world class player but he is also a very good professional," said Evra.

"He may have had problems but in all the time he has played he respected the shirt of Manchester United."

Manchester United 2 - 0 Manchester City

Tevez & Ronaldo provides tonic

First-half goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez earned Manchester United a 2-0 win against Manchester City and took them to within four points of another Premier League title.

The Argentine looks on his way out.

Carlos Tevez admitted he expects to leave Manchester United in the summer. The on-loan 25-year-old feels he has not been treated as ''one of the family'' and claims the club have made no attempt to sign him long term - but insisted he wants to stay in England.

Fergie expecting little transfer activity at OT

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he expects there to be little transfer activity at Old Trafford this summer.

The Red Devils are currently closing in on a third successive Premier League title while the European champions have booked their place in this season's UEFA Champions League final against Barcelona.

Despite boasting a strong squad, a number of reports have linked United with players when the transfer window reopens, with the likes of Bayern Munich star Franck Ribery said to be a target.

Ferguson, though, has insisted the club have yet to identify any potential captures and has stated that he expects few arrivals come the end of the campaign.

"We won't be going for a lot of players ourselves this summer, that is a fact," said the Scot. "We have a big squad at the moment and I can honestly say there is no one we have actually identified that we want to bring here at the moment.

"We have had a look at quite a few players over the year, as we normally do, but we are not looking to add a lot of players to our squad."

Ferguson is, however, predicting much transfer activity at bitter rivals Manchester City, who are expected to continue to improve their squad with the backing of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan's financial clout.

"It is going to be a busy summer for them," said Ferguson, who locks horns with City on Sunday. "But it is all about availability. Some clubs don't want to sell their players to anyone, which is admirable.

"It is a difficulty. You could have a check list of players but it is reduced by 50% because clubs don't want to sell. Then a lot of clubs, knowing that City have that money there, will be adding noughts onto the value of every player they go for.

"Mark has to try and evaluate the players he wants at his values rather than their values. That is the difficult thing."

Brown out for the season

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has indicated Wes Brown will miss the remainder of the season. The defender has managed just two substitute appearances since last October after sustaining a foot injury but seemed to be heading for full fitness again.

Barcelona to face manchester united in rome

Barça trailed Chelsea for almost the entire match by virtue of Michael Essien's stunning opener at Stamford Bridge, but Andres Iniesta hammered home from the edge of the area in the 93rd minute - with the visitors' first strike on target - to swing the tie towards the La Liga leaders.

Eric Abidal was sent off midway through the second period and Daniel Alves also picked up a third booking of the competition, meaning that they will both miss out on facing United in the Stadio Olimpico.

Chelsea's frustrations boiled over at full-time, with the last-gasp nature of the defeat particularly tough to take, especially when allied to a string of strong penalty claims being waved away - including one for handball in the 96th minute.

It had seemed for so long that, for the first time ever, the same two teams would contest the Champions League Final in successive seasons, but instead it is Barça who will take on the holders in Rome in a repeat of last season's epic semi-final.

Ronaldo confident of second Champions League

Cristiano Ronaldo believes Manchester United will go on to become history-makers in Rome on May 27.
No side has retained the European Cup since it was revamped as the Champions League in 1992.

Now United are just one win away after a dazzling 3-1 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium that completed a comfortable aggregate triumph to seal a meeting with either Chelsea or Barcelona.

No reprieve for Fletcher

Manchester United's hopes of overturning Darren Fletcher's red card have been dashed by UEFA, who state that overturning the Scot's suspension would open a "Pandora's Box"

Ronaldo's killer brace

Like the great Emperors of the past, Sir Alex Ferguson will attempt to rule Rome in three weeks' time after Manchester United produced an awesome attacking display to destroy Arsenal.A fortuitous opener from Park Ji-sung was followed by a thunderous 40-yard free-kick from Cristiano Ronaldo to effectively book a Champions League final date with Chelsea or Barcelona on May 27 after only 11 minutes.Ronaldo capped a fine performance and drew howls of glee from David Beckham, who had made the trip from Milan to witness a victory that will go alongside that staggering win over Juventus in 1999 that the former England skipper was a part of, by sliding home a third goal, his 25th of the season.It was not quite a perfect night for United. How could it be when Darren Fletcher ended it in disbelief at the red card for a tackle on Cesc Fabregas which will rule him out of the Italian job.However, it was not far off, leaving United to await events at Stamford Bridge tomorrow with so many neutrals, if not a Chelsea side hell-bent on revenge, hoping Barcelona set up what would be a dream decider.No amount of meticulous planning can legislate for bad luck.It is the unknown factor that, in an instant, can screw any amount of hopes and dreams into the tightest ball and throw them out of the highest window, never to be seen again.Kieran Gibbs has not been a first-team regular very long. Fitness permitting, he has almost a decade and a half in front of him in the Arsenal side.It is a fair bet, at the end of his career, the 18-year-old still regards the horror that unfolded eight minutes into what was such an eagerly-awaited contest as the worst moment he had to endure.In his head, Gibbs was about to control Ronaldo's cutback, then decide whether to play a short pass out of defence or present Manuel Almunia with a routine clearance. Fate had other plans.Instead, poor Gibbs lost his footing and hit the ground with a thump. Like lightning, Park seized on the loose ball, delicately lifting it over Almunia, whose arrival came just too late.The United contingent went delirious. Fans, coaches, manager, players, Beckham alike all knew what it meant. They knew the prospect of Arsenal getting three to go through was so remote to be beyond comprehension.But if United's opener came courtesy of good fortune, their next was the result of audacity, mixed with high ability.To even think of going for goal from the spot when Robin van Persie had clattered into Ronaldo would be dismissed by most professionals as foolhardy.Yet, in Porto three weeks ago, the world player of the year drove home a shot measured at exactly 39.1 yards. As Ronaldo stepped back and waited from even further out, ready to unleash his missile, Almunia knew what to expect.Indeed, it could be argued that from such distances, not goalkeeper should be beaten.But as Ronaldo let fly, with venom, and watched his shot dip and flicker, Almunia was powerless to prevent it ripping into the net.If three was unlikely, four was an impossibility, turning the remaining 79 minutes into an extended wake, leaving Arsene Wenger on the bench wondering what had hit him, knowing his Champions League obsession will not end in Roman triumph.In fairness, Arsenal tried to rally. It was just that by pushing forward, they left wide open gaps that United are too experienced to ignore.Almunia's fingertips denied Wayne Rooney, Ronaldo's header from the corner whistled wide, then two more free-kicks from the latter were saved.When the Portuguese player cut inside Emmanuel Eboue, on as a half-time replacement to put Gibbs out of his misery, the shot would have found the bottom corner had Almunia not denied him.There was nothing the Spaniard could do when United attacked again, Ronaldo supplying the finish to Rooney's cross.As his players cavorted in glee, Ferguson ordered them to tone down their celebrations out of respect to the hosts.It was the only mercy the Red Devils showed all night, although for Fletcher there was a nasty sting in the tail.The Scot got studs on the ball before sending Fabregas flying in the penalty area, earning him a red card which will rule him out of the final. Van Persie impressively converted the spot-kick - but it was little consolation for Arsenal.

Fergie rues Fletcher's unwarranted red card

Sir Alex Ferguson hopes Italian referee Roberto Rosetti will hold up his hands and admit he made a mistake after his red card dumped Darren Fletcher out of the Champions League final.

But Ferguson will not be demanding the official looks again at the incident which the United boss described as a ''tragedy'' and which was the one sour note on a glorious night for Manchester United as they humiliated Arsenal 3-1 at the Emirates to clinch a 4-1 aggregate victory in a dramatic semi-final.

United now go to Rome on May 27 in a bid to become the first side to successfully defend their Champions League title. But unless there is an unprecedented decision by UEFA, Fletcher will not be there after he was adjudged to have brought down Cesc Fabregas in the penalty area.

Without an appeals process in place, Fletcher has no grounds to contest the decision and will definitely miss the final in Rome. It also evoked memories of the bans imposed on Roy Keane and Paul Scholes who missed the 1999 Champions League final against Bayern Munich after picking up yellow cards in United's semi-final second leg against Juventus

Ruthless United reach Rome

Manchester United will go to Rome to defend their Champions League trophy after beating Arsenal 3-1 at the Emirates. Two early goals from Park Ji-Sung and Ronaldo killed the tie off in the first half, before Ronaldo sealed the win and Robin Van Persie netted a consolation

Man Utd linked with £62.5m bid for Bayern's Ribery

Manchester United are reported to have tabled a £62.5m bid to Bayern Munich to secure the services of French midfielder Franck Ribery as a contingency should Cristiano Ronaldo leave for Real Madrid this summer.

The Guardian report that United made the offer some weeks ago after club scouts repeatedly watched the 26-year-old in action.

The offer, which would smash the current world record transfer of £44m set in 2001 when Real Madrid signed Zinedine Zidane from Juventus, would only come into effect if Ronaldo leaves for the Bernabeu.

Ferguson expected to task Man Utd to get goals

Sir Alex Ferguson will order his Manchester United team to go for goals as they look to secure a place in the Champions League final at Arsenal on Tuesday night.

Despite dominating the first leg at Old Trafford last week, United travel to the Emirates Stadium with just a single-goal advantage.

Crucially, however, they did not concede a precious away goal, meaning if they do score against Arsene Wenger's men, the Gunners would need three to set up a meeting with either Chelsea or Barcelona in Rome on May 27.

Ferguson to hit Arsenal on the counter-attack

Lessons learned in countless European campaigns will ensure Manchester United attack Arsenal the right way in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final second leg, their manager Alex Ferguson said on Monday.

United given Ferdinand boost

Manchester United have been given a major lift ahead of their Champions League semi-final with Arsenal as Rio Ferdinand returned to training. The England defender suffered damage to his ribs and a bruised lung at Old Trafford last week

Ronaldo: Real Madrid transfer ''dream'' is dead

Cristiano Ronaldo has delivered Manchester United a huge boost ahead of a crucial period in this season by declaring a move to Real Madrid is no longer in his thoughts.

Madrid made huge efforts to sign the midfielder last summer and the player himself refused to rule out the move, admitting his dream was to one day move to Spain.

Sir Alex Ferguson stood firm and made sure Ronaldo did not leave United, and he has once again helped the club to the brink of another Premier League title.

However, the rumours of a Real move for the World Player of the Year have refused to go away, with former Madrid president Ramon Calderon intimating a deal was already in place for this summer.

But now Ronaldo has come out and stressed that he is no longer thinking about a 'dream' move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

"I'm no longer thinking of Madrid. That dream is dead," he told The People. "The only thing I dream about now is Manchester United and winning the Champions League again in Rome."

Ronaldo has three years left on his current deal after he penned a five-year deal in 2007, but Madrid are still expected to return in the summer with a £70m bid for the Portuguese star.

MIDDLESBROUGH vs MANCHESTER UNITED PICTURES