GILL EXPECTS CITY SWOOP

GILL EXPECTS CITY SWOOP

Manchester United chief executive David Gill expects cash-rich neighbours Manchester City to "make some moves" as the recession begins to bite.

Backed by the vast wealth of the Abu Dhabi-backed consortium now in charge, the Eastlands outfit smashed the British transfer record to land Robinho on transfer deadline day.

Yet the results since Robinho's arrival have been mixed. Wednesday night's defeat at Middlesbrough leaves the Blues anchored in mid-table, with the prospect of a place in next season's Champions League looking highly unlikely.

However, Gill does not believe the Blues will be dismissed so easily. And, as other clubs tighten their belts, he expects to see City's owners flex their financial muscle in the transfer market.

"Clearly, going into a recession, it would be naive to think they won't make some moves and have some sort of impact," said Gill.

"We will have to wait and see with Manchester City because whilst they clearly have a lot of money they have also pulled back from the rhetoric of the first guy who said they were going to buy this or that player for a lot of money."

Gill was referring to Dr Sulaiman Al Fahim, who suggested City would be willing to pay ฃ135million for Cristiano Ronaldo.

Al Fahim has since been silenced as the Blues adopt a more reasoned and pragmatic stance.

Gill accepts United's neighbours cannot easily be dismissed, although he is happy to play on the rich traditions and success of his own club.

"We have to sell Manchester United; our history and heritage, our fantastic stadium and all the other assets we have," he said.

"It doesn't just boil down to money. Clearly it is important.

"But it is how you spend the money, how you invest with it, what you do with it. Having those budgets and parameters."

It does mean that while City have the wealth to buy who they want, United must do detailed homework in an effort to keep errors to a minimum.

"We can't go into a deal on the basis we sign someone for ฃ20million but if it doesn't work out you can sell him a couple of years later for ฃ5million," he said.

"We have had some unsuccessful players but we work on the principle that we cannot afford to make a mistake.

"Every player is looked at very closely and goes through a lot of scrutiny before we write the cheque."

Calderon dig at "old" Fergie

Calderon dig at "old" Fergie

The war of words between Real Madrid and Manchester United has continued with president Ramon Calderon having a sly dig at Sir Alex Ferguson's age.

The 66-year-old Manchester United manager claimed Real only signed Gabriel Heinze because he is friends with Cristiano Ronaldo and would help lure the Portugal international to the Bernabeu.

Ferguson also described the Madrid giants as General Franco's club after winning his battle to keep his brilliant winger at Old Trafford.

"I'm not going to waste any time answering him," Calderon told Marca.

"I admire his record, but he is getting old."

Calderon has attempted to broker better relations with The Red Devils after the messy transfer saga this summer by claiming he would no longer be pursuing Ronaldo, who scored twice in Wednesday night's win against West Ham.

Ferguson questions Blatter

Ferguson questions Blatter

Sir Alex Ferguson believes FIFA president Sepp Blatter is in danger of becoming an object of ridicule after he likened the Cristiano Ronaldo saga to "modern slavery."

In July Blatter said Ronaldo should be allowed to leave Manchester United for Real Madrid if he wanted, suggesting players are slaves to their clubs. The Portugal winger eventually stayed at Old Trafford but Ferguson has hit out at the 72-year-old.

In an interview with GQ Magazine published in The Times, Ferguson said: "I think Sepp Blatter is in danger...or has reached a point now where he is being mocked within the game."

He added: "Whether he is getting too old, I don't know.

"But things can happen to people in power. Look at some of the despots in Africa."

While denying he was likening Blatter to a dictator, he went on: "That would be ridiculous. All I'm saying is that, from a position of great power, he has uttered so many ridiculous statements that he is in danger of seriously damaging his credibility.

"So when he came out with that stuff it created a furore and rightly so, the year after the commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the abolition of slavery."

Driven Ronaldo peaks early

Driven Ronaldo peaks early

Cristiano Ronaldo always knew he would be the world number one - he just never expected it to be so soon.

The Manchester United winger got his hands on the first of what is expected to be a host of major player-of-the-year accolades when he collected the FIFPro award from Sir Alex Ferguson on Monday.

"I did think that maybe I would become the best player in the world one day." he said. "But I am still young and if I am being honest, I did not think I would reach this level so quickly."

The Portugal star added: "I always believed in my talent, I am an ambitious player. I try to improve every season, not because I have to prove myself to anyone, just because I want to be the best I can be."

With the honour comes attention and scrutiny that previous winners Ronaldinho and Kaka had to deal with.

Now it is Ronaldo's turn, a fact not made any easier by the summer transfer saga involving Real Madrid.

It means any sign of unrest is being seized upon, which is why his non-celebration against West Brom last week was such big news.

"People are always writing things about me. It is up to them," he said.

"If I smile, it is because I smile. If I don't, it is because I don't. All I want to do is play well and do my best."

Ronaldo wins world vote and commits to United

Ronaldo wins world vote and commits to United

Cristiano Ronaldo has been named FIFPro World Footballer of the Year. It is the first in what is expected to be a host of individual honours for the 23-year-old, who scored 42 goals for Manchester United on their way to Champions League and Premier League title success last term.


Ronaldo had suggested last week he could do no more than he did to be crowned the best player on the planet, and players from more than 40 countries are in agreement.

At £12.2m – a sum many observers initially claimed was vastly inflated for an unproven youngster – Ronaldo has proved to be a bargain since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon in 2003, growing steadily into the most influential player in the United team.

It is anticipated that he will also win the Balon d'Or and the Fifa World Player of the Year award, with the Portugal international – who has also been named in FIFPro's world team of the year – keen to remain at Old Trafford for another couple of seasons at the very least.

"I insist that I am a Manchester United player and now I think that next year I will continue here," Ronaldo told Spanish newspaper Marca.

Although Sir Alex Ferguson has twice been forced to intervene to keep Ronaldo at the club – immediately after the 2006 World Cup and last summer as Real Madrid made their bid to get him – the player seems committed to helping United win further honours, even if his lack of goal celebrations recently has been the subject of debate.

Ronaldo admitted that Ferguson played a huge part in his decision to commit his immediate future to the Red Devils following this summer's transfer speculation.

"He has been a key person. I respect him a lot, because it was him who signed me and he has played a very important part in all that I have won," said Ronaldo. "In Lisbon I reached an agreement with him and it was decided that the best thing for all was to continue.

"He listened to my arguments and I listened to his. Now I understand that it was the correct decision. I am with Manchester United body and soul."

Ronaldo's United team-mate Wayne Rooney will not be the subject of a Football Association investigation following his badge-kissing at Goodison Park on Saturday.

Ferguson admitted he substituted Rooney for his own good at the weekend after the striker became increasingly frustrated during Manchester United's 1-1 draw with Everton.

Rooney was booked for a foul on Mikel Arteta and, with tempers starting to fray, Ferguson hauled the England man off. He responded by kissing his badge, a move which clearly could be regarded as inflammatory at his former club.

However, the FA has confirmed it will not be investigating the matter further as the referee Alan Wiley saw the incident at the time and had a quiet word with Rooney.

Ferguson had been critical of Wiley's officiating, suggesting the referee had not done enough to maintain control. He said: "I don't think the referee protected our players enough. I don't know what the game's coming to with some of the tackles going in. With the ferocity of the challenges, somebody's going to get a bad injury."

Global elite FIFPro's world team of the year

*Iker Casillas (Real Madrid) Captained Spain to Euro 2008 success. Also won La Liga

*Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid) Won Euro 2008 and La Liga

*John Terry (Chelsea) Captained Chelsea to Champions League final

*Carles Puyol (Barcelona) Rock at the back for Spain during Euro 2008

*Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United) Won Premier League and Champions League

*Xavi (Barcelona) Named Uefa's player of the tournament at Euro 2008

*Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) Fine season

*Kaka (Milan) World Player of the Year '07

*Fernando Torres (Liverpool) 33 goals for his new club and scored winning goal of Euro 2008

*Lionel Messi (Barcelona) Impressed again

*Christiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)

Ronaldo huffs and puffs in tame 'Battle of Britain'

Ronaldo huffs and puffs in tame 'Battle of Britain'

Everyone needs to be sent from the trenches with some extra spirit on the night of a Battle of Britain, and that's why they changed the Old Trafford protocol last night. The usual gladiatorial anthem was deemed inadequate so each stand was asked, in turn, to deliver its show of vocal support for Manchester United.


Cristiano Ronaldo was trooping down the tunnel after Dimitar Berbatov with a face like thunder at the time. He's been at Old Trafford for five years, long enough to know the difference between England and Scotland – even if he does wear his socks up around his thighs like stockings. Not the way they did in British battles of yore.

The United manger had done his bit as well, needling Celtic with his talk of how hard it is to win titles "down here" and indulging in his usual tricks by suggesting Ronaldo might not play. "We are looking at the situation and whether we might bring Nani in for this," were his words on the subject. He kept to his words on that – but played Ronaldo as well.

Yet the Scottish threat which presented itself was hardly a battle, as your grandfather knew the meaning of the word. Aiden McGeady, one of Gordon Strachan's many diddymen weaved around a bit and twice Shunsuke Nakamura stood over a dead ball in a vaguely threatening way.

But the the Old Trafford clock was beaming out 8.25 – six minutes to half time – when the first tackle befitting the history of cross-border conflict – collapsed Wembley goalposts, 1977 and all that – came in. Thump. Nani floored and Scott Brown moving away, quite legitimately, with the ball.

Why was this? Why not the sound and fury we saw two winters ago when the man with the warrior name, Jan Venegoor of Hesselink, sent Celtic ahead at Old Trafford and all hell let loose? Because the economics of football have divided United and Celtic too, now. It evidently wasn't kidology from Gordon Strachan when he held his head in his hands and said that United "scared" him. "Premier League? You're having a laugh," went the United chant minutes soon after Berbatov tapped in the rebound after Ronaldo's 51st minute free-kick.

Ronaldo certainly wasn't laughing. He said this week that he was at "the right club with the right players", but before the allure of Real Madrid presented itself he would have been jumping on Berbatov after a goal like that. Here, he stood still and trudged away from the team-mates who mobbed him, not a flicker of emotion across his face. The United supporters read this. They screamed at him to work when he gave up on one John O'Shea pass which ran just out of his reach.

Celtic's support did their best with what they had. "You'll never walk alone," went the green and white anthem, which they knew would earn an Old Trafford response – and did. But it was manufactured kind of enmity. United's fans countered with "we want five". And that's precisely what their team deserved.

Fergie: Rooney can be world's best

Fergie: Rooney can be world's best

Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced Wayne Rooney can mount a challenge for the world footballer of the year crown in 2009.

Manchester United could be celebrating a winner of the prestigious award this year as Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the front runners for the prize following his stellar efforts for The Red Devils last term.

Ronaldo has been put in the shade in the first couple of months of the season by the sizzling displays of Rooney and Ferguson is convinced that provided the England star remains on the goals trail, he can challenge for the prize.

"Wayne is capable of getting to that level," said Ferguson.

"Both him and Cristiano were teenagers when they came to us but their progress has been fantastic.

"The only reason we are not talking about Wayne at the same level as Cristiano is the fact one of them scored 42 goals last season. That is why Cristiano should win the Ballon D'Or.

"If Wayne can get to that sort of level, he is there."

Real target Cristiano and Leo

Real target Cristiano and Leo

Juan Villalonga, a candidate for Real Madrid’s presidency, has named Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Kaka as his transfer targets.

The Spaniard is a huge fan of former Real chief Florentino Perez and he plans to build for the second time a team composed of world stars – 'Los Galacticos 2'.

Even if a first attempt to unite all the best attackers in the same side proved to be a failure, Villalonga dreams of giving a second chance to this concept if he beats current chairman Ramon Calderon during the next vote.

“Players such as Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo or Kaka should be playing for Real Madrid,” Villalonga told COPE. “Florentino’s model must be imitated. He is an example.

“I have called him to say I want to propose an alternative option, but this is from my initiative. I respect and admire Florentino. We must continue what he started.

“We have to sign talented players when they are young. We have to take them at the bottom and send them to the top. Mixing academy players and world stars is the plan, the perfect combination.”

Zinedine Zidane should be named Real Madrid’s academy chief according to the ambitious Villalonga, who said: “I would convince him in only ten minutes.

“I do not want to use veterans for their name but I want to give them an active role. I am at the top of my businessman's life and I know how to make Real Madrid a strong company.”

Ferguson rebuffs Ronaldo disquiet

Ferguson rebuffs Ronaldo disquiet

The stepovers and the sunny smiles have vanished but Cristiano Ronaldo is struggling with fitness, rather than restlessness at a road not taken this summer, his manager insisted yesterday.


Sir Alex Ferguson refused to enter any discussion on Ronaldo's present state of mind while discussing Celtic's arrival at Old Trafford in the Champions League tonight but despite his inclination to start him against the Scottish champions – which flies in the face of impressions he gave at his press conference – the United manager has revealed how the 23-year-old is in the midst of a bleak struggle with fitness.

It was Carlos Queiroz, Ferguson's assistant until he was appointed coach of the Portugal national side in July, who appears to have alerted Ferguson last Saturday to the full extent of the player's struggle to recuperate from the surgery to his right ankle which he underwent three months ago. "[Carlos] said he felt that Cristiano was still finding it difficult to recover for a Wednesday game after a Saturday game," Ferguson said. "He had played for Portugal against Sweden on the Saturday and Carlos said he was unbelievable – his decision-making, maturity, everything was at the top of his game. But against Albania on the Wednesday, he was flat because he is still trying to find the recovery thing properly." This certainly provides one explanation of why Ronaldo could not even summon a smile after scoring against West Bromwich on Saturday.

What wouldn't Ferguson give for Queiroz to be around at this stage in Ronaldo's United career? He considered his No 2 critical to the contentment of United's Portuguese-speaking contingent and Ronaldo's certainly remains a worry for many. Ferguson's prickliness about suggestions that the Portuguese might remain at United in body but not in spirit, following the talking-to he gave him in Lisbon at the height of the Real Madrid love-in, in July, raised a few more doubts yesterday – while Ronaldo again cut a solemn figure when he went on to the club's TV station last night to assert, rather unconvincingly, that he is committed to United. "I think I'm an ambitious person, not just in football but in normal life," he said. "If I have an opportunity to be better than I am I will try to be. I'm at the right club playing with the right players."

Rooney leads United to win

Rooney leads United to win

Wayne Rooney’s rich vein of form continued on Saturday evening as he inspired Manchester United to a 4-0 win over West Brom at Old Trafford.

In a game shown live on Setanta Sports the England international netted one goal and created two as United outplayed their gallant opponents.

Rooney opened the scoring shortly after the start of the second half with a low shot past Scott Carson, and he then played Cristiano Ronaldo in for the winger to double United’s lead.

Dimitar Berbatov netted his first league goal for United and Rooney then teed Nani up for a simple fourth as United put the gloss on a well-deserved victory.

There was no doubting how this game would play out at Old Trafford and it took its shape early on, with United pressing and West Brom soaking up pressure. When they did get the ball Tony Mowbray’s side passed it well, but they lacked the final push that their hosts had.

Ronaldo set to work on Gianni Zuiverloon and Rooney showed glimpses of the form that has garnered such praise this season. The England international, fresh from his midweek exploits in Belarus, had a goal disallowed on 23 minutes as the first real chance of the game came United’s way.

Ronaldo threaded a ball into the forward, who shunted Zuiverloon off before cutting inside Ryan Donk and placing the ball past Carson. Referee Mark Halsey deemed Rooney had fouled Zuiverloon however, and awarded a free-kick to the visitors.

Shortly after that Rooney had a near-post header saved by Carson as he met a free-kick from the left, and he was again involved when he nipped into the West Brom area and fed Ronaldo who was crowded out.

Rafael da Silva – handed his first Premier League start by Sir Alex Ferguson – impressed at right back where he was preferred over Wes Brown and Gary Neville, and his marauding runs forward were a constant threat.

Ronaldo directed a header wide before half time and Ryan Giggs fired a ball into Rooney which he laid off for Berbatov, but a clear-cut chance in front of goal would just not come before the break. Ronaldo flashed a delivery across the face of goal but there was no killer touch as the sides went in goalless at the interval.

United upped the ante in the second half and Berbatov provided a cross that Rooney failed to connect properly with as the hosts sought an opener. Rooney made full and deliberate contact with a shot moments later that Carson pumped away with strong arms, and after 10 minutes of exertion United finally took the lead.

A counter attack caught West Brom cold as Ronaldo brought the ball out of defence and allowed Berbatov to take possession, and his pass set Rooney down the left channel. A swift cut inside Donk provided enough space for a low shot to Carson’s right, and United were in front.

Carson thwarted Rooney once more at his left post as a first-time strike was turned round the post, and United doubled their lead 20 minutes from time through Ronaldo. Rooney was central again as he played the killer pass that set the Portuguese winger in to slide the ball under Carson for 2-0.

Immediately after Berbatov struck as Nani’s deflected cross fell into his path at close range, and a lazily dangled right leg diverted the ball home for his first league goal for United.

United kicked on from there and there was the real prospect that West Brom could be hit for a few more.

Giggs drifted in a free-kick from the right which Nani got a faint head on – that took the ball wide and just beyond John O’Shea’s reach, and Berbatov almost found himself in on goal but for Donk’s intervention late on.

Ishmael Miller almost bagged what would have been a spectacular consolation when he let rip from 25 yards, but his venomous shot flew inches wide of Edwin van der Sar’s right post.

There was time for a fourth from United and it was well worked to stretch West Brom out of position. Berbatov played Rooney down the right and he slid the ball to the far post for Nani to tap home.

STAR MAN: Wayne Rooney (9/10). A goal and two assists sums up his input and impact. Rooney was at the centre of everything and at times was a step ahead of even his own team-mates. A superb man-of-the-match performance.

Rooney: I've never played better

Rooney: I've never played better

Wayne Rooney helped destroy West Brom at Old Trafford - then claimed he was in the best form of his career.

The Manchester United forward has now scored eight goals in six games following his strike in the 4-0 win. He also collected two assists as Portugal pair Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani added their names to the scoresheet, along with Dimitar Berbatov.

And, with Celtic due in the Champions League on Tuesday, Rooney admitted he was at his peak.

"This is possibly the best form of my career," said Rooney.

"Everything is going well for me at the moment. Hopefully that can continue and I can help this team win even more trophies."

Rooney's efforts helped eclipse a disappointing opening period for the Red Devils, who dominated throughout but drew a blank as referee Mark Halsey ruled out what appeared to be a perfectly good goal from the England man for a foul on Gianni Zuiverloon.

"From the position the referee was in, I can understand why he didn't give it," said manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

"Wayne did have a hand on the lad's shoulder but he did not pull him. You can see it from the TV replays but obviously the referee does not have that advantage."

A capacity crowd did not need to look again to see the damage Rooney could cause.

Following his World Cup qualifying exploits for England, Rooney carried on where he left off, collecting Berbatov's short pass before slotting in a fine solo effort that ended the brave resistance of West Brom keeper Scott Carson.

"Wayne is only 22," said Ferguson.

"We expect him to improve, as we did with Ronaldo.

"But he is a member of the team, just like everyone else."

Ferguson does feel his side are now starting to find their feet after a difficult start to the campaign.

For the first time, they have joined Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal in the top four, from where Ferguson is convinced the champions will emerge.

"I don't think we have given them a warning tonight," said Ferguson.

"I think we provided that before the season began. We won the league last year - and the European Cup.

"Those three teams know the quality in our side, just as we know the quality in theirs.

"It is a fantastic league and any one of the four could win it."

Ferguson did confirm Patrice Evra is a doubt for the Celtic game after going off with a tight hamstring, although that did little to dampen the enthusiasm of a fifth straight win.

The final scoreline was a harsh judgment on West Brom's battling qualities, although it did not surprise Tony Mowbray.

"That is what can happen in matches like this," said the Baggies boss.

"We are coming up against teams who can spend £30million on strikers, which is where it matters.

"There is no shame in the result for us. Wayne Rooney is a world-class player - and they have five or six of them."

Same future for Ruud and Ron

Same future for Ruud and Ron

Ruud van Nistelrooy has revealed Real Madrid tried to lure him out of Manchester United a number of times, and he understands the Spaniards are doing the same with Cristiano Ronaldo.

Van Nistelrooy claims he was in a similar situation as Ronaldo and finally joined Los Merengues in 2006.

As a consequence he thinks that the Portuguese will be recruited from the Old Trafford outfit next year.

“(When I was at United) I almost signed with Real Madrid several times,” he told a press conference. “I didn’t say it before because it was pretty much similar as Cristiano’s situation.

“I did score 80 goals in 100 games and Madrid planned to sign me, but United said they should wait a bit, and they are now doing the same with Cristiano.

“As far as I’m concerned I believe we will sign him next year. He wants to come down here and when a player wants to leave, keeping him is hard.

“We will be team-mates again. He is a spectacular player at the age of 23.”

The Manchester United legend commented on Sir Alex Ferguson’s character, and he said: “He only speaks Scottish. It becomes difficult when what he expects do not happen.

“He is a nice person, but he can change and send you a boot in the face. He has been at United for 25 years and rules there."

The striker has revealed he plans to carry on playing football for three or four more years, as he still feels capable of showing his best level.

“I am 32, played 15 seasons and I am thinking of retiring at when I turn 35 or 36. I feel good physically, and that is why I retired from international football, in order to be able to rest and be available for Real Madrid.

“This decision was tough to make because my head told me something and my heart the contrary. I still do not feel tired regarding my age.

“At Madrid we work with doctors and make many tests, they control us a lot.”

Raul backs Cristiano Real move

Raul backs Cristiano Real move|

Real Madrid icon Raul has revealed he would love Cristiano Ronaldo to move to Real Madrid but he is not the one that will make the decision it despite his untouchable status at the club.

The Spaniard understands Ronaldo was close to move to the Santiago Bernabeu in the summer and he would have welcomed the Manchester United star with open arms.

But Raul claims he is not the one that takes such decisions, whereas the domestic media believe he is consulted by his employers regarding signings.

“It looked like it was going to happen after some conversations,” Raul told As.

“This looked good to me, but I am not the one that took the decision.”

QUEIROZ SETS SIGHTS ON ALBANIA WIN

QUEIROZ SETS SIGHTS ON ALBANIA WIN

Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz is confident his team can get their World Cup qualifying campaign back on track, starting against Albania on Wednesday.

Queiroz's men have four points from their opening three fixtures in Group One, and lost their previous home game to Denmark 3-2.

That was followed by a frustrating 0-0 draw against Sweden at the weekend, but Queiroz is hopeful his team will turn things around.

He said: "For one reason or another, the national team hasn't quite reached it's full potential.

"But I have no doubt we will qualify. With the players we have, obviously it's possible."

A slip-up against Albania would be a major shock. Portugal have won on all three previous meetings and the visitors are likely to be without key striker Hamdih Salihi.

If Portugal win it could be enough to take them to the top of the group - depending on the score between Hungary and Malta - with Denmark and Sweden not in action on Wednesday.

Manchester United winger Nani is aware Portugal will need to throw all they have at the Albanians.

"It's going to be a difficult game, but we'll be at home, in front of our fans," he said.

"The right conditions are there for us to play on the attack and score goals. We want to show our style of football.

"We have players who can unlock defences, with the ability to make a difference. They are the ones who should fear us."

Portugal have scored just twice since putting four past Malta in the opening group game but the return of Cristiano Ronaldo has been a boost for Queiroz, who expects his captain to lead by example.

Albania will provide a stern test though having already held Sweden at home and are level on points with Portugal in the group table.

Queiroz is missing Maniche, Deco, Ricardo Carvalho and Simao Sabrosa from the squad due to injury.

Hungary face Malta in Wednesday's other game in Group One and also have a chance to go top after getting their qualifying campaign off the ground with victory over Albania last Saturday.

Malta are yet to score a goal in the competition having lost all three of their matches so far.

Schuster retains hope of Ronaldo deal

Schuster retains hope of Ronaldo deal

Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster is hopeful that Cristiano Ronaldo will be wearing the Spanish giants' colours this time next year.

Madrid's pursuit of Ronaldo this summer was one of the most protracted and high-profile transfer sagas of recent years, but it ultimately ended in disappointment for the Primera Liga champions with the Portugal winger opting to remain at Manchester United.

"I think that next year it is going to be a little more complicated for his club to retain him. There is hope that next year he could be with us," said Schuster.

"You need to do everything possible (to sign Ronaldo) because this player is worth it," added the German, who felt Madrid had a decent chance of landing Ronaldo this summer.

"Since the start I thought it was possible although difficult. Possible because the player really showed an interest.

"His class, his position on the right wing and in other areas of the pitch, his work in attack. He would have been an important signing. He didn't come, but this is the team we have here now and we need to have complete faith in them."

Madrid's summer pursuit of Ronaldo came following a remarkable year of success for the Portuguese ace, who in helping United claim a Premier League and Champions League double struck a remarkable 42 goals.

For Schuster that should result in Ronaldo being rewarded with the Ballon d'Or - the award given to Europe's top footballer of the year - even though his own goalkeeper at Madrid Iker Casillas is also in the running to win the title.

"I think that this year Cristiano Ronaldo deserves it. He was the leading scorer in Europe with 42 goals, has won the league and Champions League...that should be sufficient," Schuster said in Marca.

"He didn't do so well with the national team (at Euro 2008), but this was due to Spain and Germany."

Real keen to make new Ronaldo bid

Real keen to make new Ronaldo bid

Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster has revealed that the Spanish giants hope to have signed Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo by next summer.

Ronaldo, 23, was heavily linked with a move to Real earlier this year but the Spanish side eventually had to admit defeat in their bid to sign the winger.

But Schuster is determined to make a new approach at the end of the season.

"We must do everything possible as it would be worth it to have this player," Schuster told Spanish newspaper Marca.

"I think this year it will be a little complicated for his club to hang on to him."

United remain committed to keeping the Portuguese player at the club at least until his current contract expires in 2012 and it would take a huge bid from Real to seriously test their resolve.

Tony Soprano's Cigar

However, Schuster believes that although Real would have to pay a big fee to land Ronaldo it could be lower than the 90 million euros that was mooted this summer.

"There is no other solution other than to make a large bid as they'll not let him go on the cheap," he said. "Next year the price could be a little lower."

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has already stated that he expects Real to make a fresh approach but has warned them that the result will be the same.

Ronaldo is also reported to be wanted by United's neighbours Manchester City following their acquisition by the Abu Dhabi United Group.

However, United chief executive David Gill said that he was taking suggestions of a £135m bid with a "pinch of salt" when interviewed by BBC Radio 5 Live in September.

Ronaldo has only recently returned to the United team after missing the start of the season as he recovered from ankle surgery.

He admitted after Euro 2008 that he had been playing with the problem for several weeks and subsequently missed the first month of the current campaign, returning as a substitute in the Champions League draw with Villarreal.

Ronaldo will join Real, says Ruud

Ronaldo will join Real, says Ruud

Cristiano Ronaldo will join Real Madrid in the near future, according to Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy.

The Dutchman, currently on the books of the Spanish giants, believes his former team-mate will join him at the Santiago Bernabeu next summer or in 2010.

Van Nistelrooy is believed to have had a massive argument with the Portuguese during their time at Old Trafford, but it appears the former Holland international would warmly welcome Ronaldo to the Spanish capital.

“One day Ronaldo will join us,” Van Nistelrooy told Marca. “This could happen next summer, or the one after.”

The Dutch hit-man remains a prolific goalscorer at the age of 32, he has found the back of the net five times so far this season, and he has set his sights on winning the Champions League before his career is over.

“Winning it one day is my dream,” he said. “And Real Madrid can do it with all their great players.”

RONALDO PUTS COUNTRY FIRST

RONALDO PUTS COUNTRY FIRST

Cristiano Ronaldo insists he will play anywhere for Portugal, just so long as he is in the team.

Ronaldo has returned to the national squad for the first time since Euro 2008 as he has now recovered from ankle surgery.

He missed Portugal's opening World Cup qualifiers against Malta and Denmark but is ready for the forthcoming clashes with Sweden and Albania.

Former Manchester United number two Carlos Queiroz is now coach of Portugal and it is the first time the two will have worked together at national level.

"To be honest I have really missed being with the international side, and now we have Carlos Queiroz here," he said.

"Carlos is someone I have worked with for many years and I know him well. I am a fan and love the way he works."

After defeat to the Danes, Queiroz's side need maximum points from their next two games and that could see Ronaldo played through the middle.

Even though he would rather be out wide, he insists he will play wherever he is told.

"If you have to perform a function, I will do it with all my pride," he said.

"For me it is just a privilege to be in the side."

Ronaldo admits Portugal cannot afford any more slip-ups.

"From here onwards it will be complicated and we cannot lose any more games as we did against Denmark," he said.

"It was a shame that was the result [3-2] in the end as I thought the team played well, but we know it will become increasingly difficult and I just hope we qualify."

While Ronaldo returns, Atletico Madrid's Simao Sabrosa has been left out due to injury, though Chelsea's Deco has been included despite being sidelined for his club with a muscle tear.

His Chelsea team-mate Ricardo Carvalho also misses out and is replaced by Sporting Lisbon's Tonel.

Rooney's magic helps Ferguson put Ince in place

Rooney's magic helps Ferguson put Ince in place

Whatever else he hoped to achieve as a manager, starting a game in October four places and two points ahead of Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United was something for the former Old Trafford warrior Paul Ince to savour. By half past seven last night, however, his old club were not only back in front after a comfortable victory, but also in the top six for the first time this season. Moving to Liverpool appears to have cost Ince his hero status as well. "Charlie, Charlie, what's the score?" United's supporters chorused at the man Ferguson once called a "big-time Charlie" – for which he had the good grace to apologise on Friday.


Wes Brown, who had won back his place at right-back from Gary Neville and Rafael da Silva, nudged them ahead with a bitterly disputed goal, but there was no arguing with the second one, scored by Wayne Rooney, which provided a bonus for the England manager Fabio Capello. He had rushed from watching Emile Heskey at Wigan to Ewood Park, to see Rooney unexpectedly start and give an outstanding performance. Having broken his scoring duck in midweek, Dimitar Berbatov was equally good, providing all the craft as a leader of the line that Ferguson had hoped for when acting as taxi-driver to facilitate the Bulgarian's £30m move from Tottenham on the last day of the summer transfer window.

The champions made light of persistent driving rain as well as an apparent shortage of midfield options in the absence of three England internationals, Michael Carrick, Owen Hargreaves and Paul Scholes all hors de combat. With Darren Fletcher and Anderson sitting in central midfield and an attacking trio of Rooney, Ryan Giggs and Cristiano Ronaldo, Blackburn were only in the game for the first 25 minutes. It took longer than that nevertheless for United to force a save from Jason Brown in Rovers' goal. Being reserve to Brad Friedel must be the most redundant position in the Premier League after more than 150 successive appearances, but since Friedel's departure to Aston Villa, the replacement Paul Robinson has picked up an injury, offering Brown his chance.

He distinguished himself here by pushing Ryan Giggs' fierce drive over the bar. From the resulting corner, taken short on the left, Rooney's cross to the far side was met by the merest nudge from Wes Brown as Nemanja Vidic leant on the keeper. Jason Brown protested furiously but in vain and was soon having to fall at Rooney's feet to prevent a second goal as United assumed a grip on the game that they never relinquished.

Until that time, possession and chances had been equally distributed. There were good moments for the home side when Matt Derbyshire forced Edwin van der Sar to save following a low cross by Andre Ooijer and when Brett Emerton's 25-yard shot passed close by a post. At the other end Ronaldo, quickly establishing himself as the pantomime villain for the home supporters after playing unsuccessfully for two early free-kicks, showed greater determination in winning a corner on the left that flashed across the six-yard box, Vidic making only enough contact at the far post to jab the ball wide.

Then Berbatov deftly set up Darren Fletcher for a shot pulled across goal. The half finished with Rooney heading wide a cross by Brown and with several thousand United followers in good voice despite the rain. Ince appeared to be raising his voice, confronting the referee Steve Bennett to make his views known about why the goal should have been disallowed.

Despite having an excellent record when they make the short journey north to Bolton, United have normally had less joy up the A666 at Blackburn, winning only once in eight visits since 1999 before yesterday. Their prospects of a second success further improved soon after the interval, when Ince had to substitute Roque Santa Cruz, who had been more than holding his own in a physical battle with Vidic. Although his replacement Jason Roberts is just as vigorous a striker, Rovers were achieving nothing in attack and it was hardly a shock when United broke through again.

The goal was beautifully constructed from the moment that Berbatov, foraging deep in his own half, won the ball back. Brown carried it forward across the halfway line and found Ronaldo, who had switched to the right. The winger easily outpaced his full-back, Martin Olsson and cut back a cross for Rooney to curl right-footed high into the net. When Ronaldo wriggled in from the wing again just before full-time, Carlos Tevez, on for Giggs, struck a post. Three-nil would not have been flattering but two was more than sufficient.

FLETCHER LOVING UNITED LIFE

FLETCHER LOVING UNITED LIFE

Darren Fletcher has insisted there is nowhere he would rather be than Manchester United.

The midfielder signed a three-year extension to his United contract on Friday, a reward for the patience he has shown throughout his Old Trafford career.

At 24, Fletcher knows he could be a regular performer elsewhere.

Birmingham boss Alex McLeish - who knows all about Fletcher from his Scotland days - expressed an interest last January and boyhood idols Celtic would be keen on taking the Dalkeith-born player north if he ever suggested that as an option.

However, Fletcher has never made any secret of his desire to remain with United, the club he would have made his debut for as a 16-year-old if the Football Association had not intervened on the grounds he was still, technically, at school.

"It is a great honour to sign a new contract," he said.

"This is a fantastic club, the best in the world, and there is no place I would rather be.

"I know I did not start as many games as I would have liked last season but the manager thinks highly of me and I will keeping pushing for a run in the team."

Fletcher is experiencing a complete role reversal. Limited to only 11 starts last term, most of which came in the early rounds of the Champions League, the Scotland midfielder has made eight already this term, rarely dropping below the high standards he sets himself.

While he may not have the flair of Cristiano Ronaldo or be capable of the same devastating impact as Paul Scholes, Fletcher goes about his business in a quiet, efficient manner and has also added goalscoring to his list of attributes.

Fletcher has netted twice this season, although he probably should have had another instead of drilling wide when he was sent through by Dimitar Berbatov in the 2-0 win at Blackburn on Saturday.

"I am really enjoying myself at the moment," he said.

"There are a lot of midfielders at the club and I found games hard to come by last season.

"I picked up a few injuries at the wrong time and the form of Paul Scholes, Michael Carrick and Anderson meant it was hard to get into that midfield.

"But this season there have been injuries and disruptions. I have been given a chance and once you get a run in the team you tend to improve."

If Fletcher is viewed as one of the fringe men at United, he is a mainstay of the Scotland side.

His presence will be vital to their chances of victory against Norway on Saturday as, just like United, the Scots look to maintain their recovery from a bad start by winning the World Cup qualifier at Hampden Park.

"In a way I would like to keep going with Manchester United and keep the momentum going," said Fletcher.

"But everyone loves representing their country and I am no different.

"We lost our first game but we picked up three points against Iceland and now we play Norway, which is a must-win game for us."

Ronaldo expects Berba boost

Ronaldo expects Berba boost

Cristiano Ronaldo has warned that Manchester United are getting ready to hit top form as the team adapt to playing alongside Dimitar Berbatov.

The Bulgaria striker’s style of play differs greatly from that of Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez and it has taken a few games for him to settle in at Old Trafford.

But, after hitting two goals against Aalborg in the Champions League on Tuesday, Ronaldo is convinced he will go from strength to strength.

"It is always good for forwards to score and get their confidence up so it was important Dimitar got his first goals for Manchester United," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"Everyone knows he is a good player – we just need time to get used to him because we have not played together before and his style is different to Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney.

"In two or three games, we will be better."

Meanwhile, Ronaldo insists he is still up for the fight at United and has set his sights on a third successive league title.

"I am always ready for a challenge," he said. "This season is the same.

"I will try to do my best, play like I did last year and help Manchester United win the title. I don't know if I can do it, but I will try.

"I will do the same things again and hopefully opportunities will come.''

Ronaldo targets more glory

Ronaldo targets more glory

Cristiano Ronaldo is determined to help Manchester United retain the Barclays Premier League and Champions League trophies.

After returning to winning ways on the domestic front by beating Bolton on Saturday, the Red Devils also triumphed on the European stage on Tuesday night, firing three goals past Aalborg to take a decisive hold on one of the qualifying spots in Group E.

The good news for Sir Alex Ferguson was that Ronaldo started both games.

And the 23-year-old's tumultuous summer, during which at one stage he appeared certain to join Real Madrid, does not appear to have affected him and neither does his ankle operation.

At one point, Ronaldo indicated his desire to move on had been fuelled by United's success last term, leading to a belief he had done all he can at Old Trafford.

However, the former Sporting Lisbon winger now insists he still has plenty to prove and is keen to make an impression once more.

"I am always ready for a challenge," he said.

"This season is the same. I will try to do my best, play like I did last year and help Manchester United win the title.

"I don't know if I can do it but I will try.

"If you don't try you don't get anywhere.

"I will do the same things again and hopefully opportunities will come."

Given he missed the first month of the season following ankle surgery, it seems highly unlikely Ronaldo will repeat the 42-goal haul that seems certain to see him crowned world player of the year in December.

Not only is time against him, but he also has a new team-mate eager to find the net as well.

Indeed, Ronaldo set Dimitar Berbatov up for the Bulgarian's spectacular second at the Energi-Nord Arena and is looking forward to a productive relationship with the 27-year-old.

"It is always good for forwards to score and get their confidence up so it was important Dimitar got his first goals for Manchester United," said Ronaldo.

"Everyone knows he is a good player. We just need time to get used to him because we have not played together before and his style is different to Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney.

"In two or three games we will be better together. He is a fantastic player and I am sure he will help the team a lot."

Ronaldo insists United still have a long way to go before they reach their peak.

He could also say the same about himself as he believes it will be another three weeks before the little twinges he still gets in his ankle finally go away.

"It will be another two or three weeks before I can give 100 per cent," he said.

"I feel very good. There is good improvement there and I am very happy to be back.

"But my ankle has still not fully recovered. I still feel it a little bit.

"But the medical staff say that is normal and I feel very confident about the future."

The general feeling is Ronaldo will eventually leave, if not next summer then when 66-year-old Ferguson calls it a day.

Not that the Scot is going anywhere soon, as he made perfectly clear on Monday when he stated he would remain at United as long as he enjoyed the job and continued to feel fit and healthy.

Equally, Ronaldo seems to have settled down as well.

Clearly the bond between Ronaldo and Ferguson is strong, even though long-time assistant Carlos Queiroz, who has become a father figure to the player, has left to take charge of the Portugal national side.

"I feel very comfortable," said Ronaldo.

"I had my first game a couple of weeks ago against Villarreal and everyone appreciated the way I played.

"I feel very good in the club and I feel very happy. I want to carry on like that."