Gerard Piqué

2008-03-18T06:12:00.001-07:00

Fiebre Maldini 17/03/08 - Piqué interview

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2008-03-17T08:05:00.000-07:00

Watch "Fiebre Maldini "

Exclusive interview with Gerard Piqué. He will talk of Premier league experience, the beginning of his career at FC Barcelona B and his future. Tonight, 20:00 CET, Canal+ .

2008-03-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

Tuttosport - Piqué is the new target of Juventus

Two goals in Champions League, Under 21 Iberian player , but Gerard Piqué Bernabeu, feels excluded from Sir Alex Ferguson and therefore decided to don't accept the renewal of the contract offered by Manchester United . Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport claims that Juventus is “very close” to signing Gerard Piqué. The versatile young defender, who can play as a centre-back or right-back, has a contract which expires in June 2009. During the mission for Olof Mellberg, Alessio Secco ( Juventus ) met the agents of the Catalan defender.

2008-03-08T14:52:00.000-08:00

Middlesbrough Res. 1 Manchester United Res. 2

Middlesbrough: Jones; McMahon,Johnson,Shawky (Hillerby 45), Hines, Williams, Owens, Smallwood, Thompson (Franks 78), Lee (Porritt 78), Johnson.

Manchester United: Foster, Eckersley, Simpson, Chester, Piqué, Hewton, Possebon (Evans 75), Fagan (Bryan 78),Welbeck, Eagles, Cleverley.

Referee: Steven Cummins

Bookings:

Middlesbrough: Shawky, 30, diving, Smallwood, 69, foul

Man Utd: None

Attendance: 360

Conditions: Very Cold and still

2008-03-07T19:45:00.000-08:00

Champions League: Manchester United wins

Manchester United qualified for the Champions League quarter-finals after beating Lyon 1-0, taking the tie 2-1 on aggregate.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side had to endure a nervy second-half, however, as Lyon hit the post but his side hung on to equal Juventus' Champions League record of 10 straight home victories.

The winner came from Cristiano Ronaldo in the 41st minute - his 30th goal of the season in all competitions.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Fletcher, Carrick, Anderson (Tevez 70), Ronaldo (Hargreaves 90), Rooney,Nani.

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Saha, Park, Scholes, O'Shea.

Booked: Evra, Nani, Fletcher.

Goals: Ronaldo 41.

Lyon: Coupet, Clerc, Squillaci, Cris, Grosso, Ben Arfa, Juninho, Toulalan, Kallstrom (Fred 79), Govou (Keita 67), Benzema.

Subs Not Used: Vercoutre, Bodmer, Delgado, Mounier, Boumsong.

Booked: Grosso, Squillaci.

Agg (2-1)

Att: 75,521

Ref: Roberto Rosetti (Italy).

2008-03-04T18:57:00.000-08:00

Champions League - Manchester United v Lyon

The priority for Manchester United tonight will be to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Champions League but Sir Alex Ferguson's men will also have an added incentive when Lyon visit Old Trafford.

Only one team, Juventus, has ever won 10 successive Champions League games on their own ground and Ferguson's side will equal that 11-year record if they defeat the French champions inside a stadium that is gradually becoming recognised as the most impregnable fortress in Europe.

Venue: Old Trafford

Date: Tues 4 Mar

Kick-off: 19:45 GMT, 20:45 CET

2008-03-03T21:21:00.000-08:00

Garay vs Piqué

Manchester United have been contacted by the agents of Racing Santander defender Ezequiel Garay.

Santander would sell Garay but only if Gerard Piqué was also involved in the deal.

2008-03-03T18:56:00.000-08:00

Fulham 0 Man Utd 3

Manchester United beat Fulham 3-0 with goals from Ji-sung Park, Owen Hargreaves and an own goal. Alex Ferguson left Gerard Piqué on the substitutes' bench.

Fulham: Niemi, Stalteri, Hangeland, Hughes, Konchesky, Volz (Kamara 90), Johnson (Nevland 90), Bullard, Murphy (Smertin 64), Davies, McBride.

Subs Not Used: Keller, Bocanegra.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Evra, Ferdinand, Brown, O'Shea, Nani (Anderson 75), Scholes, Hargreaves, Park, Tevez (Ronaldo 69), Saha (Rooney 69).

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Piqué.

Goals: Hargreaves 15, Park 44, Davies 72 og.

Att: 25,314

Ref: Mike Dean (Wirral).

2008-02-27T04:41:00.001-08:00

Liverpool Res 2 Man Utd Res 0

Gerard Piqué played for Manchester United reserves in a 2-0 defeat at Liverpool on Tuesday night.

LIVERPOOL RES: Bouzanis, Darby, San Jose, Agger (Skrtel, 46), Insua, Flynn, Plessis, Spearing, Alonso, Kewell, Nemeth (Brouwer, 83).

MAN UTD RES: Heaton, Neville (Chester, 58), Piqué (Macheda, 70), Eckersley, Simpson, Cleverley, Possebon, Hewson, Eagles, Evans, Wellbeck.

2008-02-23T16:13:00.000-08:00

Newcastle United vs Manchester United

Sir Alex Ferguson has a full squad to select from ahead of the Reds' Premier League trip to Newcastle on Saturday, but the United boss is certain to make changes to keep a freshness to his side's play.

Date: Saturday, February 23.2.2008

Time:17:15 GMT,18:15 CET

Venue: St James’ Park (Newcastle)

2008-02-23T15:59:00.000-08:00

Lyon 1 Manchester United 1

Carlos Tevez rescued Manchester United scoring in 87th minute for final 1:1 draw in first leg of UEFA Champions League's second round.

Final score gives United much more chances in second leg.

Manchester United: Van der Sar; Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Ronaldo, Anderson, Hargreaves (Carrick 78), Scholes (Tevez 65), Giggs (Nani 65); Rooney.

Subs not used: Kuszczak, Piqué, Saha, O’Shea, Fletcher

Booked: Hargreaves

Lyon: Coupet; Reveillere, Squillaci, Boumsong, Grosso; Clerc (Ben Arfa 78), Juninho (Bodmer 74), Toulalan, Govou, Kallstrom; Benzema (Fred 83)

Subs not used: Vercoutre, Cris, Delgado, Keita

Booked: Reveillere, Kallstrom, Boumsong

2008-02-21T12:05:00.000-08:00

Piqué Back at Barca ?

Barcelona have held talks with the representatives of Manchester United defender Gerard Piqué.

AS says Barca sports director Txiki Begiristain is eager to sound out Pique about a return to the Nou Camp as talks stall over a deal for Racing Santander defender Ezequiel Garay.

Piqué quit Barca for United in 2004, but has found it difficult this season to break up the first-choice defensive pairing of Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand.

Spanish Translation

2008-02-20T07:09:00.000-08:00

Champions League – last 16 : Lyon - Manchester United

When: Wednesday, February 20, 20:45

Where: Stade Gerland, Lyon, France

Referee: Luis Medina Cantalejo (ESP)

2008-02-14T13:38:00.000-08:00

Pique plays waiting game

Gerard Pique is the first to admit he'd like to have clocked up more minutes on the pitch this season, but remains confident he'll get his chance to shine.

The 21-year-old has impressed on each of his nine appearances this term which have yielded two goals.

Obstructing his passage to becoming a regular starter, however, are “two of the best centre-backs in the world”. The dynamic duo to which he refers is the fearsome partnership of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

“They complement each other very well,” Pique tells the March issue of Inside United.

“They’re two of the best in the world, both strong in the air and good on the ball. And they show their qualities all the time, not only in games, but every day in training. They’re always striving to improve.

"I know I have to work just as hard, if not harder than they do if I want to play and that’s what I’m trying to do.”

And Pique refuses to get disheartened by the seemingly impossible task of breaking into the best defensive pairing in English football.

“You can look at it both ways,” he reasons. “In one way, it’s frustrating because I’d like to be playing every week, but at the same time I’m learning from two of the best. I’m confident my chance will arrive. So I have no problem with it.”

2008-02-04T15:22:00.001-08:00

Gerard Piqué interview, 30 September 2006,"Agenda Deportiva" (Aragón TV)

2008-02-04T08:04:00.000-08:00

Under 21 - Friendly: Spain vs France

Spain under 21 will play a friendly against France on February 5. Gerard Piqué will not travel with the team for tuesday's game because of a knee injury.

Match preview

Spain: Roberto; Miguel Torres, César Arzo, Torrejón, Canella; Granero, Susaeta, Raúl García, Capel; Sisi y Mata.

France: Geoffrey Jourdren; Mouhamadou Dabo, Younes Kaboul, Habib Bellaid, Charles N'Zogbia; Sylvain Marveaux, Yoann Gourcuff, Clément Chantôme; Issiar Dia, Yoan Gouffran y Loïc Rémy.

Ref: Andrea De Marco (ITA).

Venue: Foietes de Benidorm.

Time: 22.00

2008-02-02T11:18:00.000-08:00

2008-01-30T03:23:00.001-08:00

Giuseppe Rossi on Piqué

It said that "I am very friend of Piqué. Gerard has a great talent. He did very well last year in the Zaragoza and now he returned to Manchester and is doing very well. He has still many years . (El mundo deportivo)

2008-01-14T14:17:00.000-08:00

Manchester United 6 Newcastle 0

Man Utd: Van der Sar, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra (Simpson 67), Ronaldo, Carrick, Anderson (Fletcher 72), Giggs (Nani 72), Rooney, Tevez.

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Park.

Booked: Rooney.

Goals: Ronaldo 49, Tevez 55, Ronaldo 70, Ferdinand 85, Ronaldo 88, Tevez 90.

Newcastle: Given, Carr, Taylor, Cacapa, Jose Enrique, Milner (Viduka 64), Smith, Butt, N'Zogbia, Duff, Owen (Rozehnal 82).

Subs Not Used: Harper, Emre, LuaLua.

Sent Off: Smith (90).

Booked: Duff.

Att: 75,965

2008-01-12T04:56:00.000-08:00

Premier League, Round 22: Manchester United vs Newcastle

Squads :

Manchester United: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, O'Shea, Simpson, Ferdinand, Pique, Vidic, Evra, Fletcher, Nani, Park, Ronaldo, Anderson, Carrick, Hargreaves, Giggs, Rooney, Saha, Tevez.

Newcastle: Given, Harper, Carr, N'Zogbia, Enrique, Rozehnal, Cacapa, Taylor, Edgar, Butt, Milner, Emre, Duff, LuaLua, Smith, Viduka, Owen, Martins, Carroll.

Date: Saturday, 12th January, 2008

Kick-off :17:15 GMT (18:15 CET)

Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester

Ref: Rob Styles

2008-01-08T03:17:00.000-08:00

FA Cup: Aston Villa 0-2 Man Utd

Aston Villa: Carson, Mellberg, Laursen, Davies, Bouma (Gardner 83), Petrov (Maloney 75), Reo-Coker, Barry, Young, Carew (Moore 64), Agbonlahor.

Subs Not Used: Taylor, Knight.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Park (Rooney 70), Anderson, Carrick, Giggs (O'Shea 90), Ronaldo, Saha (Hargreaves 79).
Subs Not Used: Heaton, Nani.

Goals: Ronaldo 81, Rooney 89.

Att: 33,630

Ref: Martin Atkinson (W Yorkshire).

2008-01-05T04:31:00.000-08:00

FA Cup Round 3: Aston Villa v Man Utd

Date: Saturday 5 January

Kick-off: 17:15 GMT (18:15 CET)

Venue: Villa Park, Birmingham

Referee: Martin Atkinson (West Yorkshire)

2008-01-04T03:24:00.000-08:00

Manchester United 1 — 0 Birmingham City

Man Utd: Kuszczak, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra (Brown 84), Ronaldo, Anderson, Carrick, Nani, Park (Hargreaves 75), Tevez (Saha 71).

Subs Not Used: Heaton, Pique.

Booked: Brown.

Goals: Tevez 25.

Birmingham: Maik Taylor, Kelly, Jaidi, Ridgewell, Queudrue, McSheffrey (De Ridder 67), Nafti (Palacios 81), Muamba, Larsson, Jerome (Forssell 67), O'Connor.

Subs Not Used: Doyle, Parnaby.

Booked: Ridgewell, Queudrue, Nafti, Palacios.

Att: 75,459

Ref: Peter Walton (Northamptonshire).

2008-01-01T03:56:00.000-08:00

Manchester United v Birmingham City

Manchester United: Kusczak, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Giggs, Hargreaves, Anderson, Ronaldo, Rooney, Tevez. Manager: Alex Ferguson.

Birmingham City: Taylor, Kelly, Ridgewell, Jaidi, Quedrue, Larsson, Nafti, Muamba, McSheffrey, Forssell, Jerome. Manager: Alex McLeish.

Date: Tuesday January 1, 2008

Time: 15:00 GMT (16:00 CET)

Venue: Old Trafford

Ref: Peter Walton

2007-12-31T08:30:00.000-08:00

West Ham 2-1 Manchester United

Manchester United lost 2-1 at West Ham United on Saturday and moved back into second place in the English Premier League.Gerard Piqué was left again on the bench by Ferguson.

Match Report

West Ham: Green, Neill, Spector, Upson, McCartney, Solano (Pantsil 49), Parker (Ferdinand 55), Mullins, Noble,Ljungberg (Ashton 70), Cole.

Subs Not Used: Wright, Camara.

Booked: Pantsil, Mullins.

Goals: Ferdinand 77, Upson 82.

Man Utd: Kuszczak, Brown (O'Shea 89), Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra,Ronaldo, Hargreaves (Nani 80), Fletcher, Giggs, Saha,Tevez (Anderson 64).

Subs Not Used: Heaton, Piqué.

Goals: Ronaldo 14.

Att: 34,966

Ref: Mike Dean (Wirral).

2007-12-29T06:03:00.000-08:00

Premier League Preview: West Ham v Manchester United

Date: Saturday, 29th December, 2007,

Time: 15:00 GMT (16:00 CET)

Venue: Upton Park, East London

2007-12-28T04:48:00.000-08:00

Sunderland 0 Manchester United 4

Manchester United went top of the Premier League after a 4-0 romp at Sunderland on Wednesday with Arsenal and Chelsea dropping points. Gerard Pique came on as a as substitute for Vidic at 73.

Sunderland: Gordon, Whitehead, McShane, Higginbotham, Collins, Wallace (Leadbitter 46), Etuhu, Yorke (Richardson 61), Waghorn, Jones, Chopra (O'Donovan 86).
Subs Not Used: Ward, Cole.

Booked: Whitehead, McShane.

Man Utd: Kuszczak, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic (Pique 73), Brown, Ronaldo (Park 57), Fletcher, Carrick, Nani, Rooney, Saha.
Subs Not Used: Heaton, Evra, Tevez.

Booked: Fletcher.

Goals: Rooney 20, Saha 30, Ronaldo 45, Saha 86 pen.

Ref: Uriah Rennie (S Yorkshire).

Att: 47,360

2007-12-25T14:17:00.000-08:00

Sunderland v Manchester United

Date: Wednesday, 26th December, 2007

Time: 15:00 GMT (16:00 CET)

Venue: Stadium of Light

Park Ji-Sung could make his long-awaited return to the United squad for the trip to Sunderland.

Ryan Giggs is among the most likely players to be rested. Edwin van der Sar is definitely out with a groin injury, while Rio Ferdinand and Owen Hargreaves should be fit after missing Sunday's 2-1 win over Everton.

2007-12-23T10:55:00.000-08:00

Manchester United 2-1 Everton

Cristiano Ronaldo´s double ensured Manchester United overcame a spirited Everton to move back to within one point of leaders Arsenal at the head of Premier League table. Gerard Pique, Johnny Evans and Rio Ferdinand watched the match from the stands.

Match Report

Man Utd: Kuszczak, Simpson (O'Shea 46), Brown, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Carrick (Saha 71), Anderson (Fletcher 86), Giggs, Rooney, Tevez.
Subs Not Used: Heaton, Nani.

Booked: Rooney, Evra, Anderson.

Goals: Ronaldo 22, 88 pen.

Everton: Howard, Hibbert, Yobo, Jagielka, Lescott, Carsley, Cahill (Anichebe 85), Neville, Pienaar, Yakubu (Gravesen 76), Johnson.
Subs Not Used: Wessels, McFadden, Nuno Valente.

Booked: Cahill, Hibbert, Pienaar.

Goals: Cahill 27.

Att: 75,749

Ref: Howard Webb (S Yorkshire).

2007-12-21T07:08:00.002-08:00

Manchester United Christmas Party

Gerard Pique arriving at the Manchester United Christmas Party at the Manchester 235 Casino.

2007-12-21T07:08:00.001-08:00

Pique on official site

At this club you always have to be ready to come into the side, and I’m hoping that I can play my part over the busy Christmas and New Year period. For players like myself, it’s an excellent chance to help the team, but also to show what I can do.

I’m loving every minute of being involved in the first team squad. And it’s not just about playing in the games either, even just travelling with the team and having a laugh in the dressing room is great. Of course, training every day with some of the best players in the world helps to make you a better player. I certainly feel like I’m learning from every single one of them every day.

Rio [Ferdinand] and Vida [Nemanja Vidic] are two players in particular who have helped me a lot. Sometimes it’s the finer details and the little bits of advice that make you a better player. I would say my style is more similar to Rio’s mainly because we are virtually the same height. I also like being on the ball and bringing it out of defence in the way that Rio does so I’m probably more like him. That’s nothing against Vida though – he’s showed this season that he’s one of the best players in the league.

Our defence faces another test on Sunday, when Everton come to Old Trafford. They are always tough opponents, especially this season because David Moyes has a really strong squad of players. I know all about Mikel Arteta through Spain’s U21s. He’s a very talented attacker and someone we’ll need to watch out for. But, everyone inside the camp is confident we can get the right result. We played very well defensively at Goodison Park earlier in the season and managed to get a 1-0 win thanks to Vida’s header. I’d settle for the same again this weekend to start the Christmas period off in style.

2007-12-18T07:26:00.000-08:00

Liverpool 0-1 Man Utd

Teams:

Liverpool: Reina, Arbeloa, Hyypia, Carragher,Riise (Aurelio 80), Benayoun, Gerrard, Mascherano,Kewell (Babel 65), Torres, Kuyt (Crouch 73).

Subs Not Used: Itandje, Lucas.

Booked: Gerrard, Mascherano.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo,Hargreaves, Anderson (O'Shea 90), Giggs, Rooney,Tevez (Carrick 83).

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Saha, Fletcher.

Booked: Evra, Anderson, Brown.

Goals: Tevez 43.

Att: 44,459

Ref: Mark Halsey (Lancashire).

2007-12-15T17:30:00.000-08:00

Prem Preview: Liverpool - Manchester United

It is no secret that the two North West clubs do not like each other. Liverpool sit six points behind United, who trail league leaders Arsenal by one point, but they have a game in hand on their rivals and can be labelled as genuine contenders to snatch the Red Devils' Premier League crown. United, though, have not lost to Liverpool in the league since 2004 and Sir Alex Ferguson's side will be keen to stretch their unbeaten record while also inflicting a major body blow to their Merseyside foes' title aspirations.

Liverpool squad: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Hyypia, Riise, Kewell, Gerrard, Mascherano, Benayoun, Alonso, Kuyt, Torres, Aurelio, Babel, Crouch, Finnan, Hobbs, Itandje, Leiva, Voronin, Sissoko.

Manchester United squad: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, Simpson, Ferdinand, Vidic, Pique, O’Shea, Evra, Ronaldo, Nani, Fletcher, Anderson, Hargreaves, Carrick, Giggs, Rooney, Saha, Tevez.

Referee: Mark Halsey

Date: Sunday, 16th December, 2007

Time: 13:30 GMT (14:30 CET)

Venue: Anfield, Liverpool.

2007-12-15T17:28:00.000-08:00

Pique ready to hit heights

GERARD Pique has the taste for senior action and is banking on Sir Alex Ferguson feeding his hunger.

Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic will be back in harness against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday. But the 20-year-old Spaniard hopes his second Champions League goal against Roma on Wednesday, and partnership with Jonny Evans, has set down a reminder that the young duo can underpin the seniors.

"We showed we could play together at Champions League level," said Pique. "Rio and Nemanja are having a great season and are good centre backs. But it is good for us to show we can play in places such as Rome.

"The squad is strong and we are starting to show that it doesn't matter who is playing - the team is still playing well.

"It is important for us as a group to do that. You always want more and more. Hopefully I will get more games in the rest of the season."

United will learn their Champions League first knockout stage opponents a week today at UEFA's HQ in Nyon, Switzerland.

2007-12-13T10:39:00.000-08:00

Rome 1 Manchester United 1

2007-12-13T04:00:00.000-08:00

United defender Pique makes his point as Red Devils draw in Rome

The Premier League champions had already qualified top of Group F after five wins from their opening five games and went ahead through Gerard Pique's 34th minute header. Sir Alex Ferguson made nine changes to the team that beat Derby County 4-1 at the weekend, and his young team nearly held on for what would have been a memorable victory at the Stadio Olimpico. But Brazilian forward Mancini beat Wes Brown and whipped a fierce curling shot past Tomasz Kuszczak to save Luciano Spalletti's blushes in Rome.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson on his young side's display:

"I was pleased with a lot of it, it was a very good experience.

"There wasn't a great deal at stake but both sides played with freedom and good expression and it was a good contest.

"We lacked experience at times but made up for it with ability on the ball and we can be happy against a strong team."

Fergie on Pique:

"He's good in the air, well he is a tall lad but it's good to see"

Match Report

Roma: Doni, Cicinho, Ferrari, Mexes, Barusso (Giuly 62), Antunes, Pizarro, Esposito (Vucinic 62), Taddei (De Rossi 46), Mancini, Totti.
Subs Not Used: Bertagnoli, Panucci, Juan, Pit.

Booked: Barusso.

Goals: Mancini 71.

Man Utd: Kuszczak, Simpson, Pique, Evans, O'Shea (Brown 54), Eagles, Fletcher, Carrick, Nani, Saha, Rooney (Dong 71).
Subs Not Used: Heaton, Lee, Hewson, Brandy, Eckersley.

Goals: Pique 34.

Att: 30,000.

Ref: Martin Hansson (Sweden).

Man of the Match: Gerard Pique Handled the classy Roma forwards with composure and scored his second goal for United in Europe this season.

2007-12-11T10:59:00.000-08:00

Ferguson confident young charges can shine in Eternal City

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is set to ring the changes for Wednesday night's meaningless Champions League trip to Roma by fielding several young players.

"There's no doubt we'll take some young kids," Ferguson told Manchester United Radio. "We've won the group and Roma are guaranteed second place, so there's no issue with us potentially affecting the outcome of the group.

"We wanted to give the young boys experience playing in the League Cup but they let themselves down against Coventry.

"Now there's a chance for the likes of Jonny Evans, Gerard Pique, Danny Simpson and Chris Eagles to elevate themselves. We know all about their ability but this is an opportunity for them to prove themselves.

"They won't be on their own, though. They'll have back-up from players like John O'Shea, Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick, Louis Saha, Nani and Anderson. Cristiano Ronaldo might possibly be involved as well.

"We're not in the habit of sending teams out to lose. We'll be sending out a team that we think is good enough to win."

Manchester United : Kusczak; Simpson, Pique, Evans, O'Shea; Fletcher, Carrick; Eagles, Rooney, Nani; Saha.

Roma: Doni; Cicinho, Mexes, Ferrari, Antunes; De Rossi, Pizarro; Esposito, Giuly, Taddei; Totti.

2007-12-08T05:48:00.000-08:00

Manchester United v Derby County

Date: Saturday 08 December, 2007

Teams:

Derby: Bywater, Mears, Davis, Moore, McEveley, Griffin, Leacock, Barnes, Oakley, Pearson, Lewis, Fagan, Howard, Miller, Teale, Earnshaw, Feilhaber, Jones, Price.

Manchester United: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, Piqué, Simpson, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Hargreaves, Carrick, Anderson, Giggs, Nani, Tevez, Rooney, Saha.

Stadium: Old Trafford

Kick-Off: 15:00 GMT (16:00 CET)

Referee : Chris Foy

2007-12-07T03:17:00.001-08:00

Danny Simpson on Pique the translator

"Gerard Pique is the middle man! He's translator for us. With someone like Nani, his English has come on a lot. The other week he was a bit bored so we went for something to eat and he turned up with his English book in his hand. Cristiano helps him and Anderson quite a bit. You always know what they're trying to say and you can see on the pitch that different languages are not a barrier. Nani, Anderson and Carlos Tevez are the newest foreign lads, but they're all great. They've always got a smile on their face, which is nice to have in the changing room."

2007-12-06T05:01:00.000-08:00

Pique picks himself up and decides to stay at Old Trafford

Manchester United defender Gerard Pique has decided to commit his immediate future to the Premier League champions despite a recent dressing down from assistant manager Carlos Queiroz.

Pique has spent the past fortnight mulling over his future after being told by Sir Alex Ferguson's No 2 that he had not been trying hard enough and that he had not made enough of recent opportunities in the first team.

At first sources close to the young Spaniard suggested he was resigned to a future away from Old Trafford and was ready to return to Spain.

La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona as well as Real Betis and Real Sociedad all made enquiries about the 20-year-old's availability in the summer and the international central defender would not be short of offers if he decided to return to his homeland.

With Phil Bardsley likely to join Bryan Robson's Sheffield United in the Championship and Sunderland keen on Danny Simpson, Ferguson wants experienced cover at left back and will try to buy a player who can also function in the centre of defence.

Spanish Version

2007-12-06T03:56:00.000-08:00

Manchester United 2 Fulham 0

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand (Carrick 75), Vidic, Evra (O'Shea 46), Ronaldo, Hargreaves, Anderson, Giggs, Tevez, Rooney (Saha 71).

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Fletcher.

Booked: Vidic, Ronaldo.

Goals: Ronaldo 10, 58.

Fulham: Niemi, Omozusi, Hughes, Stefanovic, Konchesky, Davies, Davis, Murphy, Bouazza (Ki-Hyeon 71), Dempsey (Healy 64), Kuqi.

Subs Not Used: Warner, Bocanegra, Baird.

Booked: Davies. Att: 75,055 Ref: Rob Styles (Hampshire).

2007-12-03T03:33:00.000-08:00

Premier League - Manchester United v Fulham

Monday, December 2, 2007, kick-off 20:00 local (21:00 CET)

After suffering only their second league defeat of the season against struggling Bolton last week, Manchester United will be looking to close the gap on leaders Arsenal on Monday night.

2007-11-30T06:05:00.000-08:00

Manchester United 2

Sporting Lisbon 1

Cristiano Ronaldo's late strike gave Manchester United victory against Sporting Lisbon to ensure they finish top of their Champions League group.

Manchester United: Kuszczak, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Carrick, Anderson, Fletcher (Tevez 46), Nani (Giggs 46), Saha (Hargreaves 79)

Subs Not Used: Van der Sar, Brown, Pique, Simpson

Booked: Ronaldo, Evra

Sporting Lisbon: Rui Patricio, Abel, Anderson Polga, Tonel, Had, Izmailov (Bruno Pereirinha 81), Joao Moutinho, Romagnoli (Vukcevic 67), Veloso, Purovic (Farnerud 81), Liedson

Subs Not Used: Tiago, Adrien Silva, Gladstone, Yannick Pupo

Booked: Had, Anderson Polga

Ref: Claus Bo Larsen (Denmark)

Att: 75,162

2007-11-27T08:17:00.000-08:00

Manchester United vs Sporting Lisbon, Old trafford, 20:45 CET

Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani have been named in Manchester United's line-up to face their former club Sporting Libson. John O'Shea, Darren Fletcher and keeper Tomasz Kuszczak will also play, while defender Nemanja Vidic could replace Gerard Pique after a back problem. Manchester United have already qualified for the knockout phase of this season's Champions League.

2007-11-27T07:22:00.000-08:00

In the F.C. Barcelona, Cesc and I still could play in Third

Cute interview to Spanish daily newspaper El Pais

2007-11-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

Bolton 1 Manchester United 0

Bolton took advantage of a defensive error from Gerard Pique to score. When Pique tried to head clear a free kick from Ivan Campo, he missed completely, and Anelka took the loose ball and scored in the 11th minute.

Carlos Tevez beavered away without much success, as did Louis Saha, while wide pair Ryan Giggs and Nani were virtually anonymous.

To make matters worse for United, Sir Alex Ferguson was sent to the stands by referee Mark Clattenburg for a half-time tunnel rant at a succession of minor decisions that had gone against his team.

Match Report

Bolton: Jaaskelainen, Hunt, Meite, Andrew O'Brien, Gardner,Campo, Nolan (McCann 83), Guthrie (Wilhelmsson 74),Davies (Speed 70), Anelka, Diouf.

Subs Not Used: Al Habsi, Michalik.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown (O'Shea 88), Pique (Anderson 59),Ferdinand, Evra, Nani, Carrick, Hargreaves, Giggs, Saha, Tevez.

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Fletcher, Eagles.

Goals: Anelka 11.

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (Tyne & Wear).

Booked: Davies, Nolan, Hunt (Bolton)

Attendance: 25,028

2007-11-24T04:10:00.000-08:00

Preview Bolton v Manchester United

Manchester United visit the Reebok Stadium this weekend to face Bolton Wanderers ( kick-off 15:00 local time;16:00 CET) and will hope to repeat their result last season where they managed a 4-0 win there. Gerard Piqué will start.

2007-11-18T11:13:00.000-08:00

Under 21 European qualifier - Spain 3 Poland 0

Spain moved to the top of their qualifying group, just ahead of Russia on goal difference, after beating Poland 3-0.

Spain: Roberto; Torres, Piqué, Torrejón, Monreal; Javi Martínez; Sisi (Alfaro 74'), Granero (Juande 65'), Jurado (Mata 26'), Capel; Bojan.

Poland: Bialkowski; Pawelec, Rzezniczak, Polczak, Kocot (Cichy 46'); Wilk, Glik; Cwielong (Grosicki 65'), Majewski (Jarka 71'), Pawlowski; Jancziyk.

Goals: 1-0. 40. Glik (own goal). Deflected ball into net trying to clear Mata free kick. 2-0. 93. Bojan. Charged down clearance and rounded defender to score. 3-0. 94. Capel. Rolled ball under feet of Bialkowski after mis-kick by keeper.

Yellow card: Torres, Rzezniczak, Cwielong, Kocot, Wilk, Cichy y Glik.

2007-11-16T18:38:00.000-08:00

UEFA U21 European Championship 2009 : Spain vs Poland

Spain: Roberto; Pallardó, Piqué, Torrejón, Torres; Capel, Javi Martínez, Jurado, Sisi; Bojan y Xisco.

Poland: Bialkowski; Cicmy, Kocot, Polczak, Kokoszka; Pawlowski, Kuklis, Majewski, Janczyk; Jarka y Danch.

Stadium: El Toralín

Referee: Tony Chapron (Francia).

Hour: 20.30/TVE

2007-11-16T17:48:00.000-08:00

Pique's pledge

Some of Spain's top clubs came knocking in the summer, but Gerard Pique is glad Sir Alex never opened the door.

Pique, a Spain U21 international and a product of Barcelona's famed youth system, joined United in 2004 but featured only fleetingly until this season. In fact, opportunities were so limited in 2006/07 Sir Alex sent the defender back to Spain for a season-long loan spell at Real Zaragoza.

His performances in La Liga were outstanding and it's hardly surprising Zaragoza were keen to make the move permanent. Earlier this month, it transpired Atletico Madrid had also attempted to prise the 20-year-old from Old Trafford.

Leaving United, however, just doesn't fit into Pique's plans.

"Zaragosa tried to sign me in the summer but I knew what the answer would be," Pique told The Times' The Game podcast.

"Since the first day I arrived at Old Trafford, Sir Alex has showed me he has a lot of confidence in me and I'm trying to do my best to show him I can be part of this team. I can be a Manchester United player.

"He talks to you a lot – not only about football, but about everything in life. Elsewhere, there are other leaders. Rio Ferdinand talks a lot to you on the pitch and helps you out. Ryan Giggs is quiet but in the dressing room the power and the experience he has really comes out. It's important for players like me to be around someone like Ryan because the confidence he has in himself can pass on to you and it helps your game."

Pique's confidence will have sky-rocketed when he was handed his first Champions League start against Dynamo Kyiv… and then opened the scoring. It was his first goal in a Reds shirt, although he admits he was more than a little surprised to find the net.

"It was a big problem," he joked. "I didn't know how to celebrate the goal!"

In the end, Pique opted for a single fist-pump. Like his approach to defending, it was instinctive yet understated, and something United fans would love to see more of in coming seasons.

2007-11-15T16:35:00.000-08:00

Piqué looking to his future at Old Trafford

Defender Gerard Pique is confident his patience will eventually be rewarded at Manchester United.

The 20-year-old was loaned out to Real Zaragoza last season and could easily have joined them on a permanent basis had Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson not rebuffed a substantial bid.

Pique, also linked with Atletico Madrid just this week, enhanced his reputation with a first start - and only his second appearance - in the Champions League on Wednesday, and scored his maiden United goal in the 4-0 victory over Dynamo Kiev. "You never know what can happen in life, but right now my future is with Manchester United.""I have a lot of pride when a club such as Atletico is interested in me, that means I am doing something good. "Atletico have demonstrated that they belong in the top group of teams and they would be a good option for any player. "If things do not work out for then I will look at my future at Old Trafford - but I am only thinking about working hard and improving every day."

Despite growing interest in the Barcelona academy product, Ferguson has stressed he wants to hang on to the centre-back. Pique himself is only too happy to stay at Old Trafford, looking on the loan spell in his homeland last season as just part of his learning curve. 'When I went on loan last year what I wanted was experience. It was good for me, and now I am am getting experience here - and I am happy,' said the Spain Under-21s international.

'You have to think `it is Manchester United and they are one of the best teams in the world'.
'The players that are here have a lot of quality, and it is very difficult to break through. You have to be patient.'I want to play more games, but the boss decides.'

Pique was relatively untroubled alongside Nemanja Vidic in a back four which also contained fellow 20-year-old Danny Simpson, also making his first Champions League start, and the established Patrice Evra.
Playing with those experienced internationals undoubtedly helped the rookies settle in.
'They are great players, and when you play with them they give you the confidence to play your game,' said Pique. 'You know if you make a mistake you have them around you. 'It was a great feeling to score a goal in the first (Champions League) game you start and you help the team to win the game.'We are now already qualified, and that is great for us. The last two games we can enjoy it - and try to be the first in the group.'

"Sometimes it is difficult to be out of the side, but you have to get over your anxiety. With Vidic and Ferdinand it can be hard to play, but you have to get the minutes in when you can and in addition to show your versatility is important."

Ferguson is like a 'father figure' to young players like Piqué . "He has called on me to take the experience and continue improving.""Sir Alex has always treated me like a son and he demonstrated in the summer when Zaragoza pushed hard for me that he wants me in his side.

2007-11-12T08:43:00.000-08:00

Manchester United 2 Blackburn Rovers 0

Manchester United beat Blackburn 2-0 , this time without Gerard Piqué.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Anderson, Hargreaves (Carrick 77), Giggs, Tevez, Saha (Nani 68).

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, O'Shea, Fletcher.

Booked: Ronaldo.

Goals: Ronaldo 34, 35.

Blackburn: Friedel, Emerton, Samba, Nelsen, Warnock, Bentley, Dunn, Mokoena, Pedersen, Santa Cruz (Derbyshire 78), McCarthy.

Subs Not Used: Brown, Ooijer, Kerimoglu, Berner.

Sent Off: Dunn (53).

Booked: Dunn, Mokoena, Nelsen, Samba.

Att: 75,710.

Ref: Chris Foy (Merseyside).

2007-11-11T04:53:00.000-08:00

Preview: United v Blackburn

UNITED will be without striker Wayne Rooney for the clash with Blackburn after he injured an ankle in training.

Gary Neville is still unlikely to figure against Rovers despite having made a comeback in the reserves.

The only other absentees are those with long term-injuries - Mikael Silvestre, Paul Scholes, Park Ji-sung and Ben Foster.

Manchester United: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Pique, Evans, Evra, Simpson, Ronaldo, Hargreaves, Anderson, Fletcher, Eagles, Carrick, Giggs, Nani, Saha, Tevez.

Blackburn Rovers: Friedel, Ooijer, Samba, Nelsen, Warnock, Emerton, Bentley, Dunn, Tugay, Pedersen, Santa Cruz, McCarthy, Derbyshire, Brown, Khizanishvili, Treacy.

Date: Sunday, 11th November, 2007

Stadium: Old Trafford, Manchester

2007-11-09T10:45:00.000-08:00

Pique Called Up To Spanish U-21 Squad

Gerard Pique is set to line up once again for the Spain U-21 squad as the young Furia Roja take on Poland next Friday.

Spain have won all three of their outings so far, with Poland having taken just six points from five matches, so it's clear to see who the favourites are.

Indeed, Spain beat Poland 2-0 in early October to cement second place in Group 4 of the European Championship qualifiers. Consequently, they lie three points behind Russia, albeit with a game in hand.

The squad will convene in Ponferrada, León, next Wednesday.

The list in full:

Goalkeepers: Antonio Adan (Real Madrid Castilla), Roberto Jimenez (Gimnastic de Tarragona.)
Defenders: Adrian 'Piscu' Lopez (Deportivo La Coruna), Miguel Pallardo (Getafe), Miguel Torres (Real Madrid), Marc Torrejon (Espanyol), Gerard Pique (Manchester United), Naxto Monreal (Osasuna).

Midfielders: Jose Manuel Jurado (Atletico Madrid), Javi Martinez (Athletic Bilbao), Markel Susaeta (Athletic Bilbao), Esteban Granero (Getafe), Diego Capel (Sevilla), 'Juande' Prados Lopez (Real Betis), 'Sisi' (Valladolid).

Attackers: 'Mata' (Valencia), Bojan Krkic (Barcelona), 'Xisco' (Deportivo La Coruna).

2007-11-08T16:35:00.000-08:00

Youngsters To Get A Chance

Ferguson says he will play some of the reserves in the remaining CL games.

"I will play mixed teams in the rest of the games."We will take advantage of that. Jonny Evans may play in the Sporting Lisbon game, Chris Eagles may get an opportunity as well, plus Gerard [Pique] and Danny Simpson. "It is good for them to get games. They will be required as the season goes on, particularly when it comes to December when the games become quite hectic."

2007-11-08T13:05:00.000-08:00

First start strike gives Piqué heart

Gerard Piqué made a good impression on his first European start for United
Manchester United FC youngster Gerard Piqué said it was a "great feeling" to mark his first start in the UEFA Champions League with the opening goal in his side's 4-0 win over FC Dynamo Kyiv in Group F.

'Big night'The Spanish defender, whose only previous appearance in the tournament had come as a substitute at Fenerbahçe SK in December 2004, headed United in front with his first ever goal for the club on 31 minutes. Carlos Tévez, Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo added three more goals as the Premier League champions secured their place in the knockout stages. "It is a great feeling when it is the first game you start and you score a goal and help the team win the game," said the 20-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Real Zaragoza. "It was a big night for me and for the team.

Final objective

"Now I think we are one of the favourites," added Piqué, who sees no reason why Sir Alex Ferguson's team cannot go all the way to the final. "The most important thing is to finish first in the group. We can relax a little bit but we have to be first, and after this try to get to the final – that is our objective."

Carrick praise

With Piqué starting in an unfamiliar-looking United back four that also featured 20-year-old right-back Danny Simpson, Sir Alex's side certainly showcased their strength in depth against Dynamo on a night where Rio Ferdinand, Ryan Giggs and Owen Hargreaves were all rested. Michael Carrick, who made his first start since 2 October, praised the contributions of Piqué and Simpson, saying: "I thought Simmo was brilliant and Gerard got the goal so good for him. It is easier to come into a team that is winning but they showed tonight what qualities they've got.

Performance levels

"The squad is terrific," added the England midfielder, whose return alongside Darren Fletcher in the middle meant 90 minutes on the bench for Anderson, a recent impressive performer. "The people who've been settling in have done well. Everyone's raised their level of performance over the last month especially now going forward. As well as defending as a team, it gives a confidence boost if we keep the opposition out to know we are going to score goals." Carrick's words are supported by some impressive statistics with Wednesday's triumph the fourth time in five matches that United have struck four goals.

Spanish Translation

2007-11-08T11:32:00.000-08:00

Manchester United 4 Dynamo Kiev 0

Manchester United have beaten Dynamo Kiev 4-0 in their Champions League Group F match at Old Trafford on Wednesday. Gerard Pique, 20, started the rout with his first goal for the club before Carlos Tevez, Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo.

2007-11-08T07:51:00.000-08:00

Ferguson: "Pique's Staying Put"

Sir Alex Ferguson has no intention of letting Gerard Pique leave Manchester United.

Pique launched United on their way to last night's 4-0 Champions League hammering of Dynamo Kiev as the Red Devils sealed their place in the knock-out phase with two games to spare.

Yet the Spain Under-21 international's well-taken header only heightened speculation that he might be leaving United when the transfer window opens in January.

Pique spent last season on loan at Real Zaragoza and impressed the La Liga outfit so much they returned to Old Trafford with a 'big bid' to sign the Barcelona academy product.

Ferguson politely declined, then made it quite clear Pique would be one of the youngsters who would remain at Old Trafford in the wake of September's Carling Cup debacle against Coventry.

The 20-year-old's lack of recent match practice has put more of Europe's most highly-regarded clubs on red alert, with Atletico Madrid, who boast former Red Devil Diego Forlan in their squad, heavily linked with a bid for Pique.

United though are determined to keep their man.

Having invested so much time in Pique since he originally arrived from Spain as a raw teenager, Ferguson can see no point in allowing him to depart now just as he is starting to fulfil his potential.

"I am not surprised people are saying they are interested in him," said Ferguson.

"Zaragoza tried to buy him in the summer. They offered a lot of money for him. But no. The boy's future is here.

"I have no fears for him. The course we have set is a good one and there is absolutely no intention of letting him go."

Pique's frustration at a failure to make a long-term breakthrough at United could only been exacerbated by the knowledge that the Premier League's other high-profile acquisition from Barcelona's youth ranks, Cesc Fabregas, is now setting the world on fire at Arsenal.

Ferguson has attempted to point out to both Pique and his parents subtle differences in physicality. Not only does the United manager believe Pique was slightly behind in his development, as a defender he needed to be stronger anyway, hence the loan deal with Zaragoza.

"Because he came through the youth system at Barcelona with Fabregas, who got into the Arsenal team as a much younger age, we had to impress on Gerard his physique was nothing like that of Fabregas," said Ferguson.

"Being a centre-half, he needed time to strengthen and get more experience as a defender. That was what his loan spell at Zaragoza was about.

"Both Gerard and his parents understood that completely.

"In the end, he played 25 games for them and did very well.

"He got more experience, he got tougher and he became a lot stronger. He is coming along the right way."

Ferguson's faith in Pique is so great, he even raised the prospect of the youngster emulating the likes of Paul Scholes, David Beckham and Gary Neville, whose emergence in the mid-90s signalled the end at United for Paul Ince, Mark Hughes and Andrei Kanchelskis.

It wasn't quite a message of warning for Rio Ferdinand, who was rested last night, but the implication of what could happen was fairly clear.

"There is always someone turning a corner in football," said Ferguson.

"Young players break through here. This club is famed for that.

"Sometimes you are forced to make a change simply because you cannot keep these young lads out of the team any longer.

"Gerard understands perfectly well the form of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, who are tremendous players, has been so good, he is going to have to wait a bit.

"But waiting is not a problem for a 20-year-old. He will have many opportunities to play when I need to rest defenders and I have the great option of being able to play him in midfield or at right-back."

However, Pique will find himself back on the bench at best on Sunday when United tackle in-form Blackburn at Old Trafford.

Ferdinand, Ryan Giggs and Owen Hargreaves will all return, while Edwin van der Sar should play despite reporting pain from a previously broken toe at half-time last night, triggering the introduction of Tomasz Kuszczak.

Spanish Translation

2007-11-07T07:24:00.000-08:00

Manchester United v Dynamo Kiev

Champions League, Group F match

Date: Wednesday, 7 November

Kick-off: 1945 GMT

Venue: Old Trafford, 20:45 (19:45 local)

Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to rotate his Manchester United Football Club squad.

The Reds displayed their strength in depth by naming five internationals on the bench for the trip to Arsenal on Saturday, and with the likes of Michael Carrick and Louis Saha back from injury, Ferguson will use his squad.

"We have people fit again," said the United manager. "I can now alternate our side at times. "It was the strongest bench I have had this season and that is encouraging for us. The lads have done a fantastic job to get us into this position and we can change things now when we need to."

2007-11-06T10:51:00.000-08:00

Atletico Madrid planning to reinforce feeble defence

Atletico Madrid are planning to reinforce a defence that has sagged alarmingly in recent weeks. Atleti have conceded 14 goals in 11 Liga matches, their worst defensive record since the 1994/95 season. Sunday's 3-4 defeat at home to Villarreal has caused the club to consider signing at least one central defender in the January transfer window.

According to Spanish newspapers, their targets are Diego Lugano, Alex Silva and Gerard Piqué.

Despite their defensive problems, Atletico are fifth in La Liga with 20 points, just one point behind fourth-placed Valencia.

Despite their defensive problems, Atletico are fifth in La Liga with 20 points, just one point behind fourth-placed Valencia.

2007-11-05T09:06:00.000-08:00

Spain National Football Team that will win 2014 soccer World Cup

[Photo: My Beloved Kids Forum]

Brazil is the host nation for the 2014 World Cup. Spain will have an excellent generation of footballers. Casillas, Ramos, Torres and Iniesta will be the veterans, Bojan, Piqué and Fran Mérida, the new player.

Ex Barcelona and Valencia forward Romario commented that "will be the best Campions Cupof every time" and Spain will have more possibility to win if new player will continue to grow. (20 minutos)

2007-11-05T08:09:00.000-08:00

Arsenal and Manchester United ended with a draw their Premier League derby

Arsenal, Manchester United Draw 2-2 In Premiership Top 2 Battle. Saturday attracted a new record attendance to Emirates Stadium. A total of 60,161 fans watched the top-of-the-table clash. Piqué did not play. Arsenal and Man United both have 27 points, but Arsenal has more goals and has played one less game. Chelsea is third with 24 points.

Arsenal: Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Gallas, Clichy, Eboue (Walcott 74), Fabregas, Flamini, Rosicky (Eduardo 80), Hleb (Silva 80), Adebayor.

Subs Not Used: Lehmann, Diarra.

Booked: Fabregas

Manchester United: Van der Sar, Brown (O'Shea 71), Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Anderson (Carrick 76), Hargreaves, Giggs, Tevez (Saha 76), Rooney

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Nani.

Booked: Evra, Hargreaves.

2007-11-03T04:06:00.000-07:00

Big Match: Arsenal vs Manchester United

Barclays Premier League

Kick Off : 13:45 (12.45 GMT)

Time : Sat 03rd November 2007

Place : Emirates Stadium

2007-10-31T11:21:00.000-07:00

Man Utd 4-1 Middlesbrough

Manchester United equalled a 100-year-old scoring record as they stormed to the Premier League summit with a clinical 4-1 win over Middlesbrough.

Not since the days of Billy Meredith in 1907 had the Red Devils scored four in four successive games.

Manchester United: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand (Pique 73), Vidic, O'Shea, Ronaldo, Hargreaves (Fletcher 66), Anderson (Giggs 78), Nani, Rooney, Tevez.

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Simpson.

Goals: Nani 3, Rooney 33, Tevez 55, 85.

Middlesbrough: Schwarzer, Young, Woodgate, Wheater, Taylor, O'Neil, Cattermole (Boateng 90), Rochemback, Downing, Aliadiere (Hutchinson 56), Sanli (Lee 80).

Subs Not Used: Turnbull, Hines.

Booked: Cattermole, Rochemback.

Goals: Aliadiere 6.

Att: 75,720

Ref: Alan Wiley (Staffordshire).

2007-10-27T05:07:00.000-07:00

Manchester United v Middlesbrough

In-Form United Look To Make It Eight In A Row

Date: Saturday, 27th October, 2007, kick-off 15:00 (GMT), 16:00 (CET)

Stadium: Old Trafford, Manchester.

Possible Starting XI:

Manchester United: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Anderson, Hargreaves, Giggs, Tevez, Rooney.

Middlesbrough: Schwarzer, Young, Woodgate, Riggott, Taylor, O’Neil, Boateng, Rochemback, Cattermole, Downing, Mido.

Referee: Alan Wiley (Staffordshire).

2007-10-27T03:21:00.000-07:00

Manchester United Training Session on October 26 2007

2007-10-25T09:27:00.000-07:00

United ease to win

Sir Alex Ferguson's side recorded a comfortable victory in Ukraine to maintain their position at the head of Group F.

Dynamo Kiev: Shovkovskiy, Ghioane (Belkevich 45), Gavrancic, Diakhate, Gusev, Yussuf, Nesmachniy, Correa (Rotan 83),Bangoura, Rincon, Shatskikh (Milevskiy 45).

Subs Not Used: Rybka, Vashchuk, El Kaddouri, Markovic.

Booked: Diakhate.

Goals: Rincon 33, Bangoura 78.

Man Utd: Van der Sar (Kuszczak 80), Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, O'Shea, Ronaldo, Anderson, Fletcher, Giggs (Simpson 80),Rooney, Tevez (Nani 72).

Subs Not Used: Pique, Eagles.

Goals: Ferdinand 10, Rooney 18, Ronaldo 41, 68 pen.

Att: 43,000

Ref: Viktor Kassai (Hungary).

2007-10-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

Dynamo Kiev v Manchester United Preview

Dynamo Kiev vs Manchester United is scheduled for today’s Champions League group F encounter, kick-off 19:45 local (BST), 20:45 (CET)

Paul Scholes has been ruled out of tonight's Champions League clash with Dynamo Kiev after he suffered a knee injury in training at the Olympic Stadium last night. John O'Shea, Darren Fletcher or Anderson should replace Scholes in the United line-up.

Nemanja Vidic is in line for a recall as United look to maintain their 100 per cent Champions League record against Kiev. The Serbia international missed Saturday's win at Aston Villa after suffering concussion against Wigan Athletic prior to the international break but has returned to the squad and is expected to replace Gerard Pique.

Cristiano Ronaldo will play after sitting out the four-goal rout at Villa Park, with fellow countryman Nani most likely to stand down.

2007-10-22T09:01:00.000-07:00

Aston Villa 1 - Manchester United 3

Gerard Pique was given his second start after Nemanja Vidic failed to recover from an injury he picked up in the match against Wigan Athletic two weeks back. Wayne Rooney struck twice and missed a penalty as Manchester United eased to victory against nine-man Aston Villa. The 3rd came in the last minute of the half, Gerard Pique's header was cleared off the line by Young, but when Rio Ferdinand reacted first, Gardner could only lash his attempted clearance into his own net.

Aston Villa: Carson, Mellberg, Knight (Taylor 67), Laursen, Bouma, Gardner (Maloney 53), Reo-Coker, Barry, Young, Agbonlahor, Moore (Osbourne 54).Subs Not Used: Davies, Petrov.

Sent Off: Reo-Coker (60), Carson (66).

Booked: Reo-Coker, Young.

Goals: Agbonlahor 13.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Pique, Brown, Ferdinand, Evra, Nani, Anderson, Scholes (O'Shea 77), Giggs (Ronaldo 76), Tevez (Fletcher 73), Rooney.Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Simpson.

Booked: Scholes, Nani.

Goals: Rooney 36, 44, Ferdinand 45, Giggs 75.

Att: 42,640

Ref: Rob Styles (Hampshire).

2007-10-20T03:00:00.000-07:00

English Premier League: Aston Villa v Manchester United

United will be without Louis Saha, Owen Hargreaves and Gary Neville at Aston Villa but Sir Alex bring back Nemanja Vidic and John O'Shea. Edwin van der Sar is fit and ready to return for Manchester United at Aston Villa on Saturday.

Aston Villa: Carson, Sorensen, Taylor, Mellberg, Gardner, Laursen, Davies, Knight, Bouma, Agbonlahor, Barry, Salifou, Reo-Coker, Young, Petrov, Osbourne, Carew, Moore.

Manchester United: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Heaton, Brown, Simpson, Ferdinand, Vidic, Pique, Evra, Ronaldo, Scholes, O'Shea, Giggs, Fletcher, Tevez, Rooney, Nani, Anderson.

Stadium: Villa Park, Birmingham

When: Saturday, October 20, 2007, kick-off 17:15 local (BST), 18:15 CET

2007-10-15T04:33:00.000-07:00

Under 21 European qualifier: Poland 0 - Spain 2

Spain made it three wins out of three after beating Poland 0-2 on Friday evening. Honours were shared until midway through the second half, but the turning point came when local keeper Biakowski was sent off for handling outside of the area. With all three changes already made, Real Madrid defender Glik went in goal, but he could do nothing to stop Jurado's free kick. And in the second minute of injury time 17 year old striker Bojan got on the end of a return pass from Mata to wrap things up.

Poland: Bartosz; Pawelec, Polczak, Kocot, Rzelniaczak, Wilk, Majewski, Cwielong, Janczyk, Pawlowski y Janoszka.

Spain: Roberto; Torres, Crespo, Torrejón, Piqué, Javi Martínez, Sisi; Raúl García, Bojan, Jurado (Granero, m.88) y Capel (Mata, m.70).

Goals: 0-1, m.70: Jurado; 0-2, m.92: Bojan

Stadium: Osrodek Sportu de Wloclawek

Referee: Bulent Demirlek. Gave red card to goalkeeper Bartosz (Poland). Gave yellow to Spanish players Sisi and Raúl García.

Next Match: Spain vs Poland 16 Nov 2007

2007-10-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Gerard Pique wants to take his chance

United youngster Gerard Pique is determined to take his chances and try to forge a way into contention for a regular first-team place.

Pique, who spent last season on loan at Real Zaragoza, was one of only a few who played well in United’s 2-0 defeat against Coventry, and he was highly impressive in the match with Wigan in which he played at right-back and then switched to centre-half when Nemanja Vidic was injured.

Now he is keen to stake his place in the side on a more permanent basis.

“I am very pleased - since coming back from my loan spell, I just want to stay here and find a place in the team,” he told MUTV’s Live From Old Trafford programme.

“At the moment I am not playing a lot, but I feel confident that I can work hard and find my place in the side.

“The team is working well at the moment, so it's difficult to command a place every week.

“But I know I will get the chances and when I do I will give my best for Manchester United.”

2007-10-12T05:18:00.000-07:00

Today Poland U-21 v Spain U-21

Poland: Bartosz, Cwielong, Janoszka, Kocot, Majewski, Pawelec, Pawlowski, Polczak, Rzelniczak, Wilk y Janczyk

Spain: Roberto, Torres, Crespo, Torrejón, Piqué, Javi Martínez, Sisi; Raúl García, Xisco, Jurado y Capel

Ref : Bulent Demirlek (Turkey)

Stadium: Osrodek Sportu

Hour: 17.00

2007-10-08T06:59:00.000-07:00

Boss salutes defensive starlets

Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted with United’s convincing 4-0 victory over Wigan Athletic, and had particular words of praise for youngsters Gerard Pique and Danny Simpson who were thrown into the action.

Pique started the match at right-back, but switched to the centre to partner Rio Ferdinand just before the half hour mark after both Nemanja Vidic and John O'Shea had gone off injured.

As a result, Simpson was introduced in the 29th minute and the 20-year-old defender came of age during only his second appearance for the club, adding an assist to his name following his excellent cross for Wayne Rooney for United's fourth goal.

“Danny's a very confident boy,” Sir Alex told MUTV. “He’s so quick and is a tremendous defender. He’s improving his technique all the time and he is one of the players that I would not consider going on loan this year because he’s valuable to us.

"Pique also came in today and was absolutely outstanding. He was one our best players against Coventry [in the Carling Cup] and is improving all the time."

Teams:

Man Utd: Kuszczak, Pique, Ferdinand, Vidic (Anderson 21), Evra, Ronaldo, O'Shea (Simpson 30), Scholes, Giggs, Rooney,Tevez (Nani 81).

Subs Not Used: Heaton, Eagles.

Booked: Rooney.

Goals: Tevez 54, Ronaldo 59, 76, Rooney 82.

Wigan: Kirkland, Melchiot (Hall 50), Boyce, Bramble, Kilbane, Scharner, Brown, Skoko, Koumas, Olembe (Valencia 66), Bent.

Subs Not Used: Pollitt, Landzaat, Aghahowa.

Booked: Skoko.

Att: 75,300

Ref: Mike Riley (Yorkshire).

2007-10-06T02:34:00.000-07:00

Man Utd v Wigan preview

Manchester United may use Ryan Giggs or Anderson in central midfield with Owen Hargreaves and Michael Carrick both ruled out through injury.
Wes Brown is a doubt with a knee injury and keeper Edwin van der Sar is also still out so Tomasz Kuczszak continues.

Old Trafford, Saturday, 6 OctoberKick-off: 12:45 BST (13:45, RojaDirecta)

Manchester United Squad: Kuczszak, Heaton, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Simpson, Pique, Ronaldo, Scholes, O'Shea, Anderson, Nani, Giggs, Rooney, Saha, Tevez.

Wigan Squad: Kirkland, Melchiot, Granqvist, Bramble, Kilbane, Brown, Scharner, Skoko, Koumas, Sibierski, Bent, Aghahowa, Boyce, Cotterill, Hall, Olembe, Taylor, Valencia, Pollitt.

2007-10-04T13:17:00.000-07:00

Spain's Road to Sweden

Gerard Piqué has been confirmed in Iñaki Sáez 's Spain squad for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifiers against Poland, on Friday 12 October 2007.

Atlético de Madrid: José Jurado y Raúl García

Athletic Club: Javier Martínez y Markel Susaeta

FC Barcelona: Bojan Krkic

Deportivo de la Coruña: Francisco Jiménez Tejada 'Xisco'

Espanyol: Marc Torrejón

Getafe: Esteban Granero y Miguel Pallardó

Gimnastic de Tarragona: Roberto Jiménez Gago

Real Madrid: Miguel Torres Gómez y Antonio Adán

Manchester United: Gerard Piqué

Real Murcia: César Arzo

Sevilla: Jose Ángel Crespo y Diego Capel

Valencia: Juan M. Mata

Real Valladolid: Sisinio González Martínez 'Sisi'.

2007-10-04T04:36:00.000-07:00

Champions League: Manchester United 1 AS Roma 0

Man Utd: Kuszczak, O'Shea, Vidic, Ferdinand, Evra, Ronaldo,Carrick, Scholes, Nani (Giggs 79), Saha (Tevez 66),Rooney (Anderson 84).

Subs Not Used: Heaton, Pique, Simpson, Eagles.

Goals: Rooney 70.

Roma: Curci, Cicinho, Mexes, Juan, Tonetto, De Rossi,Aquilani (Pizarro 61), Giuly (Esposito 79), Perrotta,Mancini (Vucinic 74), Totti.

Subs Not Used: Bertagnoli, Antunes, Barusso, Brighi.

Booked: Mexes.

Att: 73,652

Ref: Manuel Enrique Mejuto Gonzalez (Spain).

2007-10-02T04:39:00.000-07:00

All eyes on Old Trafford as Roma return

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson is expecting AS Roma to come looking for revenge in their Champions League tie on Tuesday.

The last time the clubs met at Old Trafford, United recorded a remarkable 7-1 win to book their place in last season's semi-finals.

"It was an exceptional performance. I think it will be difficult because Roma are playing well", Ferguson told a news conference on Monday.

United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has been ruled out with a toe injury and Ferguson also has doubts over defenders Nemanja Vidic and Wes Brown.

John O'Shea and Gerard Pique stand by to deputise at the back while midfielder Owen Hargreaves is expected to make his European debut for United after a thigh strain.

2007-10-01T11:42:00.000-07:00

Birmingham 0 Manchester United 1

A second half goal from Cristiano Ronaldo helped Manchester United grab full points from a very tricky away game against Birmingham City and the red devils are second behind Arsenal.

Birmingham: Taylor 6, Kelly 6, Djourou 7 (Schmitz 76), Ridgewell 7, Queudrue 5, Larsson 7, Nafti 6 (O'Connor 85), Muamba 6 (Palacios 70, 5) McSheffrey 7, Kapo 6, Jerome 6.

Subs not used: Kingson, Danns.

Man Utd: Van der Sar 7 (Kuszczak 46, 7), Brown 7, Ferdinand 6, Vidic 8, Evra 7, Ronaldo 7, Carrick 6, Scholes 6, Giggs 5 (Saha 64, 5), Rooney 6, Tevez 6 (O'Shea 90).

Subs not used: Anderson, Pique

Goal: C. Ronaldo, m.51

Referee: Steve Bennett

Attendance: 26,526

2007-09-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

Premiership: Birmingham Versus Manchester United

Sir Alex Ferguson will revert to his strongest XI as Manchester United aim to forget their Carling Cup humiliation at the hands of Coventry.

Saturday, 29th September, kick-off 17:15 (GMT)

Squads :

Birmingham: Taylor, Kelly, Djourou, Ridgewell, Queudrue, Larsson, Nafti, Muamba, Danns, Palacios, Kapo, McSheffrey, Jerome, Schmitz, Kingson, Sadler, O'Connor, Parnaby, Johnson.

Manchester United: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Pique, Evans, Ronaldo, Hargreaves, Scholes, Carrick, Eagles, Anderson, Nani, Giggs, Rooney, Tevez, Saha.

2007-09-29T09:56:00.000-07:00

Sir Alex eyes loan transfers

The 2-0 defeat to Coventry at Old Trafford left the Reds boss “shocked” and “flabbergasted” after his young side – with an average age of 21 – never really got going against Iain Dowie’s committed side.

The competition had been viewed as an opportunity to give the likes of Gerard Pique, Danny Simpson, Jonny Evans, Chris Eagles, Lee Martin and Dong Fangzhuo the chance to show what they can do.

With that avenue now cut off, there could be loan moves for a number of that group, although Pique and Simpson may be held back as defensive cover.

"It was a shock to us,” said the boss at his Friday press conference. “But the one thing that perhaps mitigated it was the fact that they've not had enough football as a team.

"We looked at the League Cup as an opportunity for these players to play,” he added. "Now that's gone I think we'll have to review the situation with one or two of them going on loan, because they do need football.

"With (Gary) Neville and (Owen) Hargreaves coming back we've got a good strong squad. There'll have to be some that we have to keep. Pique was excellent on Wednesday. He was our best player along with Anderson. We'll probably keep Simpson as he can play both full-back positions. But I'm maybe looking at the rest going on loan as they need to play football.”

2007-09-27T11:26:00.000-07:00

Pique Has 'Horrible' Night

Manchester United's Gerard Pique has described the loss against Coventry City in the Carling Cup as a 'horrible feeling'.

The Red Devils were dumped out of the competition by the Championship side on Wednesday night, after suffering a 2-0 home defeat.

Sir Alex Ferguson made 11 changes to his side, and was expecting his up and coming stars to see off The Sky Blues' challenge.

However, goals either side of half-time from Michael Mifsud secured a memorable success for Iain Dowie's men.

Pique has spoken of his disappointment, and has rued his side's costly mistakes.

"Looking up at the scoreboard at the final whistle and seeing 2-0 was a horrible feeling, especially when you're up against a Championship side at Old Trafford," he told the club's official website.

"I thought we started the game well and had some good possession. But their first goal brought them alive.

"After the break we didn't feel good and when they scored the second it was a horrible feeling.

"We know we did a lot of things wrong, but you can always learn from these situations and hopefully we will grow as players.

"Some people will think we've missed our chance. We're all very disappointed.

"We gave everything we could on the pitch, but things just didn't go our way."

2007-09-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

Carling Cup: Manchester Utd 0 Coventry City 2

The young United team that Sir Alex Ferguson had previously claimed could win the competition were dumped out by Coventry. Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he was “shocked and flabbergasted” by United’s performance in the 2-0 defeat to Coventry City.

Match Report:

Man Utd: Kuszczak, Bardsley (Brown 45), Evans (Carrick 56),Pique, Simpson, Nani, Martin (Campbell 45), O'Shea, Eagles,Dong, Anderson.

Subs Not Used: Heaton, Eckersley.

Booked: Pique.

Coventry: Marshall, Osbourne (McNamee 88), Ward, Turner,Borrowdale, Simpson, Stephen Hughes, Doyle, Tabb, Mifsud,Best (Adebola 90).

Subs Not Used: Konstantopoulos, De Zeeuw, Thornton.

Goals: Mifsud 27, 70.

Att: 74,055

Ref: Mark Halsey (Lancashire).

2007-09-25T08:55:00.000-07:00

Ferguson Set To Give Youth A Chance

"I'm going to play the younger ones, but also players like Anderson, Nani, maybe O'Shea," he said. "But the younger one like Pique, Evans, Simpson, Bardlsey, Eagles, Martin, Dong, Campbell, Kuszczak - they'll all be involved,” Ferguson revealed to Manchester United Radio.

"This is a really important night for these players. They all want regular first-team football and that's not easy to manage. I'm trying to get them games in the Premier League and in Europe too, but Wednesday is a great opportunity for them.

"You have to use your squad throughout the course of the season and I'll be doing that when the time's right. At the moment they might not see that, but it will happen and I know they won't let us down.

"A lot of these players have already shown great improvement. Chris Eagles has been sensational in training and the games he's played in. Young Jonny Evans and Gerard Pique have also been excellent, as has Danny Simpson.

"There's real promise there and that's what we want to see on Wednesday. We want them to play with the kind of commitment they see from the first-team players every week."

Speaking about their opponents, Ferguson was sure that Coventry will put up a spirited fight when they travel to Old Trafford.

Ferguson also said England striker Wayne Rooney is itching to be involved after returning last week from a broken toe sustained on the opening day of the season.

"He's been in my ear wanting to play," Ferguson said.

2007-09-25T08:34:00.000-07:00

Manchester United 2 Chelsea 0

Manchester United scored on the either side of half time to defeat 10-man Chelsea 2-0 in the Premiership at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Carlos Tevez scored his first Premiership goal in the Red Devils shirt with a fine header in the first-half injury time. Louis Saha came off the bench to make it 2-0 to the home side, who made their way to the second position in the Premiership table.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo,Scholes, Carrick, Giggs, Tevez (Saha 79), Rooney.

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Nani, Pique, O'Shea.

Booked: Rooney, Brown.

Goals: Tevez 45, Saha 90 pen.

Chelsea: Cech, Ferreira, Ben-Haim, Terry, Ashley Cole,Makelele, Essien, Obi, Joe Cole (Pizarro 76), Shevchenko (Kalou 59), Malouda (Wright-Phillips 69).

Subs Not Used: Cudicini, Alex.

Sent Off: Obi (32).

Booked: Joe Cole, Terry.

Ref: Mike Dean (Wirral).

Att: 75,663

2007-09-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

Premiership Preview: Manchester United - Chelsea

Sunday, 23rd September, 2007, kick-off 16:00

Possible Starting XI:

Manchester United: Van der Sar - Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Carrick, Scholes, Ronaldo, Rooney, Giggs, Tevez.

Subs: Kuszczak, O’Shea, Nani, Pique, Saha,

Chelsea: Cech - Belletti, Alex, Terry, A.Cole, Essien, Makelele, Mikel, J.Cole, Shevchenko, Malouda.

Subs: Cudicini, Alex, Pizarro, Wright-Phillips, Kalou.

Referee: Mike Dean (Wirral)

Stadium: Old Trafford, Manchester

2007-09-20T12:26:00.000-07:00

Champions League Group F:Sporting Lisbon 0 Manchester United 1

Cristiano Ronaldo marked the return to his former club Sporting Lisbon with a stunning goal last night to get Manchester United's Champions League campaign off to a flyer.

Sporting: Stojkovic, Abel, Tonel, Anderson Polga,Ronny (Bruno Pereirinha 74), Izmailov (Vukcevic 55), Veloso,Joao Moutinho, Romagnoli (Purovic 67), Djalo, Liedson.

Subs Not Used: Tiago, Paredes, Farnerud, Gladstone.

Booked: Romagnoli.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Carrick,Scholes, Nani, Giggs (Anderson 76), Ronaldo (Tevez 86),Rooney (Saha 72).

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Pique, Evans, Eagles.

Booked: Nani, Van der Sar.

Goals: Ronaldo 62.

Att: 39,514

Ref: Herbert Fandel (Germany).

2007-09-19T00:22:00.000-07:00

Manchester United-SCP Lisbon Preview

Owen Hargreaves, a summer signing from Bayern Munich, has not travelled to Portugal due to a thigh strain, but Wayne Rooney returns to the squad for the first time since he broke his foot in the opening match of the season. United are without Mikael Silvestre after his season ending knee injury at the weekend, while Gary Neville, John O’Shea, Darren Fletcher and Park Ji Sung are all sidelined. Gerard Piqué convocated.

SQUADS

Sporting Lisbon: Stojkovic, Tiago; Anderson Polga, Ronny, Tonel, Gladstone, Paulo Renato, Abel; Carlos Paredes, Izmailov, Simon Vukcevic, Pontus Farnerud, Miguel Veloso, Bruno Pereirinha, João Moutinho, Romagnoli, Celsinho; Liedson, Purovic, Yannick Djaló.

Manchester United: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Heaton, Brown, Vidic, Ferdinand, Pique, Evans, Evra, Ronaldo, Scholes, Carrick, Anderson, Nani, Gibson, Eagles, Martin, Giggs, Rooney, Tevez, Saha, Dong.

2007-09-16T14:06:00.000-07:00

Piqué made his Premiership debut

Manchester United claimed their third consecutive 1-0 victory on Saturday thanks to a late header by Nemanja Vidic at Everton. Gerard Piqué made his Premiership debut in 2007/08 season as a substitute on Saturday against Everton.

Everton: Wessels, Hibbert, Yobo, Lescott, Baines, Arteta, Jagielka, Neville (McFadden 85), Osman (Pienaar 73), Johnson, Yakubu (Anichebe 74). Subs not used: Turner, Carsley.

Booked: Neville, Pienaar.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Silvestre (Nani 41), Ronaldo, Carrick, Scholes, Evra, Giggs (Saha 63), Tevez, Nani (Pique 85). Subs not used: Kuszczak, Gibson.

Booked: Scholes, Ronaldo.

Goals: Vidic 83.

Att: 39,364

Ref: Alan Wiley (Staffordshire).

2007-09-14T21:20:00.000-07:00

Preview: Everton - Manchester United

Cristiano Ronaldo returns from suspension but Darren Fletcher and John O'Shea are out after picking up injuries on international duty.

Striker Wayne Rooney has recovered from a fractured foot and is back in the Manchester United squad for the trip to former club Everton.

Man Utd : Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Evans, Pique, Ronaldo, Carrick, Scholes, Hargreaves, Giggs, Eagles, Tevez, Saha, Rooney, Nani, Anderson, Martin.

Everton : Howard, Hibbert, Jagielka, Stubbs, Lescott, Yobo, Baines, Valente, Arteta, McFadden, Neville, Carsley, Osman, Pienaar, Johnson, Yakubu, Anichebe, Wessels.

When: Saturday, 15th Sept, kick- off 12:00 BST

Where: Goodison Park, Merseyside

2007-09-14T17:02:00.000-07:00

DKV Seguros Zaragoza - MRA Navarra (24-11-2006)

Gerard Piqué is watching an indoor football match (futsal) with his teammates Chus Herrero and Sergio Garcia.

2007-09-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

Spain 4 - Georgia 0

Spain defeated Georgia for the second time in Group 4 at the Estadio Municipal Francisco Bonet in Almuñécar on Tuesday to maintained their perfect start in qualifying for the 2009 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Spain: Roberto; Torres, Piqué, Torrejón, Crespo; 'Sisi' (Alfaro, min.75), Raúl García (Granero, min.63), Javi Martínez, Capel; Jurado y Xisco (Adrián, min.38).

Georgia: Loria; Tomasvili, Popkhadze, Navalovsky, Kashia; Grigalashvili, Kobakhidze, Merebashvili (Tavbershivili, min.91), Lobjanidze (Kakhelishvili, min.26); Gotzhilivili (Dvachvili, min.63) y Tchelidze.

Goals: 1-0. 13. Xisco. Deflected ball past keeper from Diego Capel's shot. 2-0. 45+2. Jurado (penalty). After Capel brought down by Kashia. 3-0. 68. Granero. Curled free kick up into top corner of net. 4-0. 80. Adrián. Picked up ball outside area and fired shot past keeper.

Referee: Markus Strómbergsson.

2007-09-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

Blues eye shock Manchester United raid

Birmingham City Football Club are keen on Gerard Pique

The Spanish ace spent last season on loan at Real Zaragoza and looked set for a permanent move to the La Liga side, yet Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson recalled him to his squad for this campaign.

However, the former Barcelona youngster is still some way off the first team at Old Trafford, and Steve Bruce is looking to raid his old club and take the player on loan during the January transfer window.

And if the deal is a success and Pique helps the Blues maintain their position as a Premier League club, a permanent move in the summer could be on the cards if Carson Yeung completes his takeover of the St Andrews club.

"When the new guy (Yeung) comes in, I look at all the other investors that have come into the Premier League, at Portsmouth, Manchester City, West Ham United, everywhere you look, and what they have spent,” said Bruce.

"We obviously hope that is going to be the case here as well. It will be a fantastic scenario if that happens."

Birmingham City Official Website

2007-09-08T16:43:00.000-07:00

Real Zaragoza Dreams Of Piqué

Gerard Piqué was an impossible dream in the summer transfer market. Real Zaragoza insist the dream of signing Piqué is alive.

Real Zaragoza intend to make a January bid for Manchester United defender Gerard Pique.

Zaragoza failed to land Pique during the summer market after marathon talks with United, but are counting on the young Spaniard becoming increasingly unsettled in the coming months as he struggles to break-up the Rio Ferdinand-Nemanja Vidic central defensive partnership at Old Trafford.

Pique still has three years left on his existing United deal and is rated highly by manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Last Tuesday Gerard Piqué went to Zaragoza to visit his ex-teammate assured that "the door of the Real Zaragoza is open and will always be an option. Here they treated me very well, I was very comfortable and I keep a great memory. Will be up for sure".

2007-09-04T20:53:00.000-07:00

Gerard Piqué called up for U21s

Gerard Piqué has been called up by the Spain Under-21 team for European Championships Qualifiers match against Georgia on September 11.Training will take place on 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th August in the Las Rozas Training Ground.

Squad List

José Manuel Jurado y Raúl García - Atlético de Madrid

Javier Martínez - Athletic Club

Antonio Barragán, Francisco Jiménez 'Xisco', Adrián López - Deportivo De La Coruña

Marc Torrejón y Francisco Casilla - RCD Espanyol

Esteban Granero - Getafe

Roberto Jiménez - Nastic de Tarragona

Roberto Canella - Real Sporting Gijon

Miguel Torres - Real Madrid

Gerard Piqué - Manchester United

José Ángel Crespo, Alejandro Alfaro y Diego Capel - Sevilla

Juan M. Mata - Valencia

Sisinio González - Real Valladolid

2007-08-31T17:28:00.000-07:00

Manchester United Official Team Photo 2007/08

The Manchester United squad pose during the club's official annual photoshoot at Old Trafford.
Back row (L-R): Dong Fangzhuo, Nemanja Vidic, John O'Shea, Jonny Evans, Rio Ferdinand, Gerard Pique, Michael Carrick, Darren Fletcher, Louis Saha, Mikael Silvestre.

Third Row (L-R): Kit Manager Albert Morgan, Masseur Garry Armer, Physio Rob Swire, Wes Brown, Ben Foster, Edwin van der Sar, Tomasz Kuszczak, Tom Heaton, Darron Gibson, Assistant Kit Manager Alec Wylie, Fitness Coach Tony Strudwick.

Second Row (L-R): Doctor Steve McNally, Coach Rene Meulensteen, Anderson, Nani, Phil Bardsley, Lee Martin, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Chris Eagles, Goalkeeping Coach Tony Coton, Physio Neil Hough.

Front Row (L-R): Carlos Tevez, Ji-Sung Park, Owen Hargreaves, Cristiano Ronaldo, Assistant Manager Carlos Queiroz, Ryan Giggs, Manager Sir Alex Ferguson, Gary Neville, First Team Coach Mike Phelan, Wayne Rooney, Fraizer Campbell, Patrice Evra, Paul Scholes.

2007-08-31T11:20:00.000-07:00

Preview: Manchester United-Sunderland

United vs.Sunderland,Barclays Premier League

Sat 01st September

Kick Off: 17:15

Manchester United:

Cristiano Ronaldo serves the final match of his suspension and fellow attacking players Wayne Rooney (foot), Anderson (hamstring) and Park Ji-Sung (knee) are sidelined along with captain Gary Neville (thigh). Louis Saha may return to bolster the United attack.

Squad: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Evra, Ferdinand, Vidic, Brown, Silvestre,~~Pique,~~ ~~Evans,~~Scholes, Nani, Giggs, Carrick, Hargreaves, O’Shea, Eagles, Fletcher, Tevez, Campbell, ~~Dong,~~ Saha.

Sunderland:

Right-Back Greg Halford is suspended and Trinidadian winger Carlos Edwards (hamstring) will also miss out but the biggest blow for Keane is the injury to his skipper Dean Whitehead (knee) who could miss most of the season. Former United pair Paul McShane and Kieran Richardson are both doubtful.

Squad: Gordon, Ward, McShane, Nosworthy, Anderson, Collins, Varga, Higginbotham, Harte, Wallace, Etuhu, Richardson, Miller, Yorke, Leadbitter, Kavanagh, Jones, Chopra, Murphy, Stokes, Connolly, O’Donovan, Cole.

2007-08-31T10:48:00.000-07:00

Man United Res 1, Everton Res 0

Five of the Reds' starting line-up tasted regular competitive action on loan last season, and will aim to demonstrate their improvement to Brian McClair and Jim Ryan.

The caretaker duo will continue to helm the second string this term until further notice, and have a far larger pool of players to use this season.

That strength in depth is immediately apparent through the inclusion of Gerard Pique, Fraizer Campbell, Darron Gibson, Lee Martin and Adam Eckersley.

Pique and Eckersley line up alongside Kieran Lee and James Chester in defence, ahead of regular goalkeeper Tom Heaton.

Gibson and Martin form the midfield alongside Michael Barnes and Sam Hewson, while Campbell partners Dong Fangzhuo upfront.

Sean Evans and Michael Lea - two of last season's Reserve Team Player of the Season nominees - are on the bench, alongside Richard Eckersley, Febian Brandy and Ron-Robert Zieler.

United: Heaton; Lee, Chester, Pique, A Eckersley; Barnes, Gibson, Hewson, Martin; Dong, Campbell.

Substitutes: S Evans, Zieler, Lea, R Eckersley, Brandy.

Everton Reserves: Ruddy; Densmore, Dennehy, Boyle, Irving; Vidarsson, Morrison, Harpur, Kissock, Jutkiewicz, Agard.

Substitutes: Jones, Spencer, Sinnott, Barnett,Krenn,Downes.

2007-08-31T10:47:00.000-07:00

Pique raring for step up

Gerard Pique was satisfied with his runout for the Reserves on Thursday night, but is eager to make the step up to Sir Alex Ferguson's senior side.

The young Spanish defender excelled on loan at Real Zaragoza last season and, while the Barclays Premier Reserve League North is a far cry from La Liga, he is happy to be back playing again.

With Sir Alex among the watching crowd at the Victoria Stadium for United's victory over Everton, Pique is geared up for a big season in his fledgling career.

"It was a great time (in Zaragoza), a fantastic experience for me and now I come back here and hope for a chance in the first team," he told MUTV. "I think it was great to play here tonight and to get 65-70 minutes to get fit and ready if the boss needs me in the first team."

"I had just two weeks' holidays, but I'm ready and fit and the game today was a good chance to prove myself and to show that I'm ready. I wanted to stay, the boss said I had to stay and I think it will be a big season for me at Manchester United."

Pique gave an assured performance in defence against the Toffees, but can also turn in an impressive shift in midfield after trying his hand further upfield at Zaragoza.

"Obviously I prefer to play as a centre back, I've always played there, but the circumstance last year was that someone had to play in the midfield and the coach said that I can play there," he said.

"It worked well, I played eight or nine games there and I feel comfortable there as well. I think it's important not just to play in one position, but to play in more. In doing this you can feel that you are a better player."

"Knowing how to play in these different positions makes me feel a better player, and I hope to just keep working to improve myself."

2007-08-30T14:44:00.000-07:00

Champions Manchester United won for the first time this season

Man Utd controlled the game, had a great ball possession but didn’t produce many scoring chances and the Red Devils where in danger to register the third draw this season, when a superb shot from Nani was enough to give them a 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League at Old Trafford. No Gerard Piqué.

Team Line-up

Manchester United: Van der Sar; Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Nani, Scholes, Hargreaves, Carrick (Eagles, 57), Giggs (c); Tevez (Fletcher, 78).
Subs not used: Dong, O’Shea, Kuszczak.

Tottenham Hostpur: Robinson; Chimbonda, Rocha (Zokora, 83), Gardner, Lee (Taarabt, 75); Malbranque, Huddlestone, Jenas, Bale; Berbatov, Keane (c) (Defoe, 75).
Subs not used: Stalteri, Cerny.

Goals: 68 [1 - 0] Nani