What a game it was! United were dominant right from the start of the game. And they kept on piling the pressure throughout, but the goal just was not coming. And finally, when Vidic scored after Carrick's shot hit the bar, Old Trafford erupted and United managed all three points against Sunderland.
With Roy Keane resigning mid-week, Sunderland were without a manager and came to Old Trafford with a series of defeats in the previous games. This game was completely one sided affair with United attacking and Sunderland defending the attack with all their 11 men. Berbatov, Rooney, Carrick had some opportunities but could not convert them. Also, with Ronaldo limping off to the tunnel meant more problems for United. Next week's trip to Tottenham would be without Evra and Rooney and may be Ronaldo as well.
Anyways, I am happy that ManU got all the 3 points to stay behind Liverpool and Chelsea by 6 and 5 points respectively, with one game in hand.
Manchester United's Wayne Rooney helped destroy West Brom at Old Trafford, and then claimed he was in the best form of his career. The wonder kid 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 score sheet.
"This is possibly the best form of my career," said Rooney.
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. A capacity crowd did not need to look again to see the damage Rooney could cause. And after that Ronaldo, Berbatov and Nani scored to make it 4-0. The best part was Barbatov also scored his goal for United in the league and at Old Trafford.
Sir Alex Ferguson does feel his side are now starting to find their feet after a difficult start to the campaign. And, with Celtic due in the Champions League on Tuesday, he will definitely like Rooney to display the same form.
New signing Dimitar Berbatov has been asked to get himself in top shape - his first assignment at Old Trafford. He has not yet joined the squad after his transfer from Spurs, as he is away on international duty helping his country in the World Cup qualifiers. Once, he lands in England, he will undergo a full physical check-up and then would be alloted an intensive fitness routine. He has been known for his lethargic and lazy persona, which made United boss Sir Alex Ferguson having doubts about bringing the striker to Old Trafford. Moreover, Berbatov will also now have to quit his habit of smoking as it is strictly prohibited at United. Remember, how Fabian Barthez was caught smoking by Fergie at Old Trafford, which strained their relations and finally led to the exit of the frenchman. Some very strict rules to follow Berbatov.
Manchester United have appointed Mike Phelan as assistant manager after Carlos Queiroz had left Old Trafford to become Portugal coach in July. Phelan, a former United player who has worked his way up through the ranks of the backroom staff, has been working as a first team coach since 2001. Elsewhere, Dutchman Rene Meulensteen has also been promoted from technical skills development officer to take on Phelan's former role. It seems everything is falling into place now, with United having the Asst. manager and Berbatov coming to the squad. United are looking much stronger and raring to go for the silverware this season.
Finally, Manchester United successfully signed Dimitar Berbatov on a 4 year deal. One of the summer's longest-running transfers was finally concluded with Fraizer Campbell going to Tottenham in a year-long loan.
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Berbatov has the quality to score goals himself and create chances for others. It now surely will add more firepower to the squad and thus make it even stronger.
