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.
Not even the return of Cristiano Ronaldo could prevent Manchester United from a disappointing 0-0 draw against Villarreal at Old Trafford. Ronaldo's second-half introduction certainly sent a surge through United, with fans giving him a warm welcome. But unfortunately, that was not enough for the European champions as their unbeaten 12 game streak on home soil in the competition came to an end.
European champions Manchester United kick start their Champions league campaign against Spanish outfit Villarreal. Theses two sides had faced each other in the 2005-06 tournament, with both games yielding neutral results.
Man U will get a boost as their star player Cristiano Ronaldo makes his eagerly-awaited comeback from injury at Old Trafford tonight. Ferguson has nothing but praise for the dedication Ronaldo has shown towards his recovery from ankle surgery. His return is well-timed as Michael Carrick could be out for six weeks with a broken foot, Paul Scholes is suspended tomorrow and Dimitar Berbatov a major doubt after suffering a bang on the knee in Saturday's defeat at Liverpool.
Also Villarreal are facing problems upfront as their first-choice strikers Nihat Kahveci and former United striker Guiseppe Rossi are still sidelined. However, former Arsenal winger Robert Pires has regained fitness and could feature in today’s game.
Way to capture Europe again, United!
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.
Rio Ferdinand has signed a new contract at Manchester United which will keep him at Old Trafford until 2013. The central defender who arrived at The Theatre Of Dreams in 2002 has put the pen on the deal and shown his long term commitment towards the club.
Days after Chelsea stole United's targeted right back Jose Bosingwa for £16.2m, Rio's decision to stay at Old Trafford has made the fans happy. Sir Alex has openly appreciated Ferdinand's contribution at the back this season along with Vidic. Its because of such commited and determined players that Man Utd has retained their title and are challenging for european glory.
