he looks about 14Mr. Bungle said:And in one games time,
will hopefully be back.
FA-Cup Final: Manchester United - Arses
- Thread starter very Ruud
- Start date
-
In the latest episode of the United Hour Podcast, Nik (@Rood) is joined by CEO Duncan Drasdo and Financial Director Andy Green from the Manchester United Supporters Trust for a special episode on all things behind the scenes at Old Trafford including a brief history of MUST and their aims today, views on INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe so far, and the Old Trafford regeneration.
Giggsy PO...
Why do you have Wes over Gazza at RB?
Why do you have Wes over Gazza at RB?
I thought I read that Gary was injured ... a groin problem. Did I imagine that?MrMarcello said:
yeah he is a doubt
Ahh...found it on Soccernet.com.
Site is not letting me post http at the moment, so I'll past the article.
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Double injury blow for Man United
Manchester United have suffered a double defensive injury blow ahead of Saturday's FA Cup final.
Gabriel Heinze is almost certain to miss out after failing to recover from his ankle ligament injury, while Sir Alex Ferguson also revealed Gary Neville is a major doubt with a groin strain.
However, the situation over the England international is slightly confused as this morning Ferguson said Neville was not training - only for the player to appear at the club's Carrington complex for a work-out with the team.
'Gary is a concern because he is not training,' said Ferguson earlier this morning.
'We have got medical people working on him and we will give him every chance but it is not looking good.'
The possible absence of Neville robs the Red Devils defence of some valuable experience, although it could be good news for the England international's brother Phil who could step into the right-back role.
But the loss of Heinze is a major blow, even if it had been anticipated by the United boss as soon as the forceful Argentinian full-back suffered the injury against Newcastle three weeks ago.
'Gaby doesn't want to be ruled out at the moment but I do not see him playing,' said Ferguson.
'It is very disappointing because they are both experienced players. I particularly feel for Gaby.
'He has been fantastic for us this season, he's a real winner and he deserves to play but I do feel it's beyond him.'
Heinze's absence is likely to see France international Mikael Silvestre start at left-back, with Wes Brown partnering Rio Ferdinand in the heart of United's defence as they look to win the trophy for a record 12th time and inflict their fourth defeat of the season on Arsene Wenger's men.
Site is not letting me post http at the moment, so I'll past the article.
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Double injury blow for Man United
Manchester United have suffered a double defensive injury blow ahead of Saturday's FA Cup final.
Gabriel Heinze is almost certain to miss out after failing to recover from his ankle ligament injury, while Sir Alex Ferguson also revealed Gary Neville is a major doubt with a groin strain.
However, the situation over the England international is slightly confused as this morning Ferguson said Neville was not training - only for the player to appear at the club's Carrington complex for a work-out with the team.
'Gary is a concern because he is not training,' said Ferguson earlier this morning.
'We have got medical people working on him and we will give him every chance but it is not looking good.'
The possible absence of Neville robs the Red Devils defence of some valuable experience, although it could be good news for the England international's brother Phil who could step into the right-back role.
But the loss of Heinze is a major blow, even if it had been anticipated by the United boss as soon as the forceful Argentinian full-back suffered the injury against Newcastle three weeks ago.
'Gaby doesn't want to be ruled out at the moment but I do not see him playing,' said Ferguson.
'It is very disappointing because they are both experienced players. I particularly feel for Gaby.
'He has been fantastic for us this season, he's a real winner and he deserves to play but I do feel it's beyond him.'
Heinze's absence is likely to see France international Mikael Silvestre start at left-back, with Wes Brown partnering Rio Ferdinand in the heart of United's defence as they look to win the trophy for a record 12th time and inflict their fourth defeat of the season on Arsene Wenger's men.
Apparently Neville was training with the squad today so I wouldn't read too much into this. If Nev fit and Heinze out (which looks likely) then would expect a back 4 of:
Nev, Piss-bottle, Wes, Silvestre.
Nev, Piss-bottle, Wes, Silvestre.
The defence will be fine.
Play Phil Neville in midfield and we'll be all set
Play Phil Neville in midfield and we'll be all set
MrMarcello said:
Just because of Gazza´s injury. If Gazza is fit: Gazza - Rio - Wes - Mickey
Btw. how many substitutes are eligible for the FA Cup ?
FA Cup Final: Arsenal v United - the match-up
Tactics:
When they hit form, Arsenal remain the most attractive side in the country to watch. Their free-flowing, one-touch attacking football swept them to the title without defeat last season and they continue to employ the same philosophy. They may not have matched the level of performance which was consistently produced last season but they are still a devastating force.
The problem is that United have learned how to rattle them. Their most recent encounters have been physical, hard-fought affairs with United preventing the Gunners getting into their stride. They are likely to try to stifle them in midfield again and rely on the likes of Ruud van Nistelrooy or Wayne Rooney to snatch breakaway goals.
History lesson:
Meetings between these two clubs have become notorious. They fought out an ill-tempered goalless draw at Old Trafford last season and their clash in Manchester this term was equally stormy, reportedly ending in a food fight in the tunnel. United won the last time they met, 4-2 in an absorbing encounter at Highbury in February, and Sir Alex Ferguson's side also came out on top in last year's FA Cup semi-final. In all, they have met 11 times in the FA Cup.
United won a memorable semi-final after a replay in 1999 and also beat them in the last four in 1983, but the last time they met in the final, in 1979, it was the Gunners who famously triumphed. On that occasion United fought back from 2-0 down to level in the closing minutes, only for Alan Sunderland to snatch victory.
Showstoppers:
Both teams have an abundance of talent. Thierry Henry will be looking to shake off his groin injury for Arsenal and they also have veteran Dennis Bergkamp to lead the line, as well as exciting midfielders in Robert Pires and Freddie Ljungberg. They may not have been as ruthless as in previous seasons, but youngsters Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie have shown the future is bright.
Rooney has been the focus of attention for most of United's season. The 19-year-old has shown on numerous occasions he can rise to the challenge of big games and he will be relishing a cup final appearance at the Millennium Stadium. Van Nistelrooy and Cristiano Ronaldo, both scorers in last year's FA Cup final, will also have their eyes on goals.
Banana skin:
The absence of Sol Campbell for large parts of the season has left Arsenal unusually shaky at the back at times and goalkeeper Jens Lehmann is unreliable. The Gunners will certainly hope that Campbell, their bedrock, is back to full fitness.
United can be vulnerable in defence too, as a surprise defeat at struggling Norwich in April showed. It is up front, however, where they have had more problems of late. Even with with strikers as talented as van Nistelrooy and Rooney - and Louis Saha and Alan Smith in reserve - United have not been scoring enough for Ferguson's liking.
Verdict:
Chelsea may have run away with Arsenal's Premiership crown, but the Gunners are still the country's second best team. United have had the edge in their most recent clashes, and should have the advantage in Cardiff.
Prediction: United 2 Arsenal 1
Tactics:
When they hit form, Arsenal remain the most attractive side in the country to watch. Their free-flowing, one-touch attacking football swept them to the title without defeat last season and they continue to employ the same philosophy. They may not have matched the level of performance which was consistently produced last season but they are still a devastating force.
The problem is that United have learned how to rattle them. Their most recent encounters have been physical, hard-fought affairs with United preventing the Gunners getting into their stride. They are likely to try to stifle them in midfield again and rely on the likes of Ruud van Nistelrooy or Wayne Rooney to snatch breakaway goals.
History lesson:
Meetings between these two clubs have become notorious. They fought out an ill-tempered goalless draw at Old Trafford last season and their clash in Manchester this term was equally stormy, reportedly ending in a food fight in the tunnel. United won the last time they met, 4-2 in an absorbing encounter at Highbury in February, and Sir Alex Ferguson's side also came out on top in last year's FA Cup semi-final. In all, they have met 11 times in the FA Cup.
United won a memorable semi-final after a replay in 1999 and also beat them in the last four in 1983, but the last time they met in the final, in 1979, it was the Gunners who famously triumphed. On that occasion United fought back from 2-0 down to level in the closing minutes, only for Alan Sunderland to snatch victory.
Showstoppers:
Both teams have an abundance of talent. Thierry Henry will be looking to shake off his groin injury for Arsenal and they also have veteran Dennis Bergkamp to lead the line, as well as exciting midfielders in Robert Pires and Freddie Ljungberg. They may not have been as ruthless as in previous seasons, but youngsters Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie have shown the future is bright.
Rooney has been the focus of attention for most of United's season. The 19-year-old has shown on numerous occasions he can rise to the challenge of big games and he will be relishing a cup final appearance at the Millennium Stadium. Van Nistelrooy and Cristiano Ronaldo, both scorers in last year's FA Cup final, will also have their eyes on goals.
Banana skin:
The absence of Sol Campbell for large parts of the season has left Arsenal unusually shaky at the back at times and goalkeeper Jens Lehmann is unreliable. The Gunners will certainly hope that Campbell, their bedrock, is back to full fitness.
United can be vulnerable in defence too, as a surprise defeat at struggling Norwich in April showed. It is up front, however, where they have had more problems of late. Even with with strikers as talented as van Nistelrooy and Rooney - and Louis Saha and Alan Smith in reserve - United have not been scoring enough for Ferguson's liking.
Verdict:
Chelsea may have run away with Arsenal's Premiership crown, but the Gunners are still the country's second best team. United have had the edge in their most recent clashes, and should have the advantage in Cardiff.
Prediction: United 2 Arsenal 1
FA Cup Final: Arsenal v United cup classics
MANCHESTER United's resounding FA Cup semi-final win against Newcastle has set up yet another massive head-to-head with Arsenal in the final.
And, after the Gunners' equally convincing victory in their semi against Blackburn, the climax at the Millennium Stadium on May 21 has all the ingredients of a classic.
The two clubs share a passionate rivalry in cup competitions, clashing in each of the last four seasons as well as the legendary semi-final meeting at Villa Park in 1999.
Here ManchesterOnline takes a look at some of their classic cup encounters.
May 12, 1979: FA Cup final, Wembley
ARSENAL 3 MANCHESTER UNITED 2
One of the most memorable finals in living memory was actually an unremarkable affair for the first 85 minutes. Arsenal, through Frank Stapleton and Brian Talbot, had established a comfortable lead and seemed certain to collect the trophy. But dramatically, first Gordon McQueen struck for United, then Sammy McIlroy levelled, setting up what appeared to be an inevitable period of extra-time. Arsenal had other ideas and when Gary Bailey failed to cut out Graham Rix's cross, Alan Sunderland nipped in at the far post to seal an amazing win for the Gunners.
April 11, 1999: FA Cup semi-final, Villa Park
MANCHESTER UNITED 0 ARSENAL 0 (after extra-time)
United felt cheated when Roy Keane had a goal ruled out for offside. Ryan Giggs skipped past Lee Dixon in the 38th minute and crossed towards Dwight Yorke. He nodded the ball back to Keane who rifled in from 12 yards, but the goal was disallowed because Yorke was judged to be offside. Despite the sending-off of Arsenal defender Nelson Vivas, the Gunners held on to force a replay.
April 14, 1999: FA Cup semi-final replay, Villa Park
MANCHESTER UNITED 2 ARSENAL 1 (after extra-time)
The last ever FA Cup semi-final replay, and a classic way for the format to bow out. David Beckham gave the Red Devils an early lead with a sweetly-struck shot but Dennis Bergkamp levelled for the Gunners with an effort deflected in off Jaap Stam in the 69th minute. Four minutes later United had Keane sent off and when a penalty was awarded Arsenal's way in the last minute, Bergkamp stepped up to take it. However, Peter Schmeichel saved the kick to take the game into extra-time. United were struggling with the one-man disadvantage, until Giggs stepped in. Seizing on a loose pass from Patrick Vieira, he raced from his own half and into the Arsenal box before smashing a rising shot past David Seaman for one of the great FA Cup goals. United went on to complete an historic treble.
November 5, 2001: Worthington Cup third round, Highbury
ARSENAL 4 MANCHESTER UNITED 0
Both sides were expected to field weakened teams in this match but ultimately Arsenal's line-up had a far stronger look to it than United's largely untried team. Sylvain Wiltord grabbed a first-half hat-trick and Kanu added a fourth from the penalty spot in the second half. Arsenal ended the season as FA Cup winners while United triumphed in the Premiership.
February 15, 2003: FA Cup fifth round, Old Trafford
MANCHESTER UNITED 0 ARSENAL 2
FA Cup holders Arsenal knew they were in for a tough game and would have fallen behind but for Giggs wasting an early chance to score with the goal gaping. The Gunners recovered from that scare to win with goals from Edu and Wiltord. Sir Alex Ferguson was furious with the result and in his anger kicked a stray boot across the dressing room, accidentally striking David Beckham just above the eye. The England captain needed stitches for the wound but the manager-player relationship was never properly patched up, and Beckham left for Real Madrid that summer.
April 3, 2004: FA Cup semi-final, Villa Park
ARSENAL 0 MANCHESTER UNITED 1
Arsenal arrived at Villa Park still on course to match United's 1999 treble, but United got their tactics right, hounding Arsenal in midfield. Edu hit the crossbar for the Londoners and Roy Carroll managed to keep out Kolo Toure's close-range rebound. The missed opportunity proved costly as Paul Scholes grabbed the only goal in the 31st minute. Vieira hit the post with a header but United held on, and by the end of the week Arsenal were also out of the Champions League.
December 1, 2004: Carling Cup quarter-final, Old Trafford
MANCHESTER UNITED 1 ARSENAL 0
A frosty December night at Old Trafford saw the first meeting of the arch rivals since their infamous 'pizzagate' meeting in the league two months previously. And while this clash hardly matched the ferocity of that encounter, it took even less time to explode into life. David Bellion grabbed what proved to be the only goal of the game in the first minute, slotting home from 20 yards courtesy of some woeful goalkeeping from Manuel Almunia and United, along with the Gunners fielding a massively under-strength team, held on for a comfortable win. The defeat further derailed Arsenal's campaign after their loss at Liverpool in the league earlier that week. Many would say their season has never quite recovered.
MANCHESTER United's resounding FA Cup semi-final win against Newcastle has set up yet another massive head-to-head with Arsenal in the final.
And, after the Gunners' equally convincing victory in their semi against Blackburn, the climax at the Millennium Stadium on May 21 has all the ingredients of a classic.
The two clubs share a passionate rivalry in cup competitions, clashing in each of the last four seasons as well as the legendary semi-final meeting at Villa Park in 1999.
Here ManchesterOnline takes a look at some of their classic cup encounters.
May 12, 1979: FA Cup final, Wembley
ARSENAL 3 MANCHESTER UNITED 2
One of the most memorable finals in living memory was actually an unremarkable affair for the first 85 minutes. Arsenal, through Frank Stapleton and Brian Talbot, had established a comfortable lead and seemed certain to collect the trophy. But dramatically, first Gordon McQueen struck for United, then Sammy McIlroy levelled, setting up what appeared to be an inevitable period of extra-time. Arsenal had other ideas and when Gary Bailey failed to cut out Graham Rix's cross, Alan Sunderland nipped in at the far post to seal an amazing win for the Gunners.
April 11, 1999: FA Cup semi-final, Villa Park
MANCHESTER UNITED 0 ARSENAL 0 (after extra-time)
United felt cheated when Roy Keane had a goal ruled out for offside. Ryan Giggs skipped past Lee Dixon in the 38th minute and crossed towards Dwight Yorke. He nodded the ball back to Keane who rifled in from 12 yards, but the goal was disallowed because Yorke was judged to be offside. Despite the sending-off of Arsenal defender Nelson Vivas, the Gunners held on to force a replay.
April 14, 1999: FA Cup semi-final replay, Villa Park
MANCHESTER UNITED 2 ARSENAL 1 (after extra-time)
The last ever FA Cup semi-final replay, and a classic way for the format to bow out. David Beckham gave the Red Devils an early lead with a sweetly-struck shot but Dennis Bergkamp levelled for the Gunners with an effort deflected in off Jaap Stam in the 69th minute. Four minutes later United had Keane sent off and when a penalty was awarded Arsenal's way in the last minute, Bergkamp stepped up to take it. However, Peter Schmeichel saved the kick to take the game into extra-time. United were struggling with the one-man disadvantage, until Giggs stepped in. Seizing on a loose pass from Patrick Vieira, he raced from his own half and into the Arsenal box before smashing a rising shot past David Seaman for one of the great FA Cup goals. United went on to complete an historic treble.
November 5, 2001: Worthington Cup third round, Highbury
ARSENAL 4 MANCHESTER UNITED 0
Both sides were expected to field weakened teams in this match but ultimately Arsenal's line-up had a far stronger look to it than United's largely untried team. Sylvain Wiltord grabbed a first-half hat-trick and Kanu added a fourth from the penalty spot in the second half. Arsenal ended the season as FA Cup winners while United triumphed in the Premiership.
February 15, 2003: FA Cup fifth round, Old Trafford
MANCHESTER UNITED 0 ARSENAL 2
FA Cup holders Arsenal knew they were in for a tough game and would have fallen behind but for Giggs wasting an early chance to score with the goal gaping. The Gunners recovered from that scare to win with goals from Edu and Wiltord. Sir Alex Ferguson was furious with the result and in his anger kicked a stray boot across the dressing room, accidentally striking David Beckham just above the eye. The England captain needed stitches for the wound but the manager-player relationship was never properly patched up, and Beckham left for Real Madrid that summer.
April 3, 2004: FA Cup semi-final, Villa Park
ARSENAL 0 MANCHESTER UNITED 1
Arsenal arrived at Villa Park still on course to match United's 1999 treble, but United got their tactics right, hounding Arsenal in midfield. Edu hit the crossbar for the Londoners and Roy Carroll managed to keep out Kolo Toure's close-range rebound. The missed opportunity proved costly as Paul Scholes grabbed the only goal in the 31st minute. Vieira hit the post with a header but United held on, and by the end of the week Arsenal were also out of the Champions League.
December 1, 2004: Carling Cup quarter-final, Old Trafford
MANCHESTER UNITED 1 ARSENAL 0
A frosty December night at Old Trafford saw the first meeting of the arch rivals since their infamous 'pizzagate' meeting in the league two months previously. And while this clash hardly matched the ferocity of that encounter, it took even less time to explode into life. David Bellion grabbed what proved to be the only goal of the game in the first minute, slotting home from 20 yards courtesy of some woeful goalkeeping from Manuel Almunia and United, along with the Gunners fielding a massively under-strength team, held on for a comfortable win. The defeat further derailed Arsenal's campaign after their loss at Liverpool in the league earlier that week. Many would say their season has never quite recovered.
FA Cup Final: Managers - head to head
HAD Arsenal and Manchester United been set to face each other in the FA Cup final 12 months ago, it would have been an explosive prospect.
But earlier this year, feuding managers Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson agreed to cut out their verbal sparring and the sour taste which lingered after several of their matches has dissipated.
The fact remains they are two modern managerial giants of the English league - even if Jose Mourinho has outshone them this season.
Here, ManchesterOnline examines how the two compare ahead of their FA Cup final meeting on May 21:
RECORD
FERGUSON: After winning eight league championships, five FA Cups, one Champions League title, the Cup-Winners' Cup and a League Cup with Manchester United, as well as domestic and European success with Aberdeen, Ferguson is one of the most successful British managers ever. 9/10.
WENGER: A French championship winner with Monaco, Wenger has also enjoyed great days at Arsenal, winning three league titles and three FA Cups. However, success in Europe continues to elude the Arsenal manager who has not been beyond the Champions League quarter-finals with the Gunners. 8/10.
MAN MANAGEMENT
FERGUSON: Asked to define Ferguson's style of management, most people would plump for two words - old school. He demands and retains the respect of his millionaire players and it is an education which Wayne Rooney - who could have picked any club in the world - has chosen willingly. 8/10.
WENGER: Urbane and sophisticated would both be apt descriptions of Wenger. Like his adversary, the Frenchman has a proven record of nurturing the best from his players but his side have been lacklustre recently, and they are due a big performance. 7/10.
TACTICS
FERGUSON: Ferguson's various formations and game-plans have served him brilliantly over the years but he has received criticism in some quarters for his persistence in deploying a lone striker, with Ruud van Nistelrooy misfiring until his double against Newcastle in the FA Cup semi-final. Granted, Ferguson has endured a difficult season, but there is little he does not know about tactical intricacies. 8/10.
WENGER: Arsenal have lost much of the verve which saw them unbeaten in the league last season and Wenger has so far failed to find a solution. Like Ferguson, he puts the emphasis on attack and has gone back to 35-year-old Dennis Bergkamp in search of some spark in recent games but Robin van Persie is showing signs of taking on his countryman's mantle. 7/10.
MIND GAMES
FERGUSON: Quite simply, if there are any to be played, Ferguson is master of the mind games. Since the `truce' was called, though, he has stood down from the verbal sparring. 8/10.
WENGER: Appeared to have Ferguson's number in recent seasons, remaining cool at all times. However, Wenger and Arsenal have come off second best to Ferguson and United in their meetings this season. 7/10.
TOTALS
Ferguson: 33/40.
Wenger: 29/40
HAD Arsenal and Manchester United been set to face each other in the FA Cup final 12 months ago, it would have been an explosive prospect.
But earlier this year, feuding managers Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson agreed to cut out their verbal sparring and the sour taste which lingered after several of their matches has dissipated.
The fact remains they are two modern managerial giants of the English league - even if Jose Mourinho has outshone them this season.
Here, ManchesterOnline examines how the two compare ahead of their FA Cup final meeting on May 21:
RECORD
FERGUSON: After winning eight league championships, five FA Cups, one Champions League title, the Cup-Winners' Cup and a League Cup with Manchester United, as well as domestic and European success with Aberdeen, Ferguson is one of the most successful British managers ever. 9/10.
WENGER: A French championship winner with Monaco, Wenger has also enjoyed great days at Arsenal, winning three league titles and three FA Cups. However, success in Europe continues to elude the Arsenal manager who has not been beyond the Champions League quarter-finals with the Gunners. 8/10.
MAN MANAGEMENT
FERGUSON: Asked to define Ferguson's style of management, most people would plump for two words - old school. He demands and retains the respect of his millionaire players and it is an education which Wayne Rooney - who could have picked any club in the world - has chosen willingly. 8/10.
WENGER: Urbane and sophisticated would both be apt descriptions of Wenger. Like his adversary, the Frenchman has a proven record of nurturing the best from his players but his side have been lacklustre recently, and they are due a big performance. 7/10.
TACTICS
FERGUSON: Ferguson's various formations and game-plans have served him brilliantly over the years but he has received criticism in some quarters for his persistence in deploying a lone striker, with Ruud van Nistelrooy misfiring until his double against Newcastle in the FA Cup semi-final. Granted, Ferguson has endured a difficult season, but there is little he does not know about tactical intricacies. 8/10.
WENGER: Arsenal have lost much of the verve which saw them unbeaten in the league last season and Wenger has so far failed to find a solution. Like Ferguson, he puts the emphasis on attack and has gone back to 35-year-old Dennis Bergkamp in search of some spark in recent games but Robin van Persie is showing signs of taking on his countryman's mantle. 7/10.
MIND GAMES
FERGUSON: Quite simply, if there are any to be played, Ferguson is master of the mind games. Since the `truce' was called, though, he has stood down from the verbal sparring. 8/10.
WENGER: Appeared to have Ferguson's number in recent seasons, remaining cool at all times. However, Wenger and Arsenal have come off second best to Ferguson and United in their meetings this season. 7/10.
TOTALS
Ferguson: 33/40.
Wenger: 29/40
FA Cup Final: Key battles
KOLO TOURE v RUUD VAN NISTELROOY
Toure has been forced to lead the defence in the absence of injured England centre-back Sol Campbell. The Ivory Coast international is starting to develop as a fine defender after starting in midfield.
Dutchman van Nistelrooy ended his eight-match barren spell since his return from an Achilles injury with a double strike in the semi-final against Newcastle.
Manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he rushed the Holland striker back into the team and van Nistelrooy had not posed the same threat compared to his early-season form. Looking to prove the critics wrong and fire United to cup glory.
PATRICK VIEIRA(poof) v ROY KEANE
Vieira has not been in the best form this season, after impressing during last year's title-winning campaign. The France midfielder still has the ability to dominate the midfield.
Veteran Keane has impressed this season when he has been fit to play, dominating United's performances despite losing a yard of pace. No love lost between the two great midfielders and expect a battle royal at the Millennium Stadium.
ROBERT PIRES v CRISTIANO RONALDO
Despite being 32 years old, Pires is still one of the most dangerous wingers in the Barclays Premiership. The Frenchman has kept himself fit this season and has contributed 14 goals, including one in the semi-final win over Blackburn.
Ronaldo will provide United's creative spark with his intricate footwork on the right wing. The Portugal winger is starting to provide some end product to his magical skills, grabbing the final goal in the 4-1 victory over Newcastle.
THIERRY HENRY v RIO FERDINAND
Henry has reached the 30-goal mark already this season with his usual display of pace, skill and calm finishing. Sometimes does not perform during big games, but will be eager to impress after missing the semi-final through injury.
The 26-year-old Ferdinand has established himself as one of the finest centre-backs in Europe, and has shown no signs of losing his touch since his return from an eight-month suspension for failing to attend a drug test.
Keeping Henry quiet, though, will be one of his biggest tests of the campaign.
KOLO TOURE v RUUD VAN NISTELROOY
Toure has been forced to lead the defence in the absence of injured England centre-back Sol Campbell. The Ivory Coast international is starting to develop as a fine defender after starting in midfield.
Dutchman van Nistelrooy ended his eight-match barren spell since his return from an Achilles injury with a double strike in the semi-final against Newcastle.
Manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he rushed the Holland striker back into the team and van Nistelrooy had not posed the same threat compared to his early-season form. Looking to prove the critics wrong and fire United to cup glory.
PATRICK VIEIRA(poof) v ROY KEANE
Vieira has not been in the best form this season, after impressing during last year's title-winning campaign. The France midfielder still has the ability to dominate the midfield.
Veteran Keane has impressed this season when he has been fit to play, dominating United's performances despite losing a yard of pace. No love lost between the two great midfielders and expect a battle royal at the Millennium Stadium.
ROBERT PIRES v CRISTIANO RONALDO
Despite being 32 years old, Pires is still one of the most dangerous wingers in the Barclays Premiership. The Frenchman has kept himself fit this season and has contributed 14 goals, including one in the semi-final win over Blackburn.
Ronaldo will provide United's creative spark with his intricate footwork on the right wing. The Portugal winger is starting to provide some end product to his magical skills, grabbing the final goal in the 4-1 victory over Newcastle.
THIERRY HENRY v RIO FERDINAND
Henry has reached the 30-goal mark already this season with his usual display of pace, skill and calm finishing. Sometimes does not perform during big games, but will be eager to impress after missing the semi-final through injury.
The 26-year-old Ferdinand has established himself as one of the finest centre-backs in Europe, and has shown no signs of losing his touch since his return from an eight-month suspension for failing to attend a drug test.
Keeping Henry quiet, though, will be one of his biggest tests of the campaign.
Vieira said they deserved to win the cup, what a arrogant cnut.
------------------Carroll---------------
------Wes--------Rio------Silvestre----
-----------------Keane----------------
--------Fletcher----Scholes-----------
Ronaldo---------Rooney-----------Giggs
-----------Ruud----------Saha--------
------Wes--------Rio------Silvestre----
-----------------Keane----------------
--------Fletcher----Scholes-----------
Ronaldo---------Rooney-----------Giggs
-----------Ruud----------Saha--------
Great idea that - trying a new formation for the first time this season in the FA cup final. Not as if the Arse know how to attack either is it?
edn33 said:
I´ll go for that. Hopefully the ref wont notice our one-man advantage
With Saha playing we'd only have it for the first 5 mins anyway...
howard
wes-rio-tweety-oshea
ronaldo-fletch-keane-giggs
--------------rooney
--------ruud
subs:carroll,smith,phil,saha and ridshardson
im hoping for a another 4-2 win,but i have a feeling that ARSEnal will win
wes-rio-tweety-oshea
ronaldo-fletch-keane-giggs
--------------rooney
--------ruud
subs:carroll,smith,phil,saha and ridshardson
im hoping for a another 4-2 win,but i have a feeling that ARSEnal will win
----------------Timmy--------------------
--Gazz------Rio------Mickey-------Gabby--
-Ronaldo-----Keano-----Scholes----Giggsy-
--------------Ruud------Roon-------------
Sub:Carroll,Fortune,O'Shea,Fletcher,Smith
--Gazz------Rio------Mickey-------Gabby--
-Ronaldo-----Keano-----Scholes----Giggsy-
--------------Ruud------Roon-------------
Sub:Carroll,Fortune,O'Shea,Fletcher,Smith
R*v*N said:
Everybody is fit ? So we must have a new doctor.
damn, it's hard to choose a line-up if everyone's fit, isn't it?
oscar74 said:
that's sad but true.
1-3 victory....
NOT FOR SALE!
NOT FOR SALE!
HOHOHHOOHOHOHOHOHOHOHH.Giggsy PO said:Everybody is fit ? So we must have a new doctor.
4-0 United, come onnnnnnnnnnnn
what do you guys think i should do?
go to a friends birthday tommorow and miss the match?
or tell the mate ive got revision to do and watch the match?
go to a friends birthday tommorow and miss the match?
or tell the mate ive got revision to do and watch the match?
Tell him to feck off for himself, him and his gay party.
It's the Cup Final.
It's the Cup Final.
cr7fan said:what do you guys think i should do?
go to a friends birthday tommorow and miss the match?
or tell the mate ive got revision to do and watch the match?
Tell him the truth. If he fails to understand, get new friends.
we compromised. before we were gonna go out at 1. but now were going out at 5. if it goes to extra time or penalities... well then i might be late a lilFresnoBob said:
come on united!!!!
apparently gazza might be in the starting lineup tommorow..
apparently gazza might be in the starting lineup tommorow..
Ferguson takes swipe at Arsenal fouling record
Mudslinging begins as Scot cites statistics
Daniel Taylor
Saturday May 21, 2005
The Guardian
Surely the Football Association knew it was wasting the price of two postage stamps when it wrote to Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger asking them to stop the sniping. "I'm not getting involved in anything controversial because the FA are just so sensitive these days," Ferguson, with heavy sarcasm, said yesterday. "I wouldn't want to upset them."
But in the end he could not help himself. His aversion to Wenger is too extreme, too deep-rooted and, if he is honest, too much fun for the FA seriously to believe he could maintain the policy of omerta in FA Cup final week.
Article continues
This is a man who takes wicked pleasure from the thought of Wenger spraying a mouthful of tea over his desk when he picks up his morning newspaper. And on this occasion Ferguson, that notorious mischief-maker, believes Manchester United have a genuine grievance.
"Arsenal do not know how to lose" is one of his favourite sayings, and he launched into his pre-Cardiff press briefing by going into the details of how he had examined a video of their 2-0 defeat at Old Trafford in October.
Wenger had goaded him by claiming that United "kicked my players off the park" and that José Antonio Reyes had been a particular target, so Ferguson switched off his mobile, drew the curtains and began taking notes. No clatter of limbs was deemed too trivial. Every scratch, shove, knee, elbow, jab, stamp and pull went into his pad, beginning with Ashley Cole hacking down Cristiano Ronaldo after 28 seconds and concluding, judging by his subsequent complaints to FA officials, with the names of Dennis Bergkamp, Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira underlined in red.
"Look at the video for yourself," he said. "I'm amazed that nobody has actually analysed it properly, and particularly the number of fouls they gave away. There was a bit of propaganda about why had they lost after 49 matches unbeaten and it was convenient for them to say they were kicked off the park.
"Unfortunately for them the statistics and facts do not bear it out one bit. For starters, there were three fouls on Reyes in the whole game. Only three fouls! Hardly constitutes the Texas Chainsaw Massacre, does it?
"There were six on Ronaldo. So Arsenal have to put up their hands and admit they're a competitive team, just like us. But if you look at the record of Manchester United it doesn't bear up with a team that is overly aggressive at all. We do well in the Fair Play League every year. And who's the most fouled player in the Premiership? Ronaldo. Not Reyes."
There is an argument about how many of the 101 free-kicks awarded to Ronaldo were genuine infringements, but Vieira, to Ferguson's delight, is officially the Premiership's dirtiest player, with nine yellow cards and 94 fouls. However, the FA had specifically asked both managers to refrain from this type of mudslinging and, on the morning of their showpiece event, the men in power at Soho Square will not appreciate Ferguson's timing.
In Wenger's favour he has neatly sidestepped any provocative questioning about his relationship with Ferguson, yet already this week Vieira has taken a few shots at Roy Keane. Then there were Ferguson's allegations that Wenger might be lying about the state of Henry's fitness. This is before we even get into today's other hostilities: Ronaldo against Cole, Gary Neville (if fit) against Reyes and, as it sometimes seems, Ruud van Nistelrooy against the entire Arsenal XI.
Mudslinging begins as Scot cites statistics
Daniel Taylor
Saturday May 21, 2005
The Guardian
Surely the Football Association knew it was wasting the price of two postage stamps when it wrote to Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger asking them to stop the sniping. "I'm not getting involved in anything controversial because the FA are just so sensitive these days," Ferguson, with heavy sarcasm, said yesterday. "I wouldn't want to upset them."
But in the end he could not help himself. His aversion to Wenger is too extreme, too deep-rooted and, if he is honest, too much fun for the FA seriously to believe he could maintain the policy of omerta in FA Cup final week.
Article continues
This is a man who takes wicked pleasure from the thought of Wenger spraying a mouthful of tea over his desk when he picks up his morning newspaper. And on this occasion Ferguson, that notorious mischief-maker, believes Manchester United have a genuine grievance.
"Arsenal do not know how to lose" is one of his favourite sayings, and he launched into his pre-Cardiff press briefing by going into the details of how he had examined a video of their 2-0 defeat at Old Trafford in October.
Wenger had goaded him by claiming that United "kicked my players off the park" and that José Antonio Reyes had been a particular target, so Ferguson switched off his mobile, drew the curtains and began taking notes. No clatter of limbs was deemed too trivial. Every scratch, shove, knee, elbow, jab, stamp and pull went into his pad, beginning with Ashley Cole hacking down Cristiano Ronaldo after 28 seconds and concluding, judging by his subsequent complaints to FA officials, with the names of Dennis Bergkamp, Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira underlined in red.
"Look at the video for yourself," he said. "I'm amazed that nobody has actually analysed it properly, and particularly the number of fouls they gave away. There was a bit of propaganda about why had they lost after 49 matches unbeaten and it was convenient for them to say they were kicked off the park.
"Unfortunately for them the statistics and facts do not bear it out one bit. For starters, there were three fouls on Reyes in the whole game. Only three fouls! Hardly constitutes the Texas Chainsaw Massacre, does it?
"There were six on Ronaldo. So Arsenal have to put up their hands and admit they're a competitive team, just like us. But if you look at the record of Manchester United it doesn't bear up with a team that is overly aggressive at all. We do well in the Fair Play League every year. And who's the most fouled player in the Premiership? Ronaldo. Not Reyes."
There is an argument about how many of the 101 free-kicks awarded to Ronaldo were genuine infringements, but Vieira, to Ferguson's delight, is officially the Premiership's dirtiest player, with nine yellow cards and 94 fouls. However, the FA had specifically asked both managers to refrain from this type of mudslinging and, on the morning of their showpiece event, the men in power at Soho Square will not appreciate Ferguson's timing.
In Wenger's favour he has neatly sidestepped any provocative questioning about his relationship with Ferguson, yet already this week Vieira has taken a few shots at Roy Keane. Then there were Ferguson's allegations that Wenger might be lying about the state of Henry's fitness. This is before we even get into today's other hostilities: Ronaldo against Cole, Gary Neville (if fit) against Reyes and, as it sometimes seems, Ruud van Nistelrooy against the entire Arsenal XI.
Keane versus Vieira: the clash of the titans
By Jim White
(Filed: 21/05/2005)
telegraph
The first time Sir Alex Ferguson encountered Roy Keane, his immediate reaction was one of astonishment.
"I couldn't believe the cheek of the boy," Ferguson recounts in his autobiography. Playing for Nottingham Forest, the young Keane had just clattered Bryan Robson, dumping the then undisputed hard man of English football unceremoniously on the turf.
An act of such obdurate aggression in one so youthful took Ferguson's breath away. From that moment, he knew he had to harness it for his team. He began to pursue the player, determined he would do whatever it took to sign Keane. In the end it required a then British record transfer fee of £3.75 million.
Plus some quick thinking and even quicker talking to outwit Blackburn Rovers, the Chelsea-style money-bags of the time, who, almost until the moment Keane arrived at Old Trafford, thought he was on his way to join them.
Arsène Wenger was equally uncompromising in his pursuit of Patrick Vieira. He had seen the lanky Senegalese youngster turning out for Cannes, had admired the spirit of his tackles, the neatness of his passing, the way, even in his teens, he could impose a calm, languid rhythm on a team.
Wenger, then coaching in Japan, had little opportunity to do more than monitor the lad's progress and was not surprised when Milan bought him. But he was amazed that the player only made two appearances in the Milanese first team.
When he was appointed manager at Highbury, Wenger made it a condition of his employment that Vieira be signed. He sensed that someone of his ambition would not be content with a bit part and could be prised from Serie A without much difficulty. He was right: Vieira arrived in North London in the summer of 1996 a month before the new boss.
What signings the two players have proved. Wenger may have handed over cheques for Nelson Vivas, Igor Stepanovs and Francis Jeffers, Ferguson may have sent good money after Eric Djemba-Djemba, Massimo Taibi and Kleberson, but they can retire happy knowing they once bought Vieira and Keane.
How vital both have been. For all their personal animosity, in their lengthy tenure at their clubs the two managers have gone about their business in remarkably similar ways. They have established winning teams that play unarguably positive, attractive football. Arsenal's one-touch pass-and-move of last season was as graceful and fluid as anything witnessed on an English playing surface.
United's Treble-winning team, meanwhile, possessed a panache that has been rarely matched. Yet at the heart of both, driving both forward, setting standards on the pitch and training ground, are two men whose games could never be described as aesthetic.
Two men, moreover, who carry with them out into the fray the total trust of their managers; two men who, it is not fanciful to suggest, are exactly the kind of players their managers wish they themselves had been. So closely have they become identified with their respective mentors, so intimately have their own fortunes been bound up with the prospects of their bosses that for Keane and Vieira today's match in Cardiff has become as much personal as collective.
"Some people say it's down to the battle between me and Patrick Vieira," Keane said this week. "We'll see."
Keane is right to mark our cards. There will be intriguing encounters across the pitch this afternoon - Ashley Cole and Cristiano Ronaldo renewing their Euro 2004 acquaintance, round 10 in the Phil Neville against Jose Antonio Reyes middleweight bout, Paul Scholes taking umbrage at any passing Arsenal shin - but Keane against Vieira is the one that stirs the blood.
In a sense it is like the contest between quarter-backs in the Superbowl. Both players are the creative source of their sides. Watch them in action, and their games are almost indistinguishable: based on short passing, making themselves available, rarely giving the ball away, prompting speedier and more fluid colleagues into action with unerringly accurate delivery.
Unlike quarter-backs, however, they do not need the protection of a Praetorian guard of testosterone-oozing musclemen. If there is any enforcing to be done, they are the ones handing it out. These are players who really can look after themselves; in the past, both have been more than adept at getting their retaliation in long before opponents have even issued a threat.
Keane's flint-eyed aggression and way with a grudge, Vieira's hot-tempered reactions to perceived slights, both have landed the pair in trouble. For the first time since the two have been at their respective clubs, today they reach the last game of a domestic campaign in which neither has been sent off.
Like much else about them, their disciplinary record in domestic competition is almost identical: Keane has 11 bookings this season, Vieira nine. Which, given the roles they undertake, can be considered almost saintly. But then both these captains have matured now the penny has dropped that they are of more use to their respective causes out on the pitch than sitting in the stands serving out pointless suspension.
There is, too, something else about this collision of the contemporary giants of midfield. The seething animosity between the managers of Manchester United and Arsenal seems to have filtered down to their representatives on the pitch. The hangover from the 'battle of the buffet' and the subsequent finger-jabbing row in the Highbury tunnel lingers on.
All week they have been sniping at each other, as if aping the mind games emanating from upstairs. Keane has sneered about Vieira's visible charity work in Senegal, a country for whom he prefers not to play international football. Vieira has responded wondering how someone who walked out on his national team could lecture anyone about loyalty. Keane has come back with that "we'll see", a thinly veiled echo of his Highbury taunt: "I'll see you out on the pitch." They don't - it is safe to say - anticipate sharing a beer after the game.
Tellingly, though, neither manager has joined in. Wenger, aware of how easily his otherwise immaculate feathers are ruffled by Ferguson, has stayed aloof all week. While Ferguson has always deliberately avoided saying a bad word about Vieira. Why? Because of all his rival's goods, it is Vieira he most covets. How he would love to see those long legs replace Keane's rapidly ageing ones in United's heart. The last thing he wants to do is block the door to Old Trafford with verbal litter.
Naturally, Wenger will do whatever he can to prevent his protégé slipping away. But Ferguson cannot let go of the thought of Vieira simply because there are so few of his and Keane's kind out there. Only Steven Gerrard in the Premiership can match their ability to influence an entire team.
And Ferguson knows Wenger holds the advantage: Keane will be 34 in August, Vieira 29 next month. As Keane heads inevitably for the door marked exit, this, then, might well be their last showpiece collision. From first incendiary challenge to the last bone-threatening tackle, only the foolish would lift their gaze away from it for a moment.
By Jim White
(Filed: 21/05/2005)
telegraph
The first time Sir Alex Ferguson encountered Roy Keane, his immediate reaction was one of astonishment.
"I couldn't believe the cheek of the boy," Ferguson recounts in his autobiography. Playing for Nottingham Forest, the young Keane had just clattered Bryan Robson, dumping the then undisputed hard man of English football unceremoniously on the turf.
An act of such obdurate aggression in one so youthful took Ferguson's breath away. From that moment, he knew he had to harness it for his team. He began to pursue the player, determined he would do whatever it took to sign Keane. In the end it required a then British record transfer fee of £3.75 million.
Plus some quick thinking and even quicker talking to outwit Blackburn Rovers, the Chelsea-style money-bags of the time, who, almost until the moment Keane arrived at Old Trafford, thought he was on his way to join them.
Arsène Wenger was equally uncompromising in his pursuit of Patrick Vieira. He had seen the lanky Senegalese youngster turning out for Cannes, had admired the spirit of his tackles, the neatness of his passing, the way, even in his teens, he could impose a calm, languid rhythm on a team.
Wenger, then coaching in Japan, had little opportunity to do more than monitor the lad's progress and was not surprised when Milan bought him. But he was amazed that the player only made two appearances in the Milanese first team.
When he was appointed manager at Highbury, Wenger made it a condition of his employment that Vieira be signed. He sensed that someone of his ambition would not be content with a bit part and could be prised from Serie A without much difficulty. He was right: Vieira arrived in North London in the summer of 1996 a month before the new boss.
What signings the two players have proved. Wenger may have handed over cheques for Nelson Vivas, Igor Stepanovs and Francis Jeffers, Ferguson may have sent good money after Eric Djemba-Djemba, Massimo Taibi and Kleberson, but they can retire happy knowing they once bought Vieira and Keane.
How vital both have been. For all their personal animosity, in their lengthy tenure at their clubs the two managers have gone about their business in remarkably similar ways. They have established winning teams that play unarguably positive, attractive football. Arsenal's one-touch pass-and-move of last season was as graceful and fluid as anything witnessed on an English playing surface.
United's Treble-winning team, meanwhile, possessed a panache that has been rarely matched. Yet at the heart of both, driving both forward, setting standards on the pitch and training ground, are two men whose games could never be described as aesthetic.
Two men, moreover, who carry with them out into the fray the total trust of their managers; two men who, it is not fanciful to suggest, are exactly the kind of players their managers wish they themselves had been. So closely have they become identified with their respective mentors, so intimately have their own fortunes been bound up with the prospects of their bosses that for Keane and Vieira today's match in Cardiff has become as much personal as collective.
"Some people say it's down to the battle between me and Patrick Vieira," Keane said this week. "We'll see."
Keane is right to mark our cards. There will be intriguing encounters across the pitch this afternoon - Ashley Cole and Cristiano Ronaldo renewing their Euro 2004 acquaintance, round 10 in the Phil Neville against Jose Antonio Reyes middleweight bout, Paul Scholes taking umbrage at any passing Arsenal shin - but Keane against Vieira is the one that stirs the blood.
In a sense it is like the contest between quarter-backs in the Superbowl. Both players are the creative source of their sides. Watch them in action, and their games are almost indistinguishable: based on short passing, making themselves available, rarely giving the ball away, prompting speedier and more fluid colleagues into action with unerringly accurate delivery.
Unlike quarter-backs, however, they do not need the protection of a Praetorian guard of testosterone-oozing musclemen. If there is any enforcing to be done, they are the ones handing it out. These are players who really can look after themselves; in the past, both have been more than adept at getting their retaliation in long before opponents have even issued a threat.
Keane's flint-eyed aggression and way with a grudge, Vieira's hot-tempered reactions to perceived slights, both have landed the pair in trouble. For the first time since the two have been at their respective clubs, today they reach the last game of a domestic campaign in which neither has been sent off.
Like much else about them, their disciplinary record in domestic competition is almost identical: Keane has 11 bookings this season, Vieira nine. Which, given the roles they undertake, can be considered almost saintly. But then both these captains have matured now the penny has dropped that they are of more use to their respective causes out on the pitch than sitting in the stands serving out pointless suspension.
There is, too, something else about this collision of the contemporary giants of midfield. The seething animosity between the managers of Manchester United and Arsenal seems to have filtered down to their representatives on the pitch. The hangover from the 'battle of the buffet' and the subsequent finger-jabbing row in the Highbury tunnel lingers on.
All week they have been sniping at each other, as if aping the mind games emanating from upstairs. Keane has sneered about Vieira's visible charity work in Senegal, a country for whom he prefers not to play international football. Vieira has responded wondering how someone who walked out on his national team could lecture anyone about loyalty. Keane has come back with that "we'll see", a thinly veiled echo of his Highbury taunt: "I'll see you out on the pitch." They don't - it is safe to say - anticipate sharing a beer after the game.
Tellingly, though, neither manager has joined in. Wenger, aware of how easily his otherwise immaculate feathers are ruffled by Ferguson, has stayed aloof all week. While Ferguson has always deliberately avoided saying a bad word about Vieira. Why? Because of all his rival's goods, it is Vieira he most covets. How he would love to see those long legs replace Keane's rapidly ageing ones in United's heart. The last thing he wants to do is block the door to Old Trafford with verbal litter.
Naturally, Wenger will do whatever he can to prevent his protégé slipping away. But Ferguson cannot let go of the thought of Vieira simply because there are so few of his and Keane's kind out there. Only Steven Gerrard in the Premiership can match their ability to influence an entire team.
And Ferguson knows Wenger holds the advantage: Keane will be 34 in August, Vieira 29 next month. As Keane heads inevitably for the door marked exit, this, then, might well be their last showpiece collision. From first incendiary challenge to the last bone-threatening tackle, only the foolish would lift their gaze away from it for a moment.
11:00pm EST - 11 hours to go!
"Patrick Vieira is 6ft 4in and having a go at Gary Neville, so I said, have a go at me. If he wants to intimidate our players and thinks that Gary Neville is an easy target, I'm not having it."
- Keano
fecking legend
Prepare to be throttled you poncey N. London twats.
U-N-I-T-E-D!
- Keano
fecking legend
Prepare to be throttled you poncey N. London twats.
U-N-I-T-E-D!
Is the game going to be decided today? No replay if it´s still a draw after E.T?
I don't like having Keane and Vieira spoken of in a manner that suggests that, in some manner, they are the equal of each other. That's not the case.
Next time Paddy Big Fall throws himself to the ground because there's a tackle blipping on the radar, think of what Roy would do....Paddy is a decent player on his day, but he's no Keano.
Next time Paddy Big Fall throws himself to the ground because there's a tackle blipping on the radar, think of what Roy would do....Paddy is a decent player on his day, but he's no Keano.
What're you lot getting so excited about, it's just a tin cup...
No replay - penalties.
Neville Hands Reds Final Boost
Gary Neville has a chance of playing in Saturday's FA Cup final against Arsenal after taking part in training on Friday.
Earlier this week, Neville, who is suffering from a groin injury, had been described as a "major concern" by Sir Alex Ferguson.
The United boss said he expected to be without Neville and Gabriel Heinze.
Heinze, ruled out by Ferguson on Wednesday, had wanted to leave a decision on whether he would play until the very last minute. But it looks very unlikely that he will make the clash having not played since injuring his ankle against Newcastle on 24 April.
Mikael Silvestre looks set to play at left-back for United in the Argentine defender's absence. Wes Brown should retain his place at the centre of defence alongside Rio Ferdinand.
Gary's brother Phil is on standby should the older Neville fail to make the starting line-up at the Millennium Stadium.
manutd.com
Gary Neville has a chance of playing in Saturday's FA Cup final against Arsenal after taking part in training on Friday.
Earlier this week, Neville, who is suffering from a groin injury, had been described as a "major concern" by Sir Alex Ferguson.
The United boss said he expected to be without Neville and Gabriel Heinze.
Heinze, ruled out by Ferguson on Wednesday, had wanted to leave a decision on whether he would play until the very last minute. But it looks very unlikely that he will make the clash having not played since injuring his ankle against Newcastle on 24 April.
Mikael Silvestre looks set to play at left-back for United in the Argentine defender's absence. Wes Brown should retain his place at the centre of defence alongside Rio Ferdinand.
Gary's brother Phil is on standby should the older Neville fail to make the starting line-up at the Millennium Stadium.
manutd.com
any working video links for this game?