The Busby Babe - Storystream: Manchester United vs. Stoke CityWhere it's always squeaky bum timehttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/51377/tbb-fav.png2012-10-21T08:00:01+01:00http://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/rss/stream/32911352012-10-21T08:00:01+01:002012-10-21T08:00:01+01:00Statistics & Post-Match Quotes | MUFC 4-2 Stoke
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<figcaption>Michael Regan</figcaption>
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<p>Statistics and post-match quotes from manager Sir Alex Ferguson and Wayne Rooney. </p> <p align="center"><b>TEAM STATISTICS</b></p>
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<p><span></span> <span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"> </span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;"><i style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; font-style: italic; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">The Busby Babe</i></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;"><b>United<br></b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;"><b>Stoke</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Shots (on target)</p>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">16 (7) </span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">9 (3) </span></font></td>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Total Passes Completed</p>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">563</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">252</span></font></td>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Passing Accuracy</p>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">90%</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">75%</span></font></td>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Ball Possession</p>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">64%</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">36%</span></font></td>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Tackles won</p>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">11<span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; white-space: pre; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"></span></span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">17</span></font></td>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Interceptions</p>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">7</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" align="left" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">12</span></font></td>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Fouls</p>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">10</span></font></td>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Corners</p>
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<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">4</span></font></td>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Offsides</p>
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<p> </p>
<p align="center"><b>MUFC PLAYER STATISTICS</b></p>
<p align="left"><b>* David de Gea (goalkeeper): </b>11/15 passing (73%), 2 goals conceded, 1 save</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Rio Ferdinand</span> (right-center-back): </b>62/66 passing (94%), 5/6 long balls, 2 tackles, 0 interceptions, 9 clearances (4 effective), 0 shots blocked, 1 foul</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Jonny Evans</span> (left-center-back): </b>63/67 passing (94%), 6/8 long balls, 0 tackles, 0 interceptions 11 clearances (4 effective), 1 shot blocked, 0 fouls</p>
<p align="left"><b>* Rafael (right-back): </b>47/51 passing (92%), 0 chances created, 2/4 crosses, 3/3 long balls, 0 successful dribbles, 2 fouls won, 2 tackles, 2 interceptions, 8 clearances (4 effective), 1 shot blocked, 3 fouls</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Patrice Evra</span> (left-back): </b>42/44 passing (95%), 2 chances created, 1/2 crosses, 4/4 long balls, 2 successful dribbles, 2 fouls won, 1 tackle, 1 interception, 5 clearances (3 effective), 1 shot blocked, 0 fouls</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Michael Carrick</span> (central-midfield): </b>82/94 passing (87%), 1 chance created, 0/0 crosses, 9/13 long balls, 0/1 through balls, 1 tackle, 0 interceptions, 0 shots</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Paul Scholes</span> (central-midfield | substituted off 70'): </b>57/61 passing (93%), 0 chances created, 0/0 crosses, 9/11 long balls, 0/1 through balls, 0 tackles, 0 interceptions, 2 shots (0 on target)</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Antonio Valencia</span> (right-winger | substituted off 75'): </b>28/31 passing (90%), 3 chances created, 3/4 crosses, 0/0 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 0 successful dribbles, 1 foul won, 3 tackles, 0 interceptions, 1 shot (1 on target), <i><b>1 assist</b></i></p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Danny Welbeck</span> (left-winger | substituted off 78'): </b>35/37 passing (95%), 2 chances created, 1/1 crosses, 0/1 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 2 successful dribbles, 1 foul won, 1 tackle, 1 interception, 4 shots (1 on target), <i><b>1 goal, 1 assist</b></i></p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Wayne Rooney</span> (secondary striker): </b>57/67 passing (85%), 3 chances created, 2/5 crosses, 3/4 long balls, 0/1 through balls, 0 successful dribbles, 1 foul won, 3 shots (3 on target), <i><b>2 goals, 1 assist</b></i></p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Robin van Persie</span> (striker): </b>44/51 passing (86%), 3 chances created, 1/5 crosses, 2/2 long balls, 1/2 through balls, 0 successful dribbles, 1 foul won, 2 shots (1 on target), 1 goal, 1 assist</p>
<p align="left"><b>* Andeson (central-midfield | substituted on 70'): </b>24/25 passing (96%), 0 chances created, 0/0 crosses, 3/3 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 0 tackles, 1 interceptions, 0 shots</p>
<p align="left"><b>* Nani (right-winger | substituted on 75'): </b>8/9 passing (89%), 0 chances created, 0/0 crosses, 0/0 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 0 successful dribbles, 0 fouls won, 0 tackles, 1 interception, 0 shots</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Javier Hernandez</span> (striker | substituted on 78'): </b>5/7 passing (71%), 0 chances created, 0/0 crosses, 1/1 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 0 successful dribbles, 0 fouls won, 0 shots</p>
<p align="center"><b>POST-MATCH QUOTES</b></p>
<p align="left"><b><span>Sir Alex Ferguson</span> | MUFC manager</b> (courtesy of <i>MUTV</i>)</p>
<p>(On conceding another early goal...) "We keep starting badly in games, in the first 20 minutes. <b></b>We conceded an early goal against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/">Fulham</a>, an early goal against Tottenham, an early goal today – we’re giving ourselves uphill fights. But there’s a goal threat about us, that has to be said, and some of the movement from the forwards was excellent. You don’t want it to happen [going behind] but the forwards are digging us out of a hole at times. Hopefully we’ll get it sorted. It was an own goal, the first goal, and you obviously can’t account for that. The second goal was a really slack goal for us to lose. There’s no doubt our attacking play has been the strongest part of our game [thsi season]. But we’re letting in goals at home and that’s disappointing."</p>
<p>(On the forwards...) "The more games Wayne gets, the better he's going to become and I am pleased he’s off the mark with his two goals and Danny's off the mark too. I think that’s about 15 [different] goalscorers already this season so that’s good. We saw that flexible movement we have up front where Robin ended up wide left and put in a great cross for Wayne to score [the first goal] with a fantastic header. That kind of movement does bother teams and I’m glad they have started to gel quite well that way."</p>
<p>(On Rio Ferdinands's 'Kick It Out' protest...) "I’m disappointed because I said in the press conference yesterday that all the players would be wearing the T-shirt. We did that in support of the PFA and every player in the country should have adhered to that. We’re all wearing the badges and he goes and lets us all down. We’ll deal with it, don’t worry."</p>
<p align="left"><b>Wayne Rooney | MUFC striker </b>(courtesy of <i>MUTV</i>)</p>
<p align="left">(On his early own-goal...) "It was my first own goal but thankfully we came back from that and managed to go in at the break in the lead, that was great for us."</p>
<p align="left">(Overall thoughts about the match...) "I think it was a good performance from us. Stoke put a lot of high balls into the box and in the main we dealt with it well. There was just that one slip when I’ve scored the own goal. I was marking Ryan Shawcross and he ran me in there, there were bodies in the way and it [<span>Charlie Adam's</span> free-kick] just hit me."I think it was important that I moved on from it quickly and didn’t let it affect the rest of my game. I think overall we deserved the three points."</p>
<p align="left">(On his first goals of the season...) "I think as long as I’m playing well it doesn’t really concern me that much if I’m not scoring for United. Obviously as a forward you want to score. I’m delighted to get off the mark and to get amongst the goals. Hopefully there’s more to come but if I can keep up my performances, playing well and working well with the team, I’ll be happy with that."</p>
<p>(On his partnership with van Persie...) "I think when you’ve got quality like that, someone who can deliver a ball into the box, then you know if you make a run you’ve got a chance of getting on the end of it. Thankfully it’s a great ball and I’ve managed to head it home. I think it was a great goal. That’s the first game we’ve started together up front and we’ve both scored. I’m sure it will get better and better, we have to keep working on that – not just the attacking but the defending side of it as well. We’re both pleased with the way it’s going and when we’ve also got Danny who’s also scored today and Chicharito came on, we’ve got great attacking options. It’s down to the manager to pick from them."</p>
<p>(On his 200th club goal...) "I didn’t know I’d reached 200 club goals until after the game. I’m obviously delighted with that."</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/10/21/3531142/statistics-post-match-quotes-manchester-united-4-2-stoke-cityGene Um2012-10-20T17:18:52+01:002012-10-20T17:18:52+01:00Rooney scores two in 4-2 win against Stoke
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7Hci-16o0vDSiHruyX1ut29hEyU=/199x0:3801x2401/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/1707515/154442086.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Michael Regan</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A great attacking performance masks the defensive nightmares for Manchester United against Stoke City</p> <p>Two goals for <span>Wayne Rooney</span> (Not including an own goal) were the highlight of today's win against Stoke, as Manchester United won 4-2 in what turned out to be a comfortable afternoon at Old Trafford. It did not promise to be so however, as a Wayne Rooney header into his own net put Stoke ahead. It was not long however before United were on level terms. A delightful cross from Robin Van Persie let Rooney make amends as he found the net with a header in the right net. <span>Antonio Valencia</span> then found Van Persie who finished well. After the break, another pretty cross into the box, this time from Rooney, found Welbeck. The young England man had been typically woeful in front of goal, yet this time his header down low was a brilliant finish.</p>
<p>Micheal Kightley was due to be subbed, yet that had to be delayed as he capitalized on some horrid defending and slotted home to give Stoke hope. Yet that was short lived as Rooney completed the days scoring from inside the 6 yard box after a corner.</p>
<p>The attacking was a delight at times. The front three of Rooney, Welbeck and Van Persie was forever interchanging. And Valencia was providing width from the right. However this meant at times that there was plenty of space for Stoke to run into and at the defence and this caused problems particulary in the first 30 minutes. <span>Charlie Adam</span> certainly enjoyed a decent first half. The lack of legs in the heart of our midfield certainly did not help this, coupled with the frustrating loss of possesion when not under pressure, and in silly silly places.</p>
<p>Welbeck enjoyed a decent game for the most part. Yet his lack of composure can be a real nightmare. If we deploy the same front three in the future, I would much rather RVP stick to the centre and then Rooney and Welbeck work off of him with clever movement.</p>
<p>Against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/">Chelsea</a> next week, we will certainly need to tighten up at the back and in midfield. <span>Sir Alex Ferguson</span> will certainly need to keep this in mind when he chooses his team and formation. And with a midweek game against Braga in the UCL, he needs to keep his squad fresh too. Will certainly be interesting to see what side we field in what is the biggest week of our season so far.</p>
<p>Join us on Tuesday when we will have coverage of the home tie against Braga!</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/10/20/3530300/post-match-reaction-manchester-united-4-2-stoke-cityRB19902012-10-20T14:01:08+01:002012-10-20T14:01:08+01:00Live Match Thread: Manchester United vs Stoke City
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hx-RVieu8WRju2xNzQDkVr3RaZM=/0x140:2821x2021/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/1685243/153266210.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Julian Finney</figcaption>
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<p>If you aren't at Old Trafford for the match, come join us in this live match thread for Manchester United's league tie with Stoke City.</p> <p align="center"><b>SCORECENTRE: </b><a target="_blank" href="http://live.skysports.com/ScoreCentre/football.html">Sky Sports</a></p>
<p align="center"><b>KO: </b>3:00pm BST, 10:00am EST | Old Trafford</p>
<p align="center"><b>LIVE TV: </b>None (U.K.), FOX Soccer (U.S.A.)</p>
<p align="center"><b>WEATHER</b>: <a target="_blank" href="http://uk.weather.com/weather/today-Old-Trafford--Manchester-UKOL0028?fromSearch=true">Old Trafford</a></p>
<p align="center"><b>MATCH PREVIEW: </b><i><a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebusbybabe.com/2012/10/19/3525052/preview-manchester-united-vs-stoke-city">The Busby Babe</a></i></p>
<p align="center"><b>REFEREE: </b>Anthony Taylor</p>
<p align="center"><b>ODDS: </b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> 2/7, Draw 4/1, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/epl/teams/stoke-city">Stoke City</a> 10/1</p>
<p align="left"><b>Manchester United starting XI (4-4-1-1): </b>David de Gea | Rafael, <span>Rio Ferdinand</span>, <span>Jonny Evans</span>, <span>Patrice Evra</span> | <span>Antonio Valencia</span>, <span>Michael Carrick</span>, <span>Paul Scholes</span>, <span>Danny Welbeck</span> | <span>Wayne Rooney</span> | <span>Robin van Persie</span></p>
<p align="left"><b>United bench: </b><span>Anders Lindegaard</span>, <span>Scott Wootton</span>, Anderson, <span>Nick Powell</span>, <span>Ryan Giggs</span>, Nani, <span>Javier Hernandez</span></p>
<p align="left"><b>Stoke City starting XI (4-4-1-1): </b><span>Asmir Begovic</span> | <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/111180/geoff-cameron">Geoff Cameron</a>, <span>Ryan Shawcross</span>, <span>Robert Huth</span>, Marc Wilson | Jonathan Walters, <span>Steven Nzonzi</span>, <span>Dean Whitehead</span>, <span>Michael Kightly</span> | <span>Charlie Adam</span> | <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110223/peter-crouch">Peter Crouch</a></p>
<p align="left"><b>Stoke bench: </b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110176/thomas-sorensen">Thomas Sorensen</a>, <span>Matthew Upson</span>, Andy Wilikinson, <span>Wilson Palacios</span>, <span>Matthew Etherington</span>, <span>Michael Owen</span>, Kenwyne Jones</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/10/20/3528742/live-match-thread-manchester-united-vs-stoke-cityGene Um2012-10-19T21:44:34+01:002012-10-19T21:44:34+01:00Give your prediction for MUFC vs. Stoke
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<figcaption>Peter Aiken</figcaption>
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<p>How are you feeling about the upcoming clash with Stoke City? Give us your prediction for the match. </p> <p>Alright <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> supporters, it's time for you to offer up your predictions for the upcoming clash with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/epl/teams/stoke-city">Stoke City</a>. <span>Tony Pulis</span>' side will likely never contend for a top four spot, yet, they are a side that Premier League clubs often dread facing because of the unique physical challenge they present. At Old Trafford, though, United have not had much trouble versus them as the Potters haven't won there since 1976. The pattern of the game is likely going to be one that nearly all football fans can predict: United will dominate possession and look to breakdown a resilient Stoke side while the visitors will look to play direct football and score from set-pieces. It would be nice to have Nemanja Vidic available, due to his past dominant performances against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110223/peter-crouch">Peter Crouch</a>, and <span>Chris Smalling</span> might have been a nice option at right-back in order to provide a bit more stoutness in the back. However, both defenders are still out. Nonetheless, the Red Devils are clear favorites for the match. How do you feel ahead of this contest? What are your predictions?</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/10/19/3527696/prediction-thread-manchester-united-vs-stoke-cityGene Um2012-10-19T21:21:39+01:002012-10-19T21:21:39+01:00Preview: Manchester United vs. Stoke
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<figcaption>Jamie McDonald</figcaption>
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<p>A preview for Manchester United's league clash with Stoke City -- Team News, Form Guide, Lineup Projections, Tactical Keys, TV info, Referee, and Odds. </p> <p>The October international break has ended and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> resume their season on Saturday when they host <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/epl/teams/stoke-city">Stoke City</a> in a Premier League match at Old Trafford. During this same fixture last season in January, the Red Devils comfortably won 2-0 after <span>Javier Hernandez</span> (Chicharito) and <span>Dimitar Berbatov</span> each converted penalties. In the reverse fixture at the Britannia, the Potters were able to hold United to a 1-1 draw. Stoke have not won at the 'Theatre of Dreams' since 1976.</p>
<p><b>MANCHESTER UNITED</b></p>
<p><i><b>Form Guide</b></i><b>: </b>United enter the weekend sitting second in the league table with fifteen points from seven matches. They trail <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/">Chelsea</a> by four points. Just prior to the break, Sir Alex Ferguson's side traveled to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://cominghomenewcastle.sbnation.com/">Newcastle</a> United and they impressively won 3-0. In European competition, United currently top their group with the maximum six points from their initial two UEFA Champions League ties.</p>
<p><i><b>Team News</b></i><b>: </b>Central-defenders Nemanja Vidic, <span>Phil Jones</span>, and <span>Chris Smalling</span> are all unavailable -- although the latter is nearing a return. There is speculation that goalkeeper <span>Anders Lindegaard</span> is carrying a knock but it's not certain whether he is available or not to feature. <span>Ashley Young</span> has been declared fully fit. (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebusbybabe.com/2012/10/19/3525234/manchester-united-injury-update-ashley-young-is-fit-again">Full Team News Report</a>)</p>
<p><b>STOKE CITY</b></p>
<p><i><b>Form Guide</b></i><b>: </b>Stoke currently have eight points from seven matches and they sit twelfth in the league table. The fixture list for the Potters has been challenging thus far in the young season as they've already hosted <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/">Manchester City</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://theshortfuse.sbnation.com/">Arsenal</a> while they've also had to travel away to Chelsea and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/">Liverpool</a>. The only defeat from those difficult quartet of fixtures is a 0-1 defeat by the Blues at Stamford Bridge -- a game in which <span>Ashley Cole</span> won it late. Stoke's most recent match was a 0-0 draw with Liverpool at Anfield.</p>
<p><i><b>Team News</b></i><b>: </b><span>Glenn Whelan</span> and <span>Michael Owen</span> (shocking!) are doubts.</p>
<p><b>PROJECTING LINEUPS</b></p>
<p><i><b>United</b></i><b>: </b>As always, this is a bit of challenge but I can discuss at least, position-by-position, who is likely to start and who is likely to be rested. The recent international break likely will factor into some selection choices.</p>
<p>In goal, due to the physical approach that Stoke takes, Lindegaard seems to be a more logical choice than David de Gea. However, as mentioned in the team news portion of this preview, there are rumblings that Lindegaard is injured so it's not certain if he can start. In front of him, <span>Rio Ferdinand</span> and <span>Jonny Evans</span> will start in central-defense as they are the only established first-choice players available in their position. With Smalling not quite at full fitness, that means Rafael is certain to start at right-back while <span>Patrice Evra</span> is Fergie's clear first-choice left-back.</p>
<p>Controlling the midfield battle shouldn't be much of an issue for United so look for them to play with two players in the middle in their usual 4-4-1-1/4-2-3-1ish shape. In central-midfield, <span>Paul Scholes</span> is rested due to his retirement from international football and he'll likely be pulling the strings. The likes of <span>Tom Cleverley</span>, <span>Michael Carrick</span>, and <span>Darren Fletcher</span> all featured twice in the past week for their respective nations so all of them are candidates to be rested. Carrick seems like the most probable partner for Scholes while Anderson certainly is in contention to start as well. <span>Ryan Giggs</span> is possible too but hopefully this doesn't happen...</p>
<p>Out wide, Nani and <span>Antonio Valencia</span> are in contention out wide to the right. In the past though, Fergie has shown caution with Valencia after international breaks due to his long travels from South America. On the left, Nani is possible if Valencia starts on the right. Young, Giggs, <span>Shinji Kagawa</span>, and <span>Danny Welbeck</span> are also candidates on the left flank. Up front, expect <span>Robin van Persie</span> as the lead striker with either Kagawa or <span>Wayne Rooney</span> in behind.</p>
<p><i><b>Stoke</b></i><b>: </b><span>Tony Pulis</span> has named unchanged side for Stoke's past three matches. However, with Whelan in doubt for this match, he could be the one change. Here is the likely starting XI for the Potters in their 4-4-1-1/4-5-1 shape:</p>
<p><span>Asmir Begovic</span> | <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/111180/geoff-cameron">Geoff Cameron</a>, <span>Ryan Shawcross</span>, <span>Robert Huth</span>, Marc Wilson | Jonathan Walters, <span>Steven Nzonzi</span>, <span>Dean Whitehead</span>, <span>Michael Kightly</span> | <span>Charlie Adam</span> | <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110223/peter-crouch">Peter Crouch</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://this11.com/boards/abDzr3Hah9.jpg"></p>
<p><b>TACTICS</b></p>
<p><i><b>* Stoke's direct approach</b></i><b>: </b>Everyone and their mother knows that Stoke plays a direct style of football. In this same fixture last season, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebusbybabe.com/2012/2/1/2762930/tactical-review-manchester-united-2-0-stoke-city-chalkboard-heavy">the Potters played even more direct than usual</a> -- perhaps due to Pulis' instructions or because of United's firm grip of control in the match -- and I would anticipate much of the same on Saturday afternoon. The only question in their approach is whether they'll sit back in midfield and keep their lines compact when out of possession -- as they did last season at Old Trafford -- or whether they'll actively close down in the center of the park as they often do to great effect when facing Arsenal.</p>
<p>There may be question on what Pulis' approach will be when out of possession but when possession is won, it's quite clear what Stoke will look to do: (1) Route one to Crouch from Begovic and the back four or (2) when the ball is actually possessed by the central-midfielders, the ball will be quickly swung out wide to the feet of the wingers. From here, they'll simply look to whip in crosses. Defending well near the flanks will be a key for United as they'll need to close down as quickly as possible in order to choke off service.</p>
<p><i><b>* Win the knock-down</b></i><b>: </b>Typically, Stoke have a focal point in attack -- Crouch is this current side's pivot up front -- as they look to target this player with continual long balls. If the service is close enough to goal, then this target forward will obviously look to score. However, the battle that is possibly more important than the aerial duel between Crouch and his counterpart is probably the fight for the ball after the knock-down. In the past, Walters has played in behind the target forward but as of late, it's been Adam. <a target="_blank" href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/blog/_/name/tacticsandanalysis/id/231?cc=5901">The former Liverpool player is arguably being misused in this role</a>, but beating him -- and also Walters and Kightly when he cuts inside from out wide -- to the ball will be key for United to cut out Stoke's attack. Adam can certainly provide a scare with long distance strikes from knock-downs but he can thread a through-ball from them too for the wide players when they make diagonal make runs into the box. If Owen is deemed fit enough to come off the bench, he could poach a goal as well from a knock-down.</p>
<p><i><b>* United need to retain the ball</b></i><b>: </b>Perhaps the best way to nullify Stoke's long-ball threat is by simply keeping possession of the ball. In this fixture last season, United had 75% of the possession and they were firmly in control due to Scholes and Carrick bossing the match (the two combined to complete 242 passes). Evans often stepped out of the back as well to create overloads in midfield and he contributed with 96 passes completed. Retaining the ball will obviously not allow Stoke the opportunity to ping long balls as often and long spells of possession while methodically moving the ball up the pitch can allow United to push Stoke back -- and further away from United's goal -- while keeping a structured shape.</p>
<p><i><b>* United's left-side vs. Stoke's right-side</b></i><b>: </b>The main piece of news from Fergie's press conference today was his announcement that Young is fully fit to feature. Perhaps this is telling when considering that Stoke attack more down the right side than any other team in the Premier League and also when considering that Young's partnership on the left with Evra is probably United's most balanced in terms of offensive and defensive responsibilities. While it still may be too soon for Young to start due to fitness reasons, it'll be important for whoever United's left-sided attacker is to track back and help Evra -- the Frenchman already has the propensity to being caught out. If it's Kagawa or Welbeck out wide to the left, they'll likely be looking to cut inside when United are in possession. However, when possession is lost, they could be out of position defensively in transitions and Stoke may be able to counter down their right side. If Young can't go yet, perhaps Nani on the left is the next best option just because while he does tend to drift inside when featured on the left flank, he doesn't do it nearly as much as Welbeck or Kagawa.</p>
<p><b>* <i>Set-pieces</i>: </b>This one is obvious. Surprisingly, Whelan had been taking most of the set-pieces lately for Stoke despite having Adam in the side -- Fergie once claimed the latter was worth £10m solely for his outstanding corners. With Whelan a doubt, Adam will likely take over taking the set-pieces. If de Gea is in goal, they'll likely be some nervy moments on dead-ball situations. Rio and Evans will brunt the majority of the responsibility and it certainly would have been nice to have Smalling at right-back for not only a third stout defender on set-pieces, but also to defend against crosses at the far post when Stoke attack down their right side. United fans often joke how terrible we are from dead-ball situations. However, our five goals from corners this season tops the Premier League.</p>
<p align="center"><b>KO: </b>3:00pm BST, 10:00am EST | Old Trafford</p>
<p align="center"><b>Live TV: </b>None (U.K.), FOX Soccer (U.S.A.)</p>
<p align="center"><b>Referee: </b>Anthony Taylor</p>
<p align="center"><b>Odds: </b>Manchester United 2/7, Draw 4/1, Stoke City 10/1</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/10/19/3525052/preview-manchester-united-vs-stoke-cityGene Um2012-10-19T10:28:31+01:002012-10-19T10:28:31+01:00MUFC Team News for Stoke City
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<figcaption>Clive Brunskill</figcaption>
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<p>In his usual weekly press conference, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson offered up an injury update for his squad and also some thoughts on Saturday's opponent Stoke City. </p> <p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> manager <span>Sir Alex Ferguson</span> just held his weekly press conference ahead of tomorrow's Premier League tie with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/epl/teams/stoke-city">Stoke City</a>. During it, the main bits of team news is that <span>Ashley Young</span> is fit again and that <span>Chris Smalling</span> is progressing from his injury recovery but he's not quite at full fitness yet. Here is what the gaffer had to say about these two players and those on his squad that have recently returned from international duty:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Everyone came back from the internationals fit. Which is a bonus. It is always a time when you're a bit concerned about getting the players back but, fortunately, we've been lucky this time. Also Ashley Young is fit. Chris Smalling is not quite there but is making progress."Young gives us another option."</p>
<p align="right">- Ferguson | Source: <i>ManUtd.com</i></p>
</blockquote>
<p>The part on Smalling is slightly disappointing as United currently only have two fit first-team central-defenders and he was even a dark-horse candidate to start versus the Potters at right-back due to his ability to defend against their aerial threat. It sounds, though, he's nearing a return and will be able to provide cover for both <span>Rio Ferdinand</span> and <span>Jonny Evans</span> very soon. <span>Phil Jones</span> and Nemanja Vidic are expected to return in November.</p>
<p>The manager had this further to say about Young and on his central-midfield:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"As I’ve said many times over the last few weeks, the strength of our squad is the attacking options we have and we’re getting better with <span>Darren Fletcher</span> coming back which has been terrific for him and for us. There has been some progress with players like <span>Nick Powell</span>, who is progressing well, as is <span>Tom Cleverley</span> and Anderson is getting better all the time so all the fears about the midfield positions are evaporating quite well. I wouldn’t say Young has been forgotten. It’s always the same when a player gets injured, he’s not there so they can be out of people’s minds. Young has shown his qualities.Very few players can cross the ball as well as he can and his goalscoring ratio is very good for us. Didn’t he get 11 goals for us last season? For a wide player that’s very good. I don’t think you can underestimate that or forget it. I think any player coming to our club with ability and who also had a good record at <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/">Aston Villa</a> will have the determination to do well. The opportunities are there for him, he has the opportunity to win things here and I don’t think that’s lost on him. I’m sure during the time he’s been out he’s been thinking about that. That’s what players do when they’ve been out, they start thinking about what should have been for them and what they can be for him. That will hopefully surface as the season goes on now."</p>
<p align="right">- Ferguson</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Young's return is certainly welcome and he should add more depth out wide. He's hardly featured this season but his partnership with <span>Patrice Evra</span> last season, on the left flank, was arguably United's strongest on that side.</p>
<p>Fergie had this to say as well about Stoke:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"[Stoke] are a handful with their set-piece play and long throw-ins. I think Stoke have only lost one goal away from home this season. Continuity brings consistency and they've had the same manager and staff for a long time and, mainly, the same set of players. It makes them better."</p>
<p align="right">- Ferguson</p>
</blockquote>
<p>For the most part, Fergie now has a fit squad for the moment and the only injury concerns are to Smalling, Jones, and Vidic. Javier Hernandez (Chicharito) and <span>Antonio Valencia</span> could be rested though tomorrow as each have historically been looked after with caution after returning from international duty in the Americas.</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/10/19/3525234/manchester-united-injury-update-ashley-young-is-fit-againGene Um2012-10-18T06:30:02+01:002012-10-18T06:30:02+01:00Squad rotation is coming
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<figcaption>Julian Finney - Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A look into how the Manchester United squad might be rotated for the upcoming three matches in a nine-day span. The recent international break will likely factor into Sir Alex Ferguson's selection choices. </p> <p>For big clubs, squad rotation is a fact of life -- and it's certainly not debatable that that's the case for <span>Sir Alex Ferguson</span>. Starting on Saturday, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> face an upcoming fixture list that includes a Premier League tie versus <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/epl/teams/stoke-city">Stoke City</a> at Old Trafford, a home UEFA Champions League clash with Portuguese side Braga next Tuesday, and a trip to Stamford Bridge the following weekend for a league battle with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/">Chelsea</a>. The midweek fixture that follows the league match versus the Blues is a merely a Capital One Cup tie -- actually versus Chelsea again -- so key players will probably be rested then. Fergie certainly has an idea on how he will use his deep squad over the challenging nine-day stretch that begins with the Stoke on Saturday and the recent international break will likely factor into his thoughts. Here's a brief summary of the involvement over the break for the fifteen United players that were called into international duty -- twelve of those players are key ones for Fergie:</p>
<p>- <i><span>Wayne Rooney</span></i>: Started two matches for England and played just over 146 minutes in those contests.</p>
<p>- <i><span>Michael Carrick</span></i>: Started two matches for England and played the full 180 minutes in those contests.</p>
<p>- <i>Tom Clevlerley</i>: Started two matches for England and played the full 180 minutes in those contests.</p>
<p>- <i><span>Danny Welbeck</span></i>: Started in one match and came on as a substitute in another. He played just over 113 minutes in those matches.</p>
<p>- <i><span>Robin van Persie</span></i>: Rested last Friday versus Andorra and featured for the full 90 minutes versus Romania on Tuesday.</p>
<p>- <i><span>Patrice Evra</span></i>: Rested last Friday versus Japan in a friendly and featured for the full 90 minutes versus Spain on Tuesday.</p>
<p>- <i>Nani</i>: Started two matches for Portugal and played the full 180 minutes in those matches.</p>
<p>- <i><span>Darren Fletcher</span></i>: Started Started two matches for Scotland and played the full 180 minutes in those matches.</p>
<p>-<i> <span>Antonio Valencia</span></i>: Sat out Ecuador's Friday match due to suspension and he went the full 90 minutes on Tuesday versus Venezuela.</p>
<p>-<i> <span>Javier Hernandez</span> (Chicharito)</i>: Started two matches for Mexico and played over 150 minutes in those contests.</p>
<p>- <i><span>Shinji Kagawa</span></i>: Started two friendlies for Japan and played the full 180 minutes in those matches. Both occurred in Europe and not in Asia.</p>
<p>- <i><span>Jonny Evans</span></i>: Northern Ireland only had one match and Evans went the full 90 minutes versus Portugal on Tuesday.</p>
<p>- <i>Robbie Brady</i>: Came on as a substitute in one match and he started Ireland's other qualifier. The youngster played over 51 minutes.</p>
<p>- <i>Joshua King</i>: Two substitute appearances for Norway and he played over 65 minutes.</p>
<p>- <i>Angelo Henriquez</i>: The 18-year-old was unused in both of Chile's qualifiers.</p>
<p>I'll go over this position-by-position:</p>
<p><b>- Goalkeeper</b>: <span>Anders Lindegaard</span> seems to make most sense for Stoke because of their physicality, route one preference, and propensity to whip in crosses. However, there are rumblings that the Dane may be injured. I would love to see David de Gea at Stamford Bridge after his tremendous performance there last season.</p>
<p><b>- Center-back: </b><span>Chris Smalling</span> is set for a return and it is certainly welcome. <span>Rio Ferdinand</span> and Jonny Evans are likely to be first-choice because they've been getting games and likely are in sharper form. Smalling could spell one of them though for Braga as Fergie will surely be looking to get him games. In two weeks, the Capital One Cup tie looks to be a likely one for him to feature in as well.</p>
<p><b>- Right-back: </b>Rafael is the clear first-choice right now here but having Smalling back also provides some depth here. Smalling might actually be a dark-horse candidate to start at right-back versus Stoke because of their aerial threat. He's also possible to give Rafa a rest versus Braga.</p>
<p><b>- Left-back: </b>Evra is the clear first-choice and at the very least, he'll start two of the next three games -- if not all three. Alexander Buttner could possibly rotate in versus Braga and in a less likely chance, versus Stoke. Evra seems certain to start versus Chelsea.</p>
<p><b>- Central-midfield: </b>It'll be interesting to see if Fergie uses his midfield diamond at any point in the next three games. This would potentially factor into how he'll rotate his midfield. This seems unlikely versus Stoke because two players should be able to win the midfield battle and United will want players defending out wide trying to prevent crosses from being sent in -- defending the flanks is the weakness to the midfield diamond system.</p>
<p>Carrick and Cleverley both going the full 90 minutes for England in a six-day span -- and with only two days of rest ahead of Stoke -- likely results in at least one of them being rested on Saturday. Darren Fletcher pretty much did the same for Scotland. <span>Paul Scholes</span> likely starts alongside one of Carrick or Cleverly, or possibly Anderson. The Brazilian might offer a bit more physical presence against Stoke.</p>
<p>Rooney is likely involved here if the diamond is used at any point while Cleverley and Ando are definitely preferred right now in the box-to-box/shuttling roles. It would be interesting to see if Fletch still has the mobility to play well in a box-to-box and shuttling role.</p>
<p><b>- Winger: </b>The use of wingers will be dependent on whether or not a diamond system is used at any point. When Fergie elects to use his more usual systems that involve wingers, he'll have Nani and Valencia to use. It wouldn't be surprising to see the latter rested after his trip back from South America. <span>Ashley Young</span> is nearing a return and he's possible to feature at some point as well. Fergie has been comfortably using Danny Welbeck in a left-sided role and he's well rested after only coming on as a substitute yesterday for England. He's possible on the left versus Stoke with Nani on the right flank. Look for Valencia to start on the right versus Chelsea due to his continual success versus <span>Ashley Cole</span>.</p>
<p><b>- Striker: </b>Plenty of choices: Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney, Chicharito, and Welbeck. Look for RvP to play as much as possible and he only featured once for Holland last week. Rooney will feature as much as possible as well and he likely will feature as a secondary striker or as the No.10 in a midfield diamond. Rooney could possibly be rested versus Stoke though after starting twice for England in the past week. Chicharito is likely to be rested on Saturday as well after starting twice for Mexico and now having to travel back from North America.</p>
<p>Early prediction for Stoke (4-4-1-1/4-2-3-1): Lindegaard (if healthy); Rafael, Rio, Evans, Evra; Nani, Scholes, Anderson, Welbeck; Kagawa; van Persie</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/10/18/3517682/how-might-the-manchester-united-squad-be-rotated-for-stoke-braga-chelseaGene Um