By Shaun Orange

English champions Manchester United were startled by a brilliant performance by Spanish giants, Barcelona, who claimed the Champions League trophy in a 2-0 win in Rome.

While Alex Ferguson’s men were outplayed in an entertaining encounter by a composed Barcelona line up, this resulted in the Old Trafford side being stripped of Europe’s top prize.

Notwithstanding United’s domineering reign throughout their campaign, the Red Devils were dealt an early shocker from Barcelona’s Samuel Eto'o, when he put his team up in the 10^th minute.

With Barcelona’s ability to hold on to the ball, getting back into contention for the United side was not going to be an easy task.

With United on the back foot, frustration looming, and an emphatic showing of football by Pep Guardiola’s squad, things were not looking good for them.

It only took Messi, in the 70^th minute to head home what would be the decisive factor in the game, with United unable to gain any substantial ground to their recovery.

United lost to a radiant Barcelona side that was on a mission, went out there and played some captivating football. Their resilience together with some brilliant football was by any standards a performance that was worthy of a victory.

Pep Guardiola’s side were able to click as a unit, and displays from the likes of Iniesta and Xavi were outstanding and ones to be reckoned with. They played a pivotal role in ensuring the ruling out of the much supported English side.

Alex Ferguson and his side have been on a serious run of successes this season and were really going all out in their efforts to attaining as much silverware as possible, however Wednesday’s tie was really a let down for them.

Going into the grand finale, Manchester United were deemed by many to come out on top over the potent Spanish club.

For Ferguson’s part, this is a great disappointment for the Scot, as this competition is meant to be his forte. Throughout the season, on many occasions while playing in other competitions, Ferguson continually insinuated the importance of the Champions League, and this was important for him and the club.

As for the rivalry between Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo and the Argentine winger Lionel Messi, I think the result speaks for itself. Ronaldo, for his part did not emanate true sportsmanship, as frustration got the better of him.

Ferguson knew it was going to be an action packed final, but I don’t think he thought it was going to be action packed with United not in favour.

With United not accustomed to losing, this final would have undoubtedly left a bitter taste in both Ferguson’s and the players’ mouths. 

By Shaun Orange

Everton manager David Moyes has been given an excellent boost going into their FA Cup final clash against Chelsea scheduled to take place at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 30^th May.

The Toffees manager was awarded the League Managers' Association's (LMA) manager of the Year award. An award sponsored by Barclays is Moyes’ third time to scoop this accolade, the first in 2003 followed by the next in 2005.

The 46 year old Scotsman, who has shown a significant amount of resilience in his tenure with the club and has played an instrumental role in Everton’s success since his arrival at Goodison Park in 2002, and deserves the acknowledgment for his efforts. 

His residence at the club has not been one without difficulties, but through all the tough times, Moyes still managed to show optimism and is one who has utilized whatever resources he had at his disposal to the best of his ability.

However, Everton for a long time now have not exhibited any consistency and this has being a draw back for the club which has so much potential to do better.

Since Moyes’s arrival at the club, where they were treading in the danger zone of relegation, with no time to waste, he steered the Toffees to 7^th place in the Premier League standings from 15^th.

In their 2003-04 campaign they stumbled to 17^th. The following season they gained a considerable amount of ground when they secured 4^th position but as you would expect, in the 2005-06 season they fell to 11^th. For their efforts in the 2006-07 season they finished 6^th then 5^th in 2007-08.

Inconsistency is clearly evident even though this season saw them match last season’s finish in 5^th. Moyes will probably look to this as an improvement but the underlining question is whether they will not drop come next season.

Notwithstanding, their ability to put on some captivating showings whether it be in the Premier League, Carling Cup or the FA Cup to go in and win games, their potential is much higher than what they deliver.

Despite the fact that Everton do not have as much financial backing as some of the other pinnacle clubs, there are a fair amount of talented aces at the club and there still remains some spark in the Goodison Park side.       

Regarded as one of the biggest clubs in England, Everton have won the support of a considerably large amount of fans, who through thick and thin stand by them. 

While Moyes together with his counterparts work side by side to uplift the status of the club, it is good that a deserved Moyes is getting some recognition.

While his men are in line for an important challenge this weekend in their FA Cup final, Moyes would have had his spirits lifted, going into their encounter.

A tough one considering the strength of the Blues’ squad, but one which they will be aiming to seal.

By Shaun Orange

While an action packed Sunday marked the end of an exciting Premier League season, Newcastle United and Middlesbrough were dealt some harsh consequences for what could be deemed as a poor season for the duo.

Additionally, Hull City and Sunderland managed to escape the deadly drop, though in an unconvincing manner but nevertheless, they are still in it among the best in the world.

Going into Sunday’s fixture, Hull were under a lot of pressure to perform against United. Furthermore, Ferguson’s methods were questioned while preparing for the encounter, but with Red Devils’ victory with a weakened line-up, all that was be put to rest. 

Despite Hull’s loss in their 1-0 encounter, they were spared the embarrassment of regulation with

both the Magpies and Boro failing to get a result. With this, it also put Sunderland to safety even though they were dealt a 3-2 beating by Chelsea.

Gareth Southgate’s men needed a miracle of somewhat if they were to harbour any chance of survival this season. To their dismay, this was not to be. Middlesbrough crashed to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of West Ham at Upton Park, which means its all over for them.

Newcastle United also failed to save themselves after they lost 1-0 to Aston Villa. This came about when they put the ball in the wrong side of the net.

The man responsible for this blip was Damien Duff, who in the 38^th minute deflected a shot from Gareth Barry past his own goalkeeper Steve Harper.

Newcastle’s inability to correct this mis-fortune means that they have now slipped out of the most coveted and exciting league in the world.

To say the least this is the biggest letdown of the triple that were relegated as Newcastle are such a big team.

The magnitude and experience of this club does not by any close measure fit a result like this. With this, they have broken a sixteen year spell in the Premier League.

Now, Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has got some decision making to do, after failing to save the Magpies with only eight games remaining in the season.

Shearer has to make up his mind whether he wants to make a second attempt to help the Magpies redeem their dignity or not.

Scheduled to discuss the matter with Mike Ashley next week, they will discuss the Club’s future and if all goes well, how best to bring the club back to life.

Although Shearer has taken responsibility for his failure, he is adamant that he is not the only one to blame for Newcastle’s failure to make the grade.

He is in fact right on this one, as Mike Ashley and his advisories made some poor decisions and inevitably the club paid the price.

My thinking is that Shearer will not throw in the towel just yet, but will be willing to assist in the rebuilding of the St. James’ Park side.

By Shaun Orange

Chelsea’s stand in manager Guus Hiddink has reaffirmed his departure from Stamford Bridge after their FA Cup final against the Everton on May 30.

While most Blues' fans are disappointed with Hiddink’s departure, mainly due to the fact that the team was shaping up considerably under his command, the Dutchman is only keeping to his word and his agreement.

Hiddink, who was appointed as Chelsea manager following Luiz Felipe Scolari’s sacking in February, has clearly put across to everyone that he has enjoyed his time in England and with the club but the viability of him extending his contract is simply not feasible.

He also pointed out that Chelsea are a big team that require a lot of attention and nurturing especially if they are to achieve the success which they so much desire, the main one would be to have some silverware to show off for their efforts.

Indeed this is true and quite understandable. Probed on the matter Hiddink said “it cannot be done. Chelsea are a big responsibility and you have to be in charge, day in and day out.”

With the FA cup final coming up, this is a crutial time for Blues’ as they prepare for the encounter. This is their only shot of bringing home some silverware this season, so they will be banking on Hiddink’s expertise to assist in their endeavor

Chelsea skipper Frank Lampard, who plays an instrumental role at Chelsea has also expressed the need for them to perform at their best to ensure that they do not end another season empty handed.

“A season without silverware is seen as a failure and that’s pretty well right, if you look at the quality of the squad here,” said Lampard.

Frank, who is also one that is in favour of Hiddink’s methods and tactics, and among the long list who will feel Hiddink’s absence also added, “We've been a very tight-knit group since he came in. The man has been a pleasure, not just as a manager but as a person.”

The Dutch coach has insinuated that a stay with Chelsea would be enjoyable, and one would think so with all the privileges that come along with being the boss of such a high profile English team.

With his indication that it is impossible to head both the Russian national team and Chelsea simultaneously, Hiddink is set to walk away from Chelsea at the end of this summer and Chelsea for their part will be left to find a replacement.

At the moment Carlo Ancelotti , the AC Milan coach is the most favourable candidate and Chelsea will most likely do all they can to possibly lure the Italian to the English side.

Chelsea’s clash with Everton in the FA Cup final will indeed give them the opportunity to deliver right to the end, which of late they have failed to do.  

By Shaun Orange

Hull City are set to host newly crowned champions Manchester United at the KC Stadium on Sunday.

They have a huge challenge ahead of them in that they are required to win their encounter with the Red Devils in order to safely secure their spot in the top-flight next season.

A win for the Tigers would have them untouchable for relegation and ensure them another season of Premier League action.

Indeed this would never be an easy task, but it might have been made a tad easier with the Old Trafford boss Alex Ferguson deciding to field selected key players.

Ferguson has his sights set on the Champions League grand finale next week in Rome, when they lock horns against Spanish giants Barcelona.

It is for this reason that he is reluctant to play key players but instead rest the big guns in the United camp to ensure that they are fresh and injury free for Rome.

With Sunday hosting the last games of the season, Hull City find themselves among the last five who could be shown the exit door, but to their delight, they may have been given a last chance to salvage their survival.

Season after season, the Premier League has always produced surprising results, where big clubs cave in to those of a lower stature. But the likelihood of Hull overcoming English champions are quite slim.

While some might have the opinion that Ferguson’s decision may be an unfair one, this would not be entirely true.

Even if Ferguson were to exclude the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Nemanja Vidic and Edwin van der Sar, this is by no means a guaranteed win for the Tigers as United have an all round talented squad.

It is a fact that even United’s second choice players are regarded stronger than most team's first grade players.  

A clear illustration of this was in their encounter in last month’s FA Cup semi-final against Everton, where Ferguson fielded a weaker line up but were dismissed the fate of a penalty shootout.

So whether this is really an opportunity for Hull, is debatable. Hull City chairman Paul Duffen is well aware of this but believes that the hype over Ferguson’s team selection could work in their favour.

Duffen told Sky Sports News, “Whatever team Manchester United put out it is going to be a very tough ask for us.

“They don't have an easy side. Even if they put youngsters out they could still field 11 internationals.”

The strength of this weekends Manchester United side will definitely bear a pivotal part in the battle for survival for Hull and the teams that find themselves hanging on at the bottom end of the table.

By Shaun Orange

With Chelsea’s interim manager Guus Hiddink set to bid farewell to the Blues on Saturday there remains some uncertainty as just who will replace the Dutchman, despite suggestions that AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti will take over after the FA Cup final.

Hiddink’s stint at Stamford Bridge proved more than fruitful and could yet culminate in Cup glory, given that the Blues take on Everton in the final at Wembley on May 30. But regardless of how excited the Blues’ fans will be about landing football’s oldest and most celebrated trophy, the issue of manager is one that will not go away until resolved – in public at least.

Chelsea’s pursuit of Ancelotti is by no means a secret, but there has been no confirmation that he will be taking charge of the London club.

If Stamford Bridge are able to lure the Italian, as many suspect, Ancelotti would be warmly welcomed, yet against a background of a not so applaudable track record of changing managers.

Indeed, Ancelotti would become the club’s fifth manager in less than two years. That is not to say that the switch to Stamford Bridge would be a bad one, though, as no doubt the package would surely be a very rewarding.

However, there are other factors to consider in a move for the Italian. For instance, Ancelotti’s presence at Stamford Bridge would prove a good replacement for Hiddink, given his bags of experience and his qualities as a world-class coach, coupled with management skills that have yielded much success down the years.

Those would be seen as fundamental in assuming the reins at Stamford Bridge and key to getting the Blues squad to play as a cohesive unit and a fired-up one at that.

This squad is loaded with talent, and on paper is a strong as any in England or on the continent. With stars like Frank Lampard, Diega Drogba, John Terry and Michael Ballack, there is certainly no shortage of pedigree. They have the capacity to win trophies, just as they have shown their potential in the past.

And with a good coach as good as Ancelotti who knows what they can achieve next season.

This is all fare and fine, but where does that leave Chelsea if their bid for Ancelotti is turned down, as some others have suggested. The answer would be “in a not such a good position”.

An alternative would Frank Rijkaard, the Dutch coach who left Barcelona last summer is purporte to be the man AC Milan will turn to if Ancelotti makes his way to the Premiership.

Rijkaard’s agent Perry Overeem, recently told Sky Sports that they would consider an offer an offer from England as “he (Rijkaard) is a big fan of the Premier League and would be very interested in working with Chelsea”. He added, however, that it would depend on the conditions and the plans of the club.

Even then, Chelsea would have to contend with the likes of Manchester City, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, who have all expressed an interest in the services of the Dutchman.

But the first choice for Chelsea would have to be Ancelotti, he appears perfectly suited to takeover from Hiddink, and what an addition to the Premiership he would be!

By Shaun Orange

Manchester United were crowned English champions when they could only manage a goalless draw against the Gunners, nevertheless this outcome was enough.

Their result not only made them champions of England, but the Old Trafford side have also equaled Liverpool’s 18 titles. When Manchester boss was asked if this felt special, he said, “It will become a lot more special when we have got in front of them. And that's what we will be aiming for next year.”

Ferguson also added, “This is a great side, a really great side. Actually, it's a really great squad.

“I could have picked two sides today, I had to leave good players out like Paul Scholes, Dimitar Berbatov and Anderson. It is not easy.”

Carlos Tevez, however was among the starters and appeared to drop a tear as he waved a farewell goodbye to his home fans when he was substituted. This must have been a real emotional time for the Argentine who at the moment does not know what his future plans are.

While United in no way managed to get a result against Arsenal as they did in the UEFA champions league semi-finals when they beat the Gunners in both meetings, the home team were still left happy with their performance.

One of whom was Cristiano Ronaldo who said, “It is a fantastic achievement to win the League at home, the feeling is always brilliant and we are really happy."

Going into Saturday’s match, United knew that they only needed a single point to clinch the title and make it their third consecutive league title.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s side knew that they had to at least come out with a draw before their much adored fans to extinguish Liverpool’s hopes of topping the Old Trafford side this season, and that’s exactly what they did, no more and no less.

At the other end of the Premier League table, there is a scrap for who will be dismissed from the most prestigious league in the world.

Hull City managed to scramble their way out of the bottom three when they drew 1-1 against Bolton. However Alan Shearer’s Newcastle, who crashed to a 1-0 loss to Fulham and Middlesbrough who only managed a draw against Aston Villa, find themselves both in pitiable positions.

Following Hull’s draw, Phil Brown and his team may have given themselves a chance to remain in the top-flight, this is however dependable on their last game against Manchester United next Sunday, and the results from the other three back-markers.

Newcastle for their efforts find themselves back in the relegation zone and appear to have no antidote for their bad form. They can only hope for a good result in their last encounter when they play Aston Villa at Villa Park next Sunday and see what happens.

It boils down to the last games that will be battled out that will determine which clubs will not be present come next season. This is always a huge blow for any club that find themselves relegated, but that’s the order of football.    

By Shaun Orange

This weekend’s Premier League fixtures are by no means ones without action. Decisive games will be played by teams both at the top and bottom end of the table.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s side will be looking to scoop the world’s most coveted league title in their clash with Arsenal at Old Trafford later on today.

In addition Middlesbrough will host Aston Villa at the Riverside Stadium who find themselves well within contention of relegation, equaling in points with Tony Mowbray’s West Brom who in turn are set to play Liverpool on Sunday. 

Struggling West Bromwich who find themselves topping the wrong end of the Premier League table, will host Liverpool on Sunday. West Brom manager Tony Mowbray is confident that his team can overcome the Reds at The Hawthorns Stadium come Sunday.

In my opinion I think Mowbray is anticipating too much considering their form this season. He perhaps has drawn a vote of confidence from their most recent performances where they won two out of their last three league ties, namely to Wegan and Sunderland but lost to Tottenham.

The West Bromwich manager is not discouraged by the fact that at such a crucial stage in their campaign, they are scheduled to meet one of the best teams in the league, if not the best.

“For us, we will have to be at our very best and they will have to be a bit below par. But we have shown in recent weeks, particularly at home, that we can score goals and that is what we have got to try and do again this Sunday,” said Mowbray.

Liverpool for their part can only keep their fingers crossed and hope that Manchester United slip up against the Gunners and then win at West Brom.  

If things unfold in this respect, then Liverpool’s hopes of closing in on United are still alive. This is however unlikely, as United are in top form and need only a draw to secure a third successive championship.

The Anfield boss has bitterly expressed concerns about the way the games have been scheduled. Benitez believes that games played by teams that are fighting relegation and teams challenging for the title should be played at the same time, this is to avoid teams gaining any unfair advantage.

“Yes it is something we can improve in the future because over the last few weeks I think it is better to play at the same time,” the Spaniard said.

“The teams that are fighting to avoid relegation and the teams fighting for the title, I think that if you play at the same time the last two games it will be the same for everyone. At least in Spain it is like this.”

Benitez’s opinions will however have no bearing on this weekend because the course has already been set and it will not change.

Benitez also indicated that Arsenal are a good team, and they are, so he will probably be banking on them holding off United and then hoping for a result on Sunday.

My thinking is that they will not be able to achieve this, as United are extremely determined so we might see the trophy being lifted later today.

By Shaun Orange

While Chelsea’s campaign this season has been a relatively strong one, they really need to pull up their socks.  

The Blues boast an impeccable all round lineup, but for their part, are still not playing as convincingly as they should be.

With the likes of Nicolas Anelka, who is the second highest goal scorer with 17 goals thus far in the league, Frank Lampard and Drogba, just to mention a few. Chelsea really ought to be putting more pressure on Liverpool and leaders Manchester United.

Chelsea, who in the Premier League trail Liverpool by 3 points and are 9 behind Manchester United, have the potential of being more of a threat. But in order to achieve this they need not drop points in games against lower level teams, consistency is vital.

A major transformation for the Blues came with the arrival of Dutch coach, Guus Hiddink in the month of February. This coming after Brazilian coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari was given the boot.

Chelsea’s key players need to be playing at their best if they are to have any chance of really posing a threat.

Captain John Terry conceded that only after the arrival of Hiddink did he reach his best, and had this to say, “'I’m pretty pleased.

“At the start of the season I thought I was playing really well and it linked well to us doing well as a team, and a few others playing really well.

“I think the first 10 games of the season I was really good and then after that had a dip in form for maybe another 10 games where I wasn’t at the levels I can be.

“But since the manager has come in from the first game at Aston Villa, I have been at the very top of my game again.”

Drogba is another key player whose form has also taken a positive twist with the arrival of the stand in manager. After having his own issues with Scolari, his game was dragged through the dumps and at a stage he was extremely unhappy at the club and this was affecting his game tremendously.

Hiddink’s presence at Stamford Bridge has undoubtedly proven to be instrumental to Chelsea, however his position is temporary as he will be returning to his full-time duties as coach of the Russia national team come end of May.

This is a loss to Chelsea as some of the players were really beginning to find their form, and most of the players are in favour of Hiddink’s methods and tactics, mainly due to the fact that they were working.

The fate of Stamford Bridge is quite uncertain with Hiddink’s departure after the FA Cup final in their clash with Everton.

And for them to put on more consistant performances next season, it is imperative for them to be led by someone with the drive and skills similar to that of Hiddink’s.

By Shaun Orange

Manchester United are just one point away from lifting the prestigious Barclays Premier League trophy, after their 2-1 win against Wigan on Wednesday.

Wigan opened the score line but could not contain the likes of Carlos Tevez and then a Michael Carrick strike in the 87th-minute to seal United’s victory.

United's strength and resilience has proven instrumental in their afforts to clinch a record-equalling 18th championship. United manager Alex Ferguson will be looking to try and wrap things up in this weekend's fixture againt arch rivals Arsenal. 

While a win over Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal will by no means be an easy challenge this weekend, United have shown that they are in good enough form to overcome the gunners.

Red Devils striker Wayne Rooney has expressed their need to win this weekend and is determined to assist United to a win telling the Evening Standard, “One point will win the title for us. Hopefully that can come on Saturday.

“It would be brilliant to do it in front of our own fans and brilliant to win it against Arsenal, who are a great footballing team,” Rooney added.

The sooner Manchester United can seal and retain their Premier League title, the better for them. Ferguson’s thinking at the moment would be to concentrate on their game against Arsenal this weekend, then hopefully they can focus all their energy on the Champions League final, where they will meet Spanish giants Barcelona in what could prove to be an enthralling encounter.

United’s composure is crucial at this stage, and Ferguson’s planning will prove vital in the final stages of this season. His decisions will be questioned but he is experienced enough to know what he is doing and the players need to understand this, particularly Ronaldo.

Ronaldo displayed signs of dissatisfaction when he was substituted in the match against Manchester City. This type of behavior is uncalled for. Even if he is was dissapointed by Ferguson’s decision to substitute him, that was no way to behave.

The lad needs to put his temperament in check and get on with his game. A player who is doing just that is Argentine striker Carlos Tevez.

Undeterred by his uncertainty at Old Trafford, he is still managing to pull off some dashing displays on the pitch. One has to wonder whether this is his way of proving a point to Ferguson, if that is the case, he is really doing a good job of it.

For his part, he has been an instrumental player and scoring some really important goals, in United’s victories.

Although the Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson insists he wants Carlos Tevez to stay at Old Trafford. Tevez's representative Kia Joorabchian told Sky Sports that Manchester United have not offered the Argentine personal terms.

 

With United’s failure to come up with something conclusive, rival clubs are showing an interest. Liverpool and Manchester City are strongly linked.

 

Well, things will unfold in due course. And wherever the talented Argentine opts to go, I am sure that he will continue to entertain his fans. 

By Shaun Orange

While Alan Shearer’s Newcastle United are on the brink of being relegated, former Liverpool striker Michael Owen has been offered an attractive £50,000-a-week deal with Scottish giants Celtic.

With the way things stand at St. James’ Park this may be the perfect opportunity for Owen to rejuvenate his career credit ratings, which at the moment are not as strong as one would expect despite the tremendous talent and potential the England striker posses.

Some believe that Owen’s days for shinning bright are over but in my opinion I just think that he is playing for the wrong team, and given the opportunity, he can perform as he has shown before.

While with Liverpool, Michael Owen earned the reputation of a first class striker and always featured consistently and had some outstanding performances but ever since he left English club Liverpool, it seems it was down hill from there.

Owen joined Spanish giants Real Madrid for a fee of £8 million in mid-2004, hoping to advance his career further. That was however not to be.

The England lad did not feature as much as he probably would have liked to and failed to make the starting line up on a regular basis, notwithstanding the fact that he scored 13 goals in that season and had the season's highest ratio of goals scored to number of minutes played. 

Owen’s move to St. James’ Park came about in the 2005-06 season for a club record fee of £16 million. This was despite press speculation that he would have preferred to go back to Liverpool who were interested in bringing him back to Anfield but apparently could not match the required asking fee.

The England international’s career at Newcastle was initially affected by injury but once he returned to action was given the responsibility of captaincy and continued to perform in an outstanding manner for his club, and was the team’s top goal scorer in the 2007-08 season.

One would imagine that if the deal was to go through with Celtic or any reputable English club for that matter then he would be able to re-kindle the flame and possibly end his playing career on a high note.

Owen, currently on £115,000 a week but approaching the end of his contract this season, Newcastle owner Mike Ashley does not seem prepared to commit to keep him on, given the situation that the Newcastle camp finds themselves in, and probably rightly so.   

If the Newcastle skipper were to move to Scottish giants then he would be entitled to a pay-as-you-play deal worth £50,000 a week, plus substantial bonuses for goals and success which could collectively add up to a lucrative deal.

Everton, Manchester City and Aston Villa are believed to be interested in the services of Owen, but not even the likes of Manchester City are prepared to come close to Owen's current deal.

With Owen approaching 30, and given his injury issues, there is a lot of consideration to be taken into account and only time will tell if he can perform as he did before and reach his peak again. 

By Shaun Orange

In his days, Michel Platini was widely regarded as a footballer of note, one of the best around at the time. This view was one which I shared. He was indeed and excellent player, and sadly for his legacy he never quite won the one title that would have really put the icing on the cake – the World Cup.

Platini’s compatriot, Zinedine Zidane, did win the most coveted prize in football  (in 1998) and it went just nicely with all his other accolades, not in the least being named the best player in the world and Europe.

His successes at winning the Champions League trophy European Cup, amongst other silverware, also matched Platini’s efforts at Juventus.

But unlike his fellow Frenchman, Zidane (until now) has chosen not to purse a career in administration at the highest level. And maybe it would be better if he does not, certainly so, if did do it and then followed Platini’s model.

Platini’s standing as an administrator of football comes nowhere near to being remotely close to his wonderful skills as a player.

In fact, he has courted enough controversy in his time in office to suggest that his name in the game – now president of UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) will never rank alongside the great people who worked for the sport off the field.

Maybe this has something to do with his ties with FIFA president Sepp Blatter, a man who heads the world governing body yet does not command as much support of the people of the game as he would have liked.

Still, Platini, like his mate at FIFA, does have a fair bit to say about almost anything and everything associated with the sport, or not. And now, after Chelsea came so agonizingly close to reaching the Champions League final for a second season in a row – like Manchester United, the Frenchman has told us that he would have been “happy” with a rematch in Rome of these two English powerhouses.

His views come in the wake of Barcelona clinching their place in the continental showdown with an away goals ruling; the equaliser in the 1-1 draw struck in stoppage time of the second leg at Stamford Bridge in midweek.

What I cannot fathom is just who does Platini think he is? Maybe he thinks he is some sort of super human being or something like that?

Yes, he is the president of UEFA, but if for some reason two English sides (like Manchester United and Chelsea did last season) reach the Champions League final, it should be accepted as such and without having to get the approval of Platini.

If he had felt that the dominance of the English teams in the Champions League was not good, as has been alluded to by some, so what? Are we to believe that he would have attempted to adopt some new policy (or policies) to alter the course of history?

I think that today’s administrators, most of them anyway, should really get a grip of themselves and think about ridding the sport of its evils – those like the racism that exists in the game right now.

And yes, I do know that efforts are being made to combat this, but maybe Platini should do more – a lot more, instead of going on about whether he likes or dislikes English teams dominating the Champions League.

Does he for one minute think that we will believe him to accept the English game when he in fact won the European Cup with Juventus in the 1985 final. He is wrong if he does.

By Shaun Orange

The European Champions League final in Rome on 27th May, where Spanish giants Barcelona take on trophy holders Manchester United promises a feast of football that should be of the best quality.

The two strongest and most exciting clubs on the continent caned through their semi-finals this past week in contrasting fashion but notwithstanding this, both will be relishing the prospect of another a feather to their caps.

Sadly for Stamford Bridge, Chelsea’s campaign came to a bitter end after they failed to hold on to their slender 1-0 lead in the second leg, as Barcelona won it on the away goals rules, pinching an equalizer in the dying minutes in London.

The English side carved out a stubborn goalless draw at the Nou Camp, before taking the lead in the reverse, until Andres Iniesta ruined the chance of a second successive berth in the final.

As we know now, Didier Drogba, the Ivorian striker whom I think is one of the best forwards in the world, disgraced himself with his unbecoming behaviour after the final whistle, abusing the referee for what he perceived to be unfair treatment.

Manchester United, for their part, crushed Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal 3-1 in the second leg for a deserved 4-1 aggregate and the chance to become the first team to successfully defend their crown since the change from the old European Cup format.

Like Barcelona, it was no less than they deserved and coming against the Catalan side should make for a real football spectacle. The purists will be looking to this showdown with some anticipation, and who could blame them.

A Barcelona-Manchester United match is always going to stir the imagination, but for them to face off in the final of the Champions League – well that is something special.

Among the plots and counter-plots is the coming together of the two of the world’s best players - Lionel Messi of Barcelona and Cristiano Ronaldo of Manchester United.

The Manchurian is the reigning World Footballer of the Year and the Argentine is the star waiting in the wings to assume the mantle of being the best football of the planet.

Many a pundit has suggested that if Barcelona were to win the final in Rome that Messi would become an automatic for the title of being FIFA’s top ranked player.

Further still, some say he has been the world’s best player for two and a bit seasons already, and that a Champions League winner’s medal would merely rubber-stamp this time around.

I tend to agree with that school of thought. And certainly it would be a major accomplishment for the 21-year-old who has been instrumental in taking Barcelona to the brink of lifting Spain’s Primera Division title.

Ronaldo, of course, would also claim to have won the English Premier League title and the Champions League crown (for a second season on the trot) if they stave off the treat of Liverpool in the Premiership as they are expected, and then go on and win in Rome.

Better still, Ronaldo already has the English league and FIFA Club World Cup title secured this season, and would make a unique quadruple if they repeat the successes in the domestic league and Champions League.

By Shaun Orange

When the draw for the quarterfinals was made for the European Champions League, the two teams that most wanted to avoid were Barcelona and Liverpool.

The thinking behind this was simple - play against them and the odds of you crashing out were greater than if you did not meet them.

History will show that Bayern Munich came up against Barcelona and were unceremoniously sent packing. Chelsea took on Liverpool and progressed to the last four; but not before that epic 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge - a match that will no doubt be etched into the annals of the continental game.

Tomorrow the winners of those two quarterfinals square off in the second leg of the semi-finals, and one can safely say that it should be another cracker of a game.

Chelsea did exceptionally well to hold out for a goalless draw at the Nou Camp last week and despite the not too pleasant remarks made by some of the hierarchy at the Spanish giants, they remain in the contest with a decent chance of reaching their second European Cup final in two seasons.

But it is unlikely to be an easy ride for the hosts and if it is anything like the second leg of their quarterfinal, then again, we the neutrals will be in for a treat of some entertaining football.

As a collective unit, Barcelona are the most exciting team go forward (in the world) and that evaluation takes into account the pedigree of defending champions, Manchester United. Of course, this might draw divergence from some at Old Trafford, but in all honesty it is just a matter of fact.

In Lionel Messi Barcelona have the best player in the world in their team, and here I might add all that is missing is the title to be engaged alongside his name. My thinking is that it will not be too long now before he is indeed crowned the world’s best. And on Wednesday I only hope he plays as good as he can, because then he will show the world of football just how good he is. Indeed, in my mind there is no one who is as good as he is right now.

Chelsea will have their work cut out trying to stop him, and I say this because I believe Pep Guardiola, their coach, will give him a free reign across the last third, even if he does tend to penetrate the defence down the right flank.

Thierry Henry, it is understood, will make the trip to London despite carrying a knock picked up in their 6-2 demolition of Real Madrid in La Liga on Saturday. And one hopes that he will get to feature; not because he played for Arsenal, but rather because he is still a good player who can still score goals - Real Madrid can bear testimony to that (he hammered home two on Saturday).

Notwithstanding this, Chelsea have players of their own who can win it for them, and not in the least Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard or Nicolas Anelka.

Still, I wonder if, after this tie, Chelsea will be looking back to the draw of the semi-finals and cursing their luck? 

By Shaun Orange

Roy Keane got a real telling-off from Sunderland boss Ricky Sbragia, who has hit back at remarks made by the former Manchester United captain, who quit the Black Cats’ manager’s post last December.

Keane apparently amicably walked away from the struggling team, but chose to stir a hornet’s nest with Sbragia, who was given the job after Keane’s departure.

Widely regarded as a “quiet man” by most people in the English game, Sbragia has taken exception to some unkind words attributed to the Irishman, regarding the confidence of the Tyne and Wear club.

Seen as carrying his bullying ways of his days at Manchester United, where he could say what he liked – when he liked, into his managerial career, Keane last week took over as Ipswich Town manager and immediately set about weighing into his former team.

That he dwelt on the confidence or lack of it at Sunderland was not viewed too kindly by Sbragia who questioned his former boss’ motives and then touched on his departure from the Stadium of Light, and in the process raised further issues in the matter, before leaving it all in the air.

Sbragia said that Keane knew “the reason he left Sunderland and I know exactly why he left. I wouldn't want to go into print and say exactly what I know about what he said and what he did. I could go into more detail, but I won't”.

This can only mean that behind the scenes there were issues galore when Keane left Sunderland; and not only because they were struggling at the wrong end of the standings.

Many suspected there would have been untold stories of just why Keane left so abruptly, but the admission by Sbragia that there were and that he could but did not want “to go into more detail” clearly indicate that all was not well.

And now that he is back into a managerial posting, Keane is obviously trying to get back at his former club by ranting about them instead of concentrating on his new job as Ipswich manager.

Indeed, this is exactly what Sbragia said when he noted that “maybe he (Keane) still thinks he's the manager”.

Sbragia also rebuked Keane’s poor attitude by suggesting that “maybe he's just bored and has nothing to do, so he thinks, ‘I’ll have a go at Sunderland’ ”.

The Sunderland boss also had some sound advice for the hot-tempered Keane, who is not liked a lot in football (barring maybe Old Trafford), by suggesting that now “he's back in football, he should enjoy it”.

But for those who know Keane and his poor temperament, they will understand that as long as he left Sunderland on terms that he did not approve of he would have a go at them at every opportunity he gets – as is the case now.

It is indeed a sad situation that he should attempt to embarrass Sunderland and Sbragia, because there is no need for it at all. It does him and those around him, no good and instead leaves a bitter taste in the mouths of those who once looked after him, and gave him the chance to manage a club in the Premier League.

It will be really interesting to hear what he has to say about Sbragia’s disclosure that he knows why Keane left Sunderland.

This is a good case of someone standing up to Keane, who got away with so much bullying as a player only because he played for Manchester United.

His expulsion from Ireland’s team at the 2002 World Cup and his admission to a premeditated knee-high tackle on Alf-Inge Haland, among other such things, have been well documented and merely serve to show how shallow Keane is when he does not get his way.

I can only wonder how long he will last at Ipswich.

By Shaun Orange

Manchester United might have forced their legends of fans through some nail-biting performances this season but they remain nicely poised to round off their campaign in style and make it yet another successful season.

But despite this, we might not see some of the star players return to the club next season, particularly Carlos Tevez.

The Argentine forward has affirmed that he is not happy and will most likely not be around at Old Trafford next season.

The talented diminutive player has strongly hinted of a desire to leave Manchester United, which has come about purely because he is not playing as much as he would have wanted to; yet when he does, his performances are committed and he works hard.

It is quite clear that all Tevez wants to do is play and contribute to the success of his club, but feels he cannot do that effectively if he does not play more often than Alex Ferguson has allowed him to this season.

The signs of dissatisfaction were clearly revealed when he was substituted in the first leg European Champions League semifinal tie against Arsenal in midweek.

Ferguson for his part, has suggested that Manchester United are keen to extend the player’s two-year contract that runs out at the end of this season. However, no agreement has been reached, and the talks to try and keep Tevez in Manchester appear stalled.

Speaking to Cadena COPE, Tevez said he had “spent a lot of time on the bench and would like to play more. And that every time he is given a chance he does all he can and take full advantage”.

One can understand why Tevez feels this way, and now the suggestions that he could be on his way to Real Madrid have intensified. Worse still for Ferguson, the South American star could yet make his way to bitter rivals Liverpool.

Reports have focused on the issue of Liverpool making a swoop for the former West Ham player, and no doubt that would rile Ferguson.

Given Tevez’s position it would be selfish for Manchester United to stand in his way of moving to a new club when they do not want him – or Ferguson does not want him.

But having said this one would have to add that Ferguson might respond to this by pointing out that one cannot be as successful as he has been without being selfish.

Nonetheless, Tevez just wants to play football, like all other professionals do, and he should be allowed to do so even if it does mean that he goes to a rival club, of which Real Madrid are considered another.

A player with enormous talent, one has to believe that Tevez will get more than enough to a decent club to play at. And with his bit-part contributions at Manchester United, he will almost certainly flourish at any of Europe’s big clubs, whether it be in Spain, Italy or England.

My thinking on this is that he should quit Old Trafford and do so with without spending much of the off-season dawdling on it.