Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement speech

I have absolutely no script in my mind. I’m just going to ramble on and hope I get to the core of what this football club means

First of all, it’s a  thank you to Manchester United; not just the directors, not just the medical staff, the coaching staff, the players, the supporters, it’s all of you. You have been the most fantastic experience of my life. Thank you.

I have been very fortunate. I have been able to manage some of the greatest players in the country, let alone Manchester United. All these players here today have represented this club the proper way- they have won a championship in fantastic fashion. Well done to the players.

My retirement doesn’t mean the end of my life with the club. I will now be able to enjoy watching them, rather than suffer with them. But, if you think about it, those last-minute goals, the comebacks – even the defeats are all part of this great football club of ours and its been an unbelievable experience for all of us, so thank you for that.

I’d also like to remind you that when we had bad times here the club stood by me, all my staff stood by me, the players stood by me – your job now is to stand by your new manager. That is important.

Before I start blubbling, I just want to pay tribute to Paul Scholes, who retires today. He a Unbelievable, one of the greatest players this club has ever had or ever will have. Paul, we wish you a good retirement. I know you will be around to annoy me.  but also, I would like to say a little word wishing Darren Fletcher a speedy comeback to our club.

The players, I wish the players every success in the future. You know how good you are, you know the jersey you’re wearing, and you know what it means to everyone here and don’t ever let yourselves down. The expectation is always there.

So I’m going home, well, I’m going inside for a while, and I just want to say thank you once again from all the Ferguson family, they are all up there – 11 grandchildren. Thank you, Thank You.”

Jade Christopher Bentley Adams (@jcba)

How Manchester United won their 20th crown

Manchester United won their 20th Barclays Premier League title on Monday with an emphatic 3-0 win against Aston Villa thanks to a Robin van Persie hat-trick.

On www.supersport.com they had a look at the drama as it unfolded from the first day of the season and focus on defining moments which ultimately took the league title to Old Trafford. I've just put the pictures with the specific dates below.

August 25 -- Following a wobbly start against Everton five days earlier, Man United tuned their title campaign into gear with a nervous 3-2 victory against Fulham at Old Trafford. Goals from new signing Robin van Persie, Kagawa and Da Silva did the job.

September 2 -- Van Persie was really on fire here as he blasted a hat-trick against Southampton at St Mary's Stadium. The victory was all the more memorable as United had to come back from a goal down, not once but twice.

September 15 -- A well-oiled Man United machine was now running at full throttle as they flattened Wigan 4-0 -- their biggest win of the season so far. Veteran Scholes, Hernandez, Buttner and Powell provided the goals.

September 23 -- There is nothing as a sweet as victory on enemy grounds. United left Anfield with maximum points thanks to a 2-1 win, courtesy of Da Silva and Van Persie. Another come-from-behind performance by Sir Alex’s men.

October 7 -- Following a minor snag (3-2 loss) at home against Spurs, United went to Sports Direct Arena where they smashed Newcastle 3-0 to get the campaign back on track. Messieurs Evans, Evra and Cleverley did the damage.

October 28 -- Never mind the 4-2 win against Stoke eight days prior, the 3-2 win against title hopefuls Chelsea was to become the highlight of the month for the Red Devils. It was a hard-fought, energy-sapping feat as they almost gave away a comfortable 2-0 first-half lead to allow the Blues back into the match. Hernandez’ 74th minute strike secured the points. Other goals came through Luiz (own goal) and Van Persie. More crucial was that the Blues took long to recover from this defeat as they went to a six-match winless streak. United were now making serious inroads in winning the title.

November 3 -- It’s sweet to get one over Arsenal and the 2-1 home victory was to add more points in the fight to annex the 20th league title.

November 10 -- Being 2-0 down after 49 minutes, it must have suddenly dawned on United that a Villa Park defeat could seriously hamper their title aspirations. Hernandez struck on 57 minutes to reignite the fight and sudden Villa panic resulted in an own goal from Vlaar just five minutes later. Then Hernandez sealed the victory four minutes from time.

November 24 -- QPR came to Old Trafford and thought they had a chance of upsetting the apple cart with a 51st minute goal. They soon left with their tails between their legs as United fought back for a 3-1 result.

December 9 – Man United started the month positively with a 4-3 win against Reading on December 1 but it was the 3-2 outcome against their noisy neighbours that proved crucial in eliminating potential stumbling blocks to the title. That was to be followed by a 3-1 win against Sunderland (December 15), a 1-1 draw against party-poopers Swanswea (December 23), then a comeback 4-3 home win against Newcastle(December 26) before the 2-0 home victory against West Brom on December 29.

January 13 -- Five matches for this month and Man United were as clinical as ever. The only blight, if at all, was the 1-1 draw against Tottenham on January 20. The highlight was the 2-1 victory against Liverpool, a repeat of the corresponding fixture in the first round. Wayne Rooney was also back.

February 23 -- Only two matches for this month and United were businesslike as usual. It was a 2-0 victory against Everton and QPR respectively and credit went to the “grandfather” in the United artillery – Ryan Giggs – as he scored a goal in both matches.

March 30 -- Three matches in March and the pressure was starting to show. Following a comprehensive 4-0 outcome against Norwich, the Red Devils scraped a 1-0 home win against Reading and they needed a Bramble own goal to see them through against Sunderland on March 30.

April -- The noisy neighbours finally had something to bring to the barbecue, a 2-1 win against the champions-elect. That City victory was insignificant though, as Sir Alex’s men were already running away with the title. They confirmed that with a 2-0 away win against Stoke and a 2-2 draw against West Ham.

21 April: Tottenham 3 – 1 Man City - Spurs put an end to the suspense or any potential delays to the crowning of the Premier League champions as they blasted Man City 3-1 to turn international attention to Monday’s clash between Man United and relegation threatened Aston Villa.

April 22: Man United v Aston Villa
It was now down to United – to prolong the suffering on the chasing pack or end the race in style watched by close to 80 000 cheering Old Trafford fans and a couple of other millions around world? RVP answered that quite emphatically and the title was back at Old Trafford for a record 20th time.

Now we await the presenation ceremony on 12th May 2013 after the Swansea fixture at Old Trafford.

Jade Christopher Bentley Adams (@JCBA)

Derby Day Episode 2

Who would've thought hey?... that "A year is a long time in football". Last year April Manicni was celebrating beating Manchester United and subsequently putting City 5 points clear at the top of the league.

This April its quite the turn around, Manchester United are now 15 points clear and the English Premier League (EPL) is all but sawn up. No team needs any motivation for this fixture and the mind games have hit a crescendo with Mancini claiming "Manchester United don't deserve to be 15 points clear" and Sir Alex retort "We deserve to be 15 points ahead". If anyone doubts the importance of this Derby those comments tell that, even with United so far ahead, no manager wants to lose tonight.

The memory of the last time the Citizen visited Old Trafford is still fresh in both camps but credit to Mancini for saying :"Six-one is in the history now," because as we all know "anything can happen in EPL and it usually does." Ferguson on the other hand steered away from it: "I've never watched that game again. Why would I? I'm not into self-flagellation." You can be sure without mentioning it (acccording to Gary Neville Sir Alex will not dwell on it nor remind his players about it) each United player will be well aware of that capitulation at the hands of their noisey neighbours.

Stats

• Manchester United will strive to make it their 70th victory over City in their 165th meeting, interestingly enough 50 draws (watch this space).
• Manchester City topped both the defensive and goalscoring charts on their way to the title last season, with Manchester United second in both categories. This time around, while City again have the best defensive record in the division (26 conceded), they are fifth in the goal scoring table (55 scored). United have scored the most goals (70) and have the second best defensive record (31 conceded).
• Manchester United and Manchester City are two of the three teams yet to lose in the Premier League this season when they have taken the lead. Arsenal are the other.
• United have won 27 points from losing positions this season, more than any other side in the Premier League.

In conclusion just like my belief that no team will win 10 EPL games in a row again I do feel Robin van Persie will not go 10 EPL games in a row without a goal. Only Sir Alex Treble winners did that in 98 and for that matter the "Invincibles" couldn't achieve it. Pictures sourced by twitter followers and stats by bcc sports.

So Manchester is red and tonight we will show why, it wont be pretty but as this season can detest it will be effective.

Jade Christopher Bentley Adams (@JCBA)

Pick the top six - Manchester United

Final part of this segment I present another debtant on JCBA Sports United Mr Robert Gezane (he is a friend of a friend) Manchester United supporter and for obvious reason I've saved the best for last.

Manchester United will undoubtedly be crowned Premier League champions come the end of the 2012/13 season.United have been the most consistent Premier League team this season, amassing an incredible 25 wins in 30 games played,have 2 draws,3 defeats and have the best home and away record,so how's that for consistency?

I personally think United have improved this season, although the critics might say they have not been lethal,they have been consistent,and that's what it takes to win the Premier League, ultimately the toughest League in Europe.

United's goalkeeper, David De Gea, who was once scrutinized, is now showing he's true potential, Rafael is blossoming as a right back, a shoddy defense who leaked goals often is not watertight led by the resurgent Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra is having one of he's best seasons yet. Their midfield is looking better with the likes of footballing quarterback Michael Carrick, who has been one of United's most consistent players and the energy of up and comer Tom Cleverley.   Ryan Giggs still has the guile, intelligence and presence, Shinji Kagawa has impressed in he's first season and the talisman Wayne Rooney stills bleeds for the team. United simply have better depth in their squad compared to last season and have added quality,especially now that they have 4 quality strikers in Robin Van Persie, Rooney, Chicharito and Danny Wellbeck.

Player of the Season - Robin Van Persie The signing of the talismanic Dutchman showed a sign of intent from Sir Alex, guaranteeing the fact United would never lose the title on goal difference again, and the former Gunner has not disappointed in he's first season. He currently has 19 goals and 10 assists this season,and although he is 3 goals behind Luis Suarez, still averages a goal better every 117 minutes, compared the Uruguan's 118 minutes per goal. He's debut goal at Old Trafford against Fulham was class personified, he's away hatrick against Southampton was a statement and he's last minute winner away at Man City was heroic and has provided the extra spark needed for United, especially considering the injury problems Wayne Rooney has had.

Did I mention that fact that he is also a Big Game Player,scoring against City, Chelsea, Spurs, Arsenal, Everton and Liverpool, undoubtedly United's Player of the Season talisman.

Premier League Top 6 Finish/Prediction.

2nd Place- Manchester City

Mancini's men have not been as cutthroat as they were last season and the number of goals scored are a clear indication as to why, and numbers don't lie, they trail United by 15 points,and have not showed the same threat and intent as last season,but considering all, 2nd place is not bad, unless you finish behind United and your a City supporter. The rest of their games except for the showdown at Old Trafford look straight forward.

 3rd Place - Chelsea.

Chelsea started the season off brilliantly and once were mentioned as league contenders, but tailored off after losing fan favourite Roberto Di Matteo. Replaced by Rafa Benitez,they have the know how on how to finish a season off, with veterans like Cech, Terry, Cole and Lampard in the team. Juan Mata and Eden Hazard have shone while Frank Lampard looks to be reborn again. Chelsea need to find consistency in their last few games to ensure a top 4 finish with Arsenal waiting in the wings for a slip up. I back them to finish off 3rd.

4th Place - Tottenham Hotspurs.

AVB's troops have been a breathe of fresh air for me personally this season, breaking the usual power battle of London between Chelsea and Arsenal. Jan Vertonghen has been their best defensive player and Gareth Bale who is a great player indeed is now showing potential of being world class. After missing out on 4th last season due to Chelsea's automatic qualification by winning the Champions League, Spurs have added quality in depth this season and don't look like tinkering off. I refuse to think their will finish lower than 4th and ultimately deserve a chance in Europe's elite competition. End of season fatigue has hampered them in the past, but I see them finishing off positively in their remaining games consolidating 4th spot.

 5th Place - Arsenal.

This could unfortunately be the season where Arsene Wengers' team don't finish in the top 4 for the first time ever in he's reign. Their lack of consistency and leadership continue to be their achilles heal. Their defense has been poor this season highlighted by Thomas Vermeulen and Per Mertesacker's inability to read the game together as a unit, they look islands apart. Mikael Arteta is now a holding midfielder which is not he's natural position and Abou Diaby is unfortunately injury prone. Theo Walcott stills lacks the consistency expected from an England International but has had a better season in the goalscoring department while Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere remain positives for their 2012/13 campaign. Their remaining fixtures look far better than Chelsea's and Spurs put together, but don't see them winning all their remaining games,and don't see Rafa's or AVB's men loosening their grip on 3rd and 4th respectively.

6th Place - Everton.

The Toffees' restricted budget and lack of depth continue to hamper them breaking into the top 4 season after season. David Moyes continues to show why he is the best British manager in the league, after Sir Alex, making incredible strides with the limited war chest he has to live with, he has always promoted and shown faith in young British talent and gets the best out of players, with he's men showing constant drive and endevour. Unfortunately for Everton, goals have come at a minimum this season, with Nikica Jelavic being a shadow of the player he was last season. Victor Anichebe now has the starting striking role but is more of a holding forward than a goal machine. Kevin Maroullis has added pace and attacking intent for the team, Maruanne Fallaini has taken the goal load on he's shoulders offensively, scoring vital goals when needed and Leon Osman is having another standout season while Phil Jagielka and Sylvain Distin are one of the better defensive centre back pairings in the League. 6th place will be another disappointment for Everton and their fans,especially David Moyes.In terms of remaining fixtures, they need to pick up as many points as possible and hope, end of season fatigue, does not hamper their run in, but need their talisman Fallaini to be around for that.

Premier League Player of the Year-Robin Van Persie

PFA Player of the Year-Gareth Bale.

Golden Boot-Luis Suarez.

Premier League Team of the Year.

 Joe Hart,

Rafael,Rio Ferdinand,Jan Vertonghen,Leighton Baines,

Juan Mata,Maruanne Fallaini,Santi Carzola,Gareth Bale,

Luis Suarez,Robin Van Persie.

How they will finish:

[1] Manchester United

[2] Manchester City

[3] Chelsea

[4] Tottenham

[5] Arsenal

[6] Everton

JCBA response:

I'm renown for being the "Statermatician (a word I derived from Mathematician) but I must say I have been schooled here today. (see what I did there) We only differ on who will be sixth come May, I get that but one things for sure is if Everton want to keep David Moyes they have to be in Europe next term, he says he wants funds to spend in the summer but those funds depend very much on that sixth place. Very well done infact very well read Mr Gezane and let's make it 20 a.s.a.p.

Jade Christopher Bentley Adams (@JCBA)

Pick the top six - Chelsea FC

Next up is Ms Marisa Calvert (affectionately known as Reesie) a Chelsea supporter, its not only the first time she'll be on JCBA Sports United but she's breaking barriers in being the first female to feature too. Kudos to her who knows in future may many more follow.

Forgive me, I’m still smiling after yesterday’s FA Cup replay. And as I told Jade, the FA Cup trophy loves the Stamford Bridge cabinet as much as the Premier League trophy enjoys its stay at Old Trafford. Many have tried, but not many have succeeded in winning back the trophy. Hats off to Manchester United though. Sir Alex Ferguson, I will swallow my pride and just applaud you for what you have done during your 20 years at the helm of one of the most successful football clubs in the world.

Chelsea my Chelsea – it’s a rollercoaster supporting you. And after 11 years of proudly keeping my blue flag high, nothing Roman does shocks me anymore. Chelsea was one point behind United when RDM got sacked. Enter Rafa Benitez, the Spanish waiter. We still got knocked out of the UCL (we would’ve been knocked out regardless of who was manager to be honest) but our dreams of winning the league was diminished. However, we still have a shot at a double with FA Cup and Europa League titles still well within our grasp.

Rafa is another kind of coach though. It has taken me a long time to come to terms with his game plan BUT I think I have figured it out. His focus: FA Cup, Europa League title and UCL qualification. He wants trophies under his belt. Remember how he rambled off his CV at a post-match press conference? Chelsea has the following fixtures until the end of the season to look forward to: Sunderland (home), Fulham (away), Liverpool (away), Swansea (home), Man Utd (away), Villa (away) and Everton (home). In my opinion, these are a few tough matches, especially with FA Cup & Europa League in between. Versus Sunderland, Chelsea has the better winning record at the Bridge but with Rafa’s selections, it’s kinda hard to predict how the remaining matches will play out. I do however stick to my guns that we will qualify for the UCL and therefore, I present to you, my Top 6:
1.Manchester United
2.Manchester City
3.Tottenham Hotspurs
4.Chelsea
5.Arsenal
6.Everton

And for kicks, the top scorer of the season will be Luiz Suarez.

Enjoy the rest of the season! Can’t believe the season is almost finished – sjoe, this year really flew! Manchester United fans – well done to your team. I’m pretty sure your number 20 will bring you the 20th title :) celebrate well!

Reesie (the only Chelsea fan he knows) 

JCBA response:
Biting my tongue I guess congratulations is in order, anything is better than a City Cup triumph so a sincere Good Luck to Chelsea bringing the FA Cup home a.k.a the Chelsea Cup. You literally covered everything from the great Sir Alex to fat waiter & his priorities, so there is not much left for me to say. Funnily enough I don't see Spurs ending above Chelsea come May but understand the logic behind it. Though it would seem Everton are on an upward curve so is Liverpool and I have a sneaky suspicion they'll pip the Blue half of Merseyside to sixth. A lot will depend whether or not Suarez gets that golden boot to be honest. RVP on the other hand owes me a hatrick (Fantasy Footie) so he'll be there & there abouts because well... all droughts end EVENTUALLY. Give Reesie a follow on Twitter @Reesiebabygirl

Jade Christopher Bentley Adams (@JCBA)

Pick the top six - Manchester City

So hit a snag on this Manchester City post, nonexistant...

Apparently they undecided on whom they'll support next season.

JCBA's response:

So what response you want from me I guess all I can say about there season is well that they missed Yaya in the mid & Aguero's goals. Turns out not even millions enough to build quality squad, heck even with those two they'd be hard pressed to rake in 25 wins in your first 30 EPL fixtures. Only difference being Manchester United probably wouldn't be 15 clear. 

  

Jade Christopher Bentley Adams (@JCBA)