Monday, August 11, 2008

How much do they earn?

Manchester United

Edwin van der Sar

At 37, still a very good goalkeeper. Though weak at kicking, his natural authority and confidence make the Dutchman a safe pair of hands in this context.

£80,000 (Wages per week)
£3m (Transfer value)

Wes Brown

A great way to finish the busiest season of his United career to date. Often derided, but, as Gary Neville's deputy, the defender has made very few mistakes.

£55,000 (Wages per week)
£6m (Transfer value)

Rio Ferdinand

In the form of his life, this elegant defender has added grit and consistency to his game to become the complete package. Loves responsibility as captain.

£120,000 (Wages per week)
£40m (Transfer value)

Nemanja Vidic

The perfect partner for Ferdinand. Combative and aggressive, he will not shy away from a battle with Drogba. Always a danger from corners as well.

£70,000 (Wages per week)
£18m (Transfer value)

Patrice Evra

As an attacking left-back, few come close to the Frenchman. Will not hesitate to bomb forward, partly with the intention of pushing back Joe Cole.

£30,000 (Wages per week)
£12m (Transfer value)

Owen Hargreaves

Bought for European jaunts, yet hasn't been used as much as expected. Gets the nod here for his dogged resolve to counter the threat of Lampard and Ballack.

£80,000 (Wages per week)
£18m (Transfer value)

Michael Carrick

Increasingly influential, this understated Geordie can make United tick. Might push further forward here to make the most of his wonderful passing range.

£80,000 (Wages per week)
£18m (Transfer value)

Paul Scholes

Must pick his moments more carefully but remains a threat to Chelsea's rearguard. Missed the 1999 final, so Moscow amounts to his biggest club game.

£90,000 (Wages per week)
£6m (Transfer value)

Cristiano Ronaldo

Cometh the hour. His prodigious talent deserves such a stage. And if he starts quickly, Ashley Cole and Co will be asked all sorts of questions.

£125,000 (Wages per week)
£75m (Transfer value)

Ji-Sung Park

A willing workhorse lacking the subtlety of many team-mates but a player on whom Sir Alex Ferguson can depend.

£40,000 (Wages per week)
£6m (Transfer value)

Wayne Rooney

Even more pivotal than Ronaldo to United's game-plan, his vision and energy shape the team's fortunes. Must guard against frustration if progress is slow.

£115,000 (Wages per week)
£40m (Transfer value)

Tomasz Kuszczak
Has shown that he might not be the answer when Van der Sar steps down.
£25,000 (Wages per week)
£2.5m (Transfer value)

Ryan Giggs
Seeking Sir Bobby Charlton's appearance record, the veteran winger has the intelligence to alter games.
£85,000 (Wages per week)
£4m (Transfer value)

Darren Fletcher
Has improved beyond measure; now a reliable squad member.
£40,000 (Wages per week)
£6m (Transfer value)

John O'Shea
Great versatility and a fair bit of experience make the Irishman handy in reserve.
£45,000 (Wages per week)
£6m (Transfer value)

Anderson
Incredibly strong, the little Brazilian has enjoyed a great debut season.
£55,000 (Wages per week)
£18m (Transfer value)

Carlos Tevez
Unlucky to miss out, but what a weapon to have if the shape needs to change.
£95,000 (Wages per week)
£30m (Transfer value)

Mikael Silvestre
Returns from injury, just in time, perhaps, to play a key part.
£50,000 (Wages per week)
£5m (Transfer value)

The best opening ceremony!










Here we go again!

United started the 2008-09 season with a community shield victory over Pompeys. Unfashionable penalty shootout win.

Clearly United needs to buy a striker... and we do miss Rooney and Ronaldo.

Oh, not forgetting to mention that spectacular Olympic opening ceremony. It was the best I have seen, superb show!