FIRST IS FIRST

Last updated : 15 September 2006 By Editor
Fletcher in the MEN:

“What has happened at the start of this season really all came from what happened at the end of last year.

“The manager kept stressing the importance of finishing second to avoid having to play in the Champions League qualifiers. It was important to kick on at the start of this season because we have not begun in the manner we wanted to over the past few years.

“The Champions League was a massive disappointment to us last year. We have a lot to prove but three points against Celtic has given us a great start. We have begun the Premiership well too, so hopefully we can continue that on Sunday.

“This is a fantastic week for us, with Tottenham, Celtic and Arsenal. It is an exciting week.

“We are happy with the way we attacked [against Celtic]. We could have had more goals, especially in the second half and obviously, we are disappointed with the ones we conceded.

“We got the three points, though, that is the main thing. It is the perfect start to our group, now we need to kick on.

“Taking criticism is part and parcel of football. What you have to try to do is focus on your own game and improve.

“As a player, every season is important at this club. If players stand still, so does the team. And Manchester United does not stand still. I know there will be times when I do play, and others when I don't.”


Meanwhile Silvestre praises Saha:

“Since he replaced Ruud in the United team, Louis has done well. Like all strikers, he thrives on confidence gained by scoring goals. I'm happy for him because he is making the team happy.

“I do not understand why people have been questioning Louis' ability in front of goal. He has been scoring goals for ages. Look at his record.”

And on Ole:

“I have to admit, I didn't believe he would come back. We are all so happy for him because he is such a great lad. To score that goal after being out for so long will give him a lot of confidence.”


And Saha praises Rooney for letting him take the penalty:

“I have to thank Wayne for that. It was a good night to get goals and I suppose I might have had a hat-trick but we won the game, which is all that matters.

“I am enjoying myself at the moment. I don't feel any extra pressure. I just keep giving 100%, which is what I will continue to do whether I am in the team or not.”