Source: Manchester_EveningNews
Obertan set for United debut
MANCHESTER United new-boy Gabriel Obertan will make his long-awaited appearance in Red colours at Hyde tonight. Obertan was snapped up from Bordeaux in the summer by Sir Alex Ferguson, who had been attracted by the player?s potential and received positive reports from the player?s club boss, former United defender Laurent Blanc. The Frenchman?s career has stalled in recent times due to injury and almost as soon as Obertan had completed his £3million move to the Old Trafford outfit, Ferguson revealed he would be sidelined for a matter of months after developing spinal problems. However, the player is now ready for action and will make his bow in a Manchester Senior Cup tie against Oldham this evening. Also included is Brazilian full-back Rafael Da Silva. The teenager made a significant impression with United last term, amassing 28 first-team appearances and scoring a memorable goal at Arsenal last November. His development was also halted though after he underwent shoulder surgery which has kept him out this season so far. Rafael will be joined in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer?s side by brother Fabio, who has already been called upon three times by Ferguson this term. Meanwhile, Michael Owen's former Liverpool team-mate Jamie Carragher is predicting a rough ride for the United striker if he appears at Anfield in the Premier League in Sir Alex Ferguson's side on October 25. "Our fans are usually brilliant with former players but he might get a cool reception," said the Liverpool defender. "You can understand the fans' point of view. He used to play for us and now he's at the big rivals. "That's football and Michael will know that. He has a very strong character so stick doesn't bother him." Carragher remains a good mate of Owen, who signed for United on a free transfer during the summer despite starting his career at bitter rivals Liverpool. And the defender accepts why Owen chose to move to Old Trafford following his injury cursed spell at Newcastle. "Michael's got his career to think about. He wants to get his name back up there," added Jamie. "He wants to play Champions League football and get into the World Cup squad. "The move gives him that opportunity. It will have upset some fans but that's football. He's a mate so I have to wish him well, but only to a certain extent." What are you expecting from Obertan? Have your say.
