AFTER the tumult and controversy in the Premier League over the last 48 hours, this victory was exactly what Manchester United would have wanted: simple and utterly comprehensive.

PAUL SCHOLES popped up 13minutes from time to ensure Manchester United’s bid to reach a third successive Champions League final got off on exactly the right note in Istanbul.

BURNLEY celebrated a night they will never forget as veteran duo Robbie Blake and Brian Jensen emerged the heroes in a sensational victory over Manchester United.

Aalborg 0 Manchester United 3

LAST WEEK had gone so well: then the weekend’s clouds started to gather.

Middlesbrough 2 Tottenham 1

Manchester United have “expressed an interest” in signing Dimitar Berbatov, according to the Tottenham striker’s agent.

ITALY coach Giovanni Trapattoni praised the performance of his players and prepared for a night of video-watching as his side bowed out of Euro 2004.

CHRISTIAN VIERI’S rant at the Italian media on Sunday was misdirected.