THE disappointment of Manchester United’s shock Premiership defeat by Wolves on Saturday was eased considerably for Reds emerging superstar John O’Shea later that night when he was named Park Hotel Waterford Supreme Sports Star of 2003.

NEW manager, new team, new era - old Duff. Well, not so old actually.

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ARSENE WENGER believes Dennis Bergkamp can ignite Arsenal’s Champions League campaign as he calls for a clean break with their debilitating away fortunes of recent seasons.

DWIGHT YORKE claims playing in the World Cup finals for Trinidad & Tobago will be “the icing on the cake” as he approaches the end of his glittering career.

A RURAL region will be shaken, not stirred this weekend as 007 star Pierce Brosnan and other celebrities arrive in Fethard, Co Tipperary, for the VIP wedding of the year tomorrow.

Fenerbahce 3 Man Utd 0

RANGERS chairman David Murray insists manager Alex McLeish was “not even close” to leaving Ibrox.

A CARLING CUP medal in his pocket, Waterford beating Cork in the National Hurling League and a nice view over Dublin Bay from the Irish team hotel. Life is good for John O’Shea.

ALEX FERGUSON believes his side have rediscovered the focus that can turn them back into champions again.

MANCHESTER UNITED have been warned to watch their backs by Sale chief executive Niels de Vos, who believes fans are becoming disenchanted with football and turning to rugby union as a genuine alternative.

MANCHESTER UNITED’S legion of fans used to take their seats at Old Trafford awaiting the kind of ritual slaughter which used to be enjoyed in Roman times.

BOBBY ROBSON has challenged his Newcastle side to pick up three victories and a draw from their remaining five Premiership games to clinch their place in the Champions League.

A DEVOTED husband bought one of the last Manchester United jerseys worn by Roy Keane for €4,000 at a church auction yesterday - as a surprise Christmas present for his wife.

GERARD HOULLIER knows the calls for him to quit will intensify after the defeat to Manchester United but has vowed not to be deflected from his objective to shape Liverpool’s future.

MANCHESTER UNITED new boy Wayne Rooney has admitted he might not end his first season at old Trafford with a championship medal.

CESC FABREGAS believes he can help fill the midfield void left by the departure of Arsenal skipper Patrick Vieira.

MANCHESTER UNITED legend Bobby Charlton insists everything remains on an even keel at Old Trafford, despite uncertainty over the club's future.