Football Corner

Birthday boy Kieran Richardson has celebrated his birthday by securing a new contract at Manchester United. The deal will keep the 21 year old at Old Trafford until 2009. The winger, who has won four England caps, returned to Old Trafford this season after a successful loan at West Bromwich Albion last season. "I am happy to commit my future to Manchester United," Richardson told the club's official website. "It's the club where I want to be and I couldn't imagine being anywhere else." Richardson's performances for West Brom last season earned him a surprise England call-up for the summer tour of the United States.

He scored twice on his debut against the US and despite the offer of another loan spell at the Hawthorns, the winger opted to stay at United and fight for a place in the first team. He has made eight appearances this season, mostly at left-back in place of the injured Gabriel Heinze. Richardson becomes the latest United player to sign a new deal at the club along with John O'Shea and Darren Fletcher.

Meanwhile Man United winger Cristiano Ronaldo is set to play against Tottenham tomarrow despite the rape allegations against him. The 20-year-old, who has denied the allegations, was arrested on Wednesday and questioned over claims that a woman was sexually assaulted on 2 October. Ferguson said: "Obviously Cristiano has had a difficult time, but he trained yesterday and today and he will be OK." United face second-placed Tottenham at Old Trafford on Saturday. They will be without Ryan Giggs, who Ferguson revealed has broken his cheekbone in three places. The Welsh winger was caught by an elbow in the Champions League draw against Lille on Tuesday and will be out for at least six weeks. "It will have to be plated," said Ferguson.


Good news on the Richardson and Ronaldo front but bad news about Giggs who is set to be out for up to six weeks. Richardson has played very well since he has come into the side due to injury and I think he deserves the new deal. The Ronaldo news isn't very nice for the game and hopefully the matter is resolved very soon.