Mark 'Chappers' Chapman Exclusive Interview

By David Hobbs
November 5 2005

Radio 1 DJ and sports presenter Mark 'Chappers' Chapman has spoken to ManUtdWeb, giving his views on how United will get along this season.

Chappers, flying the flag for the Red Devils at the BBC and Radio 1, answered the best questions put forward by ManUtdWeb's Message Board users.

You can catch Chappers on the Scott Mills show on BBC Radio 1 from 4-7pm each weekday.

With the players we have, what would be your preferred formation and starting line-up?

4-4-2 for me is what has always worked best for United. I don't know whether this Ruud on his own with Rooney and Ronaldo roving either side of him works. So I would go - Van Der Sar, Neville, Heinze, Greedy Rio, Brown, Ronaldo, Keane, Scholes, Giggs/Park, Rooney and Van Nistelrooy.

 

How often do you manage to get to Old Trafford and watch United seeing as you work in London?

I go as much as I can. me and my dad have season tickets and if I don't go my sister goes. Although if the prices keep going up I won't be able to afford it anymore and I am not alone in that. It's getting too expensive. United were always one of the more reasonable priced clubs.

 

What do you make of FC United, is it a good idea or should the fans just stick with the club?

I think it's a great idea. I have said before Old Trafford lacks so much atmosphere at the moment and the club has no soul whatsoever, even before Glazer took over. There is complacency and most fans sit back and expect to be entertained. FC United, although nowhere near the same standard will at least have a bit of passion about it.

 

Who are you backing to get relegated from the Premiership this season and do you think United can improve on 3rd position?

Sunderland, Portsmouth and Fulham will go I think. United will be 3rd again.

 

Do you think Van Der Sar will solve the goalie problem?

Yep. he's a top class keeper although he has his odd mad moment but even Schmeichel had those. Why didn't we get him 4 years ago!?

 

Who do you see as Sir Alex's successor and Keane's successor in midfield?

Absolutely no idea who will succeed Fergie. I actually wouldn't mind Keane taking over from Fergie. In midfield Smithy could do a job on the passion front and he is fit enough as well. He isn't keane though. United should get Ballack now. Different type of player to Keane but would be a valuable addition. Don't wait til next Summer because he is free. Spend the 8 million now.

 

Which players would you sell to make room for incoming players?

Most of them have gone thank god. Although Bellion is still there which worries me. I can't see Louis Saha ever being fit enough to play again for us so I would probably get rid of him. Such a shame Phil Neville went. Football needs more honest players like him and he will do a good job at Everton.

 

Which youth team members are you most excited about breaking through this season?

Rossi is the one. Has hit a lot of reserve team goals and has looked good pre season. Have always had high hopes for Jonathan Spector and Chris Eagles although both are on loan at the moment. Will also be interesting to see the progress of Kieran Richardson.

 

Thank you Chappers...

David Hobbs - Webmaster
[david@manutdweb.com]

You can follow the fortunes of Chappers on www.unofficialmills.co.uk