United vs. Newcastle

There are a lot of things to discuss right now considering the current United side. Lots of things to be concerned about but there are many things to be excited about as well. While United look to be facing another defensive crisis, things have never been better at the end of the pitch. Wayne Rooney is back in fantastic form and playing like the the legend we all know him to be. His partnership with RVP is beginning to take shape and seems to be working out very well.

Back towards our own half, United once again are dealing with plenty of defensive players being injured. It is not only injuries that are causing United fans to worry about our defense. Some of our old reliables are becoming not so reliable. Patrice Evra, while still able to be effective going forward, is truly beginning to struggle positionally.  Everyone has been on a witch hunt for Rio, blaming him for every United goal this season. While Rio has not been fantastic, he has not had the help he should at the back. Evra has not been handling his defending responsibilities and leaving the center backs out to dry. He is not alone. Rafael may be having his best season so far but he also has been skipping out on getting back to cover the two center backs.

What are the answers to United's defensive problems? Well, many are saying that a purchase is required in January. That may be whats needed. But, here's the deal. United need to do one of two things. If Sir Aex is not wanting to make a purchase and introduce his younger players into the squad then he needs to do this and for better for worse give them their chance. If not, yes, purchasing an experienced center back in January would probably be a good idea. Vidic is out with yet another injury and did not have a spectacular start to the season. I have no doubt that if he could stay injury free, he will be back to his bone crushing self in no time.

Fletcher's return is a breath of fresh air for United. His continued presence in the team could be a huge difference in how United do this season. Finally, United play Newcastle again this weekend. It is a fixture that United must win. Below I have picked how United might choose their best eleven for the match.

Injuries

The past few years have been tough for United injury wise. With the exception of the 2010-2011 season, United have struggled with defensive injuries. Here we are again with Nemanja Vidic being reported to be out for 8 weeks. This is awful news. Our defensive performances have not been very good of late and the loss of our captain can do nothing but make it worse.

 Everyone seems to be criticizing Patrice Evra for his performances recently. They have reason to because he has not been spectacular in recent games. However He is the only defender that we have that has not been injured in the past 3 seasons. I think he has played more games than any other outfield player in EPL over the past 4 years. That is quite an accomplishment. Still that does not save United from facing another possible defensive injury crisis.

The good news is that Darren Fletcher seems to making a go at getting back in the team. I truly hope he can make it back. Not to sound dramatic but he could be a make or break player. A back in form fletcher would provide several things United are in dire need of.

First he would provide much needed cover for the back for. Carrick Scholes and Co are not DMs. Fletcher could shield the back four while winning balls in the middle of the pitch. So even if United are relying on some of our more inexperienced defenders, Fletch may be able to provide some support. Second, the Scottsman could add to United's keeping the ball in games. In the seasons leading up to his unfortunate illness, Fletch had no problem moving the ball up the field and distributing out wide or up top etc. While not at the same level as Scholesy or Kagawa, Fletcher does bring a range of passing that would be beneficial in matches where the midfield is under heavy pressure.

This would be an enormous boost to the United's Side espeacially with injuries already starting to mount up. After hearing about Vida's new injury, I have to admit, I went into panic mode. Immediately, I went straight to saying we absolutely need to look for another experience CB in Jan. I have since calmed down. Still one wonders if that might not be a good idea. Although, United do possess some young defensive talent. The fact that many of these players such as Jones and Smalling seem to be constantly getting sidelined with injuries, often makes them of no use to us. I can't deny their talent would be very excited to see them have run in the side. But, I am worried that these injuries could continue after we are without Rio and Vida, which is not far off. Regardless, I am staying positive. Hopefully we will have Darren Fletcher back in the Midfield soon and Vidic back not long after that.

Big Matches this week that should prove to be very interesting! The Magpies tomorrow and Spurs on Saturday. These could be our two most difficult matches yet.

GLORY GLORY MAN UNITED

Here We Go...

         So, we have signed Robin Van Persie this week. This is quite a big signing for United. Lately, the Reds have had trouble luring the biggest of names to Old Trafford. Often losing these players to more money or more sunshine. As good as RVP may or may not be for us, this was a purchase that was meant to state something. It says we can attract the biggest players, we can spend when we want to and we are here to stay.
       As a statement, it is a pretty good one. It says all the right things. It reminds the competition who we are and what we will do to make sure we are the best. The other big thing this signing accomplishes is that it puts another big name on the field that can share scoring responsibilities with Rooney. This should be extremely helpful to Rooney and help is overall form. As far as the player himself, I think he is a good striker. I think he was a little on the pricey side. We also are not short of players in the strikers department. I am all for creating competition in the ranks but, sometimes the wrong message can be sent. That wrong message is being sent to Dimitar Berbatov. But, I doubt this is any surprise to Berba and I am sure he had expected or is expecting to leave this summer. I will be sad to see him go. He is a great player, probably the most underrated player in the world. I have not seen a player with the magnificent touch and sublime vision he has since Zidane. I hope that if he does leave that he is able to move to a big team where he will play. He is an amazing talent and true professional. If he does stay, I hope he gets the chance he deserves.
       Still there other players this signing impacts. Tactically, I am still trying to figure out what SAF is planning. One thing is sure, someone will be left out. It is likely that the old master is looking to use the 4-3-3 that he used often during the 07/08 and 08/09 seasons. In this case it was Ronaldo Rooney and Tevez/Berbatov that he was implementing. This three pronged attack and was probably our strongest side in recent years. If SAF plans to use this formation, it will be the wingers that suffer. Will he continue to play wingers like Nani, Young and Valencia in a 3 man midfield? Its unlikely. Sir Alex will most likely focus on triangle in the midfield with players like Cleverly and Kagawa at the head of that triangle behind the three attackers. Of course, it is possible that Nani or Young could play along side Rooney or RVP. However Valencia is an out and out winger and unlikely to play up top in a 4-3-3. He could of course feature as a right back as he has before. We are lacking in that position and he has served as adequate in this position in the past. I don't think it allows for him to live up to his true potential. As our most consistent wide player, I would not want to place him there often. It will be very interesting to see how this all plays out. Hopefully there will be enough rotation that we will get to see these guys in some action. Other than that if SAF does stick with the 4-4-1-1 then the selection problems will be down to just the strikers. Either way we will have to wait and see. There is something that I am interested in seeing. I have this sneaking feeling that Michael Carrick will be playing more often at center back. Not just when we have 10 injuries. He played there some during the tour and has done well there. So it would not be the worst idea and it provide great cover if Rio or Vida get injured again.
       All things aside the new season is starting and I'm sure Fergie is focused on getting hes trophy back. I would like to see United get some defensive cover before the transfer window closes. I am unsure if it will actually happen. United have plenty of fire power going into this campaign and I hope that we take advantage of that. We should be seeing some pretty exciting football from the reds considering the options we have. Fergie definitely has some selection problems to deal with but I am sure that it is a problem he does'nt mind having. Cheers to a great season!

Glory Glory Man United!

Adapt or die

This discussion of the Spanish style has been growing for some time and was bound to start getting some mainstream coverage. Obviously people are beginning to add up whether they like the so called "tiki taka" style of play implemented most famously by Barcelona FC and the Spanish national side. Recently even "genius" pundits such as Alexi Lalas as well as others are throwing their opinions into the mix.
    Whether you approve of this style of soccer/football, there is one thing you should know. There are two versions of this "tiki taka" style we have seen from both Barcelon and Spain. There is the fast paced passes used in attacking an opponents goal. Then there is the more passive (and some would say boring) continue passing. While both versions usually see Barca or Spain keep a great deal of the possession, only one seems to be the style that is making these two sides two of the best in history.
      I have seen both sides use use their passing game magnificently. They will dismantle an opponent's defense right from the start. They create space with dummy runs and then make quick through passes to create chances and goals. Its beautiful and utterly fantastic to watch. Then you have games like the two Barca played against Chelsea in the Champions League semi final this year. Chelsea's performance was spectacular. I have never seen such a strictly focus and determined defensive display. Yes, it was pragmatic and very anti-football, but they beat the best team int the world to make it to final of the most competitive tournament that exists. This is something that, I think, Barca and Spain do not grasp. Sometimes you have to knuckle down and just scrape out a win. It wont be pretty and it might not be exciting to watch. But your club gets the result it needed. I am not suggesting that this should be how teams should play. I am saying that teams like Barca and Spain have no plan B. They have gotten away with often because of their depth and talent. However Barca did not win La Liga this season. This may be why.
    I love the Barca style. It truly is "the beautiful game". But, when things go south, great teams adapt. They problem solve and find another way to win. Now I have gotten a little bit off track but, I started this post back in June and I am finishing it in August. What I am saying is that this style can be used effectively and it can be used ineffectively. If the pundits want to discuss this and comment on whether they approve or not. It would behoove them to mention that when it works and Barca is turned on it is by no means repetitive and boring. When they get stuck in the midfield and around the box and cannot find away to penetrate an 11 men defense that is when teams need to look to something else to try. But... of course they don't.

The Messi Ronaldo Conundrum: A Case For Ronaldo

    Today in world football, the two best players are easily Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Most argue that Messi is probably the worlds greatest player. He is a great player and wonderful to watch. However, whether it is because I am biased as a United fan or because I feel the need to play the devil's advocate, I often lend my support to Ronny for the world's best. Usually this is answered with dramatic arguments about his arrogance, diving or Messi's considerable talent. Sometimes it is tough to argue with Messi's brilliance. But, Ronaldo has brilliance too. Often it is not the same type of magic that the little Argentine produces but it is spectacular just the same. There are many different things that can make a player great. Both of these athletes have some of these qualities. How do you decide which qualities make someone the best?
    Through out history the greatest players have most usually been associated with performing well in international tournaments such as the world cup or the European championship. Neither Messi or Ronaldo are known particularly for their performances playing for their countries. Both Messi and Ronaldo are better known for their performances for their respective clubs. This is probably better criteria for recognition as the worlds best player. While international teams playing eachother is exciting and usually dramaitic, it does not provide the highest quality of play. The highest quality football can be found in the Champions League as well as in the major European leagues. So, while many critics hold this fact against the two footballers, there is not much reason to do so. Figures such as Pele who criticize the two and sugest that they have a long way to go until they reach his level are stuck in the past and not worth listening to. These former players or pundits should be excited to see how the sport has developed and the beauty and competition both Messi and Ronaldo bring to the game.
    Who is better? Many people are asking that question right now as both players continue to get better each season. As people, the two players are very different. Ronaldo is the celebrity. He is outgoing, cocky and often has a sense of humor. Messi on the other hand is more reserved. He is not known for being a celebrity and does not say much off the pitch. They are very different personalities. Often this is what attracts fans to players. Ronaldo is brazen, sarcastic and dramatic while Messi is more subtle. But when it comes down to it, which player makes more of an impact. Most often, fans answer with Messi. However, I see it differently. Messi is a member of arguably the best team on the planet. While Real Madrid are a one of Europe's better teams, I am not sure that they have the arsenal of players that Barcelona can currently field. However, Real Madrid currently lead La Liga by seven points. Mostly due to Cristiano's prolific scoring.
   This is not to say that Madrid are a particularly bad team. It is just I have seen them perform quite miserably and still win because their number 7 basically drug them to the win. Messi on the other hand sits in front of the world's best midfield every game. As prolific of a player as Leo Messi is, I am sure that Barcelona would perform just as well as if another talented striker were in his position. I also find myself asking whether Mr. Messi would be as successfull on lesser team. We know Ronaldo would be.
     While Manchester United and Real Madrid are great teams, neither posess the depth of talent that Barcelona currently does. Messi is a large part of that team but I am not so sure he is the difference. Ronaldo has so many aspects to his game. Ronaldo's dribling (while fantastic in it's self) may not be as fast or effective as Leo Messi's left foot. He seems to be the more well rounded player though. He is not only a threat from his idividual effort. He posses massive threats in the air as well as from a dead ball. His free kicks are some of the best in the world. He is also very efective in his runs off the ball. The traits that most set Ronaldo apart are his focus and determination. His work ethic is well known to be monumental during matches as well as training. Still, many question his attitude.
   In my experience coaching and playing this sport, the players that were the best were intensively competitive and emotionally invested in their game. Sure they could be immature at times. This is not unusual. Look at the some of the best players in history such as Eric Cantona and Zinedine Zidane. They both were highly intense and emotional athletes. More importantly, look at their talent and their presence on the field. These men are special players who have a special ability to inspire their team mates to play better and harder. Ronaldo is the same. The team plays better when he is on the pitch. Not just because of his individual effort but also because of the his presence. As great as Messi is, I do not see him showing that presence. He is amazing with the ball at his feet. I look for more than just that. So to me Cristiano takes it. But hey, what do i know I am just a "stupide americane".

Other Options

There are plenty of rumors currently circulating concerning Manchester United's interest in Brazilian midfielder: Lucas Moura. The kid is quite a talent and he could be a real asset to United. However, the price tag, his current club (Sao Paulo) is placing on him is astronomical.  We all know that Brazilian come more expensive than other nationalities simply because these players hail from Brazil. I don't care where you are from, 30-40 million is too much to pay for a 19 year old and maybe even any player. Of course there are other aspects involved in transfer fees such as marketing etc. That is not the case with this player. He is not established. He has never played in Europe. We know he is talented but he has not proved himself at the highest level. This asking price is ridiculous.
   Now I am not trying to rag on Lucas Moura. I think he is a great player. Still, the market has become so inflated that big clubs such as Manchester United and Real Madrid should start looking else where when the asking price is just too much. As I said before, Some Nationalities cost more just because of their history with in the sport. This does not mean their aren't quality players of other nationalities. While some nations' players come with a jacked up price, some come as a bargain.  If clubs begin to look else where besides Brazil, Argentina and Western Europe they can find quality players at reasonable prices. Regions such as Asia and Eastern Europe are perfect examples. Asia is especially worth a mention. Countries such as South Korea and Japan area more and more showing up at major tournaments ready to play. Both are producing more and more talented players.  If more clubs looked into markets such as these they would spend less for arguably the same quality. Not to mention that this would force the estimated value of players from Brazil and other nations down.
   These are not the only options for value in the market but, clubs should start looking else where if prices are going to elevated to these proportions. Some clubs have shown signs of sharing these ideas. Managers such as Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger have repeatedly refused to meet horrendous asking prices for star players. Even with grumbling among fans both have stuck to their beliefs that there is a lack of value in the market and started looking elsewhere for players. This may not change. Brazilians and other highly rated nationalities may continue to attract massive price tags but this is the age of globalization and other nations' football development is on the rise.

Euro 2012 and Ireland

     So far it has been an interesting tournament. Some expected results, some unexpected. Poland in particular have been exciting to watch. For me the most monumental part of this tournament has been the Irish. Of course I know you are saying to yourself Ireland? They were hammered in both games. This is true and Ireland will not advance to the quarter finals. However, I just watched their loss to Spain and was totally astounded by their attitude, effort as well as the quality of their supporters. They lost 4-0 but were there to play until the whistle blew.
    Spain had dismantled their defense from the very beginning with their Barca style passing. However Ireland did very well to keep it 1-0 until after the first half. They also had a chance or two themselves. But, as I said the most amazing thing about this game was not how impressive Spain were or how bad Ireland were, It was the way Ireland kept coming back. After every goal, after ever pass beating an Irish player, the Irish still came back to defend or to try and counter after a Spanish attack. They tirelessly chased Xavi and Iniesta around the midfield. They tried to get in front of every shot. Even though there was no way they could win they made the Spanish play their best. It was pretty exciting to see.
    What was most amazing was the Irish supporters reaction in the last five minutes of the match. Booming song filled the PGE Arena in Gdansk. Most people watching on their televisions at home probably thought it was the Spanish It wasn't. The Dazzling green section of the stadium had erupted into song. If it's possible the Irish players seemed to fight even harder. Unfortunately this was to no avail. But the song continued, even after the official blew his whistle. The players began to shake hands, swap jerseys and make their way to their dressing rooms. But, the Irish players stayed and applauded their fans who were still united in deafening song. It was pretty moving to see. Maybe its just because I am a good part Irish on my mother's side. I'll tell you what. I am headed out tomorrow to buy my Ireland shirt because win or lose, with fans like that, you can't go wrong!

Cant do it the easy way...

   Of course United can't do it the easy way. They have to make us suffer. Still it has been an exciting and win or lose I am proud to call myself a Red after the effort the side has put forth. As Fergie stated this is going to be the beggest Derby many people have witnessed at United. After last night's result at the Camp Nou, I don't know how much more drama I can take. Chelse gave an absolute historic performance and truly deserved to advance. Monday will most likely prove to be just as dramatic. Let's just hope that it is Fergie's side that makes the dramatic win and not the neigbors.
   Essentially this match will decide who title holder will be. United definitely have the quality to beat City at their own ground. The question is whether they will or not. I think if Fergie can get the defensive situation sorted out, United will do OK. Rafael did not play well against Everton and was involved in some of their goals. Johnny Evans, who has been fantastic for most of the season, seemed a bit off too. I am sure Sir Alex will have them back in shape for the derby. Offensively, the Reds looked great against Everton. Valencia, Nani, Rooney, Welbeck and Scholes all had a good game. Nani's return brought some unpredictability back into the United side. As well as the Toffees played they had a hard time dealing with him out on the left. The same goes for Valecia out on the right.
   This season has seemed longer and more stressful than normal. But, I trust that United and Fergie will come through in the end. Its going to be a tough match on Monday and I have to say I will be stressed untill the whistle blows. Its going to be one hell of a start to the week!  BELIEVE

Glory Glory Man United

-C

Vital Win

    Yesterdays match against Blackburn left me feeling relieved to say the least. United needed that win to increase the distance between City and themselves in the league. It was not that United played particularly bad. I just felt that their resources could have been used more wisely. If I am right and Ferguson is working to implement a faster style of play (sadly this is why Berba has been left out of the squad so often of late), then I feel like his formation yesterday did not achieve this so well.
    First lets start with the forward. I like Hernandez quite a bit and this is nothing against his quality. However, he is not the  type of striker to played up top by himself. I don't feel he can create space for himself or hold posession untill the wings provide support. He is great in the box and can make wonderful penetrating runs! Still, he has seemed less effective in a lone striker position. Players like Rooney or Berba are better suited for this role. They are able to controll the pace of the game better. They can create space for themselves as well as find and create opportunities.
    There were times when this formation was successful. During the first half we created a few chances where I thought we could have scored but we didn't. I really don't like when Rooney is played out wide. I know he can play the position but, he is one of our best players and needs more time on the ball. He is better suited in a central attacking position. When played out wide he is isolated and has too much trouble getting involved. Valencia on the other side was fantastic as usual. He is one of our most consistent players as long as he is fit. Hopefully he will continue this form to the end of the season.
    David De Gea has continued his good form with some fantastic saves. It was only a few months ago that he struggled against the Rovers and now he is making game changing saves. His improvement has been truly impressive. Johnny Evans and Rafael looked good at the back and had no problem helping move the ball up towards goal. As soon as Fergie started making changes our team began to look better. Once Giggs was on the field everything became more organized. Giggs does not even have to be involved in the play. His mere presence inspires great soccer.
      Even though this was not one of our better performances, Valencia's goal was long coming. Some may call the circumstances of this match very fortuitous but I would disagree. Often, great teams create their own luck. While this may not have been a vintage United performance, the side worked very hard to get a result. The possession stats alone show that United were determined to press toward goal. They continually worked their way into the oposing half and won corner after corner. in this type of situation eventually you are going to earn yourself a goal. It may not be from beautiful play but it will come. Young's goal minutes after being subbed on was superb. I personally would have liked to see him start but as with all my complaints about this match I am sure Fergie has his reasons.
    United showed patience and determination in yesterday's match and it paid off. This victory was paramount in the title race and I hope we can continue to see results like this to the end of the season. If we do there is no reason why United will not be lifting a 20th title this May! Lets hope Arsenal sticks it to city next week!

Glory Glory Man United

-C

The Grind

One thing Fergie knows how to do is grind out results. I don't think Monday's match against Fulham was as negative as most of the media is proclaiming but, that is what I have come to expect from the footbal media. This has been quite a season in the EPl and it isn't over yet. More likely than not there are more surprises to come this season. Hopefully these surprisses will come in the form of City losses.
   I have said all season that this team's experience in winning trophys will really give them the edge in this title race. Sure enough, United is now three points ahead of city. Now that we have the lead,the only way to give it up would be to lose to City next month. Personally I am keeping my fingers crossed that they pick up a loss against Arsenal or the Black Cats. United will not be counting on that. So it is paramount they win every match untill the end of the season.
   Patrick Veira's comments in the media have been extremely amusing lately. First saything that bringing back Scholes shows our weaknesses then that we get byas decisions by referees. He then went on to suggest that City deserve the title because they have played the most atractive football. This is far from true. After United's fantastic run of form at the beginning of the season, City may have had a few months of GREAT form. However the football City has been playing this season is not exactly what I would call "the beautiful game". With the exception of David Silva, most of their play has seemed much like the italian antifootball. It can be effective but it is no where near the creative play teams such as Barca use. As usual this is just some idiot talking and Fergie responded in his usual way by stating that he can bring back Keane to make it more intreresting! I am still trying to figure out where the heck this guy is coming from? He was always this die hard Arsenal player. Basically Roy Keanes foil. Now he is all gung ho about Manchester City, who he only played for breifly. I wonder if the gunners still like him? Regardless his comments are laughable and he can continue to run his mouth if only for our entertainment.
   The title really is still up in the air. I truly believe United have the quality and experience to earn their 20th. It won't be easy. City will want their first title in who knows how many years. still their draw with Stoke shows their lack of experience in this stage of a tight title race. As I have said all along, that is what it will come down to. I know when it comes down to the line United have the stones to handle the pressure. The question is do city?

Glory Glory Man United

-C