Aug 15
United On The Edge Of Greatness
We start this season on the edge of true greatness. Not the fleeting greatness that gets bandied around weekly in the tabloids – proper, timeless greatness. The sort that people who are not born yet will look back on in forty years and rave about.
You can put together “great” teams, you can have “great” players, but what elevates a side into the timeless category is weight of achievement. It’s what makes Ferguson the best British manager ever, and Wenger just a worthy sideshow; it’s what makes Giggs one of the best players of all time, and Gerrard a footnote in comparison. It’s why everyone knows exactly what you mean when you say the Treble, why everyone (however grudgingly) acknowledges that as a seminal footballing achievement; it’s why names like Solskjaer and Sheringham appear alongside Schmeichel and Keane in everyone’s dictionary of footballing legends.
This season we can complete a hat-trick of Premiership titles and retain the European Cup. To do either would put this team into that timeless bracket. To do both would make them the best English club side ever.
The Premiership is harder to win than the top division has ever been. The points tallies required for victory demand relentless excellence over the entire season, starting from game one – the second half of the season push for which we became renowned is not good enough any more. Our main rivals have nearly unlimited money to spend, a squad which regularly sits £25m players on the bench and haven’t lost a match at home for two years. The chasing pack contains two teams who would have been good enough to win the league five years ago, featuring some star players who are coveted by every other club in Europe, including ourselves.
The next tier of clubs are more intimidating than ever before, as a combination of TV money, foreign ownership and the availability of cheap overseas talent allows them to build impressive squads of their own, packed with internationals. Anyone who claims that games against Spurs, Portsmouth, Villa, Everton, Man City or Blackburn will be easy is deluded. Even lower down, we are only too well aware of the surprises teams like Middlesbrough can spring.
We’ve won a hat-trick of titles before, but then we were by far the best team, with more money and more pulling power than anyone else, in leagues with ten teams of comparative deadwood who our reserves could and did beat. Whatever the talk of the “Big Four”, it’s the level of competition that would make this our greatest domestic achievement.
The Champions League has never been retained. Not in its current punishing format, with the leagues followed by a rock-hard knockout phase. The Bayern machine couldn’t do it, the galacticos couldn’t do it, the Treble-winners couldn’t do it. There are so many chances to slip up, so many hurdles to fall at. One bad day can be impossible to recover from. Real and Barca are stronger than last season, and as champions everyone will be gunning for us.
We can do it. We can do both of these things. We can be that team. We have a rock-solid defence, a flexible and resourceful central midfield, the world’s best player, two sensational support strikers, (almost certainly) a hyper-talented new centre forward, a deep and well-rounded squad which is both experienced and hungry, with both old heads and young blood.
But the line is thin. Ronaldo is injured to start with, and surely can’t be as good again. Rooney needs to climb again from his plateau, Berbatov needs to settle quickly to give us enough firepower going forward. Nani may be a season away from turning his talent into end product, and age is catching up with Giggs. Our central midfielders need to discover where the net is, and we have no top class cover for Evra. What if Rio or Vidic gets injured, or van der Saar really can’t last another whole season?
After one of the most boring and frustrating summers on record, we are about to leap headlong into our chance to surpass anything our rivals have ever done in their history. Hold your breath, and hope we smiling next May – if we are, history will smile on us.
[Ed's Note: There has been an assumption in the article that Berbatov's expected to join United. So excuse us if that deal falls through -- heaven forbid.]
Related items from Red Rants:- On Manchester United’s ‘Greatest Ever’ Squad
- United* 1-1 Chelsea: First Blood to the Reds
- Cantona: Domenech’s the worst coach since Louis XVI
- United On The Brink Of Greatness, Again
- Ronaldo Wins Ballon d’Or
Tags: Opinions/Columns
August 15th, 2008 at 10:31
hahah penguin i love your optimism and I’d love to believe that we can do the double or even treble this year! but i think your penultimate paragraph says it all!
August 15th, 2008 at 10:35
U do feel we maybe 1 or 2 signings away from having not only a world class side but a side thats feared all round europe jus hope rooney can raise to the world class level brfor ronaldo leaves
August 15th, 2008 at 11:00
Chelsea will be very hungry this year after what happened last season. It is imperative we get get off to a good start, as I believe all the other big three will, if we don’t I think it will be tough for us.
We do need to look elsewhere for a striker this Berbatov situation is getting stupid, we need to teach Spurs a lesson, and by going after Huntelaar, or another, will do that. We can’t be held to ransom as we always tend to, and Spurs will have to deal with a very unhappy player for sometime to come, we need to rise above Levy.
Big seasons are need no more so than from Rooney, he is our talisman and he needs to have his best season ever, if not then Tevez could get an extended run, if we get a striker in. It will be interesting to see how Nani, who looks good pre season and Anderson will get on in their second season, will they kick on or will the get the second season blues, as I hope Torres will!!
But a good start is needed, and then we wll just have to strap ourselves in for another rollacoster ride!
August 15th, 2008 at 11:07
good to have some optimism at the start of the season – everyone’s so negative (apart from those who’ve won nought recently…).
August 15th, 2008 at 12:12
To win the Premier League AND Champions League again will be a mammoth task, but you are right in saying if we do then we will be up there with the very greatest of club sides.
I think another very important aspect which could go against us is the loss of CQ and the fact that SAF has still not brought in a replacement.
August 15th, 2008 at 12:14
Good Optimism!
Lets GO FOR THE TREBLE!
But I dont think that Berba would be signed before the Newcastle game!
And I dont think that he will play against Pompey either!
@Ahmed Bilal:
Do You reside in Pakistan?
August 15th, 2008 at 12:15
@Red Diablo: He needed to sign by lunchtime GMT to play on Sunday matey.
August 15th, 2008 at 12:17
“it’s what makes Ferguson the best British manager ever, and Wenger just a worthy sideshow”…
well redranter shuln u guys wait for another decade or so before u say that??..
August 15th, 2008 at 12:22
@Stephen: Oh yeah! I forgot Sorry!
Still this news about Barca being in for Berba is bollocks!
Spurs are only doing this to Hasten United into paying them the money they want!
That Levy is seriously an all time cunt!
And I think that Berba’s debut will be at the Uefa Super Cup!
Looks like it is upto the Roon and Tevez to score the goals at pompey and newcastle!
Or how about that Man U have signed Berba and even registered him!
But they are still keeping it a secret?
Anything is possible!
As Ronaldo says, GOD ONLY KNOWS!
August 15th, 2008 at 12:39
@Red Diablo: I agree in the immortal words of one cristiano ronaldo God only knows!
Spurs are just playing the game to try an panic us into parting with our well mortgaged money thats all!
August 15th, 2008 at 12:40
I admire your optimism however there seems to be a weakness in our central midfield. For a team of the stature of Manchester United the goal return from our central midfielders is extrememly dissappointing to say the least.
I believe the start of this season will show we did have an over realiance on Ronaldo since he is out for a few games!
Where will our goals come from hey?!
August 15th, 2008 at 12:41
forget the price,just pay whatever they want and we move on.to say we can expect rooney to move into the central role and star is plain stupid.we have to admit that he is at a level where his talent has taken him.my bet on the next star is on tevez.good close control,strong,holds the ball,and a good shooter.
pay the money and we say bye to saha.
August 15th, 2008 at 12:43
Ahmed, I don’t understand your post mate!. Everyone’s so negative, apart from those who have won nought lately. Are you talking about opposing teams, or having a go at United fans concerns?. Just wondering like!.
August 15th, 2008 at 12:49
Penguin, I’m with you. I do believe we are a very good striker short of greatness. Otherwise I think we have the personnel to get the trophies again and make history. We have to find out who is going to be our playmaker though. Is it Scholesy again?. Tevez or the Roon?. Carrick further forward, or Anderson. No doubt Berbatov could do the job if we got him, but IF is a very long word, even though it comprises only 2 letters, if you know what I mean!.
August 15th, 2008 at 12:54
@Craig Mc: I agree matey, a top striker then we a superb balanced squad, I can’t wait for Sunday, now!
August 15th, 2008 at 13:08
Yea guys, it looks like we wont be signing a striker this summer, if you where to read into the squad numbers.
1.Van der Sar, 2.Neville, 3.Evra, 4.Hargreaves, 5.Ferdinand, 6.Brown, 7.Ronaldo, 8.Anderson, 9.Saha, 10.Rooney, 11.Giggs, 12.Foster, 13.Park, 15.Vidic, 16.Carrick, 17.Nani, 18.Scholes, 19.Welbeck, 20.Fabio, 21.Rafael, 22.O’Shea, 23.Evans, 24.Fletcher, 26.Manucho, 27.Silvestre, 28.Gibson, 29.Kuszczak, 31.Campbell, 32.Tevez, 33.Hewson, 34.Possebon, 35.Cleverley, 36.Gray, 37.Cathcart, 38.Zieler, 39.Chester, 40.Amos, 41.Macheda
welbeck, no.19, well done to him looks like he will be used this season, we all know about campbell, but what we didnt know, was manucho, he has been handed 26 which must mean, we got the permit. macheda has also got a squad number. so all together, we have, 7 strikers. i think the berbatov deal looks off in my honest opinion.
on a side note, heres hoping fabio becomes another no.20 star.
August 15th, 2008 at 13:11
@dan(u-ol): Fab20!
August 15th, 2008 at 13:25
@dan(u-ol): Must have taken you some time to write down all the squad numbers and names. Good job, havent seen those. But what numbers have Dong got now? Dont care really, but just wonder weather he is sold or not. Berba can become nr 25! Or if he needs a number 9 shirt, lets give him nr 99!
August 15th, 2008 at 13:34
@Stephen: Actually we have until 5 for him to be able to play on sunday because he needs clearance from the Bulgarian FA which means we could have another 5 hours.
August 15th, 2008 at 13:35
HAHAHA craig, copied and pasted mate, look on the united website, 25 is simmos shirt, even though he is on loan. and right now, dong doesnt have shirt lol, i think saf forgot about him.
little known fact, the premier league is against high numbers like that, we would never be allowed to hand out a no.99 shirt.
August 15th, 2008 at 13:40
I think if we do sign a striker he’s gonna be number 14.
Le Va Va Vooom Henry!
August 15th, 2008 at 13:40
I take it he, if and a big if we sign him would get 14.
August 15th, 2008 at 13:44
ahh sorry there, its RD, dunno why i thought it was craig, welcome back mate!
August 15th, 2008 at 13:47
Dan(u)ol lol. It was Red Devil not me that congratulated you about posting the squad shirt numbers. I think you might find that Dong doesn’t have a shirt number to be registered, because obviously he must’nt be part of this seasons 1st team squad. Maybe there’s a limit on the number of players that can be registered for the 1st team.
August 15th, 2008 at 13:49
@OllieY: Cheers for clearing that up I read that I think in the Telegraph!
Does anyone know or have seen anything of Macheda, I know we got him from Lazio, but is he any good?
August 15th, 2008 at 13:54
yeah, as stated above 14 is free. Also, does anyone think welbeck’s number is a little low? surely he is behind Campbell in the pecking order? Maybe he’s just looking after the shirt till Berba gets here, and then he’ll go to 42 or something, which sounds more like the number he should be wearing!
August 15th, 2008 at 13:55
I take it you can’t change squad numbers once they have been submitted?
August 15th, 2008 at 13:57
14, 25 and 30 are all vacant…
August 15th, 2008 at 14:01
14 fair enough, 25 is simmos number 30 is not a berbatov number, nor a starting strikers number(bar tevez).
August 15th, 2008 at 14:26
i dont want to get peoples hopes up, but their are rumours flying around saying berbatov is in manchester… i guess he’s signing for city.
August 15th, 2008 at 14:41
This team is already great. Winning your domestic league title AND European Cup is virtually unheard of in the modern era and we managed to do that. If we retain the European Cup we will quite simply be the best club team ever.
Here’s Martin Samuel’s take on it, after Rio suggested we’d only be great if we retained the European Cup:
Retaining the European Cup would make United more than just great, Rio
Sometimes footballers are so busy playing that the details pass them by. Take Rio Ferdinand. Outstanding defender, probably the long-term captaincy choice for England and Manchester United, but not so hot on football history.
Ferdinand said that if this Manchester United team are to be regarded as great they must retain the European Cup. A tall order, that. Ferdinand, understandably, is too busy starring in record books to read them.
Keeping club football’s greatest prize in its modern incarnation would not mark United as great, but as the greatest. No team have managed it since the Champions League format was introduced in 1993 and the last team to win the competition in consecutive seasons was AC Milan in 1989 and 1990. Real Madrid won three Champions League titles in five seasons between 1998 and 2002, but none was retained, while Milan, Ajax and Juventus returned to the final a year after winning the trophy, without success.
The previous four defending champions (Milan, Barcelona, Liverpool and FC Porto), far from conquering all, were each knocked out in the last 16. There is nothing wrong in Ferdinand reaching for the stars, but unifying the European and domestic titles in one season already puts United among the greats; to do so again would afford them a unique place in sport’s firmament.
August 15th, 2008 at 14:51
Stephen, Macheda is a great player. He is not gangly, and doesn’t fall over the ball as much as Welbeck who is gangly and not having proper balance when bearing down on goal. Well IMO anyway, others may beg to differ. If I had to choose between the two, I would go for Macheda, because he is a good and consistent goal scorer for the reserves.
August 15th, 2008 at 15:04
@donibrasco: Even if rooney doesn’t improve at all in the future he will still be a regular starter for united, because he is good enough right now to warrant that place, and he will still be a better player than tevez. Keep in mind tevez is my favourite player and i fully expect him to have a fantastic season, given he has had a summer’s rest. He has been off form for two years now, the lack of a break took its toll, and yet he did his part last year and he kept west ham up. He is a great player, but rooney will always have more about him.
August 15th, 2008 at 15:11
1 hour 50 minutes and counting … I hope.
August 15th, 2008 at 15:38
i think we all have a right to be optamistic we have a great side i agree with penguin brilliant post by the way. In terms of goals yes we maybe over reliant with ronaldo however as stats have shown we have the best goals scored and conceded records in the premiership with this we have the 2 most productive players in the league with Berba being on the way also being a heavily productive player i beleive we will have a groundbreaking season be ready we are on the verge of greatness CMON UNITED
August 15th, 2008 at 15:40
@tevez: but the thing is mate, he is not good enough to warrant a starting place, do you really think, that is rooney was on form, all this talk about strikers coming in would happen, no, the whole reason we are buying a stiker is because rooney is off form. i said this before and got negative feed back and i will say it again, THE ONLY REASON ROONEY STARTS FOR US IS A) WE LACKED STRIKERS LAST SEASON AND B)HE’S ENGLISH, if rooney where from anywhere else, he would be on the bench this season(assuming we get berbatov) but no, because of his PAST brilliance and his nationality he starts. Tevez right now(and much of last season) is better then rooney, more on-form, and thats why i want tevez and not rooney for the newcastle game(assuming we get berbatov).
August 15th, 2008 at 15:44
Penguin- That is a very optimistic outlook. Let’s dissect the League first. Chelsea are the clear threat to our title defence. What with the additions they have made. Bosingwa,Deco and possibly Robinho. Its clear they have an eye 4 the jugular this season. Scolari is a top top coach. Very inventive. Dont be fooled into thinking Chelsea will not be creative this term. Being a Barca fan I shrieked when Deco chose London. The man is a creative genius and im tipping him 2 make the squad fast. Great and capable defence. Carvalho is the business. Joe Cole will be unleashed from the Mourinho shackles of pragmatic football. Scolari loves to play with adventurous wingers. Arsenal will miss Flamini big time. But i think offensively they will the most menacing team. Eduardo is due to return,Adebayor will do his job,Walcott looks ready to shine,Sagna impressed last term,Nasri from what ive seen in the French League will be a great addition to their mid. Their main problem is they are very thin ito numbers. And they possess too many key unhealthy players. Rosicky,van Persie and an exhausted Fabregas. Liverpool? Torres and Keane will be their only season highlight provided Rafa refrains from his illogical rotation programme.
August 15th, 2008 at 15:49
@dan(u-ol): Rooney IS good enough to warrant a starting place now. I don’t see rooney as being off-form last season but if he was then he still played to a very high standard even though it wasn’t his best. In all honesty, if that was an off-form rooney then he can be off-form for the rest of his career and he will still be a great player and he will still get a game week-in, week-out. Also, no matter how good rooney had been last season, we would still be talking about bringing in a striker because we only have two.
August 15th, 2008 at 15:49
“Real Madrid won three Champions League titles in five seasons between 1998 and 2002″
A quote from the Samuelson article. This is the measure of greatness we need to match. Our most recent history in Europe is group stages, semis, winners. Not good enough. Our current team is fairly stable barring the inevitable departure of Ronaldo. To build on the Champions League title we need to win a few more over the next five years. Retaining our title would be an excellent start.
Hell Liverpool have a better European record than us in recent years with winners, finalists, semifinalists.
Berbatov is built for the Premiership, Im not so sure about Europe. I think Tevez could be our secret weapon in Europe next season and Hargreaves could be very useful as well. Our tactics are getting better and our defensive stability is a major plus when fixtures are decided by a single goal.
August 15th, 2008 at 15:55
@tevez:
Wayne rooney
carlos tevez
louis saha
fraizer campbell
manucho
danny welbeck
macheda
ronaldo
giggs
febian brandy.
we only have 2 RECOGNISED strikers, when in fact we have 10, 9 as brandy is away loan.
August 15th, 2008 at 15:55
Newcastle, prepared to be blown away! no owen, no viduka… they got no chance.
August 15th, 2008 at 15:56
@Eric the Red: what’s meant to happen and where did you get your timing from?
August 15th, 2008 at 15:56
@dan(u-ol): Yes you have your opinion on Rooney and ofcourse he isn’t playing to his top potential but I think your being a bit harsh on him. He is still one of our best players, his work ethic is unquestionable, his pace and strength is better than most think and his vision is second to none. Yes he might not be banging in the goals left right and centre but he is still young and will improve. He hasn’t been playing in the right position and SAF has said that this year he will try to get the best out of him by putting him in his best position. So if this year he is a total flop then, and only then, will I believe in what your saying.
August 15th, 2008 at 15:58
@benjd: We have until 5 today to hand over all the papers of Berba being our player to the FA for him to be legible to play on Sunday.
August 15th, 2008 at 16:07
@OllieY: Ah right. Cheers. Doesn’t look good then
August 15th, 2008 at 16:13
@benjd: You never know, we could have already sent them off, we don’t have to unveil him just have all the official paper work done. I live in hope
August 15th, 2008 at 16:14
I have he is having a medical!!
August 15th, 2008 at 16:16
unless spurs are lying, berbatov was no where near manchesteer this afternoon.
http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/juandewereready150808.html
August 15th, 2008 at 16:22
Our team- Well i think consistency will reign ultimately. But i dont think we can get to May with only 4 defeats this time. This season the rest of the teams outside the Top Four will be extremely tough to overcome. Our defence is quite simply the best in Europe. Our midfield needs to join the party ito goals. Carrick will not score that many because of his deep playmaking role. Hargreaves will score more if Judas07 shares deadball duties and i think now in his absence is his chance. Nani looks really good and should increase his goal tally. Anderson needs to be played with a grafter like Hargreaves to allow him offensive freedom. Strikers. Clearly Tevez will be the main man this time. He really looks possessed. I think a hyper active midfield will help him with that. Andy and Hargo,will make it illogical 4 him to constantly track back and he could focus his attacking skills up front more constantly. Same goes 4 Rooney. And Rooney shines when the burden is loaded on him. When u allow him 2 drive the team forward. Both him and Hargreaves would do well to stamp their authority in Ronaldo’s absence. Much also depends on the participation of Manucho,Saha and Frazier to give us another dimension. And possibly the signing of another striker to ease the load off Ronaldo. Overall,I think if our main players step up their game then we will retain our League title
August 15th, 2008 at 16:24
35 minutes….
August 15th, 2008 at 16:27
@Jay wire: I agree mate bar Ronaldo our midfield only scored 13 goals last season, which I think was a blip. I see Anderson getting his 1st under his belt then scoring @ will, Hargo could be the Robson type to break into the box.
Nani looks like he could get a goal and Giggsy will chip in, and Carrick and Scholes sit more, so not so many from them.
We need more goals from Rooney, with Carlito it will depend if he is deployed as a super sub or a starter, if Ronaldo, Berba, Rooney start.
August 15th, 2008 at 16:32
We wont have Berba in time to play this weekend… Fergie said that we are down to our bare bones in attack and hopfully we’ll have enough to get us past the first hurdle, Newcastle.
August 15th, 2008 at 16:46
@dan(u-ol): Manucho, campbell, welbeck etc. don’t count, unless manucho is good enough to be in the first-team squad but i’ll need to see some evidence of that. He may not get a work permit anyway. I would say if saha stayed fit then we wouldn’t be talking about a new striker but he doesn’t so we are. Ronaldo and giggs aren’t strikers. Tevez and rooney are the only first-team strikers we have.
@OllieY: Fergie hasn’t said he played rooney in the wrong position or that he will be played in a different position this year.
August 15th, 2008 at 16:48
@Stephen: Hargo is nothing like robson. Nae chance of that lol
August 15th, 2008 at 16:55
bloody hell you amaze, how can you they dont count? they are strikers in the first team squad? of course they count, say they are not proven, say they are not good enough but dont say they dont count, thats such a silly thing to say. and the chances are manucho does have a permit since he was given a squad number today. honestly what as silly thing to say, they dont count. and FYI, saf doesnt feel giggs can play on the wing anymore hence why all preseason we have seen him play upfront and not on the wing, and ronaldo play(ed/s) as striker more often then not, a lot of his goals where scored when he was playing as our no.9.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:00
well its 5:00, berbatov can still sign today, but he wont be playing at the toon.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:00
@tevez: Well he tackles and likes to get forward, and players for united!! Only an analogy really, but he could score goals from midfield, and in my view he is a good player.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:01
@dan(u-ol): To be honest if he signed even earlier today he probably would not played anyway.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:07
On the whole Berba thing, if theres nothing announced before 5pm it doesn’t mean we haven’t signed him in time. I’m not holding my breath but as others have said its only the paper work that needs submitted by 5pm. We don’t have to officially announce it by then, as we see on transfer deadline days it can be the next day before some of them get announced, even some of the ones which were tied up fairly early
@dan(u-ol):
I don’t think Manucho getting a squad number means he has a work permit. I think if he had been given one it would be on the official site atleast. I just think it means that they are confident that the resubmission will be successful.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:10
@wakey: it IS on the official site, thats where i copied and pasted it from, and the numbers and players are registered to the premier league, i dont think we are allowed to register him with out the permit.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:11
I do agree that Rooney needs 2 improve his goal tally and be a little more consistent in front of goal. And i also think Tevez is proving a better player. But lets look @ his Utd career so far. Im not a big stats man but his debut season was nothing short of phenomenal with around 16 goals total. He played well so consistently,mesmerising all defenders that dared 2 oppose his attacking fluency. Why? He was constantly played in his favoure position. Also he was given the responsibility to drive the team. Next season,Ruud returned and they played a telepathic form of football in front of goal. His season tally slightly improved. Young player of the year 4 two successive seasons. During this season,Saf began to toy with him. Playing him as a left winger at times because Rooney would “play at right back if u asked him to”. Ruud left and Saha came into the picture. Completely different partnership from the mainly static RVN. Saf increased his toying frequency. Still he put 23 behind goalies. By this time CR7 had made himself a serious goal partaker. Load lessened on R10 and he was playing everywhere upfront. Last season he was injured 4 a considerable amount of time. 1 nils became the norm. He returned towards the end of 2007 to begin a non-stop goal scoring streak and superb partnership with Tevez. Then Ronaldo became increasingly adventurous and took up CF positions constantly. Probably why he didnt get along with Ruud. That left gaps in mid and crowded out Roovez from the box. Obviously goals and confidence hit a low. Coupled with stupid positioning by Saf. He should take the most blame 4 messing with Rooney’s consistency. I bet u if Rooney is played in his position this time around, he will explode. The case for WR10,by Jay Wire
August 15th, 2008 at 17:12
I don’t see why were talking about Berbatov like it’s a given he’s coming, especially w/ the way Spurs are playing it. I wouldn’t be surprised at all if we don’t get him.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:13
Nice writeup Penguin. Very optimistic indeed but also very realistic. With Berbatov we can do all this. Without him, I seriously doubt it. We need him to be the final puzzle in building a truly awesome footballing outfit that will be the envy of the world and will be regarded in history with the Bayern clubs of the 70’s, The Ajax clubs of the early 70’s, the Real Madrid side with Di Stefano and Puskas and the Liverpool side with Kuyt and Hyppia. OK, I was joking about the last one.
The team needs Berbatov because of our obvious thin front line. With him, we have the depth but also an additional dose of quality and panache that only Cantona offered us previously. If we can avoid major injuries with this lineup, we not only should win the EPL, we should take it in a walk. The CL is a tough nut to crack but lets face it, it has never been more easier to win. None of the European leagues can offer the depth in quality and class anymore. Italy is going through a period of Hell and their form and quality from all their top sides in Europe has been appalling. Spain is overrated too. Nobody is going to convince me that Barcelona or Real are that much better off now than they were a year ago.
Our only real test comes from Chelsea and Bayern Munich. Two teams that are stacked with talent and who know how to win. Bayern will scare a lot of people. Strong back four, very competent midfield and a forward line that is awesome. They have grit and style and they have Franck Ribery who may not be Ronaldo, but is also an incredible talent. Three forwards like Toni, Klose and Podolski should be able to put up a fight with anyone. Don’t look at there upset loss to Zenit and think they will be an easy team to crack. They took Zenit lightly and that was a big mistake as that Russian side would have given United a run in the CL final if they were in it. They were outstanding. But they will lose Arshavin and that will do them in. Bayern also have a much more energetic and upbeat outlook and style of play now that Klinsmann is in charge. I think he will up the pace with them and they will respond with dazzling football once Ribery and Toni return from injuries. Their one Achilles heel is in goal. I’m not won on Rensing and I so wished that Kahn would have played one more season. They are my second favorite team and so many can accuse me of bias here, but I also think the proof is in the pudding and all one needs to do is see their lineup. They do look very good. As for Chelsea, they are Chelsea. They win despite playing a terrible brand of football and they win despite being total cunts and poor sportsmen. Money can it seems by you a lot but it won’t buy them the EPL or the CL. Not his year at least. For me they look older, not better. If they were to sign Robinho and Kaka, maybe my estimation of them might change, but for right now, they are quality shit.
United can win it all because they have so much depth. I actually think it is easier for them to win the CL than it is for them to win the FA Cup or League Cup. The reasoning is simple. They will play many subs and reserves in those games while the opposition put there best 11 against us.
Our success in the EPL is based on getting Berbatov signed quickly and Ronaldo returning quickly. And today there were news items that showed optimism on both fronts.
From the BBC;
“Manchester United hope to unveil striker Dimitar Berbatov before Sunday’s Premier League opener against Newcastle after agreeing a deal in principle with Tottenham. (Daily Star)
They also claim that Berbatov is having a medical done today with united.
Add to this the fact that Zenit has dropped their asking price for Arshavin and what we have here are events that show a clear case of Berbatov being readied to be shown off by Fergie as our newest acquisition.
And the Barcelona rumors are just garbage. Why would Barcelona need a Berbatov when they have Etoo, Messi, Bojan and Henry? And don’t they still have Gudjohnson too? Also, Berbatov has to agree to a deal to go to Barcelona. From what I have read, he is determined to go to United.
So, perhaps that soap opera will finally end to our liking and we can get on with defending what is rightfully ours…..and then some. My biggest goal for the season? Obviously repeating the double but nothing and I mean nothing would be sweeter than finally walking into Stamford Bridge and taking it to the Blue Man Group. I want us to finally break that streak of theirs and I want us to laugh all the way to the dressing room.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:16
@dan(u-ol): Giggs and Ronaldo are not strikers mate and Saha is just a walking hospital bed. And I wouldn’t be so bold as to place reserves up there with Rooney and Tevez, even though I know you value them a Hell of a lot more than any of us do. But yes, they are strikers too…….I guess, in the liberal sense of the word.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:18
@colver: He may be built for the Premiership but trust me, he will be used more in Europe because that is his entire motivation for wanting a move away from Spurs. If Fergie truly wants him at his best and happy, he will be compelled to play him in the CL. Look for Tevez to take the back seat in Europe and more of a starting role in the EPL.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:20
@Grognard: I believe you took the BBC thing from their gossip column. That column has as much credibility of newsnow and it gives them licence to post excerpts from the media at large. That said I think Berba will move but won’t make it for Newcastle. Even if he does, we can’t expect him to bed in straightaway. I don’t know why people haven’t considered that. But give him a week and he’ll be golden come Portsmouth.
But it looks likely that Spurs will capture Arshavin which would definitely make them sell off Berbatov.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:21
@dan(u-ol): Fine, they are young, not really good enough and unproven, therefore they don’t count. It’s not stupid at all. I’m not counting our reserve and youth players. If anything it’s stupid and unrealistic if you expect them to play a big part in the season. It makes sense that giggs plays as a second striker but i saw him play out wide a lot more than i saw him play up front last year. Ronaldo played and scored a lot more goals when in his free role last year. He did not play up front often, he is more effective from deep and i would bank on ronaldo scoring more from this position rather than as a striker.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:22
@dan(u-ol): Rooney is the talisman of our club along with Ronaldo. We are shite without him. He offers so much more than goals and he is Fergie’s favorite by far. Fergie always plays him and that will not change. And if he plays him where he is supposed to play him for a change, then he will be even better. You seem to be mistaken if you think Fergie agrees with you mate. He doesn’t, and sorry but neither do I. I like Tevez a lot but I’d rather see him sit than Rooney.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:24
@Red Ranter: I do realize that it is just gossip but I have monitored the BBC for a while now and they tend to avoid the really blatantly bad rumors for the seemingly more reasonable and plausible ones.
I still think there is 50/50 chance we don’t get him at all because of Levy. We’ll have to wait and see.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:25
Tevez-I will say this again. Manucho is a very good player. I watched him in 2 major competitions ie ACN(scored more than Drogba and i think Eto’o) and the WC. He was very impressive. He is one of the reasons im not concerned with the striker debate. Adapting to the Epl,should not take him long. Why? He is stronger than either Saha or Rooney. Very mobile. Very useful with his head. He is a good playmaker ie creates opportunities and is relatively quick for centre forward duties. Imo this whole “he hasnt been proved” talk is outta line with reality.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:25
@Red Ranter: I thought he was more of a replacement for Keane than Berbatov, but if you are saying they need the money then I 100% agree!!
August 15th, 2008 at 17:26
@Jay wire: I sort of agree with Tevez if Manucho is so good why is he 25 and know one has signed him until now?
August 15th, 2008 at 17:34
@Jay wire: Ronaldo never took up CF positions last year at all.
@Grognard: The spanish league is better than the english one. Barcelona completely outplayed us last year and messi was the best player on the pitch by a mile. They showed that they are a better team than united.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:36
@tevez: He played up front against Barca away.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:39
Grognard- Utd taking the Epl title doesnt hinge on the acquisition of Berbatov,Huntelaar or any other striker. I know im going against the grain but i can see more midfield goals coming. Nani looks good on that front,so does the returning sooner than envisaged Ronaldo. Tevez is at one with our system now and Rooney will hopefully find more joy in positioning. Manucho is a player i rate highly and when he gets legal he will play an important role. Epl title depends on our midfield being more offensive and courageous in front of goal
August 15th, 2008 at 17:40
@Jay wire: I saw manucho at the ANC too and he looked good, but i don’t think he was even at the WC. I also know that he went to greece and certainly did not set the world alight, so his ability is definitely in question.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:43
@Stephen: That’s one game mate. I didn’t say he has never played up front.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:47
Tevez-Ronaldo played as CF against Bolton at home. And when i say he took up CF positions, i mean when he runs in with the ball from the wing into the box and shoots. A traditional winger would normally try 2 find the Cfwds. Plus how many penalties has he won? U dont win penalties outside the box but inside. And that is CF territory.
August 15th, 2008 at 17:49
@dan(u-ol):
I meant the news of him getting his work permit. On the 3rd United hadnt submitted an application for a work permit for him and work permit applications are exactly renowned for being dealt with quickly. And as I don’t believe he actually fulfils the requirements for automatic qualification it will have to be done on appeal (In the same way as Anderson) anyway which will take it longer.
Now I’m not sure how the registration rules work but I would guess that you can maybe pre register players based on them getting a work permit or that Work permits aren’t part of the premier league registration requirements
August 15th, 2008 at 17:58
@Grognard:
One the whole they do just report actual news. The Gossip section though is clearly marked as Gossip and quotes the sources of the gossip. Its certainly not meant as a serious piece of news reporting but just a section of the site that brings together the basics of what other media are reporting
August 15th, 2008 at 18:00
@Jay wire: That’s one game. He played up front a few times but not very often when you consider how many games he played over the whole season. If he is picking up the ball in a wide position then that is hardly CF position. I don’t see why him cutting inside and shooting means he is taking up a CF position. He scores a lot of goals making well-timed runs into the box and at the back post. This is a wide man’s position, not a centre-forwards. A good wide man will score shitloads at the back post as this is the ‘Position of Most Opportunity’. Ronaldo is a good wide man. He busts a gut to get in the box and it pays off. The box is not exclusively for strikers lol.
August 15th, 2008 at 18:05
Tevez- U are actually right about him not being at the WC. I had him mixed up with Flavio. He wasnt signed earlier by anyone because he only broke into his club side when Flavio left since he was keeping him out. Think Casillas when Cesar was Real and Spain’s number 1. It took a Cesar injury in the CL 4 the world 2 know Casillas. He went to Greece in after the ACN and had little time to break into a new team and score more than once. If Manucho didnt impress u during the ACN then noone there did. Everyone across the media was raving about him. He stole the show. Played better than the Eto’os and Drogbas according 2 most. I think he is capable to handle the Epl and he knows where the back of the net is
August 15th, 2008 at 18:06
@wakey: I too am not holding my breath and don’t really think it’s a done deal yet. However, after the whole Ramsey fiasco and can see Utd not officially announcing anything until all of the ‘i’s have been dotted and the ‘t’s crossed.
@Grognard: Not criticizing, but just curious mate: why do you spell like an American?
Given some of the things you’ve said before this surprises me.
August 15th, 2008 at 18:13
from BBC Gossip column:
Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov is currently in Manchester to undergo a medical before joining Manchester United in deal worth £28 million. (Daily Mail 1525 BST)
August 15th, 2008 at 18:17
Also from Daily Mail:
Some good news finally emerging in the media… welcome booost just before the season starts…
August 15th, 2008 at 18:17
@Jay wire: He did impress me at the ANC, the problem is that if he is good enough to be a useful first-team striker (where the back-up needs to be of higher quality than in other positions because they are rotated more often) then he would have made an impression in greece. Also, i’m not going to base how good he is on just the ANC as there’s no guarantee that is a true measure of his talent. For example, as you said he was better than drogba and eto’o, but lets face it, he is not better than these players.
August 15th, 2008 at 18:17
Tevez- I never said its exclusively CF territory. He cuts in in the same way as Henry. In order to shoot and hopefully score. How many times have u seen Ronaldo in the box? Plenty if u watch Utd’s games. If he gets into the box so constantly,how do u expect the likes of Roovez to be there against the run of play without seriously leaving gaps in midfield. Besides the penalties he has won ,how many times have we seen him appealing 4 penalties when fouled in the box. Thats why Roovez is forced to play him in sometimes because his pace and selfishness give him licence to get into spaces they would otherwise had been. Thats what i mean
August 15th, 2008 at 18:22
@tevez:
From Wiki about Manucho regarding his time in Greece:
Manucho scored on his league debut for Panathinaikos in a 2–0 home win over Larissa.[10] Panathanaikos finished the Super League Greece 2007-08 season in 3rd place, qualifying the team for a play-off for the remaining European places. Manucho scored three goals in this six-game mini tournament, helping Panathinaikos to top the play-off group and qualify for the second qualifying round of the 2008–09 UEFA Champions League.
Doesnt seem so bad does it?
August 15th, 2008 at 18:31
@Jay wire: The more players in the box the better. Midfielders should be encouraged to break into the box. All you need is one central midfielder to be disciplined enough to hold their position. The other players should have the freedom to get in the box and the energy to get up and down the pitch. Ronaldo is constantly in the box, but he doesn’t stand around in it. He times his runs and arrives late. He is always looking to gamble and take chances. This is good midfield play. It is not selfish at all, and it doesn’t hamper a striker one bit.
August 15th, 2008 at 18:33
@jos: Doesn’t seem brilliant.
August 15th, 2008 at 18:44
@tevez: well fergie seems to think they are good enough to challenge for a first team spot and who said anything about a big part? we are arguing about the number of strikers we have, not their effectiveness, your changing the subject. fergie has already come out and said campbell will be staying with us this season, challenging for a first team spot, whether or not they get it, is up to them and fergie. Buy you can not just dismiss them as if they dont exist. By the way, you sound like you watch them often, what do you think is so bad about them? as you say they are not good enough yet fergie sees something in them, what is so bad about?
August 15th, 2008 at 19:34
@dan(u-ol): I think their level of contribution is valid. Ideally, we would have four strikers who are all good enough to play a big part in the season, because striker is the position where there is the most rotation. The standard of the back-up/supersub/spot-starter needs to be at a high level, which i don’t think campbell or welbeck are at. In a years time i see one of them being a useful member of the squad, but not this season. Mind you, if a striker comes in and manucho proves useful it becomes even harder for them and sooner rather than later they will move on. In truth, i don’t think either of them have the ability to be a regular starter. If things go well for them (ie. if, when they are ready, a space in the squad is available) then they could establish themselves as a good squad player like brown, o’shea and fletcher, but i don’t even see that happening. The young players who impress me are possebon and macheda, and the twins look good. I have a soft spot for a good attacking full back so i’m very eager to see more of them. Apart from that, i can’t see any other reserve/youth player at the moment making the grade. Macheda, for me, has more potential than campbell or welbeck but it still doesn’t mean i want to see him get a chance in the first team this year.
August 15th, 2008 at 19:54
For god’s sake. Opened up the Guardians football home page: big picture of Fergie there. Heart stopped for a second, hope went sky high…but it’s just nothing more than a picture to preface some stupid non related article.
August 15th, 2008 at 20:16
@tevez:
1) if their wasnt space in the squad already they would have gotten squad numbers
2) its funny, you say brown is a squad player yet he played the most and the most consistent player in the team last year FACT, well playing the most is a fact, the consistency is an opinion.
3) i really am interested, how many times have you seen the players your talking about play?
by the way, macheda and welbeck are both the same age, yet it was WELBECK that got called up in the squad to face that israel side in january and it was WELBECK that has been in matchday squads since, including a couple times on the bench.
August 15th, 2008 at 20:41
IM SO FUCKING PISSED, my TV went crazy on me this week and so im getting it fixed, and they say it will be back to me in 7-10 days, today is the 5th, tomorrow will be the 6th, so I’m going to be missing out on the opening weekend
it annoys when i have to watch matches on piss poor streams when i know those matches are on the tele 
im even missing out on my beloved soccer am.
August 15th, 2008 at 20:56
@dan(u-ol): Soccer am is the least of your worries your gonna be missing the first MOTD of the season!!!
August 15th, 2008 at 21:03
@dan(u-ol):
1) Rooney, tevez, saha, manucho will all be ahead of them, so i don’t see them getting a lot of first team football. That is what i mean when i talk about there being a space for them. Replace saha with a new striker and there definitely aint going to be a place for them to get sufficient minutes for me to think of them as a first team player. Having a squad number means very little.
2)Yes, and i’m sure fergie is praying gary neville is alright this year and can still perform. Brown played last year through circumstance, not ability. He was very consistent last year – consistently average, limited and uninspiring.
3)I watch reserve and youth games/highlights on mutv, so every week really…
Macheda was in his first year in england so there was no need to rush him. I have always been more impressed by foreign young players than british youngsters. I think fans are unrealistic when it comes to the young players at their clubs. Fletcher and o’shea are examples of what fans should expect of the good young players. They should not expect every decent youngster to one day command a place in the first team. That is very rare. I thought rossi would make it but i was never really impressed by pique. I think possebon can make it. I’m not sure about macheda but i’m sure he’ll be a lot closer than just about anyone else i see there at the moment. I hope the twins make the step up though. If the twins and possebon end up being the only worthy additons out of the current reserves then the club is doing really well. To expect more is expecting a lot.
August 15th, 2008 at 21:05
@OllieY: i have a confession olliey, i dont watch MOTD, i think lawro is just plain stupid and dont get me started on linekar, i swear, chelsea vs bolton is far more exciting then this guy, he screams boring.
i am hoping that with a bit of luck, i will get my TV before 4pm on a sunday, but that looks as likely as berbatov playing against newcastle.
August 15th, 2008 at 21:07
@dan(u-ol): Did you think the likes of marcus neumayer would be a good player for united?
August 15th, 2008 at 21:17
@tevez:
1) lol that means you have contridicted your self we started this argument because you said we only 2 strikers, and you just listed 4, well done.
2)right, now your past silly and just saying things that are just stupid, a lesson needs to learned here. Brown played as a FULLback last season, a FULLback gets forward every now and again, and has to be very good defensivly to accommodate his lack of attack. neville, evra, simpson and the da silvas are WINGbacks, they are the opposite to FULLbacks in every way really, they should be excellent in attack, overlapping more often then not. nowadays, you have more complete WINGbacks like evra who is excellent in both defence and attack. but back to brown, the weak link of our defense yes, he was last season, but he still played a big part of us having the best defencive record in europe last season, and he is much more then a squad player, its just so stupid to day brown is a squad player, why would fabio cappelo pick him as right back in all the internationals, ahead of more recognised fullbacks like luke young and glen johnson? he wouldnt.
3) i just don’t believe you on that, i watch our youth and reserves regularly and i know that welbeck is better, and i doubt you have even seen any of them play.
August 15th, 2008 at 21:50
@dan(u-ol):
1) Well, manucho’s not here yet and i said saha keeps getting injured, which leaves us with rooney and tevez as being the two strikers we had last season and the reason everyone is talking about a new striker, which is what we were talking about until you listed all the forwards we have in the first team, reserves and academy.
2) Heh. A good attacking fullback is the way forward. All the best full backs in history are attacking full backs. It is a full backs job to make up the extra numbers in midfield. Any good full back does this, and the best ones can dictate a game. United preferred evra to heinze because of evra’s ability to go forward. Brown took neville’s place in the team last year, a straight change, position for position and he was absolutely nowhere near as good. Fullback, wingback, who gives a shit. They are the same position. Saying it’s stupid to call the twins/neville a fullback is like calling someone stupid for saying someone was a forward instead of a striker. It is pointless and embarassing.
Brown is a squad player because as long as everyones fit and raring to go, he doesn’t get a look in. O’shea and fletcher play for their countries too, but they’re still squad players.
3) I don’t care.
August 15th, 2008 at 22:31
Hullo everybody. I’ve been reading this site for a while and find it quite good banter. I’m an English MU fan and wonder if anybody wants to start a guardian fantasy football mini-league for bragging rights? My team is sick…
Deadlines are 12:00 tomorrow GMT i.e. 14.5 hours
August 15th, 2008 at 22:48
@dan(u-ol): I can’t believe it
I love linekar on it, not so big on lawro but it is such a great show, much better than the itv one, but i did prefer their song!
1) MOTD RULES
2) MOTD RULES
3) MOTD RULES
August 15th, 2008 at 23:10
@Alex the Fish: We already have our own Fantasy League Click here for details.
August 15th, 2008 at 23:22
Everybody, fergie has hinted that there will be a new signing in the next 2 days and we will be “surprised” Link, and another one… maybe its no berbatov because in an earlier interview fergie said that he has nothing to say in regards to that situation…. hmmm my heads about to explode haha
August 15th, 2008 at 23:25
sorry the second link was this
August 15th, 2008 at 23:30
and in case any of you dont trust those websites just check out skysports…. im starting to think maybe it wasnt berbatov after all..
August 15th, 2008 at 23:34
According to Skysports, SAF has said that we may be surprised to see what happens in the next two days regarding transfer activity – this can only be good news.
Whether it’s Berbatov or someone else, I don’t know, but I certainly hope, it’s someone as good as him.
We know, we made a bid for Silva, so it could be another type of player and then Berbatov next week. I have a feeling, though, that it’s Berba coming in, and I love the look of it.
August 15th, 2008 at 23:36
Too slow, I was
August 16th, 2008 at 0:01
Fergie – you might be surprised at what will happen over the next two days?. Mmmmm – can’t be Berba then can it, because we were all expecting him. Maybe we are selling somebody – now that’s a scary thought isn’t it?. Player exchange anybody?. If it is, who do you all think it might be lol!.
August 16th, 2008 at 0:32
@Mike: Sh!t, i’m hyperventilating after reading that, lol
, shows how desperate I’m am for something to happen, if its a surprise, does that mean its not Berbatov? cus thats hardly a surprise, would Huntelaar qualify as a surprise? Maybe Falcao? A surprise would be someone we’ve totally not being linked to, wonder who that might be? Maybe we’re loaning a player like with Larsson? Maybe he’ll unveil the player at the Newcastle match. Can’t wait.
@Craig Mc: Wonder who it might be then, cus papers say Berbatov didn’t train today with the Spurs squad and Fergie refused to comment on whether he’s had a medical or not. Honestly the club is starting to sound weird: Ronaldo: “i’ll decide in two days”, VDS: “I’ll decide in December, Fergie: “Hoping to bring someone in by the end of the week”, Fergie again” You’ll be surprised with what will happen in 48hrs”. If its a player exchange, its a no- brainer SAHA duh!
@Tomas: Do you have a link to the article about it on skysports? The ones i’ve seen are from ITN and what not, Skysports would reassure me more that Fergie really said that
August 16th, 2008 at 0:32
The only thing that will surprise me after the summer we’ve had to endure is loosing to the barcodes. Lets all hope I get through the weekend pleasantly unsurprised.
August 16th, 2008 at 0:38
OMG, i just thought of this too, the surprise could be HENRY!!! It would be a surprise cus he’s an Arsenal knobhead(good player though) who has said he won’t play for any other English team, so Man Utd signing him could qualify as a surprise. *bangs head against the wall*, why did i have to ruin my good mood by thinking of that, hopefully its not Henry. Still its looking like its 99% Berbatov.
August 16th, 2008 at 1:01
@tevez: The Spanish League is better than the English one, I agree. But their top 5 clubs are not as good as our top 5 clubs, and when it’s all said and done, a league is judged by the quality of their top clubs and how many European trophies they win. England rules right now but these things a cyclical. However, as long as England can dish out the money they do, the others will have a hard time keeping up.
August 16th, 2008 at 1:05
RD – apparently Berba DID train with Spurs team today. Hahaha – the plot thickens. Even the papers haven’t got a feck what is going down. My thought on the surprise over next 48 hours:-
1. Fergie is resigning because the Glazers have decided after all to sell Ronnie to the Mafia owned Real M.
2. Spurs have demanded Rio, Vidic and Evra – for Berba!.
3. Saha has seen a faith healer and is forever cured.
4. The full reserve team are playing against N’Castle, and the 1st team against some one elses reserve team. Ole says the reserves are better.
August 16th, 2008 at 1:05
@Eric the Red: Being Canadian the spellings as well as the pronunciations vary from region to region. Here in the west we use more of the American spellings and sounds. Eastern Canada uses more of the English. To be honest, I catch myself alternating every so often. One day I will use the term RUMOURS, the next day I will write RUMORS. I guess it depends what side of the bed I get up from.
August 16th, 2008 at 1:10
@jos: Sorry Jos but the report was BS. They even reported later that Berbatov had major talks with Levy today and he was nowhere near Manchester. Apparently he demanded a meeting with Levy demanding his move to United. Good luck Dimitar! This deal is definitely not being done before Sunday and I am seriously doubting whether it will happen at all.
August 16th, 2008 at 1:14
@dan(u-ol): If I was you I would go to a used tv place and by a small one for 50 pounds and connect to your recorder if you record your games. TV’s that are not flat screens or rear projection units are so bloody cheap nowadays that you can by a small one for hardly nothing. Especially if it is used. That way you have a back up. You do what you need to do to not miss United mate. Good luck mate.
August 16th, 2008 at 1:18
@Tomas: Or he may have seen the light after reading all the comments by the Grognard and he has decided Grognard knows best and I will buy Huntelaar. After all, he’s never steered Fergie wrong in the past.
August 16th, 2008 at 1:21
@Craig Mc: Honestly Craig if it’s not the obvious Berbatov, it can only be Huntelaar or Villa. And I seriously doubt it’s Villa because of height. It’s not bloody Henry so lets not even go there. Could it be that Fergie has teased the Grognard all this time just to reward him at the very end? NAH! I’m just fucking with myself. Lately I never get my bloody way.
August 16th, 2008 at 1:35
OK folks just bare with me on this. I have a theory that’s peculating in my head and I base it on my knowledge of Fergie and because I am a stubborn old bastard who thinks a lot like the Boss when thrown into a situation like this.
What if the big surprise is Huntelaar? Here is why I think it might be. The Berbatov deal looks like it’s quite possible it will not happen and for whatever inexplicable reason, Barcelona is rumored to be interested. If he actually is sold to Barca or Spurs decide he can rot in the stands, Fergie may be looking at Plan B and that plan is for Huntelaar. And here’s the thing, not for the reason we think. Not because he is a striker, because he scores goals, because he is tall, but because Real Madrid is now strongly rumored to be interested in him. Yes Fergie is going after Huntelaar because he wants to get one over Real and Calderon big time. I think he can smell it and he knows that Huntelaar isn’t exactly a stiff anyway. What better way to send a message to Real Madrid than for Fergie to make Calderon his bitch. To teach those greedy and tacky motherfuckers a lesson about not messing with a team bigger and better than them. To make them know their damned role.
Personally I would love it even if the player was Henry (no, on second thought I wouldn’t) and not Huntelaar, which of course it isn’t. I would love for Fergie to snatch one right from out of their dirty clutches. It would be so satisfying and sweeeeeet revenge baby.
August 16th, 2008 at 2:29
@Grognard: then we’d have Huntelaar coming out with things like “one day I’d like to join the Dutch contingient at Madrid”. Not for me thanks.
August 16th, 2008 at 3:35
@Liam: Well he also said: “I love clubs with great history like Ajax, i love Manchester United…and blah blah blah. I really doubt he’s the Ronaldo type.
@Grognard: With reports say Robinho is now agitating for a move to Chelsea and refusing to travel with the Madrid squad, I’d say Madrid are already having a taste of their own medicine. I just remembered that the Barca coach already said he’s keeping Henry, so not him, thank God, anyway i wouldn’t rule out that its just Fergie playing games with the press, God i hope not…maybe the transfer is a NEW assistant manager
August 16th, 2008 at 3:53
@Rd: He did say surprises so you could be right. It could be a striker and an assistant manager.
August 16th, 2008 at 6:05
@Grognard:
Yeah…maybe the King comes back to his stomping ground!
Still i’m desperately hoping its a signing first.
@OllieY:
Speaking of MOTD…do you know where us across the pond can see it or maybe even dload it? I used to watch it on Stage6 but those idiots shut that down.
August 16th, 2008 at 8:25
@Grognard: I think that United have registered Berba and that he WILL be on the bench this Sunday!
!
Anyway he WILL be at OT
August 16th, 2008 at 8:28
According to MEDIA! Berbatov has handed over his transfer request!
THE ROON, THE TEVEZ, THE BERBA!
August 16th, 2008 at 9:28
i’m way too excited hahaha
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3991294,00.html
that’s the link to the story btw. the surprise bit is at the bottom. i have a feeling it’ll be berba + 1 new player no one was expecting.
August 16th, 2008 at 9:34
I just hope its berba…
August 16th, 2008 at 9:54
@Grognard: @tevez:
2) what complete and utter rubbish, i could not begin to describe your faults, for instance a striker and centre forward are 2 different things, huntelaar cant play as CF and rooney cant play as a striker.
@Grognard: thats a good idea, nut nah, my tv will be back in a few days so i might as well pain it out lol.
August 16th, 2008 at 10:02
sorry grognard, i dont know why your name is next to tevezs.
August 16th, 2008 at 12:05
@Kal: Hmmm I’m quite sure you can watch it on the bbc iplayer, probably the day after it’s on. But I think it depends on what country your from.
August 16th, 2008 at 12:07
@abood: Thats a good one Berba and some one else that would be a surprise
August 16th, 2008 at 12:18
@Grognard: Wow – I learned something new today. I had no idea that in the West you guys used ‘o’ instead of ‘ou’.
August 16th, 2008 at 12:34
@Grognard: Any idea who is showing the game tomorrow? I know it’s not on Setanta or Sportsworld and I’m pretty sure that Sportsnet only shows games on Saturday. Maybe on the Score or am I resigned to watching it online? Thanks in advance for the info if you have it. Cheers.
August 16th, 2008 at 12:45
My guesses on the surprise:
1. Manucho getting his work permit
2. A new high profile assistant manager who will be groomed as Fergie’s successor
3. A double signing of Villa and Silva from Valencia who need the cash
4. Snatching Arshavin from under Spurs’ noses now Zenit seem to be dropping their price
5. A deal for Henry who Ferguson has yet to confirm his interest in so this would count as a surprise
6. Completing the signing of Tevez after he impressed so much with his pre-season form
All I can say is im glad there will be some activity during a very boring summer where United are the only team not to strengthen so far.
I think despite his relaxed attitude Ferguson still feels threatened by Chelsea. Last season the difference between us was a penalty shootout and a few points. That was with Grant. Now they have a new manager, have kept their best players, added Deco, Bosingwa with maybe a forward to come and
something to prove.
Meanwhile we have an extra two games and fixture congestion. I have no doubt SAF will take the Super Cup and the Intercontinetal cup seriously from his comments in the paper.
So I am convinced the surprise will be a deliberate measure by Ferguson to strengthen our team so we can compete on all fronts and maybe just maybe complete a septuple!
August 16th, 2008 at 13:04
@colver: Only point one I think will happen, no way to Henry, bid time poser, would love Arshavin though!
August 16th, 2008 at 14:46
So Arsenal beat WBA 1-0 at Emirates in a poor performance. At least I have Nasri on my Fantasy team
August 16th, 2008 at 14:48
berbatov will start his premier league campaign, on the bench.
August 16th, 2008 at 15:17
@Tomas: I have Nasri and Ashton (who has 2 goals in the first 15 mins for West Ham), and Sagna who gets a clean sheet – bossing it!
August 16th, 2008 at 15:35
@dan(u-ol): then it’s a probably a done deal. there’s no reason for him to be benched otherwise
August 16th, 2008 at 16:30
berba been brought on by spurs
August 16th, 2008 at 16:46
@dan(u-ol): Yes I was wondering that myself. You were rubbishing claims I never made. So I was confused. Thanks for clearing that up.
August 16th, 2008 at 16:52
@Eric the Red: Not all of us. Vancouver is a transient town. A large portion of the city comes from back east. It isn’t even a question of differences in education. We were all taught the Queens English in Canada. It has more to do with the exposure of American literature, television and pop culture that confuses many of us and incorporates many of us in their mindset. I for one go back and forth. So much so that I often forget which one is the American version and which one is the English version. So I frustrate myself from time to time.
One of my pet peeves though is the American way of saying the word HOMAGE.
Those nitwits have turned and English word into a cheesy French variation that sounds like the French word for cheese FROMAGE. It bugs me so that I find myself correcting people who use it in the American manner because it just irritates me to no end. It sounds so silly and pretentious.
August 16th, 2008 at 16:54
spurs downed 2-1 and an og for their 1. anyone see how dos santos played?
August 16th, 2008 at 16:57
@Eric the Red: It’s only on in tape delay on Setanta at 9:00PM pacific time 6:00PM eastern. Fox Soccer Channel bought the rights to the game and decided in their infinite stupidity to not share it with their cousin Fox Sportsworld Canada. Therefore Setanta have to play by the rules and show it on tape delay. I’m just happy they are showing the bloody game. I record every game and collect entire seasons so I would have been pissed if that game of all the games being played, was not going to be shown. I’m also sure Setanta will replay the game a few times during the week too.
August 16th, 2008 at 17:02
@OllieY:
Yeah…that only works in the UK.
August 16th, 2008 at 17:08
Well Spurs did play Berbatov by bringing him in to the game in the 65th minute. Foolhardy move I think, but they were desperate for a tie. The loss will send a strong message to Levy that the mood on the club is low and that they need to get rd of the black cloud and uncertainty surrounding the team. They also clearly need Arshavin and probably Villa or Pavlyuchenko. So Levy better stick his ego in his pocket, start thinking of what’s best for his club and get off his stupid soap box when it comes to criticizing a manager who did nothing wrong in properly pursuing one of his players. Levy needs to wake up and grow up.
August 16th, 2008 at 17:11
@Grognard: Thanks – though I did some checking and I believe that the Score is showing it live at 11 Eastern. It’ll have that annoying scrolling underneath, but better than tape delay. Cheers, mate.
August 16th, 2008 at 17:13
@Grognard: i personally think arshavin is a one hit wonder, thats just my opinion.
August 16th, 2008 at 17:18
gosh bolton are top of the league and hull are third, thats not right.
August 16th, 2008 at 17:22
Also goes to show how potentially futile is all the craving for new signings. A hundred new arrivals are no substitutes to overall team balance(on the pitch), awareness , team gelling, drive and all the boring stuff that goes behind the scene. How much did boro spend really? But in the magic pill culture the likes of spurs will keep kissing the dirt!
August 16th, 2008 at 17:22
@dan(u-ol): He isn’t Dan. I’ve seen him play over a couple years now and he is truly a great player with pace and imagination. What is not clear is how adaptable he is to certain styles and formations. He is used to teams building around him and using him as the rallying point in all attacks. For this reason, I think Fergie probably wasn’t interested. At Spurs however, he is just what the doctor ordered. It’s Modric who is overrated in my books and they need Arshavin to be that Attacking midfield general who can score goals and create. Trust me, I don’t get seduced about a player over night and especially over a short tournament. I’ve also seen enough of Pavlyuchenko before the EUROS to feel he is a real stud. Modric is the one I think too much was being made of. We’ll have to wait and see.
August 16th, 2008 at 17:44
@Grognard: i agree with you on modric, he screams over-rated, he personifies the croatian team and their manager(i hate that guy bilic). im gonna have to take your word on arshavin until i see enough of him to make a fair judgement, but i doubt he would be good enough in the top 3 leagues. pavlychenko, i was impressed with, more impressed with then arshavin but he looks like he misses a lot.
August 16th, 2008 at 17:56
@dan(u-ol):
No offence Dan but a full back is a full back. Gary Neville, Evra… they are fullbacks. Brown played last year as a fullback. Just because some are better going forward doesnt mean they get a special name as a wingback!! You dont have wingbacks in a 4-4-2. The wingback phrase is generally used in the 3-5-2 formation when there are no wingers and they are the 2 widest players on the pitch who’s most important job isnt neccesarily defending. Evra and Neville’s priority is defending.
August 16th, 2008 at 18:00
@Ryan: if you say so.
August 16th, 2008 at 18:01
@dan(u-ol): Pavlyuchenko does miss a lot but that’s because he’s brave and he likes to take chances. He’ll take more shots in one game than Tevez will in 5. I love that kind of aggressiveness. And it’s not foolish shots from 30 yards. Strikers need to shoot if they expect to score. Nothing that a good manager can’t work with and help him increase his goal rate.
And yes Bilic was nothing but smoke and mirrors as a manager. I love the way everybody can jump on a bandwagon over a team that was so mediocre in the EUROS. They were lucky to beat Germany and they did very little against anybody else to warrant the raves he got.
August 16th, 2008 at 18:09
@dan(u-ol):
Again no offense taken here but we are not buying a striker because Rooney is off form!!!! That’s just ridiculous.
We are buying a striker because we lack quality numbers up front, if either Tevez or Rooney pick up a serious injury then we dont have the quality to replace them. Yes we have about 7 other strikers on the books but apart from Saha(who we cant rely on anymore) none of them are good enough and Fergie knows that otherwise he wouldnt be trying to sign another striker. Doesnt mean they wont be good enough in a few years though but the likes of Campbell, Wellbeck, Manucho will have to be patient and if they are good enough they will get their chance. Nothing better than seeing a youngster break through these days as its becoming very rare indeed……
August 16th, 2008 at 18:17
Ryan, Evra and Neville’s priority is defending you say. Wish you would tell Evra that then lol, he is always up the bloody field.
August 16th, 2008 at 18:20
@Ryan: if rooney and tevez both get injured, saf will play a 4-3-3 with ronaldo playing upfront giggs and fletcher/campbell/hargreaves on the wings, or a 4-4-2 with ronaldo and campbell/giggs upfront.
August 16th, 2008 at 18:49
@dan(u-ol):
But this is the problem, taking players out of their best positions to cover for injurys. We should have a squad to swap like for like and keep players like Ronaldo in their most dangerous positions.
The thing I like about this new 7 subs rule is the fact we can put 1 or 2 youngsters on the bench now without risk. If we are 3 or 4 up then put them on and see what they are made of. Hopefully we will see cameo’s of Campbell, the twins, possebon, wellbeck etc throughout the season.
August 16th, 2008 at 19:18
why didnt we buy torres
August 16th, 2008 at 19:22
@Ryan: but one could argue that ronaldos most dangerous position is upfront. also, saf said he will be playing giggs as more of striker since he hasnt got the legs for the wing.
@Liam: yea we should of signed torres, but he joined the scouse so he now our worst enemy. heres hoping madrid are watching this match
August 16th, 2008 at 19:32
Hey guys just heard earlier that Sir Alex was at the Everton v Blackburn game, I think we may be going for Santa Cruz now. Fucking Liverpool just got a Lucky 1-0 win and it was that guy Torres again.
I think Spurs have given it away that Berbatov wants away from the club, I mean the fact he started on the bench and came on late was only due to the desperation of the team to gain the win.
August 16th, 2008 at 19:39
Yes Torres scored an awesome goal from outside the box but that is all he did the whole game. Both he and Keane were invisible and Liverpool was they same old Scousers. They played like shit because they are shit. Nothing to worry about them guys. Hell, if Sunderland had any finish or bite up front they would have lost the game. Keano’s team looks very improved and hungry. They fought for everything but really missed not having Chopra or Jones to finish chances. Perhaps Louis Saha could rejuvenate his career over there? Who am I kidding? They don’t allow players to play with an IV connected to them and in a wheelchair.
August 16th, 2008 at 19:40
It’s only one game into the season but from what I see, there is nothing to worry about when it comes to Liverpool, Arsenal and Spurs. We’ll find out what Chelsea is mad of tomorrow.
August 16th, 2008 at 19:51
@hakieran: Pressure tactics from Sir Alex . Santa cruz is our new Henry! The old man has his heart set on a particular player already.
August 16th, 2008 at 19:58
yea ferguson was at their game, maybe arteta?
grognard, how do you think huntelaar would do if he where playing for sunderland?
August 16th, 2008 at 20:14
Gill— Sir Alex, levy is playin hardball.
Am goin to the blackburn game, call that wanker after the game again.
Ferguson— Lets see,
……..(after some time).. Gill —- Sir Alex you are a genious
Ferguson— O Thats nothing, still got that hunterlaa decoy up my sleeves.
Gill— O Sir Alex what we il do without you.
August 16th, 2008 at 20:22
’sup folks!! wat do y’all think about today’s performances? It looks like two of our challengers – arsenal, liverpool – haven’t gathered momentum yet, but they still had good starts (both won). What i’ve realised today with the big four is that even when they play badly, they more or less have quality players who can come up with the goods (as did Torres and Nasri today). This is going to make the race a bit harder to win, as I expect proper competition from this four.
As per tottenham, I know it’s too early to say anything, but all that hype… just hope they live up to expectations!!
Hopefully, this result will speed up the Berba transfer, cuz he is definitely gonna be sold, and if they are goin to get a replacement, they’ll have to do it quick!!
Anyway, can’t wait till tmz; Rooney fit and bk in the squad.. I predict 2-0 to United. Hopefully, chelsea will lose!!
August 16th, 2008 at 21:05
@Liam:
IMHO Fergie tried to sign Torres on more than one occasion before liverpool even contemplated it. i don’t have the quote but i remember him saying “theres only so many times you’ll try to sign a player”. For some reason Torres was drawn to liverpool (spanish connection?), believe all that never walk alone tattoo bollocks if you want but he certainly did not slip through the radar and united were there with bids before the scouse.
August 16th, 2008 at 21:06
well the england squad has been named and get this, micheal carrick, is in it, it took him a bloody while to figure it out, to play like spain we need carrick FACT.
August 16th, 2008 at 21:15
@dan(u-ol): Strikers are only as good as their service. With that said the header Murphy missed today, Huntelaar would have nailed into the goal. On a bad team he would score 15 to 20 goals. On a great team the sky is the limit. 20, 30 40, who knows? All I know is that I believe in my heart and soul that he is that good. In fact, I’ll go as far as to say he is better than RVN in many areas of his game. But like any striker, if you can’t get him the ball, he can’t be expected to do as much for you.
August 16th, 2008 at 21:21
@Gabriel: Liverpool was totally pedestrian mate. That team is going nowhere. Their manager is a tactical chimp. He’s an idiot. Anybody who would start that useless Plessil over Alonso has got to have screw loose somewhere. No movement, static and completely devoid of enterprise and ambition. One moment of brilliance by Torres salvaged a win for them in a game they deserved to lose. I didn’t see Arsenal’s win but if the best you can do is 1-0 against West Brom, then I’m not going to curl up into the corner and shiver in fear. Chelsea is the only team we need to worry about and even if they get out of the gate faster than us, they will run out of gas too because of their age and because I honestly think they lack depth.
August 16th, 2008 at 21:23
@dan(u-ol): I haven’t heard, did Cabbage Patch Capello name a captain?
August 16th, 2008 at 21:31
ahh no, cant remember, but he will name the captain on the 19th i believe, but im not 100% sure.
August 16th, 2008 at 21:41
I don’t know if anyone has heard of this guy but as an outside choice for a striker i think fergie should consider a striker who goes by the name of Dieumerci Mbokani. He plays in the belgian league and is an absolute power house very similar to drogba, infact being labelled as the new drogba. I know people are being labelled as the next whoever all the time, but i have seen this guy quite a few times and he looks the business. He is still young 22 years old and does have the advantage of height to add to his game (is about 6′3). Currently plays for standard liege and has 19 goals in around 40 for them. Don’t know if he played against the scousers this week but i think as an outside bet i would take a chance on this guy.
Just wanted to add i have not just been watching him in 2 min youtube vids to see him but have been watching him for months now using streams to watch the belgian league as i have a good mate who always raves about him.
August 16th, 2008 at 22:10
honestly boys them cunts Real are set to buy Huntelaar for £20mill.
WHAT A DISASTER. He should have been our boy months ago….
Dunno what weve been wasting time for
August 16th, 2008 at 22:11
anyone just see henry dive for a free.. we dont want that shit
August 16th, 2008 at 22:13
Hope we don’t have one of those ’shit can’t put the ball in the net days’ tomorrow. Hope the Roon really is fit and on goalscoring form for us against the barcodes.
Grog, Chelsea will stuff Portsmouth tomorrow. No way will they not score against them. My prediction Chelsea will win by 2 clear goals.
August 16th, 2008 at 22:16
By the way, Fergie wants more from the Roon and is challenging him as he did Ronnie – right?. I think he should have a midfield lottery, to challenge our poor scoring midfielders to score more. He should demand at least 10 from each of them – wooo what a bonanza that would be.
August 16th, 2008 at 22:16
I reckon we should beat the geordies tomorrow, they shouldn’t have much in attack and their defence has never been much despite adding a player i like in coloccini. I reckon we should win about 2 nil and be pretty comfortable. Chelsea will also definitely pick up the points.
August 16th, 2008 at 22:33
i know its contraversial but id definately prefer we played with Rodrigo or Gibson on the right tomo instead of fletcher.
I know hes meant to be our big game player but time after time he dissapoints me. trust me im scottish!
August 16th, 2008 at 23:09
Well berba starting on the bench tells it all. If all was fine at spurs there would be no reason for berba not to start. And I’m watchin MOTD now and saw the reception Berba got when he came on, and the commentator described it as a ‘mixed reception’ but to be honest all I heard was boos’
August 16th, 2008 at 23:25
@Craig Mc: I’m thinking they will win too but they are so unpredictable. I’m going to go out on a limb and say 1-1. Pompey is much better team than the one that played us last week. And I think Chelsea still has a lot to answer for and it will take time for them to adjust to Scolari and his system.
August 16th, 2008 at 23:26
@Craig Mc: Yes he should offer the last midfielder to not score a free hair dryer treatment. I guess that means Mr. Andersonson will have a new hairdo this season.
August 16th, 2008 at 23:41
dude barca scored twice in extra time to beat boca 2-1 i walked away from the tv at the 87th min thinking game over what the f.
August 16th, 2008 at 23:50
Grog, I hope your right mate, but I do think Chelski will win by a couple of goals. I have been worried about United only winning by the odd goal, but I feel better seeing Arsenal and L’Fools only managed to score one. Who do you think will put one in the net for us tomorrow Grog?. I think it might be someone totally unexpected. Come on John O’Shea lol.
August 17th, 2008 at 0:08
the title of this entry should be “berbatov, on the edge of greatness”
August 17th, 2008 at 0:34
Lineker, Shearer, Hansen, and Uncle Tom Cobley and all backing Chelski for the title. Nobody is backing United this season. Mainly because Ronnie is absent until October sometime, and they cannot see consistent goals without him. I wonder if we will actually do better during the time Ronnie is out. Wouldn’t that be something?. With Nani out the first 2 games, I am concerned about the width. Giggs can’t hack it out on the wings anymore.
August 17th, 2008 at 0:40
@bruce_illis: we should have been at the airport and gagged him up whilst stopping any ‘pool officials from getting near him and show him where he will actually win trophies. It really puts the Berbatov transfer fee in perspective when you consider they paid 24m for Torres
August 17th, 2008 at 0:42
@dan(u-ol): How can this have gone unnoticed? Ince was a former Man Utd player, Sir Alex could simply have been at the game to wish him luck and watch one of his pupils play, i don’t think this has anything to do with a transfer.
@colver: 1. Possible
2.Very likely
3. Doubt it, Silva just signed a new contract and said he’d only like to leave Valencia for Barca
4. Doubt it
5. Doubt it and hope not
6. The Tevez deal has been out of the bag for weeks now, theres no iota of surprise in that. I still think its either a new player, a new assistant manager or nothing at all and it was Fergie just joshing with th media.
Anyone know if the Dutch League has kicked off or when it kicks off?
August 17th, 2008 at 1:33
Yeah the media are pissing me off. The only differences between Chelsea of this season and the last two seasons is:
Deco: a brilliant player who will add some creative flair to Chelsea’s physical midfield but will likely take a year to settle in and adapt to the Premiership.
Bosingwa: fills a problem area and frees up Essien for midfield duties and will give some attacking impetus and width. But I have a feeling if he and Ashley are bombing down the wings Chelsea will be left exposed.
Scolari: comes with this reputation as a disciplinarian and a world cup to his nam and promises to introduce samba football. Reality is discipline is not Chelsea’s problems they are professionals (mercenaries?) and managed to keep winning even during last season’s turmoil. Chelsea have been playing like clockwork for the past four years and there is a real danger Scolari will disrupt that rhythm and it will take time for him to impose his brand of football on the team. Also club football is a lot more advanced than South American football was in the 80s or whenever he managed in south america. His international experience is all cup, and while i think he could be a cup manager I think he’ll come unstuck in the league.
Also they have no depth in attack. Drogba is world class no doubt but Anelka is too inconsistent and Shev, Pizarro etc are write offs
August 17th, 2008 at 1:53
@Liam.
Couldn’t agree more.
August 17th, 2008 at 2:16
@Craig Mc: First off, I will totally go balistic if we were to lose to frakken Newcastle. That won’t and cannot possibly happen so the real concern is, how many goals will we score and how many will we win by? Make no mistake, this team is not in top form right now and our offense and creativity is at a low point. Ronaldo is missing, Rooney was sick, Hargo was hurt, etc etc. If Rooney starts tomorrow and I think he will, we should win 2-0. The Geordies will be hungry to prove something after the drubbings they took from us last year.
They will make it tough for an hour but we will get two goals late in the game to win. Who will score? Rooney and my surprise pick will be…………Carrick. Why not? He’s a Geordie. It would be rough justice.
August 17th, 2008 at 2:46
@Craig Mc: We will struggle to score. Even if we get Berbatov. Whether we want to admit this or not, we go as Ronaldo goes. He is our talisman and the offense flows through him. But we still have the best defense in the Prem so we need to dig deep and be prepared for a number of 1-0 wins and hope we don’t lose more than two times while he is away. And then again, we a have so much quality and depth that the addition of just Berbatov to add extra dimension and flair to our attack may make us score more than we know. The key to our early season attack is Rooney elevating his game and adding goal scoring to his large bag of tricks. Fergie has challenged him to score like Ronaldo. Is that realistic? Probably not but he can easily increase his tally from last year by ten goals. That alone could see us through that early season problem.
As for Chelsea, everybody and their goldfish seem to think Chelsea is the cat’s meow even if they have done fuck all to deserve that kind of adoration. They are experienced and have many highly skilled players but they are thin up front, and they are old and have no speed or width in their game. Above all, they have a new manager who is untested in the club level in Europe and who is going to try to implement an attractive free flowing style to a bunch of static muppets who are set in their ways and who will take time to adjust. One of two things will happen with Chelsea. Scolari will create miracles and enthusiasm and Chelsea will come marching out of the blocks just like Arsenal did last year. Or Chelsea will struggle to figure out just what the Hell Scolari expects and wants and the confusion in the midfield with two hundred Attacking midfielders vying for two spots will create dissension and confusion. Add tot his the rumblings of Drogba wanting out again and the constant distractions and expectations of the Russian Mafia Lord who runs them and I can see possible disaster. Scolari is not Grant. He will insist that players adapt to his style. Last year Chelsea survived because the players took it upon themselves to play as close to Mourinho’s style despite the musings of AV Grant. They won’t get away with that this time. Scolari has been given a mandate. Win now and play attractive football. One of two is not an option. Zero of two means your fired before the end of the season. For me this just means a lot of pressure and confusion and this may derail Chelsea. Just my opinion.
Top 6 prediction;
1. Manchester United
2. Arsenal
3. Chelsea
4. Tottenham
5. Aston Villa
6. Liverpool
Unless they get Barry, I see everything begin to unravel for the overrated waiter/slash manager Benitez. Today’s pathetic performance and lucky win has not changed my mind. That team has not made the changes where they need to be made mostly. Aston Villa have improved enough and if they keep Barry they could challenge for 4th. I think Marty O’Neill has done wonders and adding Brad Friedel in goal will be that little extra they need as well as Young and Shorey at the fullback positions. Spurs I still feel are going to be a class act. But how high they gfinish depends on getting Arshavin. If they get Pavlyuchenko too, I think they can knock on the door of even 3rd place. Their defense however is a weak point that could make thing worse than I am predicting. The offense is there though.
Arsenal are thin in depth but they are full of quality and class and they have the second best manager in England. I hate them and Wenger but I respect him and they will have learned from last year. Flamini and Hleb will not be that great a losses. Flamini emerged out obscurity last year and Denilson will do that this year. Hleb is in my list of the top ten most overrated and useless players in football. The guy is a stiff. Gilberto Silva was washed up. Nasri will replace him more than adequately and I think before it’s all over Ramsey will make a significant contribution to this very young and very exciting team. Their one Achilles Heel other than depth is in goal. I still think Wenger blew it with Lehmann who on his worst day is ten times better the the Aluminum Man. Almunia has got to be one of the worst and most uninspiring keepers to ever play for a top 4 team. When has that tosser ever made a save when it counts? Chelsea still have quality and if they blend well and take to Scolari like bread to butter, they could cause United problems. But I just have a gut feeling that they are too old and too set in their ways. I wouldn’t be surprised if Scolari is sacked before Christmas. Abramovich is a prick and nobody can succeed under that regime and it’s unrealistic. expectations.
August 17th, 2008 at 2:49
@Liam: He just didn’t want to play for us mate.
Some people are insecure and they need that comfort zone of similarity and language. The Spanish connection is why he even came to England, otherwise he would have stayed in Spain.
August 17th, 2008 at 2:50
@Rd: Blackburn is in the vicinity. It’s a derby opponent and Ince is his friend and former player. Santa Cruz is not an option. If we weren’t going to get Berbatov, certainly Huntelaar or even Villa would be ahead of him in the pecking order.
August 17th, 2008 at 2:57
@colver: Excellent points mate. Chelsea are mercenaries and they are good but they don’t adapt to radical change and they have too much depth in midfield. How do you decide between Ballack, Lampard, Deco, Essien and keep all of them happy? If you consider it very unlikely that they can play more than three of them at any one time and and not have the defensive backup of Makelele there, I see trouble. They could place Essien in the DMF position but that totally nullifies his offensive contributions. They could Jon OBI ONE Mikel there but he’s not in the same class as Makelele. I still think Terry is a shadow of his former self and last year Carvalho started showing signs of decline in his game to. And Cech is still good but not nearly as good as he once was. And he was awful in the pre season and at the EUROS. What happens if Drogba goes down? Persoanlly, I think Chelsea are in a world of shite.
August 17th, 2008 at 9:29
@Grognard: and Colver: You’re making some very good points on Chelsea, me thinks.
Terry will be exposed, if he doesn’t have all the players around him that he usually has (Makalele plus 2 fullbacks). I think, Makalele’s departure will be a greater loss, than they realize. Despite his age, he nullified a bunch of players last season, and he was still one of the best in his position. Mikel is no where near that class, and he probably never will be (even though he’s a good player).
But I see their attack as their weakest area. Drogba may be world class, but it’s actually been some time, since we saw anything from him. To me, he’s lost a little bit of pace, and therefore, he can no longer outmuscel players and get away from them. He’ll always be a threat in the box, and of course he’ll get 15 goals. But that’s just not enough for Chelsea, whose other attacking options are rediculous really.
I think, Chelsea will be runner uppers, but it’ll mainly be because Arsenal and Liverpool still haven’t found a way to get up there.
Grognard, I think you underestimate the loss of Flamini, Gilberto and Hleb. Not only were Flamini and Gilberto the steel of Arsenal last season, and Hleb a lot of their movement, but they were also experience. And even though Wenger is a master with these youngsters, it’s not going to happen for them. They simply won’t be able to keep teams off them. Even WBA managed to get back into a game they were vertually eliminated from in the first 5 minutes.
Liverpool. People seem to think that they have a better team now than last season, but I simply can’t see why. Keane for Crouch – well, they may have a smarter player, but they have lost height at the same time. Dossena for Riise… from what I have seen, Dossena is no strengthening. He may have been touted the best left fullback playing in Italy last season, but that’s merely because the best of Italy’s fullbacks don’t play in Italy. He’s no where near as good as Zambrotta or Grosso.
And even if scousers will hate me for it, Carragher is starting to make more mistakes. Their talisman is loosing it, if you ask me.
Tottenham may look good on paper, but their defense simply isn’t good enough. Watergate and King have legs of glass, and that won’t change. The top 4 will look like last season if you ask me.