Sep 01
The Tuesday Theory: Time for extended Foster-Care?
I have a secret to admit – I love the attitude of seventeen year olds. Cocky? Arrogant? I’ve always believed that confidence should exceed talent by a simple 2:1 ratio. When the sun-earth-moon align, the solar eclipse can blind one with power and beauty. However, in my opinion, there is nothing uglier than when vision-reach-grasp align.
I know that Van der Sar set EPL records with his shutout streak last season. I know that his positioning exudes confidence. But I also saw the Champions League final – he was beat nearpost on the first goal, and did not even anticipate or make an attempt at Xavi’s cross for the second. In short, the rust showed itself against quality opposition. Van der Saar is also no spring chicken at 38.
Enter Ben Foster. At 26 years of age, he is about to enter his prime. While a goalie can last until his mid-40’s, the decline in athleticism manifests itself in subtle ways. Goalies cheat on their angles. Anticipation becomes trepidation. Not so long ago, an aging German goalkeeper got red-carded in a Champions League final, losing his job the following season to an up-and-coming Spaniard.
Foster played a crucial role in Watford’s climb to the Premiership summit. He also found a creative use for the ipod: predicting penalty kicks, and used his technology savvy to guide United to a League Cup. Could this be Foster’s breakout year?
I know what your thinking – the last young, athletic, confident goalkeeper lost his nerves in a crucial Champions League home-tie. But Foster has shown excellent decision-making thus far into the season. While most young goalkeepers try to catch every cross, he has held his line when called upon. However, unlike Van der Saar, he has the vigor and legs to come off his line in a flurry.
While an argument could be made for Foster failing to reach the Arshavin blast this past Saturday, in that same game he pulled off a fantastic save on Van Persie. I don’t believe that two wrongs make a right, but his stop was a turning point in the game for United. When was the last time Van der Sar stood on his head to turn a tie?
Granted, Van der Saar did make the save on Anelka’s penalty-kick to give United the Champions League title. But sentimentality and sport go together like water and oil. Football is a young man’s game, and Foster surely deserves a run of games to prove his worth.
Elliott is the editor of Futfanatico.com
Related items from Red Rants:
- links for 2010-01-19
- Links for 2010-01-20
- A Quiet Little Tuesday Roundup
- On the Kaizer Chiefs Friendly + Rodrigo Possebon
- Man Utd v Tottenham: Preview
Tags: Opinions/Columns
September 1st, 2009 at 7:15
Foster may be the quicker draw but there is quite a ways to go before he becomes the gunslinger VDS is/was.
September 1st, 2009 at 7:18
I agree. Nothing more to say, really!
September 1st, 2009 at 7:23
How many games are you willing to sacrifice to allow foster to grow or flop? I do not see him as long term replacement for any of our past goalkeepers – let alone Schmeichel or VDS.
I do not think Fergie disagrees with me. Next summer, we will replace him with a german or spanish GK. Mark my words.
September 1st, 2009 at 7:50
Neuer, Diego Lopez?!! Fergie has this habit of being stubborn, hope this is not one of those times!!! Foster is as much the next Schmeichel as Anderson is the next Scholes and Carrick the answer to our midfield creativity or for that matter in spite of the number of disagreements i may get on this one, Fletcher, the next Roy keane.
September 1st, 2009 at 8:21
Right, I’m off to bed. When I wake up I should see Messi, Iniesta and Essien at United. No excuses!
September 1st, 2009 at 8:25
RR, you have your fantasies, we have ours
!
September 1st, 2009 at 8:44
He is definitely worth a look this season. If Victor Valdes is good enough for Barcelona why not Foster for Man United. We have a good enough defence to support him.
September 1st, 2009 at 8:54
Personally I don´t think Foster is good enough to be our number one.
I agree however that VDS is past his albeit brilliant prime. I would love to see Buffon in the No. 1 shirt at United he is the best and has at least another 6-8 good years in him.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:27
Ive been on this subject before. Foster is class and despite what people say he has been our match winner this season along with Rooney. Against Birmingham, Wigan and Arsenal he made stops that helped us win the game at vital times, and he has all in all been good. He has the ability, he just needs the experience to become a truly great goalkeeper.
Go on Ben!
September 1st, 2009 at 9:29
Footy4Eddy, hope you’re right mate, he’s all we have for now!!!
September 1st, 2009 at 9:41
It’s a tricky one Elliot, because unless the lad gets an extended run in the team to truly measure his worth and build his confidence by playing more, then it ’s difficult to foresee how he will truly do. On the otherhand, if he gets the run, and fails to achieve United expectations, then it will cost the club dearly. Mmmmmm what to do eh? Glad that is SAF’s decision, because that’s what he is handsomely paid for, and we are not
.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:51
I think people think goalkeepers are like outfield players, they expect them to hit the ground running everytime they play, wrong.
Keepers need games to find form, foster has gotten the games, and had impressed more after eachgame.
The problem he faces is that everytime he concedes, it is ALWAYS his fault in some mindless fans eyes, and when he makes a fantastic save, nothing gets mentioned.
If foster was german, all those idiots that bad mouth him would jizzing in their pants at his talent, all of them. But because hes english…
September 1st, 2009 at 9:55
@Dan: BEN FOSTER IS THE DOGS BOLLOCKS!!!
Look froward to my video of hium, hopefully people will then appreciate his talent.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:57
@Venu: I believe that in 6 months time we will look back at this and look at how silly we were doubting Bens talent…
Just like we did with Fletcher, Foster will prove all the doubters wrong and we will tell the likes of Neuer and Adler to fuck off because we have GOT THE BEN!!! 
September 1st, 2009 at 10:01
@[OPTI]Madschester United: “Next summer, we will replace him with a german or spanish GK. Mark my words”
Thats is very generic wouldn’t you say, how about an Italian, French or Moldovan goalkeeper?
September 1st, 2009 at 10:08
Gotta give credit to Elliot for still having the courage to write articled, especially after his first one who got some real harsh critisism!
This one was well written too, keep it up mate! 
September 1st, 2009 at 10:09
@Stephen: Why not a Scottish, Iranian or Chinese one?
September 1st, 2009 at 10:11
@Footy4Eddy:
September 1st, 2009 at 10:17
What the fuck is an S-shaped curve?!
Yeah, Im in my class. Shit, this sucks! I hate Science, and I would rahter make up songs for Ben Foster and such on redrants. You hear that RedRanter? RedRants.com> School.
Now that is some accomplishment! 
September 1st, 2009 at 10:18
@Stephen: That statement just confirmed that he knows nothing of what talking about.
He is just another sheep, to lazy to educate himself and would prefer to just follow the trend.
September 1st, 2009 at 10:19
@Footy4Eddy: Chances are he took the train
September 1st, 2009 at 10:22
@[OPTI]Madschester United: GERMAN KEEPERS ARE THE BEST?!
That is a Rafa Benitez fact, for fucks sake grow some balls! Dont just follow the trend, meaning you are German doesnt guarantee you are a good goalkeeper. OMG, so in your mind Adolf Hitler would be a good goalkeeper? Fucking nuts fact which Rafa Benitez would be proud of…
or are you Rafa in disguise?
September 1st, 2009 at 10:22
Well im gonna add my transfer muppetry, fergie, pull your finger out, grow ypur balls, and get ribery in for £50mil.
Hes not cup tied yet, so…
September 1st, 2009 at 10:22
@Dan: HE WAS TELEPORTED!!!
September 1st, 2009 at 10:22
@Dan: Or a keeper which Grognard tells him we should buy.
September 1st, 2009 at 10:26
@Dan: My numtpee prediction:
Ferguson will buy David Silva, sell Tosic and let Amos out on loan. Ive been spot on with my predictions lately, so I am serious. GO GET THEM FERGIE!
September 1st, 2009 at 10:26
@Stephen: I didnt think i should say it, but yea, a keeper grognard says we should buy
September 1st, 2009 at 10:26
@Stephen: Kasper Schmeicel!
September 1st, 2009 at 10:34
Foster was Watfords player of the season when he was at there for a year.
Watford fans will tell you that he was fantastic.
He will have less to do at United and concentration will be an issue.
I believe Ferguson should have faith in him an give him a season to prove himself. As for the Arshavin goal , I thought he did well to get to it, never mind save it.
September 1st, 2009 at 10:43
who here just said berba is a massive waste of money
September 1st, 2009 at 11:30
This years DEADLINE DAY of the Transfer Window is already as dull as recent style of Man UTD football. (Ooouuuchhhh it aches… but unfortunately true)… Its all boredom….
Someone please start something…..
September 1st, 2009 at 11:36
@Onkar: The second half against Wigan was dire wasn’t it mate?
September 1st, 2009 at 11:47
Ferguson can borrow a pair of sacs from Pellegrini…
they asked pelligrini in a press conference..
“will u play an eloborate 4 3 3 “…?
” u mean like barca ? tika taka ? “
” no we wont “
” this is the bernabeu , mere passing wont do”
” we need entertainment , the ball has to be around the goal or in the goal”
“we ll play a very direct game keeping possession and keepin it in the oppositions box “
………………………………………
This is ‘balls out’ — this should be the arrogance of champions.. not 4-5-1 in a home game.. SAD!
September 1st, 2009 at 11:55
@spizzy: I did!
September 1st, 2009 at 12:06
Just as a side issue, on the N’Castle blogs, according to news now, they are reporting that they just got Craig Cathcart on a season long loan, AND wait for this little corker – they are negotiating the same with United for GIBSON. They reckon it appears United are willing to let Gibson go to them on last ditch loan transfer.
. I don’t get this at all if it is true. Our defence is continually hit with injury problems, so wtf if Cathcart being considered for loan. Also to Quote SAF – just in the last two days he said in press conference, the only reason that Carrick/Anderson are not getting as much play, is that WE WANT TO PUSH GIBSON FORWARD. We are very impressed with the lad. Oh what a difference a day makes! Anybody heard anything further on this?
September 1st, 2009 at 12:14
@Craig Mc: I’m calling bollocks on the Gibson loan. If it goes through then this is the day Fergie has officially lost the plot. Stop playing Scholes. Everytime you think ‘I’ll start Scholsey’ or ‘I’ll bring Scholesy off the bench’ replace his name with Gibson. Scholes wouldn’t have turned int the player he is if he was not playing every week and you got rid of better players than Scholes is now to do it.
September 1st, 2009 at 12:33
@Traverse: I sure hope your right Trav, and it is bollocks, but the Geordie fans seem to think they have managed it!
September 1st, 2009 at 12:36
@Stephen: When I said recent I did mean what we are playing last 18-20 mths as whole. Not just one point in time mate…. I know it was a great half to watch and it followed by a very open match but still if you look at last season and all those 1-0 then you will get what I meant….
September 1st, 2009 at 12:37
@Craig Mc: Sky sports have mentioned nothing. They just said Newcastle are going to announce the loan signing of a promising young centre back from a top 4 club, so that’s Cathcart, but nothing else at all.
September 1st, 2009 at 12:41
@Traverse: What they are saying up here in Geordieland, is that Gibson is supposed to be travelling up late afternoon/early evening, when they hope to do a deal
. If Gibson goes it is bloody MADNESS Trav – seriously bloody lunatic 
.
September 1st, 2009 at 12:45
@Merlinus: Don’t jump on your jump buddy… We will come to know wheather it is a ‘Arrongence of Champion’ or ‘Arrogance of classless bloody shit’….
So, just wait for another 10 month…. Thats alllll…..
September 1st, 2009 at 12:49
Absolutely disagree with the article. Now while I do find Ben Foster to be a decent keeper when he is on his game, it is when he is not that worries me. When I look at Foster’s strengths what jumps off the page at me is his shot stopping ability. However, this is neutralized by his poor footwork. I actually get very nervous everytime someone provides a pass back and Foster does not clear it straight away. Also, he does not command the box as a number one should. And finally, what the article hit on, was his dicision making. Foster’s decision making is not class at all. Especially when it comes to defending crosses. This is another moment when I have to close my eyes and pray. While I agree that Foster made an incredible save against Arsenal, I also believed he should have done better with Asshavin’s shot. Which is to say that one good save does not take away the fault of not getting to another!
September 1st, 2009 at 12:50
If gibson goes, and we’ve signed nobody, i think i will have lost a lot of respect for fergie.
Bloody madness if that happens.
September 1st, 2009 at 12:53
@RichmondRed: He shouldnt be getting bloody passes back to him
And when was the last time VDS shouted at his defence? He doesnt. I remember browns own goal last season, he patted him on the bloody back as if to say better luck next time
His footwork is fine and his decision making is fine in my books.
September 1st, 2009 at 13:07
@Onkar: I was referring to the arrogance and attacking instinct that is lacking in fergie’s tactics.. we are the champions for god’s sake..
The point to note is that we have a decent, oh what the hell, and excellent squad. Give the youngsters a little freedom, let them express themselves on the pitch.. World does not end if we don’t win the title this term, but talk about reshaping the team by blooding youngsters and start old men on the pitch with negative tactics.. its SAD..
September 1st, 2009 at 13:13
@Merlinus: Makes lot of sense mate… Couldn’t agree more.. Spot on with everything you said…
I have crying loud for this thing for ages now.
September 1st, 2009 at 13:16
@Merlinus: It does to Fergie, he wants 19 titles to knock Liverpool off their perch and his time is running out, I do agree playing one up at home is very negative.
September 1st, 2009 at 13:18
I Pray that obertan and ljajic he the ground running.
September 1st, 2009 at 13:22
@Dan: Speaking of Obertan, does anyone know if he has featured in the reserves yet? And if so, how does he look?
September 1st, 2009 at 13:24
@RichmondRed: Hes injured, and wont be back until october.
September 1st, 2009 at 13:29
@Stephen: he has already knocked liverpool out.. combine league + champ league! + playing style!
And speaking of perch– what is the perch at loserpool??
September 1st, 2009 at 13:30
@Merlinus: Phil Thompson’s nose?
September 1st, 2009 at 13:32
One thing that worries me is the lack of showboating in modern day football.. the game is meant to be played beautiful and some exceptional talent definitely needs to come up with mind boggling skills.. Personally i don’t see much of it in current day’s players.. Only Robinho comes any close..
September 1st, 2009 at 13:33
@Merlinus: Nani against Arsenal couple of seasons back and Ronaldo was a bit of a showman matey.
September 1st, 2009 at 13:37
@Stephen: no i mean.. in and out every game.. watch robinho.. he does that.. George best? anyone?
September 1st, 2009 at 13:39
@Merlinus: Ronaldo does give it a go in most games bro.
September 1st, 2009 at 13:45
@Stephen: Alas.. The Greedy boy is no more a united player is he..
He is a true GALACTICO now..
September 1st, 2009 at 13:48
@Merlinus: “Greedy Boy”
September 1st, 2009 at 13:54
@RichmondRed: Reserves kick off their league this week I think. Obertan was out for 3 months when we signed him, so early October. I did some scouting about for information on him, and used a data editor to look at his stats in FM09 (I know not 100% scientific proof) but he is rated to have more potential than Nani, so that’s something.
September 1st, 2009 at 13:56
I don’t think Foster has done enough to prove he should be our long-term first choice. Maybe he will during this season, but I’m not too optimistic. As someone pointed out he doesn’t command the area and often looks hesitant coming for crosses. I think we’ll end up signing Manuel Neuer next summer.
September 1st, 2009 at 14:01
@Hakan: But I don’t think he has done anything to prove he isn’t. The Arsenal match was only his 7th match for United. Evra and Vidic were dogshite for 6 months when they went into our first team!
September 1st, 2009 at 14:20
@Traverse: Fair point that he needs more games. It’s just that SO FAR I don’t think he looks like the long-term solution. If he improves as much as Evra has done (compared to his disastrous debut) he will become the best keeper in the world.
September 1st, 2009 at 15:04
BREAKING NEWS!:
United sign owen hargreaves, but will be out for a month before he can make his debut
Class signing, exactly what we need.
September 1st, 2009 at 15:07
Even kranjcar would have been a decent signing.
September 1st, 2009 at 15:09
If only Lil Man Nani had got his goal at then end of the Arsenal game, He would be strutting like a feckin peacock about the place, and I would too –
. He did everything right in his approach though 
.
September 1st, 2009 at 15:21
@Dan: Er…
September 1st, 2009 at 15:26
I hate International weeks
. Always concerned that our players come back injured, which they often do! Also it disturbs PL team play when players have been away – but tough titties, there is nowt we can do about it.
September 1st, 2009 at 15:39
@Craig Mc: Yet another pointless friendly on Saturday, what is Capello actually going to get out of it?
Oh I forgot it is just another revnue raiser for the vastly over budget Wembley, what are the odds the circus act Beckham gets a run out to sell tickets?
September 1st, 2009 at 15:55
@Stephen: To be honest Stephen, I would rather Becks gets a run out than I would Rooney
.
Talk Sport latest – Gibson is supposedly being allowed to go to N’Castle on SHORT term loan, to give the lad regular 1st team football – so so sad if it truly happens. Also Tom Huddleston they are reporting is in ? Manchester for a medical to join United MF lack. Where did that come from. Frank Ribery is also been seen in Manchester, but they don’t know whether it is RED or BLUE Manchester
, I’d say in Traverse terminology that particular sighting is BOLLOCKS! If SAF is letting Gibson go though, surely he has to have something up his sleeve? Trouble is a lot of fans are losing confidence in the Fergie ’something up his sleeve’ thoughts – as many have forthrightly expressed on this blog 
. I am concerned the Gibson talk might have some merit 
.
September 1st, 2009 at 16:42
I am a great fan of Schmeichel, but ever since Van der Saar’s comical miskick for the Dutch National Team, I have followed him with a (perhaps too) critical eye. For all his height, he really does not command his box as you would expect.
And has Foster really made that many gaffes? I think there is a risk/reward continuum, with Tim “Do Too Much” Howard at one end, and VDS at the other. I think Foster is a happy medium – and he has made some brilliant kick saves in his day.
September 1st, 2009 at 17:01
@Craig Mc: Transfer window is closed. No Gibson deal has been mentioned at all.
September 1st, 2009 at 17:02
@Traverse: You can get loan deals up until next week ive been told.
September 1st, 2009 at 17:39
@Craig Mc: thanks for the support on the previous thread mate, Im not against negative criticism Craig, I do plenty myself, its the OTT stuff that ruffles my feathers a bit, and I think some of the stuff dished out after the Arsenal game was OTT, maybe I was wrong to generalise but I was just trying to convey that our position is not as bad as it seems. Perhaps the fith columnists jibe was a bit naughty.
September 1st, 2009 at 18:42
Are Manchester United a 3rd rate team that no fooker wants to sign for these days??? NO WE ARE NOT!! so why oh why are we so inept at getting the class required to put on a champions show every game.
Fook aston villa are making more waves than us in the market these days!!
aaaaaarrrrrggghhhhh!!!!
September 1st, 2009 at 18:47
been stuck at work all day and i’m here untill 9. Not allowed to use the net today but as you can clearly see i’m taking the risk. why? because i have been living in hope that we would make that world class signing we have all been begging for. All this risk just to see our Commander and bitch negociator do fook all.
Frustrated shall not be my case but fooking damn right pissed because there is no way we will create goals from midfield with michael”the fooking useless donkey” Carrick at the helm as our attacking mid.
September 1st, 2009 at 20:00
Window closed! Not a whimper, so what? Well lets see if Fergie can muster the sum of the parts to be a greater whole! Mmmmmm, my expectations are low so i suppose i could be pleasantly suprised . . . . . . . .Mmmmmm
September 1st, 2009 at 20:18
I so disagree with this thread and Elliot’s views on goalkeepers and especially the useless Ben Foster that I’m not even going to bother commenting further because it’s just going to get me and others angry. So consider it a day off from the Dark Side. Cheers!
RR, A new thread ASAP please.
September 1st, 2009 at 20:34
@Phoenix Red: Am I to understand Phoenix, the fellow Irishman of yours Gibson didn’t go to the Geordies on loan after all???? You heard anything about this over in the Emerald Isle?
September 1st, 2009 at 20:39
@Craig Mc: Had Fergie let Gibson go out on loan I would be miffed, because he said that he looks to give Gibbo a run this season. We need personnel in midfield, and I wouldn’t want to lose Gibson from that line up.
September 1st, 2009 at 20:40
@Fred The Red: Well the transfer deadline been and gone with no more signings, so either the players we have do the job, or WE grin and bear it mate
.
September 1st, 2009 at 20:43
@Red Ranter: I agree totally, but the reports on tyneside are that N’Castle have been allowed Cathcart on long term loan, and Gibson short term
. As it’s only the money transfers being reported on sky etc, I still don’t know whether those reports about Gibbo and Cathcart are true?
September 1st, 2009 at 20:49
@Traverse: Sorry Trav hadn’t come to your post comment yet. They said on Talk Sport that N’castle had some players arriving on loan, but didn’t say who. So we still don’t know yet then mate. Dan said that loans can still be signed up for another week yet. I thought our friends in Ireland might have heard about these two players, because the Irish media are pretty up to date on what is happening to the Irish players
.
September 1st, 2009 at 21:00
@Elliott: We have digressed a bit away from main topic mate – sorry! But I think that Ben Foster was discussed quite a bit in the previous thread, and time is going to reveal whether Foster becomes established as No 1 in our 1st team, or not
.
September 1st, 2009 at 21:02
Bollocks!!!
I best wake up in the morning to see Aguero wearing the Red of manchester or and WORLD CLASS Midfielder not currently on the books!
not a happy manc right now.
No more chanting “and city are a massive club” because to be honest they make us look like portsmouth in the transfer windows.
Scratch that portsmouth saw more activity than we did.
no i really am getting depressed.
FOOOOOOOK!!!
September 1st, 2009 at 21:07
@Monkwahhdo: http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n89/NoFatClips/sadkermit.jpg
September 1st, 2009 at 21:09
Anybody know if Rio will be back for the Spurs game???
September 1st, 2009 at 21:35
@Dan:
September 1st, 2009 at 21:44
Elliott Tucker, you sir, your very first post was utter dross!!!
But if you carry on with these kinds offerings like this one, I might as well start enjoying trawling through your musings.
Verily.
September 1st, 2009 at 21:44
@Craig Mc: Yeah, we haven’t seen enough of him to ,err.. “Foster” an opinion!
He seems to have bright reflexes, but does continue to make some fundamental errors that directly result in goals.
He really should have got both fists in front of Arshavin’s thunderbolt – poor really, and a thought shared by SAF in his postgame comments.
SAF is notorious for having little patience with goalies that fuck up, so Ben better get his shit together soon or face the bench or worse when VDS recovers.
September 1st, 2009 at 21:49
@Monkwahhdo: By the end of this season we’ll have our own Jack Wilshere coming through our ranks.
The vibes coming from the youth teams and reserves are very positive, and I am looking forward to our Carling cup encounter probably more than our ordinary Premiership games.
September 1st, 2009 at 21:55
Calm down, guys. No need to panic in this transfer window. We’ve got lots of good youngsters coming through. Are you Alan Hansen in disguise?
September 1st, 2009 at 21:55
@Footy4Eddy: @Stephen: How about the current Bayern goalkeeper – Rensing?
He’s a goalkeeper and he’s german, so he must be good!
Oh…
September 1st, 2009 at 21:57
Just skim-read yesterday’s thread and I just wanted to add that I totally echo the thoughts and support Fred the Red.
Ok, topic closed.
September 1st, 2009 at 21:58
@NicoQB: This might be wishful thinking on my part (more sentimentality) but I hope someday, when Fergie calls it a day, Solskjaer becomes our Guardiola. I like his philosophy of playing attacking football, he’s known to be a keen student of the game and he understands what it means to be at United.
Of course this will always remain a pipe dream for me.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:01
@Merlinus: Entertainment at Bernabeu is never on the pitch. More like in the directors’ box.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:02
@Dan:
September 1st, 2009 at 22:02
@Redrich: Yeah mate, they were saying on sky tv today, and talk sport that Ben Foster himself felt he should have saved that Arshavin cracker, seeing he got both hands on it, so he himself admitted it BEFORE SAF said it publically. Like I said RedRich, Ben is getting his opportunity now, and much is expected of him
.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:06
@Red Ranter: He would be perfect, wouldn’t he? Apart from proven experience as a manager at top level, he ticks all the right boxes.
The only thing we’d be missing probably though is making other managers feel out of their depth when it comes to playing mind games – Jes! Only Mourinho would be able to take that mantle, but at what cost?
September 1st, 2009 at 22:06
@NicoQB: Errrr Nico is that good or bad? Are you saying you appreciate this particular article of Elliot’s?
.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:11
@NicoQB: What I mean is that you are a Foster fan aren’t you – so will no doubt value this thread
. Correct me if I got that wrong 
.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:14
@Craig Mc: @Traverse: @Dan: If anything Gibson is actually shutting out opportunities for even more talented up-and-coming Central midfielders!
James, for one.
Ok, maybe not (his mule of a kick made me revise my opinion of him!)
I hope that for the sake of Cathcart (and Gibson – but hopefully not) that this is not the same Newcastle that sat Rossi down on the bench for an odd season.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:26
@Craig Mc: Haha. Fan is a big word for my feelings towards Foster.
But I do appreciate the lad, and I’m firmly in the give-him-his-chance camp.
If he played for Arsenal or (god forbid!) the dippers he would have been hailed as the future, or make that the present of the england national team, but we all know the story here.
People seem to forget that even the great Van der Sar had a crap start to the previous season (I think) and some were calling for his head.
But true, I thought that the post of Elliott Tuckers’, other than being well written, was also well thought of, something he didn’t achieve when he first crashed unto this site.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:26
@NicoQB: end this comment with a
please!
September 1st, 2009 at 22:30
I see there are not too many Foster fans on here, but I respect the tone of the opinions and also not being called a pouncer
I am obviously a Foster fan, but the Arshavin blast surely was not as bad as getting wrong-footed nearpost in the Champions League final. For all the talk of fundamentals and experience, I find that lapse to be crucial and perhaps indicative of a decline.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:33
Its amazing that people think that Foster has poor footwork. Admittedly his footwork against Chelseas was not the best, but I think those people should be given a dose of Kuzcak or Bosnich to remind them of actually what is really poor footwork.
Even Van der Sar is known to belt dodgy back passes into the near crowd..
September 1st, 2009 at 22:36
@Elliott: What’s a pouncer, sir?
September 1st, 2009 at 22:41
@NicoQB: I think he meant ‘ponce’ but I’d rather he explain it himself.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:41
@Elliott: Wrong footed for the final – was that the Eto’o goal?
As I thought that Eto’o stroke it well. Tall goalkeepers dread the low ball just a foot or so away from either leg, as they rarely have got the reflexes for the leg save (Foster v/s Van Persie) or the Schmeichel lightning dive.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:49
@NicoQB:
VDS had a poor final, and was partly at fault for both goals.
The first, he was beaten near post, no excuses, it shouldnt have gone in.
The second, he had enough time to come out for the ball, he didnt, then he moved his arm away instead of trying to save the messi(smallest man on the pitch) header.
But nothing was made of this.
Foster kicks the ball in the wrong direction, hes useless and a liability.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:51
@NicoQB: Hardly, they are different type of players, and if anything, james isnt ready for the 1st team.
September 1st, 2009 at 22:59
@Dan: Actually VDS has had his share of criticism. I remember Grognard pinning some blame on EVDS for the Messi goal. However, almost everyone was crap on that day.
In fact, when our clean sheet streak was ended and we started conceding goals in a hurry, a lot, and I mean A LOT of people were questioning if EVDS deserved any credit for the clean sheet thing. So he has got his share of criticism. It’s just that you are so pissed off at people criticising Ben Foster that you’ve decided to overlook the criticism levelled at EVDS and say nothing was made of it.
The reason he gets less stick is because of his experience and the fact that he put an end to our goal keeping problems (ever since Schmeichel left). For most part of his tenure at the club he’s been decent, due to which he’s built up a fair amount of credit.
September 1st, 2009 at 23:19
@ Craig, sorry mate no news reguarding Gibson except the Sport.Co.Uk!? Story. Thought that since you’re tyneside, you might have a better insight. Got to say i’d be disappointed to see him go. And i’d have thought that if that was Fergies’ plan maybe he’s suddenly seen the HOLE in midfield. Also i’d have thought that Wolves would be a better option for the lad, seeing as he’s been successfull there already and it’d be prem experience. Saying that i’d love to see him more involved definitely as a sub initially. He’s got loads to improve but at least he’s got that “Gordon Mc Queen” special shot, which is usually on target, which is more than most of our midfield have to offer. Leaving out Nani, cos he does like to have a go too!
@ Elliot, Good article, it begs to give the lad a chance, he definitely deserves that. I think, like some other players in the squad, Foster needs a run of good games to build confidence. A goalkeeper especially needs to be assured and confident, this is gained in time. We’ll just have to see how much time it’ll take.
September 1st, 2009 at 23:24
@Dan: James, I feel is more complete. Better passer and creativity, guts and just as dangerous when it comes to rattling the onion bag.
Would have been a cert for Young player of the year last year if not for Kiko’s late explosion.
@Dan: Agree about VDS underwhelming final but then I don’t begrudge him since the whole team was definitely 2nd rate that night.
@Red Ranter: I always thought Barthez was made a scapegoat for our defensive problems. He was more than ok until a dodgy 3 months resulting in that famous CL exit. Vidic and Ferdinand he didn’t have.
But then again he was definitely a loon. But a bloody talented one!
September 1st, 2009 at 23:38
Good night everybody!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQZJXkh88oM
September 2nd, 2009 at 0:59
@NicoQB: Wrong, gibson is the more complete player as he is a good attacker and a good defender.
James is just an attacker in my eyes, so gibson is the more complete player.
James has a lot of potential that said, i hopes for him. But thte likees of cleverly and hewson also have potential, its really down to the one that takes there chance when given.
September 2nd, 2009 at 1:04
@Red Ranter:He gets criticism, but nothing like foster.
Do you think the criticism of foster has been dished out fairly?
It seems all his haters will call him every name under the sun when he kicks it the wrong direction, but when he produces magnificent saves, its always, yea it was a good save, but hes still (insert insult here).
September 2nd, 2009 at 1:23
@Red Ranter: in our previous discussions I think we both agreed that we lacked a creative midfeilder, the transfer window has come and gone without SAF addressing this problem so in my opinion the time has come for the gaffer to cut the reigns on Anderson and let him show us what he can do. We paid 17 million for a 19 year old who was widely regarded as one of the best young attacking midfielders in the world, hence the price tag and in his time here he has shown glimpses of brilliance and plenty of enigmatic performances.
The boy needs a run of 20 to 30 games were he is allowed to express himself, he might just be the answer that we are looking for, coz he has pace, power, good control and dribbling skills and at his previous clubs he showed that he can create and and score goals.
I think the kid deserves a better chance that what SAF has given him, and I think that he has been badly handled during his two seasons with us. He certainly cant do any worse than our other midfield options who even at thier best are not much more than functional players, Anderson can be as functional as them any day of the week, but something tells me that there is an untapped level to Anderson that could bring a spark that is lacking in our game, its time to see if he is the real Mccoy or just hype.
September 2nd, 2009 at 1:45
@Dan:
Of course people have been gentler on EVDS. It’s because of his established pedigree. Foster is yet to achieve the success EVDS has so far. One is a seasoned campaigner whilst the other is the upstart. You can’t expect both to be treated the same way. More often than not, EVDS has been decent, and at times excellent. Which is why people have been forgiving of his shortcomings.
Foster was lavished with praise when he performed very well for us against Derby, and the Carling Cup final.
I think a lot of people have called it as they saw it with Foster. You have a problem with a select few people on here who haven’t liked him from day one. But many of them here, including me, have been supportive of him but have been equally critical when we saw some of the mistakes he made. It’s hard to be objective when you take to someone so much that you begin to take it personally when someone attacks your favourites. I’ve seen that with you when it comes to Foster (or some big youth prospects that you rate), with Craig when it comes to Nani, Anderson with Eddy (although he takes it much better than most) and with Grog it is when it comes to Ballack or Huntelaar.
I find it hard to debate in those situations because the other person gets emotionally attached to him that it becomes harder to get critical of him without offending the other.
September 2nd, 2009 at 1:48
@Fred The Red: I understand where you’re coming from regarding Anderson, But I think he has regressed ever since his first season. Whilst a good run might help my gut tells me he’s not the answer – he seems far too inconsistent for me. Not that my gut feeling means anything.
September 2nd, 2009 at 2:01
@Red Ranter: my gut feeling tells me we have no better options at the minute so it might be worth the gamble, but SAF appears not to trust our young players anymore and opts for the safe option over the wrisky and it is this attitude that I see as the biggest threat to our success this season. I do believe that we have the squad to win the league this year, but it remains to be seen wether SAF has the vision to get the best out of it, could go either way, which is why I always qualified my positive comments with lets wait and see.
September 2nd, 2009 at 2:07
@Fred The Red: As I’ve said, the strange thing with this United side (something the Guardian’s Rob Smyth touched upon) is we have a good squad, but a questionable starting XI. I know that doesn’t make sense, but that’s what I feel about this side.
September 2nd, 2009 at 2:39
@Red Ranter: theres some merit in what he is saying, and it makes this season a very strange one indeed becuase both options are a real possibilty, top four finish and last 16 in Europe or a team oriented Championship win were everybody plays a part without being aided by superstar players, the third option is one that I hope that we have to many good players to become a reality.
September 2nd, 2009 at 2:41
@Fred The Red: You probably got a point Fred. As RR thinks Anderson has regressed, I thought Nani had too, but I think he is proving he has the skills there to do good things for the team, but it begs the question, does a players game and playing skills lie LATENT when they don’t have a good run of games to express themselves. What Nani has been showing in the few games he has played so far, are those marvelous thru balls that put our strikers one on one with the GK’s. As he did for Owen, and for Berba against Le Arse. Nobody who saw Nani’s showboating against Arsenal in his 1st season, can have any doubt that the lad has innate talent. Bringing it out is SAF’s and the coaching staff’s job. Now in view of that, I wonder whether Andi has lost what he thrilled many of the fans with in his 1st season, which inspired the United Anderson song, or whether it is just lying latent from not being given a good run of games. I think Andi’s problem is that he will not show a work ethic in training, take his game seriously, with a determination to improve it. That is what SAF is mad about, and has told him that to get more game time, he has to put the work in on the training ground, and show more all round effort. That way any latent talent he has will start to exhibit itself again
.
September 2nd, 2009 at 2:52
@Fred The Red: I don’t think it has anything to do with SAF not trusting the young players Fred, but rather that we have not had the best start to the season performance wise so far. Although I personally loved the Wigan game 2nd half especially, and the Arsenal game for end to end stuff. Because we needed the points at Wigan, he wasn’t going to play the kids, and I agree with that decision. Against Arsenal was another must win game, in the sense that SAF said he didn’t want a repeat of us not taking points of the other top 3 again this season. Especially as we had vital players missing in defence, so it was makeshift. Once the games start to flow again, the kids will get their opportunities, but he may wait until the Carling cup against Wolves, keeping the experienced players for the Spurs and City games.
September 2nd, 2009 at 2:54
@Redrich: It’s funny how I said after the game that I thought Foster played the Arshavin shot poorly and I got criticized for it. Now you and others including Fergie have come out to verify my original findings. Yet another case of me being right I think. The sooner EVDS is back manning the pipes, the better I will feel. And I have given up on any sensible fantasies like Neuer or Adler ever wearing United red.
September 2nd, 2009 at 2:56
@NicoQB: Rensing is awful and I am a hard core Bayern fan and he’s been getting it from me for a lot longer than Foster has. However, in his worst days, he’s still technically far superior to Foster although Foster is a better shot stopper.
Just so this German bias ends, My top ten keepers in the world, only two are German. That’s two out of ten,not nine out of ten.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:02
@NicoQB: They are both shite, so what’s your point? United’s backup keepers are shite. There is Shite #1 known as FOSHITE. And there is Shite #2 known PIGSHITE.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:04
@Dan: Lets not forget that Evra was the root cause of both goal scoring opportunities. One a giveaway and the other not coming back fast enough to cover his area. I blame the Skinned Sausage for both. And damn it, I also blame Ben Foster. Why not?
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:07
@Red Ranter: I am an EVDS fan and always have been but even I have thought he was well past his best. I actually found him at partial blame for both of those goals in the final but I also thought he was our best player having made 4 or 5 world class saves to keep us in it. I’ll never forget that day and how badly we played after they scored the first goal. It’s like somebody hit the kill switch and we al went into a deep sleep.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:08
@Fred The Red: Well yes, this is a squad that will be selected on a best possible basis. It might not have to be that way had we’d used the Ronaldo cash for a MF’er or/and a Striker and perhaps a proven Goalie.
I certainly do see a squad of youngsters that show some potential, and with a little love and nurturing they may possibly be the future of this team!
However, the idea of blooding the full squad of players that could rejuvenate our starting eleven (lacking badly in CMF, Forward, Goal Keeper and perhaps at wide right defender) could literally take years to accomplish, and in the meantime the club, our club, will be dealt a firm blow of mediocrity!
In the modern game, mediocrity doesn’t suit the best players. Their worth and psyches are polished by the success they achieve at the club level, and in no uncertain terms, they will take the easy hike to a well paying club that will acheive this for them!
I would like to see Rooney spend the rest of his career with United, to me he is one of the best players England has produced in years. But how long will it take for him to look at calmer waters, take the big cash, go to a better climate and basically do the whole Beckham thing.
If we were to introduce these youngsters, one by one, being shepherded in by experienced, top notch players, this transformation would make sense. But the lack of class players throughout our ranks would not make this not possible!
There was a lot of hand wringing here today about the rumor (spread by Craig) that Gibson was to go on loan. My god, what has it come to when we fear the loss of a very young, unproven, midfielder.
So I say this. Are we just doing the best possible, or are we simply scraping the bottom of the barrel!
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:09
@Phoenix Red: Chris Hughton is saying that Cathcart hasn’t been signed yet, but that he is more than hopeful of United agreeing to the full season loan agreement. The N’castle fans are very agreeable to this, as they rate Cathcart and think he will do a job for them. They absolutely love Darren Simpson since they got him on loan, and Hughton again says that he is doing a real man’s job for them. He had him play centre half in the last two games because of shortage of personel, and says for a 5ft 9in player Simpson is very good at the spring leaping reqd for Central defending. That is why they want Cathcart, so Simmo can go back to his natural full back game. No mention at all of Gibson loan, but it is mentioned on N’castle web forums! I would be amazed if SAF agrees to a Gibson loan!
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:12
@Dan: Dan, if there is anyone who has been fair with Foster it is me. You may laugh at that but I urge you to go back and read my posts after his great Carling Cup game last year and after the Birmingham and Wigan games this year when i gave him credit and praise where he deserved it. Nobody ever remembers those instances because when I am negative that seems to resonate a lot louder. Maybe it’s because deep down, most people actually agree with me that he is just not good enough. So be his champion but trust me at the end of the day, it won’t be my sword that skewers him, it will be Fergie’s
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:14
@Red Ranter: You forgot Riquelme.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:16
@Craig Mc: a blind man on a galloping horse could see the talent that Nani had, good feet, pace, skill and a great delivery. What he didnt have was consistency and the knowledge of how to use his attributes in the most effective way, thats normal for a young player, but that only changes with games, not one or two hear and one or two there, that was alright in his first season, but last season Nani should have been our starter on the left from the start of the season and then we would have seen significant progress in the mental side of his game to compliment his many skills.
Instead SAFs use of the boy was nothing short of disgraceful and the same applies to Andy, we are still asking questions now that should have been answered last season, instead we seen far to much of the painfully average Park and the out of position Rooney.
I sincerely hope that SAF leaves Nani in the team for a while, he is showing signs of going in the right direction and he is forming a good understanding with Evra, leave him alone and let him grow and do the same with Andy. I dont think that they regressed as players, they simply never had the right opportunity improve from thier first seasons showings, which in turn caused a dip in form and confidence, the talent is most definately still there, its up to the gaffer to bring it out, heres hoping, the little man could be a very important player for us this year mate if hes left alone.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:18
@Grognard: Well I wish I was there to back you up. Had a nightmare of a week (nuff said) and initially saw the game on very interrupted P2P links.
Before I fall into the ranks of “Foster Haters”, I’d like to give him more of a look. TBH, and apart the couple of games we saw of him last year, I don’t know what to think yet. The next two games will be a good watermark for him (and the whole team, really), I’ll have a better perspective then.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:19
@Redrich: The reason I mentioned Gibson mate, is nothing to do with losing him, but more to do with the fact that SAF said the reason he wasn’t giving more game time to Carrick and Anderson was because they were very impressed with Gibson and wanted to further develop and bring him on this year. However I do like Gibson, and feel it would be mad, when we have NOT so many options in midfield to let him go out on loan, when he is one of the youngsters who was given 1st team experience last season. BY the same token I feel the same way about Cathcart, because we don’t have much back up in defense, when Rio, Vida, Red Nev, Brown, and Evans are often injury casualties.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:19
@Red Ranter: I totally agree with that. In fact I don’t think another team in world football have as much or as good a depth as we have. Our second eleven could finish in the top 8 clubs in the EPL as far as I’m concerned. But we lack those truly skillful world class stars in the midfield. We lost Mr ALL Universe and we replaced him with a couple of projects and a previous world class player who I think I’m accurate in saying is not the Michael Owen of old. For me the only world class players presently on our club are Rio, Vidic and Rooney. To not have a single world class player in our midfield is folly and an absolute disgrace. And that more than anything is what defeats us. Because quality and skillful midfielders can often make adequate strikers better than they really are because of the regular and consistent service they provide.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:22
@Redrich: I agree. One thing with keepers is that they need to play in order to improve. I see too many flaws in his game to ever believe he could become world class, but I am willing to stick it out with him as opposed to seeing PIG instead. But as soon as EVDS is fit and ready, enough with Foster I say.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:30
@Fred The Red: A blind man on a galloping horse –
. I hope SAF does keep Nani in this season Fred, and consider him one of his regular starters – we shall see. Anyway – I bid you goodnight mate, I need to go and hit my bed 
.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:30
@Redrich: I dont quite know myself, I see potential, but I also see pitfalls, and its a strange way to feel.
With the right handling we could maintain our top class status, but a couple of bad decisions could be painful. Missing out on Benzema was a blow and deep down I feel at least one good signing would have helped us greatly. As much as I hate to say it, I feel that the return of Hargreaves could be a very important moment for us, heres hoping.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:32
@Craig Mc: Well mate, SAF will do what he will do. Gibson (or anybody else, come to think of it, seeing we’ll probably need them) should be nurture and introduce into our starting ranks. But it shouldn’t be critical to the success or failure of United this year. I think that was my point.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:44
@Fred The Red: Hargo could save our season, but I wouldn’t bank on it.
Someone coming back from his kind of surgery will be treated with kid gloves initially, and then he has to regain him fitness, and then he has to regain his form (if he can).
So, to me, best poss is that he could help us in the spring, if we are still contending!
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:55
@Redrich: I think we have enough about us to be contending by the spring but it would take a brave man to predict what way our season will bounce, Im hoping that somehow the gaffer will find the right mix to make us successful, I think we just about have the right parts, its just a case of blending them together, but I doubt it will be a vintage season, more of a funcional one one.
Good nite and God Bless.
September 2nd, 2009 at 4:36
@Fred The Red: Good nite Fred, you have sweet dreams, while I entertain the horror show of my nightmares!!
September 2nd, 2009 at 4:59
@Red Ranter: If we are not going get the ‘Spcial One’then I am all for the Baby face Assasin. I mean he is United through and through and he has right philosophy.. But … DREAM on…..
September 2nd, 2009 at 5:58
@Redrich: SAVE our season? It hasn’t been lost yet mate. Hardly four games in to the season.
September 2nd, 2009 at 7:05
indescribable boredom..
ugly football.. 
No flair players 
.. Life sucks 
September 2nd, 2009 at 7:48
Sad times indeed when I can objectively say I don’t expect united to win any thing this season, sad sad day. I had expected fergie to pull a rabbit out of his hat yesterday but I’ll have to be content with fletcher and whatever skillfully skint,mediocre player fergie put in the midfield to join him, or better still, be treated to an incredible lineup at OT of five midfielders, hell bent on defending to stop the likes of chelsea and liverpool and every other european team from playing. Yep, that’s what united have been reduced to, instead of outplaying the opposing team and dominating them, our first objective is to stop the other team from playing and then hopefully get a goal at the break. Tactics reminiscent of watford or second tier teams playing against premiership teams.
September 2nd, 2009 at 10:25
Well the doom and gloom continues from some quarters of our fanbase which without one over paid paid greedy foreigner to grace the pitches of beloved OT is that such a bad thing looking at what other clubs have done this summer.
This summer in the Premier league I have seen Joleon Lescott being transfered for £24m, Adebeyor £28.3m, Santa Cruz £18-19m, an injured Aqualani being bought for £18m sweet baby Jesus even Lee Catermole was sold for £6m.
Our summer expenditure was pretty much £20m, Valencia I suppose was the safe option proven in the Premiership but not exactly mouth watering, Gabriel Mekonhead is an unproven punt, Mame Biram Diouf again somewhat of a punt and Owen on a free which is either superb business or our only true realistic option available.
There are two schools of thought with the lack of big names coming to United this summer some think that Fergie is to blame, which to me is bizarre as any manager who has funds available does tend to spend what is available to him unless his name is Wenger who has faith in talents like Bendtner and Eboue, probably the reason he has not won anything for such a long time. For me Fergie has always spent money, we have a reputation of over spending, Berba £30m, Carrick £18m, Nani and Anderson £35m combined, Veron when Lazio owed us money still on the Stam transfer, Rio when Leeds were on the verge even Ronaldo was silly money at the time, for a relative unknown.
The second school is that we simply do not have the money to spend or let we word this one differently, Fergie doesn’t have the money to spend we have a debt of near on £700m and this needs sevicing with heavy repayments to the interst on the loan.
The Glaziers have had a large windfall, £80m cash from the Ronaldo transfer, not intalments all cash a good deal really considering the players heart was no longer at the club and desperatly wanted to leave. But a good deal for who? The fans?, Not really we lost our best player and for many a favourite, for Fergie? Not at all he lost his match winner and the player who he set his team around, a good deal for the Americans as the have pretty much won the lotto.
My take is the latter, Fergie has not been allowed to spend the money bestowed onto the club as we are in a World wide reccession, the Glaziers have been hit by this and the debt is certianly not getting snaller and the majority of the debt has been secured against OT and Carrington.
Fergie isn’t entirely balmeless I agree, but he is in sniffing distance of his lifes work of overtaking Liverpool championship titles and he does not want to rock the boat he is also a big fish in an even bigger pond and enjoys the control the Glaziers obviously allow him, I have people saying that Fergie would not accept this and would walk out of the club, why?
Fergie is a workaholic, he is the fist person at the training ground and is the first to leave, he loves the club so there would be no chance of him leaving for another and his desire to overtake Liverpool in my mind is the reason why his tactics of laste have been somewhat less carefree and more win at all costs as he is aware time is running out for him.
In conclusion the lack of signings might be a not be a bad, Anderson, Nani, Gibson, Welbeck, Macheda, the Da Silva’s, Da Laet ect will hopefully get their chance to shine and I certainly would prefer “one of our own” playing for us than an inport who is soley only at the club for the money, remeber Barca won the treble last seaosn with someting like six or seven homegrown players in their starting eleven.
September 2nd, 2009 at 10:42
Good points, Stephen. I think our lack of spending is probably explained by three factors:
-the transfer fees this summer have been very high
-the board wants to curb spending a bit
-Ferguson has great faith in the youngsters
The third point makes me look forward to this season with great interest.
September 2nd, 2009 at 10:57
@Fred The Red: I could not agree with you more regarding Anderson.
Whenever I think of him, I think of this gospel song “Take the shakles off my feet so I can dance…”. I’d say, give him a string of a few games, show confidence in him, and give him license to move forward (as apposed to license to fall back into left-back position).
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:29
@Stephen: Good post Stephen. Unofrtunately, there is nothing I can disagree with
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:35
@Stephen:Bro, will you be back down in London for the Spurs game, or are you all spent up?
.
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:36
@Karl: There are plenty of typo’s, poor spelling and bad punctuation for starters!!
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:37
@Craig Mc: No mate, I am spend up but I am going on holiday mate next Saturday
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:37
Not a day after this summers transfer window slams shut, United are looking towards summer 2010. We are apparently interested in signing 21 year old Japanese striker Takayuki Morimoto. He plays for Calcio Catania in Serie A, and Pato has compared him to the Original Ronaldo.
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:56
@Stephen: Oh right – does that beautiful fiance of your goes discounted air tickets, her being an Air hostess and all
. My mates are all going down to London for the spurs game. They have a ticket going begging for me again, but its close to baby birth time, and I don’t want to be away just now if you know what I mean. It’s killing me, but got to be fair haven’t I? 
.
September 2nd, 2009 at 12:17
Hi guys…
Was just reading this and want to share..!
http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/news/newsid=1094276.html#old+foes+diegos+sights
September 2nd, 2009 at 12:24
@Red Ranter: Although foster is favourite of mine, im not the sort that will take it to heart when he gets criticised, but i will take it to heart when hes getting criticised unfairly.
That something i cant stand with any player let alone my favourites, i believe all players should be treated fairly, and i dont feel foster has.
September 2nd, 2009 at 12:27
@Grognard: I know you’re fair(albeit harsh as well), but your followers arent.
September 2nd, 2009 at 12:28
@Grognard: Like last year after the fulham game you said we were in for a massive “slump” and wouldnt win the league, you where right there to werent you
September 2nd, 2009 at 12:45
@Craig Mc: She can matey, 30% off if you fancy it!!!
September 2nd, 2009 at 12:48
@Merlinus: Massive exitement…
Great potensial.. 
Many player with a point to prove… 
Life is awesome! 
September 2nd, 2009 at 12:59
@Footy4Eddy: Eddy.. That was Biting sarcasm @ the doom gloom sentiments
you took it literally 
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:03
@Merlinus: Didnt take it seriously, but I just read it and thought I would put a positive spin on it.
Think I did a fairly good job! 
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:08
I just ordered a pizza…
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:11
@Footy4Eddy: Oh hey, English is not your mother tongue now, is it?.. I suppose you are a norwegian?.. Just asking, no strings attached..
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:12
@Stephen: Wow, I’ll remember that mate
. Thank you!
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:13
@Footy4Eddy: You won’t attain that “out of the world” Cardiac capability that Ronaldo has, if you order pizza.. Don’t eat it!
.. Football first..
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:14
What do you guys do for a living anyway?
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:18
@Merlinus: Norwegian is my mother language, yes. But English is very invloved in my life, because of this blog, United and just my daily life who is surrounded by the language. And I get best grades in the subject, so…
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:19
@Merlinus: Ive walked 15 kilometers today… I play a football game last night… It takes me an hour to get to school… Ive eaten fuck all today… sooooooooo: PIZZA TIME!
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:20
@Merlinus: I play football.
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:21
@Craig Mc: No worries mate let me know if I can help.
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:22
@Footy4Eddy: Still, GRAMMAR dude
It ain’t my native either…
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:22
@Footy4Eddy: Wow, wonderful life
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:25
@Merlinus: What was wrong with what I wrote?
Of cource I skip writing it`s instead of its, because its a football blog so I dont take those things into account as much as I do. Cause I am open to critisism, its(it`s) a way to progress. What did I do wrong there? 
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:27
@Merlinus: Of cource…
I also go to school, make football videos, and am trying get together with a girl I… Well, Im not allowed to say “love” yet so “like” is probably more appropriate.
After the last few weeks, I now consider that as work! 
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:29
@Footy4Eddy: Of courSe for starters
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:33
@Footy4Eddy: “Norwegian is my mother language, yes. But English is very invloved in my life, because of this blog, United and just my daily life who is surrounded by the language. And I get best grades in the subject, so…”
Norwegian is my mother *tongue, Yes.
English is very involved *with my life(Although i wouldn’t frame a sentence like that).
United and my *everyday life *WHICH revolves around the language.
And i get *the best grades in the subject, So..
:It’s just one post: … Spelling doesn’t matter, but the way of framing sentences is awkward – and the grammar.. sorry…
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:35
@UnitedUnited: Seriously?!
Wow… Thanks mate, thats gonna help me a long way.
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:40
@Merlinus: Hmm, thanks mate. Gonna take that into effect and see what I can do.
I just write as I speak, not as a litterature expert. In the end I am just a Norwegian 16 year old, learning more and more each day! Everything I am told I try to learn from. Thanks mate! 
September 2nd, 2009 at 13:44
@Footy4Eddy: You are welcome
.. Oh bollocks, language is only used for the main purpose of communicating anyway!.. You do that in an excellent manner.. As long as you get the point across, percision in adhereing to the rules does not matter.. It was a mere observation, no offence meant.. Glad you took it well! 
September 2nd, 2009 at 14:01
@Dan: Love the kermit pic. had me in stitches.
September 2nd, 2009 at 14:11
@Merlinus: Everybody wants to be perfect, and the best way to become that you need to have as few flaws as possible. Therefore critisism is vital, as its the best way your flaws can be highlighted and then its your choice whether you try to work on it or not. Its a thing football has taught me, and which I am grateful of.
“You dont shoot hard enough!”, “Passing isnt one of your strongest points.”, “You should be trying to do this, not that!” etc.etc.
I am open to critisism when its of my ability, or my flaws. But when it comes to people I am fond of, maybe football players or family relatives it is only natural that I will respond in a different manner. If some guy says “You girlfriend isnt the hottest chick Ive seen…” it may be the last words he says.
So feel free to critisise me, but not the people close to me! 
September 2nd, 2009 at 14:24
@Monkwahhdo: Oriental? Does the name have any significance?!
September 2nd, 2009 at 14:38
@Merlinus: Are you by any means a teacher/professor in a school or something?
September 2nd, 2009 at 15:08
VDS (and Howard for that matter) are miles better than Foster.
@Traverse: We have Diouf. What do we need with yet another massively overhyped asian. This reeks to me of more marketing BS
September 2nd, 2009 at 15:15
@MUFC Fan in America: No bias in saying Howard is better than Foster is there?
September 2nd, 2009 at 15:20
@MUFC Fan in America: The good news is, he’s better than Dong. If only he were and amazingly gifted central midfielder, not striker, eh?
September 2nd, 2009 at 15:38
@Stephen:
None at all.
September 2nd, 2009 at 15:43
@MUFC Fan in America: To say Howard is “miles” better than Foster to me sounds very much that way judging by your name I must say, also he simply isn’t.
September 2nd, 2009 at 15:49
United “Dream Team” 2010/11:
Foster
Rafael Rio Vidic Evra
Valencia Hargreaves Ljajic Nani
Rooney ???????????
What do you guys think? Rafael or Brown, possibly also De Laet are possibilities on the back, Evans may play instead of Rio. We have Fletcher or Carrick if Hargo doesnt recover, Anderson or Gibson if Ljajic doesnt turn out to be the master we expect. Then Rooney is written in the starting line up, but in a years time it may be either of Owen, Berba, Welbeck or Kiko next to him.
September 2nd, 2009 at 16:42
@Dan: And who exactly are my followers? I think you should show more respect to these so called followers that you have labeled and assumed they are incapable of forming their own opinions rather than waste time and space Foster. If people agree with you or Craig on issues to I start labeling as Danites or Craig’s Clan etc? No I don’t. Calling someone my follower and then saying I am not guilty is like calling Christians hopeless believers in faith but Jesus is OK.
I don’t have followers mate. If people choose to agree with me on an issue it’s because they actually have thought about the topic or about what my stance is and in their head have come to agree with it. Hardly a follower I think. More like and independent thinker that is able to form their opinions and agree with a fellow poster on some issues. Maybe they agree with me on Foster because the proof is in the pudding and maybe, just maybe I am right about him. Not exactly rocket science in figuring out the keeper has issues and flaws in his game. Unlike many who love him, I took the time and effort and wrote a long and descriptive critique and comparison of his skills as well as how they compare to other great keepers. Perhaps those who agree with me read that piece and actually agree. I wouldn’t call that being a follower, I’d call that being well informed and having the ability to discern and compare.
So please Dan, get off the back’s of anti-Foster members of this blog. You like Foster, fair enough and we all get it. But please also get that foster is far from being the great goalkeeper I and many others want for this team. And your protective loyalty to him is not going to change it by you labeling others who just happen to have the smarts to come to the same conclusion as myself. I wouldn’t call those people followers. I would call well informed and with a keen eye for detail. When it comes to Foster, fair and harsh is all many of us can be.
September 2nd, 2009 at 16:52
Foster has lots of rough edges to get worked out, but the question in sports is always relative – is Foster a better option than Van der Saar? At what point does a manager put the old horse down and bring in new blood?
And I agree that Tim Howard has emerged as a superior keeper to Foster at this moment – but that is because he finally got a run in the side.
Anderson’s problem is he is a creative center-mid when SAF prefers to attack through the wings. He is not diligent in his marking and SAF does not want that in the center of the park
September 2nd, 2009 at 16:58
@Elliott: Howard is four years older then Foster and has played over 300 games, I also think that at best it is debatable which is the better keeper, personally my belief is that Foster is and certainly will be the far better goalkeeper, do people forget how many mistakes the American made when he played for us, seems memories can be somewhat selective.
September 2nd, 2009 at 17:29
@Dan: I believe we were in a slump for quite a while. In fact we never really recovered until Ronaldo showed up. This time last year we had 3 points in four games I believe. Irregardless, trying to find fault in me is a pretty sad way to try to show the world that I am wrong. I never profess to be 100% right but if I went back to my beginning on this blog and pointed out all the predictions I have made where I was right, it would blow your world and anti-Grognard theory apart.
Fact is I am right far more often than I am wrong and I take pride in that but I am not always happy about it. But I at least have the courage of my convictions now don’t I? Unlike many, I don’t sit on the fence and if something bothers me, I say so. And frankly, a lot about this club right now bothers me and that is why I have been more loud and more negative as ever before. The club has changed the way they do things and for the worst. Fergie has lied to us and on top of that, he continues to make squad selections and tactical changes that confuse and befuddle all of us. And all of this while he loyally protects the owners of this team who have spent a fortune of what should have been transfer money for this club. And so we are stuck watching a deep squad but a starting eleven that is mediocre and very ordinary. A midfield that scares nobody, two backup goalkeepers who couldn’t start for Burnley and aging players who are still being counted on in a major way to guide the ship. Meanwhile the Ronaldo money has gone missing and the transfer window is closed and we did nothing to improve obvious weaknesses to our team. Instead we rant and rave about a very ordinary player in Darren Fletcher. This is what it’s come to. No more filet mignon, now we rant and rave if we are fed a Big Mac from MacDonald’s. Pretty sad and pathetic fans who conform to whatever the brass at OT feed us I think.
I’m sorry but I and others who may agree with me expect a lot more form this team. There is a reason many of us who don’t live in Manchester became United fans. And it wasn’t the brand they so proudly license and spread around the world like a virus. It’s always been about the on field product. And right now that on field product does not inspire me or entertain me one bit.
So dig around Dan. Look for those times I have been wrong. Knock yourself out. I don’t profess to be some know it all. I am giving my opinion for what it’s worth. If it proves right or wrong means nothing to me. I just want the team to win and win with style and substance.
September 2nd, 2009 at 17:39
New post up. United release Champions’ League squad list.
September 2nd, 2009 at 18:09
@Merlinus: No oriental influence mate, My real nick name is Monky (no “e”) and when i got a hotmail account i couldn’t have monky so due to being stoned at the time( no longer use weed i might add) it was the first thing i could think of.
The the most genius idea. lol
September 2nd, 2009 at 18:26
@Footy4Eddy: No dude.. I’m only 22.. Just outta college.. I work in a corporate multi-national company where the atmosphere is so thick with pomposity and the air is so full of bullshit – no way related to the holy profession of preaching wisdom..!
.. Mostly i do programming and stuff..
September 3rd, 2009 at 22:58
I believe Ben Foster would become a good, solid goalkeeper if he’s allowed to play and grow in confidence for an extended period.
But will he ever become a world class goalkeeper like VDS is/was? I doubt it.
The question is whether United need to have the best possible GK or not. I don’t know how much it affects the clubs chances at winning the CL and PL but it must be significant.
Michael Neuer looks like a better prospect.