Oct 28
United Equal 100 Year Record As Fans Get Value For Money
This has to be a great time for United fans. How nice it must feel to be supporting a club that also happens to be playing some outstanding football. Of course, the luckiest of the lot would have to be those who get to see them live in action at the Theatre of Dreams week in, week out.
While the Glazers continue to be a much despised lot — what with the ridiculous increase in ticket prices and the Automatic Cup Ticket scheme — the performance of our team, so far, has been nothing short of breathtaking. This team is easily the best we’ve had since our Treble and this is just the beginning.
All this, of course, could be possible only because of certain elements in the club, without whom, we wouldn’t have been able to watch the kind of football that we are witnessing at the moment.
Undoubtedly, Sir Alex Ferguson comes to mind; the man who has made his career by proving people wrong. When backs were against the wall he delivered. And that rubbed on to the club and the players. Today, as we’ve seen time and again, it would be extremely dangerous to write United off and that is for good reason. Alan Hansen found that out with his ill-advised ‘You won’t win anything with kids’ comment; so did tons of hacks world over — in some cases, even United fans — during last season’s title triumph. And at the centre of all this ‘I will prove you wrong‘ mentality is the great gaffer himself.
The promised Third Great Team is before us. All that is left to know is, will this team deliver what seems so promising?
Of course, there are other people who have played an equally important role in building this team of ours. Carlos Queiroz, for identifying some outrageous talents — that, we hope, will play an important part for years to come — and nurturing them. And finally — I am surprised that I am saying this, but here it is — the Glazers; for their non-interference in footballing matters and allowing issues relating to transfers up to David Gill and the manager, while providing funds where required. This is despite their dodgy-looking business model on which they bought the club in the first place. Note that I am not applauding the Glazers for everything because, it would take us years to really be able to pass a concrete judgement on their management of the club.
But let’s get to the football, and yesterday’s game, where we scored four goals — four each in as many games in succession — thus equalling a record as old as 1907. The days of one-nils have been long forgotten; the team is gelling well; and, more importantly, a major myth concerning our strikeforce has been emphatically chucked out of the window. (About the myth here is something I wrote, in early July, about Rooney and Tevez. Even to me it sounds scarily prophetic. 
)
SAF started with a 4-4-2, as was expected, with Hargreaves, making a comeback in the engine room, alongside Anderson. The back four consisted of Brown, Rio, Vidic and O’Shea, who was stepping in for the injured Evra.
We couldn’t have asked for a better start to the game. Nani made space for himself before unleashing an unstoppable thunderbolt to the top-right corner of the net leaving Mark Schwarzer with no chance. It is worth noting that both his Premiership goals have been absolute belters. Middlesbrough hit back quickly when Tuncay did well to dodge a leaden footed O’Shea to cross to Jeremie Aliadiere who headed home to make it 1-1. After a little sloppy period of play, United were gifted a goal by the great Stewart Downing, as a little hustling from Nani made the ball fall nicely on to the feet of Rooney who took a touch before belting it home. 2-1.
But the moment of the game came in the second half, in the 55th minute, when Anderson played a ball to Tevez who played it immediately to Rooney with his first touch, before embarking on a diagonal run. Rooney, spotting Tevez’s run, sent a backheel precisely into his partner’s path and the Argentine coolly slotted it home. Now I don’t know which channel (or stream) you watched it on, but the commentator on mine said, ‘And whoever thought Tevez and Rooney couldn’t play together!’. It was not just an exhibition of the almost telepathic understanding that the pair had developed. It was a statement to everyone to sit up and take notice of this team. Because the portents seem ominous for other sides.
The final goal was perhaps borne out of the need to score another to make it four. Or maybe, they just seemed happy to continue attacking and score more goals. Yes, they understand the United way, and that’s how we should continue to play.
But as with every match, there will be some gripes. It is not to nit-pick, but mistakes are mistakes and it helps to identify weaknesses. It also helps to know that players like Hargreaves understand that we were a little slack in defending at times. As he said in his post match interview in this video (Windows Media/Real Player required) But I am willing to grant them their off day because, it could possibly be borne out of the confidence that our team can score more goals than the opposition — as against the days of the one-nil wins. Hopefully Rio and co are back to their best against the Arsenal.
A low point, if there was any, was Nani’s embarrassing rolling on the ground like someone ripped his jugular. Under the guidance of SAF and Queiroz, he should learn to cut out that part of his game.
Finally, it is worth noting that Ronaldo’s performance — despite being peripheral, at most — did not really affect our team’s performance, as a whole. Which is a good thing for us. And not so good for the others. Even Aston Villa might agree with this assessment.
So the swagger is well and truly back, the season is set up very nicely. And we are playing some beautiful football to go with this. Next week would be a good test. But who cares! We’ll enjoy what we’ve seen so far, for now at least.
Bring on Arsenal!
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Tags: Match Reports
October 28th, 2007 at 11:04
the third great team.
October 28th, 2007 at 11:39
Has any1 heard anything bout hargreaves and his condition?
October 28th, 2007 at 12:26
The 3rd great team of SAF.
It will be his last team, and I believe it will be his strongest team.
I just hope lady luck blesses us during the tricky moments,
and guides us toward the top of the world.
October 28th, 2007 at 13:47
This is one of the strongest squads I feel SAF has ever amassed in his career. In the goalkeeping department we have 3 good keepers. At the back we have a strong pool of defenders, in an ideal world I would liked shot of Silvestre and brought another couple of full backs in but the emergence of Simpson, Evans and Pique mean we are adequately stocked. In midfield we have as much depth as I can remember with five good central midfielders and four good wingers. The only chink in our armour was the failure to pick up another striker in the summer. Someone like Anelka or Huntelaar would have rounded the squad out perfectly. Get a striker like that in the January window and the sky’s the limit.
October 28th, 2007 at 15:21
speaking of evans, does anyone else think its strange that he hasnt even appeared on the bench yet? pique simmo and eveans are ment to be our future defence arnt they?
October 28th, 2007 at 15:35
Anderson… What a player… This time we have found our gem of all gems!!!
And excellent point about Ronaldo… It’s just I don’t think he played badly, but he just wasn’t needed and didn’t really get the ball much (now that is a scary thought for other teams!!!).
October 28th, 2007 at 15:38
Dan: I believe he was carrying an injury ealier in the season and then didn’t play well in the Coventry match. That combined with Pique usually being on the bench has meant that the opportunities for him have not being there. But from what I’ve seen so far he has a very good chance of making it so I wouldn’t regard his current absence as cause for serious concern.
October 28th, 2007 at 15:40
moya, lol, man utd winning without the help of ronaldo, must scare alot of teams.
October 28th, 2007 at 15:46
good article by the times
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/manchester_united/article2709654.ece
October 28th, 2007 at 15:50
JB; I respectfully have to disagree a bit with your comment. This is turning out to become one of the great United sides but lets not anoint them this early in the season because they haven’t won anything yet. They have more flair, speed and sheer talent then any previous side, that I don’t think can be argued. They also possess massive potential. What they lack as a whole are two major qualities that truly define a champion. GRIT and EXPERIENCE. For me the best side was 1999 for obvious reasons. They simply accomplished everything that was set in front of them. There was an incredible balance of youth and experience as well, they had players like Keane and Butt as well as Stam and Irwin that gave the team grit and guts when they needed it. 1995 team comes a close second as they probably had more grit, team chemistry and raw determination. They also had so much more experience. However, they didn’t do well in the Champions League and that unfortunately cannot vault them over the treble winners.
The present team has more raw talent in them than any previous club period. In fact this side may have more talent than any previous EPL team in history. But talent isn’t all you need. The first five or six games of the season proved that they were far from being fantastic in all areas. Over time though they have adapted and overcome some of their deficiencies and are shaping up into something very very special. If they continue to rock the EPL and CL like they are doing presently, then I will be more than willing to crown them the best ever. Unitl then I am in a wait and see mode.
In my opinion they are still need of a few ingredients that will vault them into footy God status. A younger and better goalkeeper. EVDS is still a fine keeper but his age is catching up with him and it is starting to show. Secondly, we need backup or better quality at LB/LWB. Evra is fine but a capable backup or an even better player would be nice as well as add the vital depth we need there. I honestly don’t think we need any help at RB even if Neville were never to play there. Simpsonand Brown are more than decent but I really feel that will eventually belong to Pique. He has a lot of talent and they need to make a spot for him. As he has played the position before and excelled, I think that is just natural. Perhaps Sgnol could help for a season or two but long term, we are fine there. Forget the midfield although another experienced attacking midfielder might be good. Although, I think Anderson is maturing much faster than expected. The obvious need is at forward. We need not one but two more strikes. A very good one and a young one to develope as well as use as an insurance policy. Huntelaar is my choice but too be honest, he is too good to be sitting on anyone’s bench. Someone less written about but willing to sit a bitwould be great. Either very young, or much older. Either way, they are going to accept the position.
October 28th, 2007 at 16:20
Grognard: I was careful with my wording there, I said squad not first eleven. In terms of say the 1999 team the current crop are better set up in terms of sheer quality manpower in every department except for forwards. Certainly I would not have expected the 1999 team to ride an injury crisis as well as this squad has. On the 1994 team it is easy to dismiss it for the lack of European success but they were two mitigating factors in play, the Uefa restriction on foreign players meant the first choice eleven could never be fielded and the after effect of the Heysel disaster, which left the club with a deficiency in terms of playing experience in Europe. If I was picking a team as my favourite I would probably still pick the 1994 team (its first choice 11 played together 11 times, winning 10, drawing 1, scoring 24 and conceding 2).
Granted the team has a lot still to prove and they are still relatively inexperienced but they do not strike me as a bunch of lads that lack grit. They were plenty of occasions last season when we were away from home and I was worried the team had a lightweight look about them but I never saw them being outfought or muscled to any serious degree. But there is all the potential in the world there.
On Sagnol, could he play left back required, I seem to have some vague recollection of him playing there before. If he could he would be an excellent signing, helping to provide cover on both flanks and would be well worth the £4m price tag.
October 28th, 2007 at 16:28
jb, i swear gibbson was injured, didnt evans play the euro qualifiers?
October 28th, 2007 at 16:48
Gibson was injured and Evans did play for NI but he has been apparently being carrying some form of ankle (?) injury (ie not sufficient to force him out but it is still effecting him).
October 28th, 2007 at 16:52
JB; On Sagnol, unless he played LB for France I do not have any recollection (although I cannot be 100% sure) of him playing LB for Bayern. He also has always come a cross as a strictly right footed player. Another factor is to consider that he hasn’t played for well over a year. His injury was major and you never know what you are going to get. Before that he was the first choice for Bayern and the French. Now he has lost his spot to Lahm who has moved over to RB and the backup Lell is as good a backup as you will find in the world. He would start for most good teams, but he falls behind Lahm and Jansen on the depth list at RB/LB. Now he would be a great signing because of his ability to play equally well across the back four. The problem with Fergie and a personal pet peeve of mine is that he has never been keen on German players. The only two he has ever even looked at in my memory were Ballack and Klose. It’s a shame because Germans are battlers and have talent and grit. Something a lot of Dutch and French do not have.
Your argument regarding the 1994 or 1995 teams is valid but the situation was what it was and that left them short on the necessary tools that was needed to vault them above the 1999 team. The present side has way more depth but then again, we do have holes at LB and at forward that need to be addressed. What I would give for a rotation of Cole, Yorke, Solksjaer and Sheringham. To be four deep in quality forwards was a dream. Lets not forget that it was the subs of Ole and Teddy that one the European Cup over Bayern and not our two starters. That’s how great that team’s depth was up front. They never had the kind of depth in midfield or in the back four that we have now but lets be honest, back then nobody had that kind of depth. Rules were different and squads were smaller. Even continental squads lacked the kind of depth the Big 14 European clubs have today. In this day and age many World Class players are sitting on club’s subs bench. It’s absurd.
The present team has grit but lets not compare them to the teams that had guys like Mark Hughes, Pallister, Steve Bruce, Ince and Keano and of course the King Cantona. What that tema may have lacked in pace and talent, they made up with determination and TRUE GRIT. They were a physical side. It’s written all over Steve Bruce’s face. That team had a fire and passion and complete unselfishness that is very hard to compare. The 99 side was also very good in this area. A lot of the young players we have today lack that bite, physical presence and unselfishness to really get down in the dirt and fight. That may come with time but right now we have a lot of players that are super talented but are a little soft.
Saha, Carrick, Evra, Rio, Ronaldo, Nani, Brown, Anderson and Tevez all lack that extra element of true grit anda more physical presence with lots of guts. That means getting down and dirty (I don’t mean cheating) and being able to play with discomfort or excel against real adversity. Perhaps most of them will develop this. I see signs in Ronaldo and Tevez where they are making great strides in this. Rio as good as he is doesn’t compare to either Stam, Pallister or Bruce in my books but he is still pretty good. Yet Vidic for me is better and one for my books that saves Rio’s butt more often than not. Rio needs to get as physical as Vidic. Impose himself more on attackers. Tolerate no nonsense. I do like his leadership skills and pride though. They have come a long way. I loved the fact that he was not happy about coming out for a sub yesterday. He showed pride. Sometimes he’s asleep at the wheel and one can question his commitment.
This team is very young and they can only get better. We haven’t even touched on what they are capable. I think the glory days of United and Arsenal being top dogs is here again.
October 28th, 2007 at 19:02
joint top, thats nice. sorry grognard but that chapter was to long for me to read.
October 28th, 2007 at 20:54
No problem Dan. I totally understand. It’s just very difficult for me to compress so many thoughts into a few words. I love to talk football. I also live in a city and country where I am starved for friends who share the same passion. They are all ice hockey or American football fans. Online is the only place where I can get footy fix.
October 28th, 2007 at 21:07
I am just reading an article where Big Sam has said that if their are offers on the table for Michael Owen, he will look at them seriously. Although I would never think of Owen as a the striker savior we now don’t need, I would consider him perfect for a player in the twilight of his career who would be willing to play an important role as super sub and occasional starter for United. Although he is not that old, his body has been through a lot and it has affected his overall game. Less minutes but more quality minutes is what he requires.
As I see it, his style works perfectly with Rooney or Tevez and thus, he fits our requirement list. The fact that his playing time would be strictly controlled, would also lessen his risk for injury. This would be a good move for both sides and Michael should welcome it only because it is time he stepped up and decided to play for a winner. Is it about goals and ego, or is it about attaining silverware? I think he would seriously consider a move to United if Fergie was interested. I also don’t think he brings the emotional and selfish baggage other big name strikers like Sulk Anelka or Berbatov would bring. They would demand starting eleven all the time. After all, the Tevez and Rooney partnership doesn’t look to be a failure right now. All we need is an experienced but talented backup whose very best is behind him but who can fill the net if properly used. Owen could be Sheringham reborn. What do you lads think of Owen coming to United and playing that kind of role? I’m curious.
October 28th, 2007 at 21:46
Owen is injury prone. We should go for Benni or Anelka instead. And yes I think this is the 3rd great team, but it is the 1st season that all of them are playing together and i wont be surprised if they really click next season.
October 28th, 2007 at 23:37
If anyone has ever listened to Eamonn Dunphy go on about football he always seems to get it wrong. He has had kind of a grudge against United since Keano left and at the start of last year he said that United would be lucky to make the CL and then they go and win the league. He then says Ronaldo is overrated right before the Roma match and is made to eat his words. A few weeks ago after the Coventry match he says that Arsenal’s kids are miles better than United’s and what happens, United’s kids put in some fantastic performances to prove him wrong.
P.S. if you’ve never heard of Dunphy go look at some of his rants on youtube and then afterwards search for Apres Match which is probably the funniest spoof show about football ever.
October 29th, 2007 at 0:11
Liam the man is a complete idiot about Unitd because of the grudge he has over Keane being kicked out of the club but he is great entertainment at times. A few good links below, you can look up some of the United ones if you want but they will probably just wind people up. There are also some good ones on Ireland and Keane but they are about 10 min long.
On Sven: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cugYQ35vtvQ
On the Telegraph: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUfqp7e7mBI
The Apres Match: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64wnwzhYMe4
October 29th, 2007 at 3:05
The old man is just a tosser and obviously a complete drunken fart. What gets me is that in England this guy gets air time to speak his filth. The only assholes who get that kind of attention over here are politicians. Who is this guy and why are people not only listening to him, but taping him and giving him a chance to spew his venom on tv? I’m certainly one for freedom of speech but it kind helps if what you say doesn’t sound like racisms and bitterness and just politically incorrect. The man should be tossed in an old folks home and placed on a machine. Either that or locked up. He’s a menace. What an ass clown.
October 29th, 2007 at 5:22
To take it back a bit, grognard i think Tevez really does have that grit and fire to suceed and to do the hard yards for the team. I have watched mountains of footage of him at bocas and he epitomised the team spirit and strength of the club, thats why he was such a crowd favourite. I do agree about the others you mention though, but maybe putting brown into that group is a little rough. Nani and Anderson will find that passion as we succeed, being the young and impressionable lads they are. But will it be as much as some of the greats who have worn the shirt i doubt it. This is nothing against them, but I just dont think they have it in them. To use an analogy of AFL i just dont think they would be brave enough to put their head over the ball and take the hit.
Speaking of depth, I think United has solid goal keeping stocks, EVS last season left me shaking my head at times, but he was fantastic early and i think he has probably this season andanother left in him at United, but i think Foster will then be ready to play 1st team fooball. He is a procacious young talent who is a fantastic reflex shot stopper. I would much rather have our goal keeping stocks than Arsenals. Though Alumina looked very impressive this morning (my time).
I am really looking orward to this weeks build up and some good ranting about Arsenals weaknesses and such, after watching them against Liverpool I think we have a fantastic chance to end their unbeaten run.
ps JB and Grognard really enjoyed your debate, I feel like im in a history lecture!
October 29th, 2007 at 7:29
Thanks for the compliment there Sam. Truthfully I wish there were more debaters and true ranters on this blog. To me a blog isn’t an illiterate sentence or true. It’s pouring your heart out and really expressing your views on a game or topic in in two or three paragraphs. But in this age of intolerance and attention deficit disorder, it just gets some people really pissed off. I’m glad you are not one of them. JB is an intelligent and truly wise football fan. He knows his stuff even if we do agree a bit on players an tactics. But that’s what ranting and debate is all about. Feel free to join in and express your views more often.
Now regarding some of the players you mentioned. First off, I’m not down on Wes Brown at all. Like John O’Shea, I think the lad works his ass off and leaves his heart on the field every game. The problem is he is not good at running forward, overlapping and consistently offering a good high or low cross in to the box. I have no real problem with his defense or tackling or work rate. It’s not that Tevez hasn’t got grit, it’s just that it is hard to define exactly what I mean by GRIT. Grit is getting your kit dirty, it’s tackling in the mud and rain, going for a header when it looks like you will get your block knocked off
sacrificing your body on fierce kick or free kick by not fearing the block and turning etc etc. It’s also about being a true leader out on the pitch. Leading by example and if need be, enforcing the law Keane or Ince style. Most forwards aren’t great at this. Tevez however is a workaholic that never stops running. He is hungry and that’s all we can ask for. His size limits him becoming a fearless header though. EVDS has reached and actually surpassed his very best. He is on a decline and it shows. He’s still better than 60% of the keepers in the league but for United, that’s no longer good enough. I think Foster is a good keeper but I don’t believe he is the answer. And it certainly is the Polish lad. He’s a decent backup though.
The big rumor of course is that Fergie is looking to buy Casillas from Madrid. This is a possibility if Schuster remains as Manager because I know he favors a few German keepers. Now Casillas is but I also think he is overrated. Schuster’s two choices to replace him are actually very good. Either Timo Hildebrand or Robert Enke. I’d add the name Roman Weidenfeller to that list of really exceptional German keepers. As you must know, Germany has a great history of developing fantastic goalkeepers. The one I really want though I don’t think we will get. It is Poland’s and Celtic’s number one keeper Artur Boruc. Actually he has been a little out form this season but the lad is fantastic with exceptional cat-like reflexes. I’ve seen him play many times but his game against Germany in the World Cup was master class in heroic goalkeeping. But I’ve never heard Fergie ever talk about him or the German keepers. He’s hung up on Casillas and some useless tools from France. Our greats keeper Schmeichel grew up idolizing two German keepers and he has stated that no country develops them better than Germany. Certainly Spain and France don’t.
Finally about Arsenal. Right now our form is excellent offensively but we have looked very suspect in our defensive duties. This could kill us against Arsenal. They exploit the smallest error and this year they have the finishing polish to make it cost us. Winning at the Emirates will be extremely difficult so I will be very happy with a tie. However I am predicting a loss. We will be the better team in the long run as I think we are better built and more suited for a marathon. But a one game situation on enemy turf? I’m actually predicting either a 2-0 or 3-1 loss to Arsenal. Our defense and EVDS inability to make a big save when it counts concerns me greatly. The pressure will be high and I have a feeling Arsenal will want this one almost as much as the league as it will confirm their status as the real deal and not pretenders. Even so, United will win the league because of their style and experience. What do you think?
October 29th, 2007 at 9:00
[Grognard]
Eamon Dunphy is among Ireland’s most controversial journalists - know especially for his outbursts. He is a weird character though. He’s written a biography of Sir Matt Busby and of course, is the person Roy Keane picked to ghost write his autobiography. So a tosser he may be. But he is a tosser of repute.
Nonetheless, a lot of stuff he’s said, especially things about Ronaldo, serve to just wind you up - as JB said above.
October 29th, 2007 at 10:14
…
October 29th, 2007 at 10:25
Grognard, your posts are Very interesting, but Very long…
(please don’t take this as an insult? No offense intended)
Can you perhaps try to break your paragraphs into seperate posts?
Psychologically, it will help readers, if they see the posts are not too long to read. (Readers ususally scan a comment with their eyes before starting to read something - strange?!?). Breaking it down into smaller comments, MIGHT give the illusion of less work to do by the reader and also getting all your thoughts accross. (Less = better).
In theory, it should not be too difficult for you to implement because you already stick to 1 point per paragraph.
I’m not saying this this is the sollution, but it might be worth giving it a shot. Then again, you don’t have to - freedom of speech - in which case, I can respect that.
If my criticism / suggestion is offensive, then please forgive.
October 29th, 2007 at 12:05
the defence, i still am not happy with them even though people bring up the score more than you mentality. because the conceded goals were not results of being caught out of position due to attacking plays, like a opposition break, or a smart indefensible move.
if the goals were scored because of a genius move from the opposition, it would cause me less frustration. but the goals conceded were all undefended against. and EVDS who was touted for staying awake and ready even if the defence was beaten, didnt show me that he deserved that praise. he seemed flat footed and flustered. i think even PIG woulda done better handling those goals.
the defence always helped the goal scoring process, but this time, the goals conceded were not due to that. it was due to napping.
i just hope they dont nap anymore and play properly… it doesnt even have to be a MOTM performance, just keep the ship as steady as they can while the rest fire on all cylinders like they are doing now.
October 29th, 2007 at 13:08
I dont think Casillas is overrated.Maybe Buffon is overrated.Casillas have played better than
other teammates of Real Madrid for years.He always had a shaky defence infront of him.
Grognard,no matter what you say,its really good to see someone so regular in comments
section.another thing is,we are a little afraid to accidentally offend you…
October 29th, 2007 at 13:18
Why sign another injury prone striker like Owen,when we already have one?
what we need now is a really sharp striker.Like Menez,Huntelar or Nilmar.
And being at top along with Arsenal is really good.Because it should be like this.
Teams who play great football should be on top,not like the boring Chelski or Loserpool.
October 29th, 2007 at 13:20
dont be pussys, grognard is a grown man who knows how to handle himself, and wouldnt be offended at constructive critisim, grognard we dont want to be rude but can you please shorten your post slightly, you give us good in sight and good points about our matches and players, and we dont want to be rude but it would be nice if you could shrten them.
October 29th, 2007 at 13:27
Pussies?
dan,just read Karl’s last comment.I was only pointing to that post.
He looked terrified
October 29th, 2007 at 14:44
ow fine
. ryan shawcross is doing well at stoke eh? 5 goals already this season and he’s a defender.
October 29th, 2007 at 15:20
After re-reading it, I can see what you mean.
Thing is just, I don’t want to be rude and also don’t want to try to correct people anymore. That used to be a quality of mine that pissed people off. I’d like to think that I’ve grown a bit.
October 29th, 2007 at 17:19
[Grognard] Grit and Determination doesnt have anything to do with size. Yes Size does matter a little. but it s not all about size..In the current team i dont think we are missing grit and determination..Tevez,Rooney,Hargreaves,Vidic…are not afraid to put their lives for whatever they do..
Tevez showed a glimpse of his in the first goal against Wigan..he shrugged off challenges from two bulky defenders to reach wherever he want..Rooney showed that in last years CL semifinal..At a crucial point shrugged off Nesta and buried a first time shot on goal to make it 3-2…Grit and determination means you do whatever you know you can do and never be afraid of whoever stands in your way and is a product of passion and hunger for success..
Size just makes it easy for you to do that…but these qualities should be in the blood and heart rather than in the muscles..
and about Owen!!!…no way!!..As far as my footballing knowledge goes I would say what we need is an out-out striker who has some physical presence and speed (Sadly Saha fits the bill perfectly) who adds an extra dimension to our attacking game..wherever our fast movement and through balls fails we need someone to come in and stand in the box and gives an aerial threat and at the same time who can involve in our fast interplay…I am not sure who we have like that in current football..may be Benni Mccarthy..
October 29th, 2007 at 17:27
Karl and Sunny; Thanks for your comments and don’t worry about offending me. Dan is correct, I am a big boy and I will try not to be offended. I certainly will never take offense to differing opinions as that is what encourages constructive conversations. It would be pretty boring if we all agreed with each other all the time.
I honestly don’t know if I can shorten my posts because once I get an idea or two or three I just write. What I will do is break them down into separate posts to make them a little easier on the eyes and on the mind. Sorry for the length but I do love to talk about the topic of football. And I appreciate constructive criticism, so thanks again.
October 29th, 2007 at 17:33
Sunny; I realize that Owen has been injury prone but he may be finally coming out of that a bit. The point I was making is that players like Huntelaar (who we both love) will demand a starting eleven position. Unless we go to a 4-3-3, I cannot see that happening. Bringing a very young and inexperienced striker with great potential may not give us that offensive injection needed from a sub. An older, experienced but talented sub like Owen (in the Sheringham, Solksjaer style) would give us that and hopefully the less minutes on the field but more quality time would lessen his injury risk and heighten his overall production potential. He also suits the current style being played, while also liking the 18 yard box.
October 29th, 2007 at 17:39
i agree with grognard, ive been thinking of that for a while, thars why we cant buy berbs or anelka or huntelaar, the tevey-roo connextion cant be broken up at this early stage, we need a bench warmer, sheringham woulda been perfect, maybe defoe, he’s use to it lol, larson is an option since he dosent have a club but if you think about it, we have campbell aswell(tho he isnt premier league proven yet)
October 29th, 2007 at 17:41
4-3-3 just wouldnt be good for us, to much talens would be wasted young and old.
October 29th, 2007 at 17:44
Shyam; Your points are well taken. First off, It’s not that Tevez doesn’t have grit but sorry, sometimes physical presence, especially in the box, is necessary. As for Rooney, he was never on my list of players lacking grit. He personifies determination and grit. In fact, his grit often gets him in trouble. Also not on my list was Hargreaves and Vidic. Please read again and see that it was Rio, Anderson, Carrick, Evra and especially Saha who lacked that extra quality. It doesn’t make them bad footballers, just lacking that little extra physical and emotional element that determines the winner of a 50/50 ball eight out of ten times. As for Ronaldo and Nani, I’m still not really sure of their grit. Sometimes they show it, and sometimes they don’t.
October 29th, 2007 at 17:57
i think just like you grognard, sometimes ronaldo ia tuff and other times he;s on the floor, nani well he’s always on the floor, hargreaves will get stuck into a game and and take some hits while carrick will hide and saha…no comment,tevez is kind of tuff same with rio.
October 29th, 2007 at 18:03
changing the topic:
has anyone else notice that appart from the carling cup, we’re equaling them in everything else, we’re both a point away from qualification(ironcly are group are exzacly the same to) and we’re joint top in the league.
October 29th, 2007 at 18:35
What is really noticeable is how both managers recognized the changing style and elements of the EPL and adapted their teams accordingly. I also love the fact that they believe in a youth policy. I do love the fact that SAF and the Glazers are more willing to dip into the safe when a big player purchase is needed. Building a very young team is great but you still need quality and experience fed in to the team from time to time. Arsenal is a great young team but they will be tested over a long season and I’m not sure their youth program can hold up as well as ours. Why? They don’t have the Giggs’ Scholes’, Neville’s, Rio’s and Hargo’s to steady the ship when it comes upon a rocky shore or when injuries and fatigue show up. That is when veteran influence and their calming effect can mean everything
Once we address that extra striker and backup at LWB in January, then our experience and quality depth will show.
October 29th, 2007 at 18:50
I agree 100% about the point that the striker who will come in should be a bench warmer until the need arises..But Owen doesnt fit our requirement..and as everyone pointed out..we need somebody who can provide physical presence..As far as grit and determination I also see Anderson in the same category…coz as I said to show determination you dont have to pick a fight.
He can show that with his running for the ball and with the ball..its another way of demonstrating determination…Even if you are fouled, get up, secure the ball and keep moving..thats why Ronaldinho is still considered greatest…I agree that C.Ronaldo is theatrical at times…
October 29th, 2007 at 18:56
nicky shorey, leighton baines or gareth bale, they would be my preferd back up left-back. i just read an article on the bbc about the great britain football for 2012, i want to know your starting eleven and subs for GB. mines is:
Gordon
richards terry rio Bale
phillips hargo stevie lennon
rooney keane
subs:
fletch
defoe
cole
bridge
foster
s.brown
October 29th, 2007 at 18:59
Scholes out for 3 months. This is Anderson’s time to shine.
October 29th, 2007 at 18:59
ronaldinho isnt considerd the greatest anymore(atleast by sane people who arnt from/in america) now people dispute the worlds great out of CR7,mexican poo and maradona junior, imagine the 3 of them in 1 team. yep anderson is now in our starting 11.
October 29th, 2007 at 19:23
About the Scholes injury, a new post is up, discuss about that over there.
October 29th, 2007 at 19:29
I still dont consider the Dos santos as one of the contenders for ronaldinho’s seat. He may have shown flashes of brilliance. Messi is a talent and he needs to prove it this season. Ronaldo is talented ,skillful and can oust Ronaldinho..Ronaldinho might not be great anymore but as far as i seen Ronaldinho was the greatest..Sorry for being an ultra…but i cant help..
October 29th, 2007 at 19:45
who said anything about santos?
October 29th, 2007 at 20:06
I thought the mexican u talked about was Dos Santos..may be my bad!!
October 29th, 2007 at 20:19
We already had our crack at Baines and especially Bale and blew it. Idoubt we will be able to get either so soon after their transfers. I’m personally not that big on Shorey. He’s not Man Utd caliber.
October 29th, 2007 at 20:19
I for one am glad we are no longer the carling cup. With our current injury crisis it would not be worth it and anyway i would prefer seen what pique, simpson, anderson et al can do in the 1st team than shining in reserves.
The weekend should be interesting. With Tevez/Rooney on fire I cant wait.
October 29th, 2007 at 20:51
Plenty of stuff to discuss here but there is just one or two things I want to address. Ronaldo foe me has as much grit and courage as anyone in the squad, it just exhibits itself in a different way to most. I’ve never seen a winger take so many heavy hits during a game and just keep on picking up the ball and going at defenders again and again. He may not have the grit of a Keane in the traditional sense but he is as courageous in his own way. Also Evra while quite small is actually someone who I would gladly have in my side in a fight, he reminds me a bit of Fortune i.e. a bit mentally deranged at times!
On Dunphy he is a vitriolic, spiteful old man but for someone stuck with BBC and Sky love-ins he is a breath of fresh air. In a vomit inducing age of commentators and pundits referring to players as Stevie G, JT and Lamps, where Jamie Redknapp cannot bring himself to criticise anyone, RTE’s coverage is a real change of pace. It is excellent viewing as long as your team isn’t on the end of the hiding they’re giving out. I don’t know what it is like in Canada, the US or anywhere else but I’ve found football programs to have dramatically reduced in quality in recent years with endless amounts of idiots polluting our screens and airways. It must be said there are still a few shining lights such as Stelling, Kamara, Marcotti, Souness, Gullit and Hansen but they are growing ever fewer in number.
Dan: I believe the Olympics is an under 23 competition with 3 older players allowed (please correct me if I’m wrong) in the squad so you would have to do a bit of re-working on your squad.
Finally Sam, glad you enjoyed the debate, are you a recent convert to the United way! BTW Grognard is right, I am truly a wise man
(hope a- my smilie a worked, b- put it in the correct context). But seriously, feel free to get stuck into the debate, particularly if you think Grognard or myself are complete talking rubbish.
October 30th, 2007 at 11:36
Grognard,you are welcome.We all are in the same family,that is UNITED family.So no point being offended
at a friends words.
About strikers,In a team like United,you always need atleast 3 world class strikers.Yes,Huntellar will
demand 1st team play and thats what we need.Tevez and Rooney wont play every game and I’m not counting
Saha,{because someone said here that he has a vagina}.And for Europian games,we need sharp strikers,who
will score 1 goal per chance
October 30th, 2007 at 15:18
Sir Alex’s 3rd great team certainly looks to be taking shape and he has once again be proved correct when he said that Rooney and Tevez could play together. The third goal was absolutely top drawer and the performance against Boro’ will certainly be a scary sign for the rest of the league.
Anyone else really excited about the Arsenal match?
October 30th, 2007 at 18:42
JB; There is a bloke in Canada that is somewhat similar to Dunphy in style but he never gets quite as angry. He also saves his venom for HOCKEY coaches, owners, league officials , referees and the odd goon or player who isn’t working hard. His name is Don Cherry. The difference with Dunphy is that Cherry is widely regarded and highly respected in the game. All Canadians in fact love him and his old school thinking. He also is famous for his intense dislike of European hockey players as he thinks they are dirty and are soft. So he can offend, but nothing like this old fart you guys have.
JB, he may be a breath of fresh air compared to the cookie cutter approach used by most in the media, especially the BBC and Sky (I especially hate listening to that pratt LOVEJOY on BBC’s 606), but his rants border on racism and incredible hatred for players. That’s taking it too far.
And SAM, I too welcome you aboard and also welcome you into the sometimes heated discussions about our favorite team. Feel free to disagree but know this, I’m always right. JOKE!!!!!!!