A few thoughts:
- Nani - "Illuminating and frustrating at the same time" - that was how he was described by the commentator today and I think that sums up his display today. He had one of those days where his approach play was mainly very good but his crossing and in particular shooting were wayward up until he curled the ball into the net to add United's fifth. You cannot fault his effort for sure and being critical is harsh after such a good performance by all the team.
- Rooney - A vital decision will have to made in the upcoming match against City on February 12th. To match the noisy neighbour's usual formation, the Reds will play three in midfield which means just one central striker. On current form that person would have to be Berbatov with Rooney struggling to hit the back of the net at the moment. The problem remains that the skillful Bulgarian plays best as part of a two and although playing Rooney wide left is an option, it is not best for the team who work better with the natural width of Giggs on the left. Could Rooney be left on the bench against City? A year ago it would have been unthinkable but not so now.
- Blackpool - It is a vital match on Tuesday against the seasiders where three points must come home with United to consolidate and hopefully stretch the lead at the top. It would be refreshing and ominous for our challengers to see us claim the victory and do so with a swagger that has proved elusive in away games this season.
- Anderson - The young Brazilian has been great in the crushing wins against Blackburn and Birmingham and is often a driving force in games at Old Trafford. It would be fantastic to see him have a similar influence on a vital away game to help establish his position in the heart of a midfield that has lacked skill and quality all season long.
- Owen - The former England striker came on for the final half an hour and it was interesting to notice how his game has changed over the years. From being a pacy live wire who was always perched on the shoulder of the last defender looking to run in behind, to the player he is now who drops deep and looks to link play and arguably means that the only real penalty box striker United possess is Javier Hernandez. Hopefully, Owen can use his limited time at Old Trafford to teach the Little Pea all the tricks of the trade although I see the young Mexican as a more rounded overall player.
All in all, a fantastic performance by the whole team and a walk in the park for our defence who will not have an easier game all season. Birmingham clearly had both eyes on their midweek Cup semi final which played into the home team's hands and led to the convincing scoreline.
Team Ratings:
Van Der Sar - 6, Evra - 6, Vidic - 6, O'Shea - 6, Giggs - 7, Carrick - 6, Anderson - 7, Nani - 7, Rooney - 7, Berbatov - 9. Subs: Gibson - 6, Fabio - 7, Owen - 5
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