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The final match of the season - Blackpool at Old Trafford
James_WrittenOff: I thought we would start with a quick look back on the Blackpool game which finished 4-2 and sadly saw Blackpool relegated. Were you surprised at the quality in the starting lineup that Sir Alex picked?
Chris- Can They Score: Well, I was most certainly surprised to see Vidic starting, considering the excellent form of Smalling recently. I think Sir Alex really has a tough task as to who to choose between him & Evans on the bench on Sat so I thought he might have played both but obviously he didn't.
Chris- Can They Score: From where I was sitting, it looked like Vidic was carrying an injury in the second half and he was substituted early but I am sure that was only a precaution. It seems the risk of injury was one Sir Alex was prepared to take in order to maintain match sharpness.
James_WrittenOff: I thought it was a brave call by Sir Alex to be honest. Vidic was the main worry as it would have been easy for him to pick up an injury against a team that were up for the fight to stay in the league
Chris- Can They Score: My heart was in my mouth when he went in for that crunching sliding tackle in the first half, when he was caught late!
James_WrittenOff: Yeah I think the match sharpness angle was the key. I think Sir Alex felt in 2009 that the team were too well rested and lost focus a little so he is determined to be different this time around. Rooney, Giggs and Scholes all got some match time last night too which was telling. Seems like he is keen to keep things ticking over
Chris- Can They Score: Yes, I agree totally. In 2009, even the likes of Ji Sung Park looked a bit leggy, having not played a competitive match in 2 and a half weeks- Its a lesson he seems to have learned the hard way! One must also remember, Rio hadn't played in a month or two before Rome because he had been injured, it will make a big difference that he is fully fit this time
James_WrittenOff: It was good to see Owen and Anderson get goals on Sunday but I am not sure if either will be on the bench on Saturday to be honest. If Fergie wants Fletcher on the bench then Anderson misses out for me and cannot see how Owen makes it
Chris- Can They Score: Personally, I think Sir Alex gave Owen the opportunity to cement a place on the bench last night, following his goal on Sunday. However, he just didn't have his shooting boots on, which was disappointing to see
Chris- Can They Score: Regarding Anderson, I think it is going to be between him & Scholes for a place on the bench because I think Sir Alex will be desperate to include Fletcher, if no more reason that the fact he is versatile.
James_WrittenOff: To be on the bench though would mean no place for Berbatov surely and that won't happen. I think ideally we need 12 in the starting lineup and about ten on the bench!
Chris- Can They Score: Sadly, I get the feeling Scholes might call it a day if he was omitted from the squad- its our biggest game of the year and if he misses, he may feel his time is up
Chris- Can They Score: Regarding Berbatov, I don't think he did himself any favours on Sunday, I think Sir Alex gave Owen the chance to make the bench but he didn't take it
James_WrittenOff: I get the feeling if for nothing more than sentimental reasons that Scholes will be on the bench but on current form you could argue that Anderson deserves it possibly. Seems like treachery to say that about genius Scholes but shows his time is coming to an end
Chris- Can They Score: I know, even suggesting he might be left from the bench seems like treason! But it is a sad reality...
Chris- Can They Score: I'm all for fairy tales, I would go mental if Scholes were to come on and score one last screamer! That would be unbelievable, magical, perfect!
James_WrittenOff: Would be perfect way to round off a wonderful career for Scholesy. He could not top that ending!
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| Sir Alex & the 19th trophy (photo via @TriciaRKG) |
Chris- Can They Score: Well, first and foremost, I would just like to say that the Blackpool fans were absolutely awesome. The Tangerine fans were awesome throughout, even when their fate was confirmed.
Chris- Can They Score: The match itself was thoroughly enjoyable, Blackpool came out and attacked, like we expected, and to be fair to them they were the only team to take the lead at Old Trafford this season.
James_WrittenOff: I thought it was wonderful how the home fans reacted to Holloway at the end and to Blackpool in general. Really showed our class there.
Chris- Can They Score: But the atmosphere generally was special... starting off with the guard of honour, then to the superb mosaic from Stretford Eng flags
Chris- Can They Score: The crowd throughout was buoyant and I agree totally with you, definitely showed our class. To be fair I think most people respect what Blackpool have done this season but it was just surreal at the end
Chris- Can They Score: I honestly think the image of Holloway waving goodbye to his fans, only to then be given a standing ovation by every single person inside Old Trafford was very very special.
Chris- Can They Score: A testament to the man
James_WrittenOff: Agreed, and he looked moved by the ovation at such a special ground. Hopefully he will be back
Chris- Can They Score: Well, I don't know whether my emotions are getting the better of me, if I'm being too sentimental but I honestly think he'd make a great assistant manager to Sir Alex. Obviously, it would mean he'd relinquish the control he has as a manager but he would jump at the chance. He loves football and he'd be honoured to work with Sir Alex. Despite being defensively naive (more the quality of players rather than tactically) he plays football in the right manner and would certainly beat Mike Phelan for the MOTD interviews!
James_WrittenOff: Not sure Sir Alex would go for someone like him as an assistant! I think he would end up throttling him within about 10 minutes. He is also perfect for a small club, a job at a bigger one would be too much for him. But definitely agree he would be great value for BBC interviews rather than Phelan who for me is a bit of a "yes" man for me and Sir Alex knows he can keep him in check
The Youth Cup Final Second Leg
Chris- Can They Score: It was great to see us win the YC for the 10th Time, I think our team really showed their quality throughout the rounds- with victories at Upton Park & Anfield, as well as a good display at SW6
James_WrittenOff: it was clear that eventually our class told in the final but credit to Sheffield United who looked to have plenty of decent players. Great experience for our lads to play at great stadiums such as Stamford Bridge, Anfield and Old Trafford
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| 2011 FA Youth Cup Winners (picture via Roy Keane's Gum Tumblr) |
James_WrittenOff: Morrison will get the headlines but there are other unsung heroes in the side who deserve a mention like Lingard, Thorpe, Johnstone. Pogba was again very impressive in parts and Tunnicliffe looks like he has a future too. Will Keane impresses each time with his composure and reminds me of Sheringham a little bit
Chris- Can They Score: Yeah, Morrison generally does (for the right and wrong reasons) but I think it's a real team effort. The likes of Larnell Cole, Lingard, Tunnicliffe and Fornasier work tirelessly for the team- their work ethics are sensational.
Chris- Can They Score: I think W Keane has a very promising future as a professional footballer, whether it'll be at United only time will tell.
Chris- Can They Score: I think we are seeing the dividends of continued investment in the facilities at Carrington and purchasing of foreign youngsters- we should have a strong team next year in the FAYC too even when this lot progress to the Reserves
James_WrittenOff: Agree with all of that. So difficult to predict who will "make it" out of these youngsters but most should get a good career out of the game even if not at Old Trafford
James_WrittenOff: Sometimes it is the lesser talented ones that have to work extra hard that get the best careers and Gary Neville is the perfect example
Chris- Can They Score: I think that's the same with Ryan Tunnicliffe, he is by no means the most naturally gifted player in the team but he certainly seems to have the spirit and determination to progress
James_WrittenOff: Yeah good point. Do you agree that it will be another year or so before we see any of these lads in the first team squad or is there a chance that Sir Alex may blood some in Carling Cup next year?
Chris- Can They Score: Well, a lot of people are getting very excited by this current crop of kids but I can't see any being introduced too quickly, unless we have an injury crisis next year.
Chris- Can They Score: I think they all need at least another year in the Reserves- for various reasons
Chris- Can They Score: The likes of Cleverley, Welbeck etc will be the ones who Sir Alex will work hardest to get in the team
Chris- Can They Score: After that he'll be focusing on the likes of Josh King and deciding if they have a future at United
James_WrittenOff: Yeah those two are the next ones in line and deserve a run next year to see if they are United players. Both have done well out on loan. Next year's squad is going to be very competitive!
Chris- Can They Score: It will be very interesting, I need to reacquaint myself with the 25-man squad rules etc!
James_WrittenOff: There is a number who can be outside that who are "homegrown" so we should be fine in that respect whereas other teams will struggle for sure
Chris- Can They Score: Yeah, that would be an added bonus of bringing in that Varone if we decide we need a DEF because he would be classed as homegrown
The potential signing of David De Gea
Chris- Can They Score: In terms of summer signings, what do you make of the apparent signing of David De Gea for £17m? The second most expensive GK in history if the deal goes through!
James_WrittenOff: Clearly he has a lot of talent and could prove to be a cost effective buy. I trust in the coaching team who will have scoured the world for the best so if he is their choice then I am fine with that. My worry is his age, lack of English skills and the daunting prospect of following Edwin. He will also be under the microscope but am sure his personality will see him cope.
James_WrittenOff: I am not sure how adept he is with the ball at his feet but he will use these skills more than at Athletico and Edwin is the master of this much over looked art. Communication with the back 4 will also be key but he has enough time to learn enough English to get by unless he uses Capello's teacher!
Chris- Can They Score: Its good to hear he asked for time to think about it initially, it shows maturity in that he considered it all- some said the hesitation was a sign of weakness but I'd argue its a strength. I'm also glad to hear his whole family and girlfriend will be moving over with him, that makes a big difference, as it can be seen with the way Hernandez has settled!
Chris- Can They Score: I think he definitely has talent but as you say he is very young. At 20, he is 4 years younger than Joe Hart and 6 months younger than Arsenal's Szczeny
Chris- Can They Score: But he has been playing for Athletico for two seasons now, and he has played for Spain's youth teams at major tournaments, as well as winning the UEFA Cup with Athletico at just 19.
James_WrittenOff: To be fair, I have heard that the alleged time he took to make a decision was partially due to tidying things up with his old agent as he is now with the famous Jorge Mendes who seems omnipresent in all United foreign deals at the moment
Chris- Can They Score: Yeah, he's most certainly that! Ronaldo, Anderson, Nani...... Bebe
James_WrittenOff: Amazing to think that De Gea is half Edwin's age! Good luck to him because he is going to be under so much pressure but sure he can deal with it all. Will be interesting to see how he acts after a big mistake which is inevitable at some point. Strength of character will shine through I am sure!
Champions League Final versus Barcelona
James_WrittenOff: Shall we round off with the Champions League Final?
Chris- Can They Score: Definitely, that minor fixture at the end of the week!
Chris- Can They Score: Everyone seems to think they know Sir Alex's team on Saturday, what are your thoughts about his Starting XI?
James_WrittenOff: I wonder if he has a master plan to surprise us all to be honest that he has been developing in his head!
James_WrittenOff: Realistically i think the only decision is at right back where Fabio, Rafael and John O'Shea are battling it out. I would go with Fabio but his brother would also suffice. Not keen on John against the Barca pace. Basically I would pick the side that played Schalke away
Chris- Can They Score: Well, I would have to agree but I am sure Sir Alex has at least one surprise for us!
Chris- Can They Score: It should be a different game from Rome, considering the fact Ronaldo won't be playing. The way Hernandez works tirelessly for the team will certainly help us press the Barca defence but I personally think our width may be a key factor this time round, with Valencia on the right, rather than Park (who will now be on the left) and Rooney pushed into the middle, where he plays best
Chris- Can They Score: I think the added creativity will really cause the Barcelona defence difficulties. Their defence is also a topic of debate, considering how it will differ from last time.
Chris- Can They Score: 2009 in Rome
Chris- Can They Score: Puyol Toure Pique Sylvinho
Chris- Can They Score: 2011 in London
Chris- Can They Score: Alves Mascherano Pique Puyol
Chris- Can They Score: (That is if Abidal isn't deemed sufficiently match fit)
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| Let's hope these scenes are repeated on Saturday (picture via Balajithoughts Blog) |
James_WrittenOff: Everyone is assuming Hernandez will play and i think it must be a certainty given his form and the effect he has on the team. This is not the time for Sir Alex to revert to a defensive set up. What is for sure is that Park and Rooney will have to do a lot of work (which they love) to assist Giggs and Carrick yet still be able to be effective on the counter
James_WrittenOff: I would suggest that Abidal will play if they can get him 80% match fit. If not then it looks a fragile back 4 for me. Puyol is vulnerable on the left with Mascherano not suited to centre back. Pique is a little off form and Alves is weak when in defensive positions. But will we be able to get enough of the ball?!
Chris- Can They Score: Well, I don't expect us to have lots of the ball but I think we should be able to hurt them when we get it. As you've said, all their defenders have their weaknesses, especially if Abidal doesn't play.
Chris- Can They Score: Just like Rio in Rome, Puyol hasn't played competitively since the 3rd May- He is bound to be a bit rusty!
Chris- Can They Score: And you have mentioned the others
Chris- Can They Score: Overall, I think the first goal will, as always, be massive!
Chris- Can They Score: I think both teams would struggle to overturn a deficit
James_WrittenOff: Your good friend Mr Balague said on Revista that whoever scores first wins! Simple as that.
James_WrittenOff: I thought he would be pro Barca but he is edging towards United I feel.
Chris- Can They Score: Well, he first made that point in his interview with me! ;)
James_WrittenOff: I think it is a bonus that we have the league safely wrapped up as going into the game without a trophy would have piled extra pressure on
James_WrittenOff: You got the exclusive mate!
Chris- Can They Score: "With Barcelona struggling to score at the moment, there won’t be too many goals and I think that if you score first it will be very, very difficult for Barcelona to turn it round." This statement is taken from my interview with Guillem, click the words to go to the post.
James_WrittenOff: Will be fascinating to see if Fergie has any special plans for Messi. I am not sure he will as we don't really have the personnel to carry it out. If you concentrate on him then one of the others will destroy you for sure
Chris- Can They Score: I think there's only one player who could do a job on him without getting sent off, he wouldn't do the best job and it would ruin our own chemistry but I honestly believe O'Shea would be the best option if we were to man mark him- sure he doesn't have the pace put he has experience- lots of it. One of the twins would be off after half an hour. Fletcher would have been the only other option but he's unfit- same with Hargreaves
James_WrittenOff: I would not think O'Shea is up to that job to be honest. I think Messi's trickery would be too much but as you say doing that would ruin our shape. Let them worry about us and the best team will prevail
James_WrittenOff: Who is your choice at right back
Chris- Can They Score: I'd go for Fabio
Chris- Can They Score: He's not as good as Rafael going forward, but less inclined to get sent off
James_WrittenOff: My bench prediction is Kuszczak, Smalling, O'Shea, Scholes, Anderson Nani, Berbatov
James_WrittenOff: I would have said Fletch for Ando but as he did not play yesterday I am not convinced about him any more
Chris- Can They Score: I went for Lindegaard, O'Shea, Smalling, Fletcher, Scholes, Nani, Berbatov
Chris- Can They Score: Only because Sir Alex loves Fletcher and Scholes
Chris- Can They Score: But I'm sure he is more professional than that
James_WrittenOff: I agree by the way on keeper but think Fergie will keep with Kuszczak unfortunately
James_WrittenOff: Typical that by the time i have learned to spell his name, his OT career looks over!
Chris- Can They Score: I still have to copy it from his wikipedia page!
James_WrittenOff: It is sure to be compelling and nerve-wracking at the same time. Let's hope United can round off the season in style!
If you have made it this far then we are very appreciative of your efforts!
Be sure to check our respective sites to see our predictions for Wembley and for more in-depth analysis of the game. Thank you to the excellent @TriciaRKG for the photos used.
Please leave any comments below and you can follow Chris on Twitter here
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