Youth players at United - patience is the key.

Fabio Paim. A name many of you will never have heard before. If you play a lot of Football Manager or follow Chelsea Reserves then his name will ring a bell.

“If you think I am good, wait until you see Fabio Paim”. These were the words uttered by a certain Cristiano Ronaldo during his time at Sporting CP. We all know how the latter turned out, but the former, if Mr. Ronaldo was right, could have been something else.

Fabio Paim was the kind of player who, at the tender age of 13, would dribble past every single player on the opposition team, get through on goal and instead of shooting, would run back to the half way line and start all over again. That’s how talented he was. However, with no one able to guide him down the right path and teach him how to control his money, he became lazy and thought that he was far better than everyone around him.

After several unproductive loan spells including one to Luis Felipe Scolari’s Chelsea, Sporting CP decided to offload their bigheaded winger in 2010. Fabio Paim is now without a club, having last played for Primeiro de Agosto in Angola until getting released in April 2012.

Fabio Paim - to be this cool takes time

In an interview with Record shortly after being released from Primeiro de Agosto, Fabio Paim admitted making many mistakes in his career:   

“Today I look at ex-colleagues like Rui Patricio and Daniel Carriço and I think that I could be in their place, even at a higher level. But they always worked hard, whilst I made several mistakes. I'm happy for them, I am not envious; I do not hold any grudges, even when they tell me on the street that I could be better than Cristiano Ronaldo. The truth is that I could not handle the fact that football was not a hobby but a profession.”

Why Fabio Paim? Because he is the prime example of what could happen to many young footballers if they are given too much money and promised glory far too soon.

When news crept through that Sir Alex Ferguson refused to give Paul Pogba the contract he wanted, I could not help but smile at the decision. The old man is no fool. Players should not demand contract renewals, they should work hard and wait until they are offered one. A salary increase is a reward, not an obligation. Yes, Paul Pogba is a talented footballer and will probably enjoy a good footballing career but a large ego is not what reserve players need.  Look at Tunnicliffe: he gives his all every game and stays out of the headlines, hence his inclusion in the pre-season tour. The same can be said about Lingard, Petrucci and the Keane brothers.

These youth players will, in a few years time, be central to Manchester United’s plans alongside Nick Powell, Tom Cleverley & the Da Silva twins yet, they are not quite 100% ready for the big leap to the first-team. Lingard and Petrucci have shown flashes of brilliance so far in pre-season and Tunnicliffe has battled hard whenever he has featured but these are only pre-season friendlies. The difference in intensity compared to Premier League games week in, week out is substantial. Loans to the Championship or to the likes of Wigan (look at Cleverley) could be much more beneficial than sitting on a bench hoping to come on for 5 minutes at the end of a game in the 2^nd leg of a cup tie.

Petrucci gaining experience in pre-season

This may sound absolutely logical to some of you but the amount of fans calling for some of them to be part of the first team next season is rather staggering.

A great example of what can happen to a player given an opportunity too soon is Freddy Adu. You will have heard of him. He made his debut at the age of 14 for DC United and holds the record as the youngest USA international (16 years and 234 days). Making the leap from the MLS to Benfica at the age of 18 was a great mistake for his career.

Playing only 11 games in 4 years at the Portuguese clubs and being loaned out rather unsuccessfully to a variety of clubs in France, Portugal and Turkey showed that he was nowhere near ready for the increased level of European football. Having now returned to the MLS with Philadelphia Union, Freddy seems to have found his feet again and, still only aged 23, seems to have his career back on track. The hype surrounding Adu was staggering and had he stayed a few more years in the MLS to develop properly, football could have had a new superstar.

What we, as Manchester United fans, do not want to see is a waste of talent. Our reserve team is full of potential ability but youth players need to be given time to grow at their own pace and not forced into a level of football they are unable to keep up with. Turning talented players into stars takes time. Rush things and Manchester United could find itself with a black hole where a potential galaxy of promise used to be.

By Tom Coast

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United's new young signing - shades of Zidane?

By Adam Crafton (Follow me on Twitter)

Nick Powell is the latest prodigy to be churned out of Crewe Alexandra’s prolific production line – one which Henry Ford himself would take huge pride in.

Although he will be following a familiar path – one successfully trodden down by Premier League stars including Robbie Savage, Neil Lennon, Danny Murphy and Dean Ashton – Powell dares to be different.

From Crewe’s laboratory of technical brilliance, Powell now moves on to another magnificent skill factory, to Manchester United’s hi-tech training complex mystically concealed in the Trafford countryside.

Some would naively believe that the hard part has been navigated. Powell by this stage has already attracted the attention of the most successful manager in the history of the English football, and been guided by Dario Gradi, the maestro in the nurture of young talent. Powell will now drop shoulders alongside Wayne Rooney, shimmy and feint with Ryan Giggs and perfect slide-rule passing with Paul Scholes.

In reality, the hardest part begins now; the mental battle. Can the 18 year old boy from Crewe, so used to being the star, the go-to man and the inspiration, adapt to being the prospect, the raw potential and possibly on the fringes? Certainly, it is unlikely that he has ever experienced the feeling of being inferior.

Powell has just finished his studies at Sandbach school and their Director of Football, Craig Malbon, tells Written Offside, “His peers were of course always inferior to him, and it would sometimes be difficult to pitch sessions to him because of the level he was used to playing at with Crewe but he was very sympathetic and supportive of the other lads”

The irony now, of course, is that a role reversal beckons. Powell will now need the support and guidance of the established Old Trafford stars. Being thrust into the Manchester United spotlight is not just a technical and physical challenge – it is an acid test of a player’s mental strength.

He has the ability, obviously. But so do the scores of players being meticulously produced by the Manchester United academy. Powell however, must dare to be different. He must show he can do it in front of 75,000 expectant supporters. He must take responsibility. He must be the man, who, under pressure, makes the difference and creates a better situation.

His performances for Crewe suggest that he can be that player. Fifteen goals in forty one games for Crewe in League Two last season is a hugely impressive return from a player who sometimes played in central midfield, but more often operated in that corridor of uncertainty between the opposition’s midfield and defence.

It is a little careless to dismiss Powell’s chances of making an immediate impact at Old Trafford on the grounds that he lacks experience above League 2 level. After all, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was playing in League 1 with Southampton just over twelve months ago. Fast-forward a year, and he has blossomed at European and International level. With the right care, and the correct attitude, that jump can be made.

The position which Powell excels in, as the number 10, is one reserved for only the most special of players. A position only for those players who demand the ball, who dictate football matches from an area of the pitch where the game should not, in theory, be controlled from, and who produce flourishes of individual brilliance – and his school football coach believes he has all those qualities in abundance.

“He has fantastic shooting ability as we have seen in the goals he has scored at Crewe. He has also been fortunate with the rate at which he has physically developed, he’s now over six foot and is blessed with such great balance, and a wonderful sense of gravity.” Malbon enthuses.

He is in the mould of that kind of player. Those graceful technicians who glide effortlessly like ice-skaters and instinctively seek out space and angles amongst the gangs of opponents.

Shades of Zinedine Zidane (whisper it quietly) were apparent in Powell’s performances in ‘the hole’ at times last season. The way in which Zidane would not only physically and technically overpower his opponents, but also force them to almost psychologically submit to him, granting him some kind of deference, was noticeable in some of Powell’s own displays – the aura, which elevates the greats above the rest.

It is, of course, a little early to be making such comparisons, but it is the ‘done thing’ these days to compare players and be excited about young talent. While some see flickers of Zidane in Powell, Malbon draws a comparison with another legend of the modern game.

“It is difficult to compare Nick to players in the sense that he so many great facets to his game. I really like his sense of gravity, his ability to shift the ball so quickly, and the Ronaldo step-overs. For me, that’s what sets him apart, the speed of his footwork is stunning really”

Again, it is some comparison.

But watching Powell evokes that kind of excitement – his final act as a Crewe player was to propel them to promotion, at Wembley, with a sublime volley on the turn from the edge of the area. He left the field that day to a standing ovation from those Crewe fans. They knew it was the end of his time with a club that Powell has been cultivated by since the age of 5. But they, like the rest of the country, will see plenty more of Powell in the future. 

NICK POWELL BY NUMBERS 

In 45 appearances by Nick Powell last season.....

116 - Shots taken 

16 - Goals scored 

8 - Assists 

95 - Fouls Suffered 

4 - Yellow Cards

1 - Red Card

What are your hopes and fears for Nick Powell? Could he make an impact in the first team? Please leave a comment below.

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United's new youth signing - a rare touch of class

By Shane Bailey (follow me on Twitter)

Nick is introduced to the new United tablecloth

Manchester United this week completed the signing of teen sensation Nick Powell from Crewe.  Powell, one of the hottest properties in domestic football, had a host of potential suitors.  That he chose United represents further evidence, should it be needed, that our club remains the most appealing destination to young British talent.  At United, if you’re good enough, age is not an obstacle to the first team.  Players know it, and we have every reason to be proud of it.

The Old Trafford faithful have always appreciated the beauty of youth.  There is a romance to nurturing and developing young players, whether they are graduates of the academy or those recruited from elsewhere.  Unfortunately, it has to be acknowledged that increasingly such deals have less to do with romance, and owe more to basic financial realism.  We simply can’t compete for the established stars of the day anymore.  Instead, the focus of our attention has to be unearthing the stars of tomorrow.  Where once we could rely on the history of the club and the promise of trophies to lure the game’s biggest names, we have to now concede that the money on offer elsewhere is more appealing.  For that reason, our sights have to be set on a different kind of target.  Thankfully, for some like Powell, the appeal of the club remains as strong as ever.

So what of young Powell?  What kind of player have we invested in?  The simple answer is a very talented one.  It’s not realistic to think we’ll see him in the Premier League anytime soon.  But I’m hopeful that United might just have struck gold again.  Powell undoubtedly has a touch of class and a swagger that suggests he’s unlikely to be intimidated by the Old Trafford stage when he gets his chance.  One of those players that always appears to have time and space – when all around seem rushed and crowded.  He has an awareness of those around him, and a touch that enables him to not just see, but deliver.  He’s a fabulously clean striker of the ball too.  He’s tall, and has a languid style.  He could lead the line or be equally comfortable in midfield.  But ultimately his home will surely be the space in between.  ‘In the hole’ is where he’s destined to shine. 

Of course, all this is based on a few glimpses of him amidst the cut and thrust of League 2.  It’s a long way from there to the Premiership, but just occasionally you catch a glimpse of a player that stands out to such an extent as to demand closer attention.  In the games I’ve seen, he’s looked head and shoulders above those around him, and carries a demeanour that suggests he knows it.  At 18 he’s dictating games, and that’s impressive at any level.  Amongst superior players, he might just find things even easier. 

With regards his short-term prospects at United, there has to be a chance he’ll be sent out on loan.  It’s historically proven to be Fergie’s preferred method of development and if he does select that option, I’d like to think we can find a suitable destination in the Championship.  A loan back to Crewe in League 1 does not offer sufficient benefits to United or the player.  Alternatively of course, Sir Alex might prefer to integrate him into life at Old Trafford immediately.  The sooner he’s comfortable in those surroundings the better.  If he does, my guess is he’ll be in the Carling Cup squad from the outset.  And I wouldn’t be surprised to see him featuring from the bench in the Premier League before the end of next season.

Some people may question the £6m price tag, but I’m personally glad the club have backed their instincts on this one.  We’ve missed out on a couple of other high-profile teens in recent times simply because other clubs have demonstrated greater courage.  Of course mistakes can be made, but it’s much easier for supporters to deal with poor signings than missed opportunities.  My guess is we’ll not regret this one.

Check out Nick Powell in action for Crewe last season



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Chelsea vs Manchester United: Where it will be won and lost

Manchester United visit Stamford Bridge on Sunday for a pivotal fixture in the destination of the Barclays Premier League title.

By way of a preview, I will be looking at the key areas that will go a long way towards deciding the outcome of the game:

Valencia vs Bertrand - Following the dismissal of Ashley Cole against Swansea, Chelsea are likely to go into the game with rookie Ryan Bertrand at left back. Even if the England international had been available, this would still have been identified as a potential area that United could exploit, bearing in mind the torrid time handed out to Cole by Valencia in recent fixtures. The Ecuadorian is in the form of his life at the moment and will truly fancy his chances of inflicting the sort of damage that could change the game. Valencia is very much an old fashioned winger. He does not possess a "trick" as such to beat his man but relies on his pace and movement to get to the byline before unleashing a testing cross. The phrase "getting chalk on his boots" is incredibly apt for him at the moment as he hugs the touchline inviting long balls from the likes of Carrick and Scholes from the centre thus helping to stretch the opposition. Another key to his recent resurgence has been the combination play with his colleague at full back meaning that his opponent has often had to deal with both. The choice of right back on Sunday appears to come between the attacking verve and youthful enthusiasm of Rafael or the more conservative and defensive selection of Chris Smalling. Ferguson's propensity to err on the side of caution will probably mean that the Englishman gets the nod but he may just alter his mindset knowing that Cole will be absent.

Welbeck/Rooney vs Terry/Luiz - The news that United fans wanted was duly announced by the boss in his weekly press conference when he revealed that Rooney, Nani, Young and Cleverley could all be in the squad travelling to London. The return of United's number ten is the most noteworthy as it means that the away side can go into the game with him playing off a front man (most likely Welbeck) with Rooney able to drop deep to assist the midfield two as he has done successfully in recent away fixtures against City and Arsenal. A key feature of the game will be how the Englishman can affect the time and space afforded to Chelsea's defensive anchor whether it is Romeu or the returning Essien. It is a role he has carried out with varying degrees of success in recent years when one remembers encounters against Mikel (successful) and Busquets (much less so!). It will be in the final third that United will hope that the forward duo will have most effect on the match up against Luiz and Terry (injury permitting, otherwise Ivanovic). Welbeck's exciting form this season owes a lot to his impressive movement and pace which has helped to stretch opposition back lines and if he can isolate either of the two centre backs then United will surely prosper. To be fair, Chelsea's defence has tightened recently somewhat from their early season mishaps but one still gets the impression that Luiz is an accident waiting to happen and either Terry or Ivanovic are susceptible to pace and guile.

Nani or Park? Boswinga or Ivanovic - The news that Nani has trained in the last couple of days will be another boost to the club based on his generally excellent form this season. When he limped off the pitch at the Emirates, many feared a lengthy absence due to a dreaded metatarsal break but these fears have been allayed and the Portuguese flyer will look to inflict similar damage on Chelsea as he did to Djourou against Arsenal. If Nani is not deemed sufficiently fit to resume his role down the left then the likely selection will be Park whose defensive capabilities can be an asset away from home but he offers little in terms of attacking threat in most situations. Ashley Young is also close to a return and United suddenly look like they have a wide range of options with which to plot the downfall of the opposition from the wide areas. In recent games, Ivanovic has been the right back of choice against United due to his defensive intelligence when compared to the more forward thinking Boswinga. Either way, Nani will fancy his chances and one hopes that he trusts his left foot a little more as his opponents have a tendency to show him inside (an option he all too frequently takes) and thus leaving themselves vulnerable to being caught flat footed as the winger goes on his left foot. The recent resurgence in form of Evra is also worth noting and his attacking threat has meant that opposition full backs have their hands full if their wide man fails to track back (as seen at Arsenal where Oxlade Chamberlain left Djourou exposed).

The midfield battle - I would expect Carrick and Giggs to be chosen in the centre at Stamford Bridge, a ground where they have excelled as a partnership in recent years (except the second half of last season's league game!). With Rooney assisting when appropriate, United will look to gain control with astute passing and sensible positioning. The injury to Ramires will be welcome to this duo who can have a tendency to lose midfield runners and the slim Brazilian can often be found ahead of his strikers as he breaks into the box. Although Lampard (if fit and selected) had this quality, age is catching up somewhat and his forward surges are not quite the threat they once were. The return of Essien (if deemed match fit) will be a huge boost for the Londoners after a lengthy lay off. Although youngster Romeu has settled in admirably, the swashbuckling Ghanaian adds bite and drive to the central area. Raul Meireles is another option in the holding midfield role but he is better suited to a more attacking position and could be unsettled by the presence of Rooney in his face. With two wide men on the pitch, look for Carrick and Giggs to attempt to spread the ball out to the wings when possible and put the onus on them to beat their opponent or to supply the ammunition for Rooney and Welbeck.

Off the bench - The return of a few of the walking wounded for United also has a knock on effect that it strengthens the options available to Ferguson if he needs to change the game or close it out. In recent weeks, the likes of the Will Keane, Pogba, Cole and Fryers have all been selected on the bench and while it is heartening to see their progress, it is asking a lot of them to change a game at the highest level. On Sunday, United's bench could possibly have the likes of Hernández, Berbatov, Young, Cleverley and Scholes all as options which significantly increases the chances of a notable impact as the starting players tire.

The Chelsea threat - The primary threat from the home side will come naturally from their front three and notably their players either side of Torres. Mata has had an encouraging start to life in the Premier League where his guile and creativity have given Chelsea an extra edge sadly lacking last season. The Spaniard has a  tendency to roam across the pitch at times in order to make an impact and although from an attacking point of view this can be an asset, the left back can be left exposed. When Ashley Cole is in residence, that is less of a problem but his suspension and the subsequent promotion of Bertrand means Mata may have to be more rigid in his positioning. He will be tasked with orchestrating United's downfall by threading passes in behind Ferdinand and Evans whilst hoping that Torres has his shooting boots on. Sturridge on the right will look to isolate Evra one on one and use his movement to cause a lapse in positioning. The Frenchman will need to be wary of him at the back post as he looks to get into goal scoring positions when the ball is delivered from the left. The mis-firing Torres tends to raise his game at the prospect of facing United and there would be no better game for his potency to return than at home against their rivals. He cannot be underestimated by United's centre backs as although he has lost a yard of the once renowned blistering pace, he can still get into positions of threat. 

Team Prediction

Score Prediction

Based on what I have written above and my general bias towards United, I will go for a 2-1 away victory. The caveat to this is the return of Rooney and Nani to the first team. If either are unfit then a low scoring draw is more likely as Ferguson may well go with Park and Scholes (as at Anfield) which would isolate Welbeck once more. Not for the first time, I have a feeling that the winner may come via an introduction from the bench so maybe a certain Mexican will pop up with a late United winner.

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Aldershot vs Manchester United Post Match Post Mortem

Manchester United sauntered to a 3-0 win against Aldershot at The Recreation Ground to advance to the quarter finals of the Carling Cup and remain on course for a third final appearance in four years.  The scoreline was the same as the previous round and the game overall bore similarities too. We played a team in white at their place, controlled the first half, scored the goals to make it comfortable and played out the second half without much incident.  Michael Owen was once again on the scoresheet, making it three goals in two Carling Cup appearances this season. His goal was sandwiched between a Dimitar Berbatov strike and an Antonio Valencia thunderbolt.

The Reds fielded a second string XI, making three changes from the game against Leeds. In came Vidic, Cleverley and Jones with Giggs, Carrick and Macheda dropping out.  It meant a second start for Zeki Fryers who was deployed at left back with Fabio switching to right back and Valencia moving further up the field.  Paul Pogba had to make do with a place on the bench along with his fellow Reserve team mates.  He did enter the fray on the hour mark to make his second appearance for United.  Ravel Morrison, a 70^thminute substitute, also made his second senior appearance almost a year to the day after he made his first against Wolves in the Carling Cup last season.  Michael Keane’s introduction along with Morrison made him the fourth United debutant in this year’s competition.

While it was pleasing to see the younger lads get their opportunity, this game was all about giving squad players minutes on the pitch.  As Sir Alex stated before the match, with the games starting to come thick and fast as we enter the winter months, it is imperative everyone is match fit and ready to go when called upon.  It is for that reason it was essential for Berbatov, Owen, Valencia, Park and Vidic to get 90 minutes.  Most pleasing of all though was the return of Tom Cleverley from injury.  He managed 60 minutes before being replaced by Pogba and will have played his way in to contention for a starting spot against Everton on Saturday.  He was involved heavily in the move which led to the first goal and also teed up Valencia to make it three just after half time.  He has become a greater player in his absence in many supporters’ eyes which places a heavy burden on the boy’s shoulders but we have missed his spark in midfield. Ferguson will see his return as a welcome boost after Sunday’s shambolic display and will be pleased overall at the result and the performance of the team. 

Post Match Analysis

Goals – Easy as 1,2,3

Aldershot were far from disgraced in this match and can hold their heads up high but they will be disappointed at the manner in which they lost the goals.  The first came in the fifteenth minute and it was like someone had rewound the tape back to the start of the season. Park played the ball in to Cleverley and continued his run in to the box before being found with a neat pass from the latter. The South Korean then slid the ball to Berbatov who took a touch before slotting home in to the far corner. The passing and movement in and around the box was excellent to watch. It’s exactly what has been missing from the Reds play since the Chelsea match and it was no coincidence that Cleverley was at the forefront of the move.  It does have to be taken in to context though, it was against a League Two defence but it was still pleasing to see that type of goal return to our play.

Picture courtesy of The Guardian

There wasn’t much the Shots could have done about the first goal to be fair but they will be desperately disappointed by the second goal which came five minutes before half time.  Owen dropped off to in to midfield to collect the ball, he turned and sent a raking 50 yard pass in behind the defence to Berbatov who ambled his way in to the box. He laid the ball on a plate to Owen who timed his run to perfection and made no mistake with the finish.  Owen’s run wasn’t picked up and the keeper could have done better with the shot but full credit to the ex-Liverpool man who started the move and showed the desire to get in the box and finish it.

The third goal came two minutes after the half time and killed off any faint hope Aldershot had of staging a miraculous comeback.  Cleverley collected the ball 25 yards from goal and spotted Valencia in acres of room to his right hand side. He laid the ball in to his path before the Ecuadorian took a touch and drilled an unstoppable shot past the helpless Warner.  The ball curled, swerved and dipped leaving the ‘keeper no chance.  It was a surprise to see Valencia take the shot on but it does show what he is capable of. 

Dimitar Berbatov – He’s still here

The enigmatic Bulgarian made only his third start of the season, his sixth appearance overall, and comfortably his best.  The sight of last season’s top scorer and a man who has more skill in his big toe than most have in their whole body appearing at The Recreation Ground against a mid table League Two side is akin to Mario Balotelli fronting a fireworks safety campaign – total madness... oh wait...right, anyway, never mind.  It’s testament to the man’s character that he didn’t grumble or moan but simply got on with the game and helped his team to victory.  Against Leeds he might as well have not been on the pitch but on Tuesday night he was involved in everything.  Touch, composure, vision, skill is what you come to expect from Berbatov and this game was no different.  But there was also a passion, a fighting spirit that saw him race back to win the ball or help out the midfield.  In truth it was just good to see him back out there.

He has kicked his heels on the bench for weeks as we have put in poor performance after poor performance but now might be the time for him to step up to the plate.  His movement, hold up play and intricate passing has been missing from the games were we have been below par.  Many feel the problem lies solely in central midfield but the front players have been substandard too and it might be time for something different.  He brings others in to the game and allows the midfield to get forward before building an attack. Yes, he sometimes slows the play down but we haven’t been playing the high tempo football we did at the start. It’s not clicking just now and a change is needed.  He was comfortably man of the match against Aldershot, and although it’s only Aldershot, it should give Ferguson something to think about. His only Premier League start came after the Leeds game and it may be that his second league starts comes against Everton this weekend. He can’t be ignored for much longer.

Morrison and Pogba – Is the future now?

As highlighted previously, Morrison and Pogba both made their second senior appearances for United tonight; the only disappointment being they were both off the bench rather than from the start.  In their brief cameos they showed glimpses of the undoubted potential they possess and why they are the future of Manchester United.  However, with the central midfield position being heavily criticised, the question remains are they ready now? The simple answer, and the correct one, is no. They still have a long way to go and people need to settle down and lower their expectations. Without raining on the parade or being too downbeat, they haven’t “made it” yet. Realism is needed.  Nevertheless, it would be unjust not to discuss the positives of both their cameos though and highlight the obvious potential that is there. 

Pogba once again showed he is a boy in a man’s body as he strolled around the pitch with ease but he also showed a maturity on the ball that belied his tender years.  He used it efficiently and kept it moving from one side of the pitch to the other.  He always made himself available for the ball and didn’t shirk responsibility in tight situations.  This, more than any other quality, is what makes him stand out.  Wanting the ball is the most important thing for a young kid when he comes in to the team and he always wants it.  There is no fear and that’s the way it should be.  He didn’t try many outlandish passes but switched the ball once beautifully out to Valencia, showcasing his passing repertoire.  He was also defensively disciplined, shielding the back four and not getting caught too high up the pitch. This maturity is why he is closer to the first team than others were at his age.

While Pogba was efficient and mature on the ball, Morrison had a spark about his game.  There was a swagger about his game, showcased with some showboating and a little back flick to Berbatov on the edge of the box which nearly resulted in him getting in on goal.  What makes him so special though is as well as being a match winner, he is equally adept at playing the game simple.  Time and again he got the ball, passed it on and kept moving. He rarely stops moving when he is on the pitch which is excellent to see. Sometimes he can stop moving when he has to track back but against Aldershot he showed a willingness to help out Fabio in defence and bust a gut to chase back his man 50 yards.  If there was one thing that did let him down, it was his positional play. He was brought on for Diouf who was playing wide left but you’d be lucky if Morrison occupied that position for more than two minutes.

This can be viewed as both a good thing and a bad thing.  He wanted to be involved in the game which is why he drifted inside and more or less played central midfield for the 20 minutes he was on.  He wanted to get on the ball and to make things happen.  He thrives playing where he decided to play on Tuesday night so it was refreshing to see a young man take it upon himself to involve himself in the game.  It was also a stark contrast to his first appearance against Wolves when he was also brought on at left midfield and barely moved off the touchline.  However, Ferguson may not have been enamoured by his positional indiscipline.  Although there was rarely a threat from Aldershot down that side, it may not have pleased the boss to see that flank so exposed at times.  Berbatov and Owen both covered him but the latter did gesture to Ravel to get wide and shut down the right back.  It is not a major thing especially against that sort of opposition but left midfield may be where his opportunities come in the future and he will need to show more discipline to impress the boss. 

Overall, they were two exciting cameos from two very promising players and lit up a somewhat dreary night.  They should have cemented their place in the squad for the next round but that may depend on the opposition.  The draw will be made on Saturday at noon with Arsenal, Crystal Palace and Cardiff in the hat along with ourselves.  Another four Premier League teams will join after Wednesday night’s matches.  The quarter final ties will be played on the week commencing 28^th November.

Ratings: Amos 7, Fabio 6, Jones 6, Vidic 6, Fryers 6, Valencia 6, Cleverley 7, Park 7, Diouf 5, Owen 6, Berbatov 8

Subs: Pogba 7, Morrison 7, Keane 5

By Mick Higgins (Follow me on Twitter)

What were your thoughts on the game at Aldershot? Were you impressed by the likes of Pogba and Morrison. Please leave your comments below.

Dimitar Berbatov - essential or expendable?

Last season's hero, now this season's most expendable player.  Who'd have thought, almost exactly one year after 'that' overhead kick rebounded in off the underside of the bar, we'd be calling Berba our 4th choice striker, behind Danny Welbeck, amongst others?

Can anyone point out just where it went wrong? Does anyone know why he's fallen from grace? Was he ever really there to begin with?

Berba has always been a player I've admired, but perhaps never one I've 'loved'. He's got better technique than possibly any other forward I've watched, but at times he frustrates and amazes in equal measure. For every sublime touch there's a finish that has went awry. It's no coincidence that in the past few years, at the business end of the season he's found himself keeping company with his tracksuited colleagues, or even at times, in a suit. It seems to all that Sir Alex just doesn't trust him.  The same could be said for a large majority of our fans, too.

Personally, I've never felt that Berba and Rooney are particularly well suited.  I think we've seen the best of Rooney since the arrival of Chicharito, whose runs in behind stretch defences, creating space for Rooney to operate.  I feel Rooney works best when he's dictating the game, seeing plenty of the ball and creating chances for others, as well as himself. However in Berba's time with us it's been he that has been the more creative of the two, with 10 assists in the Premier League in 08/09 and 7 in 09/10.  By comparison Rooney had 7 in 08/09 and 5 in 09/10.  Last season, however Rooney was our 2nd highest assister, with 11, most of which came in the 2nd half of the season, as he found his form (and his mind!), and his partnership with Chicharito blossomed.  It's no coincidence that this also came at the time Berba found himself out of the team.  Even in 09/10 when Rooney excelled in goalscoring terms, I didn't feel that he was playing particularly good football, and certainly not to the level that we've seen in 2011.  Rooney is potentially up there with the very best in the world, therefore I feel that everything should be done in order to get the best from him. 

In our first 5 games this season we scored 21 goals, had a +17 goal difference and had a 100% record, while Berba watched on from the bench.  At this stage last season we'd scored 14, conceded 7 and drew disastrously at both Fulham and Everton.  Last season's Manchester United got the job done, and not much more. To win the league having played so poorly, on so many occasions, was testament to the manager's nous and the player's sheer will to win. That we got to the Champions League final was a minor miracle, helped, of course, by a very kind draw.  Once there, though, Berba was banished, not even in the 18 man squad.  From the start of this year its been more of the same. The man who scored 3 separate Premier League hat-tricks, and in as many individual games as any other top striker in the league, has been cast aside.

This season, Manchester United look to be an altogether different proposition, but again one where Dimitar does not fit. Now we're all about pace, movement and youthful exuberance. There's no place for three amazing touches when Young, Rooney and Chicharito can have the ball in the net in that time. Once again we find Berba, the £30m sub, watching on.  Berbatov has featured in the past 2 matches, at Leeds and at Stoke, and while Michael Owen was able to twice find the net at Elland Road, Berba didn't so much as threaten.  As usual there was some sublime football, particularly the ball to Park, which created Owen's first, but more often than not the Bulgarian was on the periphery of the game.  The Stoke game was another poor performance by Berbatov, registering just 1 shot at goal, although it'd be unfair to single him out, given that nobody could really be said to have performed to standard on the day - Nani and De Gea aside.  However you can't help but feel that had Rooney started that game, we could well have came away with the points.  He'd almost certainly have had more impact on the game.

My personal opinion is that Berbatov should have left/been sold in the summer. He deserves first XI football and the world deserves to watch him play.  Perhaps we'll see a turnaround in fortunes, after all the season is still in it's infancy, but I feel that the style of fast, counter-attacking football that we've witnessed so far this season, when Berba hasn't been in the team, is here to stay.  For that reason I think his place is most likely to remain on the bench, in the stands, or possibly off to pastures new.

By Tim Ferguson (Follow me on Twitter)

What are your views on Berbatov? Where does he fit at United? Is his time at United drawing to a close? Please leave your comments below.

United vs Leeds Post Match Post Mortem

Manchester United avenged the FA Cup loss they suffered in January 2010 by strolling to a 3-0 win over a very poor Leeds side.  A brace from Michael Owen and Ryan Giggs’ eleventh League Cup goal for United ensured safe progress in to the fourth round.  The Reds barely had to get out of second gear and had the luxury of finishing the game with ten men after debutant Ezekiel Fryers had to leave the game early with what looked like a calf injury. 

When the teams were released few could have predicted the match would have been so easy.  The starting line up comprised of four strikers, four midfielders and two defenders. It was something akin to a game of Football Manager.  However, we should know by now that more often than not Sir Alex gets it right and tonight he was spot on.  He was able to completely rest our only fit first choice defenders ahead of Stoke on Saturday.  This meant a debut for Zeki Fryers who partnered Michael Carrick in central defence with Ben Amos getting the nod ahead of Lindegaard between the sticks.  Owen, Diouf and Macheda all made their first appearances of the season in an extremely attacking front six.

Fears that this team could be exploited by a Leeds side who would surely be up for the occasion were soon dispelled when Owen gave United a 14^th minute lead.  After good inter play from Giggs, Berbatov and Park, the latter fed Owen in the box who wrong footed the defender before slotting home.  In truth, Leeds were unlucky not to take the lead before this as they seen shots blocked three times in quick succession.  It was the only occasion they threatened in the first half before Ferguson’s men, led by a supreme Giggs cameo, asserted their authority on the game.  Owen doubled the lead with a sweet strike after good work from Diouf down the right hand side.  Valencia was unlucky not to make it three when he slid a shot past the post after being played in by Owen before Giggs did make it three on the stroke of half time and all but ended the game as a contest.  He played a short corner to Park and when he got the return pass, he squared up his man, nutmegged him, sped past him like he was still 21 then hit a shot with the outside of his left boot which took a deflection before ending up in the back of the net.

It was a sublime first half performance from United and the 3-0 scoreline did not flatter the visitors.  The Reds seen out an uneventful second half and gave debuts to Paul Pogba and Larnell Cole in the process.  All in all it was a successful night with many positives and few negatives.  Sir Alex will be happy to see his side get through to the fourth round unscathed and put Leeds in their place in the process.  The draw for the fourth round will be made on Saturday afternoon.

Post Match Debate

Debut boys: Fryers, Pogba and Cole

All the pre match talk was about the imminent debut of Paul Pogba. Many felt he would start the game but as I pointed out in my preview, I thought he would start on the bench.  He duly did and a surprise debut was handed to Ezekiel Fryers.  Maybe it should have been less as a surprise given our defensive situation but it was pleasing to see Sir Alex put faith in the 19 year old.  To be fair to Zeki it was just rewards for his impressive pre season form.  He has been excellent at the heart of the reserves defence at a time when his defensive colleagues were dropping like flies through injury.  He continued this form in to this game and was excellent from the first whistle until he had to depart 10 minutes early through injury.  Although rarely tested by a toothless Leeds front line, he coped with everything that came his way.  He won almost all his aerial duels, read the play well, showed excellent pace and his distribution was spot on.  The only time I think he misplaced a pass was when he tried an ambitious 60 yard cross field ball.  He should be pleased with his first team bow and expect further opportunities in the Carling Cup and possibly other competitions this season if he keeps up his current form.

Paul Pogba entered the fray at the start of the second half, coming on for the mercurial Giggs.  The first thing to say is Pogba is one for the future, not the present.  All those calling for his inclusion in the first team right now need to calm down. He isn’t ready just yet and tonight proved it.  That’s not to say he had a bad game but it was clear he still has a lot to learn at this level, something which has got to be expected.  Without showing flashes of his undoubted talent, he played sensibly most of the time which was more pleasing to see. He kept the balling moving and moved with it, always looking to receive it from whoever was in possession.  He was caught a couple of times and played some poor passes but he always held his hands up and acknowledged his mistakes.  He is a man amongst boys in youth football but he is still a boy amongst men at this level.  We should be happy and content at these brief cameos for now.

Larnell Cole was the third debutant of the night, getting a run out ahead of Tom Thorpe, Michael Keane and Reece Brown who would have all been looking to get some minutes too.  No doubt one of them would have had Cole not been brought on before Fryers succumbed to his injury.  Nevertheless, Cole buzzed about the pitch in his brief time on it. He wasn’t that involved but had the audacity to backheel the ball to Valencia with a Leeds player in close proximity.  He is another for the future and could benefit from United’s progress in this competition.

Kiko Macheda: Where art thou?

Kiko, Kiko, Kiko. The memories of you turning on a sixpence and curling in to the far corner are getting more and more distant with every passing performance.  Of course it doesn’t help when he is shunted out wide.  He isn’t a winger, you can’t even get away with playing him out there like you can with Welbeck and Diouf. However, this does not excuse his ineptitude at carrying out the basics.  His passing was awful, he couldn’t make a simple 10 yard pass inside to Giggs. He took too many touches on the ball when a simple pass was on.  His decision making was poor and his link up play was non-existent.  His all round offensive game was terrible.  If I could pick out one positive it was his work rate, he got up and down the left flank most of the night and helped out Fabio at left back but you’d struggle to find another positive.  You can’t question his desire or his thirst to be a United player but he needs to start performing and taking these kinds of opportunities or he could find himself surplus to requirements.

The curious case of Ryan Giggs

Once again the Welsh Wizard turned back the clock and put in a performance that belies his advancing years.  You wouldn’t think he was approaching 38 years of age and in (all probability) the final season of his career.  He continues to make his opponents look foolish with his quick change of direction and burst of pace over 5 yards.  His performance was a master class and the youngsters on the bench should have been paying close attention to a player who has won it all in club football.  His goal capped off a superb first half cameo before he made way at the interval.  It was disappointing he went off and was probably the main reason we didn’t score in the second half as every move in the first 45 minutes went through the Welshmen.  It is performances like this we need to savour as the curtain comes down on his glittering career. Appreciate what we still have as it won’t be round for much longer.

Player Ratings:

Amos 7, Valencia 7, Carrick 7, Fryers 8, Fabio 7, Diouf 6, Park 7, Giggs 8, Macheda 5, Owen 7, Berbatov 6. Subs: Pogba 6, Welbeck 5, Cole 5

By Mick Higgins (Follow Mick on Twitter)

United vs Chelsea Post Match Post Mortem

Manchester United continued their 100% start to the season with a less than convincing victory over an impressive Chelsea side.  Both sides served up the game of the season thus far in a match that will be remembered for a horror miss from Fernando Torres rather than the sublime attacking football that was on show.  A game, which was also littered with mistakes, was settled by goals from Smalling, Nani and Rooney but in truth the scoreline could have been anything had both sides taken the gilt edged chances that were created.

United went in to the game, once again, without Rio Ferdinand. The 32 year old missed out due to another niggling calf injury that must place further doubts over his long term future at the club. There was a time when fans would have been worried at his absence but the emergence of Phil Jones and Chris Smalling this season has laid rest to those fears. The former again deputised admirably at the centre of defence alongside Jonny Evans with Smalling slotting in at right back. The other selection headache Sir Alex had ahead of the game was who to partner with Anderson in central midfield. Fletcher got the nod and he was a welcome returnee to the side.

Chelsea started the game brightly but United took the lead through Chris Smalling after he converted a delicious Ashley Young free kick with a simple header.  The Blues should have at least been level the time Nani doubled the lead with a quite breath taking strike.  First Ramires missed an open goal on the stretch and then Torres screwed wide after being gifted the ball by Anderson.  Wayne Rooney seemingly put the game beyond Chelsea before half time when he tapped in following a surging run from Phil Jones.  However, Chelsea hit back immediately after the restart when Torres showed class is permanent with a sublime chipped finish over De Gea’s left shoulder.

United held on to their 3-1 advantage to go two points clear at the top of the table after Manchester City dropped points at Craven Cottage earlier in the day.  Next up for the Reds is Leeds in the third round of the Carling Cup before making the short trip down the M6 to face Stoke.

Post Match Debate

Goal analysis: Offside?

United took a 2-0 lead thanks, in part, to two offside calls that went their way.  Firstly, Chris Smalling strayed ahead of the last Chelsea defender before getting on the end of Young’s sublime cross.  It was fractional but he was offside.  It was a tough call for the linesman to make with so many bodies on the edge of the 18 yard box.  Chelsea will feel aggrieved but they should also look at their slack defending.  Lampard was the man charged with marking Smalling but he looked lost when a little bit of movement allowed the 21 year old to escape his attentions and have a free header.  Even if Smalling had let it go, Evans, who was onside, was lurking behind to slot home.  It was terribly slack marking from Chelsea who were duly punished for not picking up their men and having such a high line from the free kick.

The second goal from Nani was an equally tight decision for the linesman to make.  The Portuguese winger was making his way back from an offside position when Evans sent a raking cross field pass over to the right wing.  When Nani collected the ball he was 5 yards onside making it appear like he was never offside.  It was only when the replays were shown that it came to light he was, like Smalling, fractionally offside when the ball was played.  However, like the first goal Chelsea must look at their own poor defending. As Nani brought the ball forward, Mata hung a leg out as a token gesture for a tackle.  When he skipped past that challenge, no Blue shirt came to close him down quick enough and he unleashed a ferocious strike in to the top corner.

Chelsea contributed to their own downfall but will feel hard done by as both goals were offside. However, United will feel these decisions go some way to making up for the decisions they have been on the wrong side off in recent years against the Blues.

Nani – Man of the Match

Luis Nani turned in his best performance of the season, as many around him turned in their weakest, and deservedly claimed the man of the match award.  He was exceptional from start to finish and Ashley Cole must have been glad when Phil Dowd blew for full time. He teased, tormented and dominated the England left back in a way few others can claim to have done.  He jinked past Cole time and again, sucking him in with close control and skill on the ball before bursting away with explosive pace.  In one particularly pleasing incident in the second half, he nutmegged Cole who was left sitting on the ground as Nani sped away up the right wing.  It was great play from a player who was full of confidence following his stunning first half goal.

He has always had to contend with the Ronaldo comparisons and questions of him living in his shadow.  The following stat was wheeled out after the game and has been repeated to death but it is nonetheless fascinating. In his first 100 Premier League games, Ronaldo scored 19 goals and had 12 assists. Yesterday was Nani’s 100^thPremier League game and he has also scored 19 goals but has 21 more assists.  Yes Nani is older than what Cristiano was but it is still great to see the contribution he has made to the team when so many people have doubted him.  He’s had a quiet start to the season but announced his arrival yesterday.  Now he has to kick on and produce more performances like that.

Rooney and Torres: Slips and misses

Wayne Rooney will thank Fernando Torres for taking the spotlight off him after the Spaniards horror miss late in the game.  Prior to the Chelsea forwards sitter, Rooney had done his best John Terry impression by slipping as he struck the penalty awarded after Bosingwa was adjudged to have fouled Nani in the box.  If that wasn’t bad enough, he then fluffed his lines when ten yards from goal and scuffed a shot on to the post with only Cech to beat.  It was two awful moments for the Premier Leagues top scorer who was debuting his new Nike boots.  Maybe you should have stuck with the ones that had served you so well in the opening 4 league games, eh Wayne?

Nevertheless, Rooney’s blushes were saved by one of the most remarkable misses you are ever likely to see.  As Torres rounded De Gea and faced an empty goal, every United fan feared the remaining seven minutes.  It was already tense but with the scoreline at 3-2 and less than 10 minutes to go, it was going to be excruciating.  Those fears were to be allayed when Torres proceeded to screw the ball wide with the goal at his mercy.  Forget Ronnie Rosenthal, this miss was worse.  It will be played over and over and over again.  It will be in every bloopers DVD and video reel in the world.  It’s a miss he’ll want to forget but one he will never be allowed to forget.

Cole on Hernandez: Penalty? Red Card?

The other main talking point from the game, aside from Torres’ shocking miss, is the reckless challenge from Ashley Cole on Javier Hernandez.  As the ball rebounded off the post from Rooney’s scuffed effort, Hernandez struck a shot from a tight angle before crumpling in a heap screaming in pain.  Cole had obviously caught the little Mexican as he lunged in to block the shot.  The replays showed the challenge was lot more dangerous than on first viewing.  Phil Dowd was called over by his linesman who had spotted the incident and presumably instructed Dowd the challenge merited a booking but not a penalty as the ball was already out of play.

Cole was lucky to escape with just a booking, it was a red card challenge but I think he genuinely went to block the ball and didn’t intend to hurt Hernandez.  It was a lunge and it was high but it’s a natural challenge when you are diving in to block a shot.  It does not excuse the challenge but I don’t think he should be vilified for it.  Hernandez will be lucky to escape without serious injury but it was a good sign he was able to walk down the tunnel. We’ll have to keep our fingers crossed he is only out for weeks rather than months.

Player Ratings:

De Gea 7, Smalling 7, Jones 7, Evans 7, Evra 6, Nani 9, Anderson 6, Fletcher 7, Young 6, Rooney 6, Hernandez 6.  Subs: Valencia 7, Carrick 6, Berbatov 6.

By Mick Higgins (Follow Mick on Twitter)

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United vs Leeds Carling Cup Preview

Introduction

Manchester United resumes its fierce rivalry with Leeds United on Tuesday night in an eagerly anticipated Carling Cup third round clash.  With Leeds decline in recent years, these clashes are no longer common occurrences on the calendar and so fans, and players alike, will relish the chance to lock horns again.  The Reds will be looking to avenge a 1-0 loss they suffered at the hands of their bitter rivals in an FA Cup third round tie in January 2010.  A hostile atmosphere will await at Elland Road with Leeds fans sure to remind Ferguson and his men of that famous win.

United will go in to the game in high spirits and full of confidence after having their best ever start to a season under Sir Alex Ferguson.  Five wins on the bounce in the Premier League and a credible draw away at Benfica in the Champions League has seen the Reds impress all observers with their attacking intent and fluid play.  It would be easy to be complacent ahead tomorrow night after this start but after suffering that humiliation 20 months ago, Ferguson will want to make sure there is no repeat this time. 

The Opposition

Simon Grayson will hope to continue his Leeds revival with another famous win over the Reds.  After gaining promotion in 2009/2010 from League One, he narrowly missed out on guiding Leeds to the Championship play offs last season; falling short by only three points.  Grayson has continued to evolve his side to take them back to the top tier of English football and that is why the Leeds squad to face United will contain only 3 starters from the FA Cup game in 2010.

The hero of that day, Jermaine Beckford, moved on to Everton before winding up at Leicester this season.  He has been replaced by Ross McCormack who will hope to emulate Beckford and continue his current goal scoring form on Tuesday night.  The young Scot could be partnered up front by last season’s top scorer Luciano Becchio.  The Argentine hitman recently returned from a 5 month layoff by scoring in his first appearance of the season against Crystal Palace then setting up McCormack for the winner at the weekend in his second appearance.  These telling contributions could see him get his first start of the season ahead of Andy Keogh and Mikael Forssell.

Leeds will look to outfight United once again and that could see the deployment of midfield “hard man” Michael Brown in the centre of the park.  I use the term hard man loosely as some may refer to him as nothing more than a thug.  He became a hate figure with United fans after a horrendous tackle on Ryan Giggs in 2006. However, this is a game he will relish and his battling qualities are exactly what Leeds will need if they are to get a result.

Stat Zone by Rahul Singh (Follow Rahul on Twitter)

• Manchester Utd & Leeds have met 106 times in their long history. Manchester United have 45 wins, Leeds have 26 wins & 35 matches ending level.
• Leeds and Manchester United have met four times in the League Cup, with United coming out victorious on all four occasions & scoring nine goals.
• Man Utd & Leeds have not met in this competition since 2003 when David Bellion, Diego Forlan and Eric Djemba-Djemba won the game for Sir Alex Ferguson’s men.

• The two sides last met in January 2010 when Leeds surprised United with a 1-0 victory in the FA Cup third round at Old Trafford
• Elland Road is a happy hunting ground for Manchester United. We have won 5 out of their last 10 visits to Leeds.
• Leeds  have only won twice in the fixture against United at Elland Road in the last 15 years.
• This season Leeds at home have won three out of four games.

United

The League Cup has always been a breeding ground for United’s youngsters and this year Sir Alex has once again highlighted some up and coming Reds that could feature in this seasons competition.  Paul Pogba, Will and Michael Keane, Zeki Fryers, Larnell Cole and Jesse Lingard were all mentioned as possible United debutants this year but that was before the draw was made.  When Leeds came out the hat, I’m sure that plan was revised and Tuesday’s game may prove too important an occasion to blood the young lads.

Nevertheless, the squad will need to be rotated.  The game comes 48 hours after a tough encounter with Chelsea and I’m sure Sir Alex will have one eye on an equally difficult game away at Stoke on Saturday afternoon.  That is why it is unlikely players like Rooney, Nani, Young and Anderson will feature tomorrow.  

Even without such important players, United will be able to field an experienced and strong side with the likes of Valencia, Park, Owen and Berbatov vying for a place in the starting line up.

The one area where United may have to field some youngsters is in defence.  There is somewhat of a defensive crisis on our hands at the minute with Vidic and Rafael still out, Rio struggling with a calf injury and Smalling coming off at the weekend with a groin injury.  We are left with only four fit first team defenders although Rio may make it back in to the squad as he had trained before the Chelsea game, just not enough to be considered.  Michael Keane and Zeki Fryers could come in to the reckoning for at least a place on the bench. Reece Brown may also fancy his chances after starring at the under-20 World Cup for England in the summer.  Nonetheless, I’d be surprised if any of them started and I’d expect Sir Alex to go with his four first team defenders.

The one player all United fans will want to see in action is Paul Pogba.  Quotes emerging from Sir Alex today say he intends to play him but that does not mean he intends to start him.  I refuse to get giddy at the thought of him starting as I still feel he’ll have to settle for a place on the bench.  I do hope I am wrong though.  Experience and guile will be needed in the centre of the pitch to combat a possible midfield triumvirate from Leeds especially when one of those three could be the aforementioned Michael Brown.  I’d expect more game time to be given to Carrick and Giggs.  Both have started one game so far this season and have only played 184 minutes and 160 minutes respectively.  Tomorrow night’s game provides the perfect opportunity for them to get more minutes under their belts.

Without question, the starting XI for this game has been the hardest to predict so far this season.  I believe the formation will be a straightforward 4-4-2 although we could go 4-5-1 if Pogba starts to offer him a little more protection.

Predicted bench: Amos, M.Keane, Ferdinand, Fryers, Pogba, Macheda, Diouf

Scoreline Prediction

Like the team, the scoreline is equally tough to predict.  I’ll be happy to get out of the game with a victory and no injuries but if we do blood a few youngsters and manage a draw I will be equally as pleased.  Being positive I’ll go with a 2-0 victory for the Reds.

By Mick Higgins (Follow Mick on Twitter)

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Academy Report: Man United 2-0 Sheff United (A) 10/09/11

Man United U18′s (4-4-2): Jacob, Hendrie, McCullough, Dalley, Blackett, Barmby, Weir, Rothwell, van Velzen, Lawrence, Byrne
Subs: Daehli, McNair
Subs not used: Coll, Pearson, Ekangamene

• Man United goalscorers (2): Barmby 21, Van Velzen 65
•  Sheffield United goalscorers (0): 

 Match Summary

The Red Devils finally got their second win of the Academy league season yesterday in what was a comfortable performance in which United didn’t really get out of 3rd gear. Both teams were passing it around well in midfield, but up front there was a lack of penetration and very little goalmouth action to write home about to be perfectly blunt. Another feature of the match which was quite irksome was the fact the U16′s were playing on an adjacent pitch, cue the balls from either game finding themselves in a different match and proceedings constantly having to be brought to a long halt. Fortunately, United’s rejigged defence was rock solid and the likes of Van Velzen and Barmby, had enough about them to put the Blades to the sword when the chances presented themselves. 

First Half (1-0)

The game got off to a flying start with the impressive Tom Lawrence making a statement of intent, firing an early shot just wide of Willis’ goal. The Blades responded with a fantastic 25 yard  effort from Whitehouse, striking a fearsome shot which skipped off the surface and was saved by the acrobatic Australian Jacobs, flying to his right in the 11th minute. The next period of play was all United however and involved great work by Bryne, in the 19th minute going on a great jinking run into the box before failing to locate an unmarked team mate and then in the 21st minute, making a smart run which was located by a magnifcent lofted pass by Lawrence.. setting him one v one on the keeper Willis, who smothered him but ulitmately failed to see out the danger as Barmby hit the rebound from outside the box and put it away with aplomb. United 1-0, although it took 20 minutes before there was any hint of another serious effort on goal, a dangerous corner cleared off the line by Sheffield United and then Van Velzen going on a typical step-over crazy run, cutting in from the right side and unleashing a powerful shot which was kept out by a combination of the Blade’s keeper and the post. United went in with a well-deserved lead but one couldn’t help but feel, both sides lacked abit of bite.

Second half (2-0)

The second half  got off to a controversial start as Van Velzen was put through on goal but seemed to go down, the referee ignored the incident and waved play on, but the Red’s seemed to be in disbelief. In the 54th minute, Lawrence went on a silky gliding run taking on all comers but this time failed to find the killer ball. Proceedings recieved a further boost when Daehli was introduced in the 60th minute, who caught the eye whenever he had the ball at his feet. He ran at the opposition defence time and time again, yet it was his early contribution which was to prove the most telling. In the 64th minute it was his neat pass which allowed Weir to spin off his man inside the box and unleash a curling thunderbolt which was not dealt with completely by Willis and allowed Van Velzen to sneak in and put away the rebound to make it 2-0. The next period of the game was the Lawrence & Daehli show, both playing neatly in tight areas, passing and moving the Blades into a frenzy. However the danger of Sheffield was not completely snuffed out and they managed a dangerous passage of play in the 80th minute, whipping in a dangerous cross which was well cleared out due to excellent positioning and reading of the game by Dalley.. although for a seconds there, one wouldn’t have been blamed for thinking all the ingredients were there for a spectacular own goal. So it ended 2-0 and it was probably a fair result, although on the balance of play in terms of possession it should’ve been more in United’s favour.

 5 Things I Noticed

1. Blackett at left-back:  The defence looked more balanced and solid today with him moved out from centre and McCulloch looked far more settled. I still get the feeling that with Tyler, its difficult to guage his potential and best position, although he performed at left-back more than competently.

2. Van Velzen:  Once again looked heads and shoulders above any one else on the pitch, but what was particularly impressive today was his tracking back and hold-up play, ugly sides of the game but which are essential. he performed both well.

3. Tom Lawrence:  Very solid performance today, full of guile and vision.  My man of the match if Van Velzen wasn’t on the pitch.

4. Daehli: If he can put this type of performance in over 90 minutes, he will be a force to be reckoned with in this division. The full back cramping due to Daehli’s torture of him was testament to his agility and aggression yesterday.

5. Centre-Back Pairing:  Dalley and McCulloch, both did very well today. It felt natural and settled, both struck it off quite well. Look forward to seeing them fare against tougher teams.

Written By

Raees Mahmood (follow me on Twitter)

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