Why does Ferguson continue to favour mediocrity in place of genuine young talent?

Manchester United midfielder Darron Gibson has faced a lot of stick from United fans this season. Whilst a lot of this criticism has been a little harsh, or over the top, it’s easy to see why complaints have risen concerning the Derry-born man. His passing is sloppy at best, he’s not a good reader of the game, his technique on the ball isn’t great and he’s not a natural goal-scorer – something that’s more than a little frustrating given his tendency to shoot whenever he has a chance.

There have been times this season where Gibson has been isolated in the centre of the park unable to influence proceedings and letting the game pass him by. Thanks to his lack of movement his contribution to Manchester United is at best minimal.

Forget the fact that Manchester United have never lost a game when Gibson has started. That’s nothing more than a mere coincidence. Perhaps he’s just United’s lucky charm.

I’m not writing off Gibson completely, but I don’t think he’s ready to be tested in the Premier League just yet. Perhaps a season on loan at a club like Bolton would help him adjust to the rigours of English football.

It’s frustrating because Manchester United have a wealth of talent in their youth system that rarely get a run-out in the Premier League. Given that Gibson adds so little to the team, why not offer more opportunities to younger players who have been making a name for themselves in the youth and reserve set-up?

There’s been much clamour over Paul Pogba, a 17-year-old midfielder who has been compared to the likes of Patrick Viera and Abou Diaby (but will surely end up being a much more impressive player than latter). Now, I’m sure I’ll get chastised for suggesting that United select a teenager above the likes of 23-year-old Darron Gibson, but why not give him a chance?

If he’s as good as all the papers, pundits and fans say he is then perhaps he’s due a shot. How old was Cesc Fabregas when he started making the headlines? When did Wayne Rooney rise to prominence? In the grand scheme of things age matters very little.

I’m sure that Sir Alex Ferguson will seek to adapt his midfield this summer – perhaps through the addition of a big-name midfielder like Wesley Sneijder. Darron Gibson may then find his opportunities at Manchester United even more limited. For the time being, however, wouldn’t Manchester United fans like to see more of their youth players given an opportunity to shine in the Premier League?

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