Following two late goals against Blackburn, Manchester United are now 5 points clear at the top of the table and Manchester City have their work to do if they are going to keep pace. Whilst United deserve a pat on the back for the graft and spirit they’ve shown it’s clear that there are still some problems to address within this squad. When the transfer window reopens, City are likely to strengthen and if United don’t do the same they may get left behind.
Sir Alex Ferguson has never been one to rest on his laurels. After winning Manchester United their 19th title last season he went out and spent big on the likes of Ashley Young and Phil Jones, both of whom have had a major role to play this year. So where will Fergie be looking to strengthen this summer?
Offensively, Manchester United are very strong, but they could use some reinforcements at the back. As certain defensive elements age, United are going to have to line up replacements.
Although Patrice Evra has impressed over the years and shown a good deal of leadership, I can’t help but feel that United could use a little more competition in the left back position. Yes he’s athletic, strong and can get up and down the wings, but he has looked slightly off the pace on occasions this season. Though his experience and know-how is important, he’s certainly not the player he was two years ago.
I’m just not sure that the likes of Fabio Da Silva and Ezekiel Fryers are ready to make the step up at this moment in time. If Evra picked up an injury next season, United would find their options somewhat limited. Similarly, I’d argue there’s not enough cover in the right back position.
With Rio Ferdinand also on his last legs (how many seasons does he have left in him?) I’d argue that Manchester United could use reinforcements all across the back-four. Whilst Jonny Evans and Nemanja Vidic will be at United for some time, Phil Jones may be pushed into the midfield and leave a gap in their squad.
So how can United fill this void? Manchester United have been linked to Valencia left-back Jordi Alba. At 22-years-old he may well be viewed as the long-term replacement for Patrice Evra. He’s cost a fair amount but would make for a good investment.
As for the centre-back position I think Borussia Dortmund’s Neven Subotic would be a fantastic acquisition. He too has found himself linked to Manchester United in the past and may well be keen to link up International team mate Nemnanja Vidic. He’s 6 foot 4 inches tall and he’s strong both in the air and along the ground. With a double Serbian defence, Manchester United would be a tough nut to crack.
Of course, this is all just conjecture. What’s your take? Do United need to strengthen at the back this summer? Is the left-back position a priority?
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I’d like to see Fergie swoop for Kyle Walker who can play left back.
At right back United are spolit for choice with rafael, smalling and Jones all able to play there.
Ferdinand has at least 2 seasons in him and Vidic is back next term. Evans has come into his own this year and agreed the problem positiion is left back but should Evra become injured then Fergie may employ Giggs there. If young Fabio can keep fit then he has the potential to be better than rafael so a signing or two might be necessary but at the same time the centre of midfield arguably needs reinforcements
kyle walker hasnt played left back, so doubt he would leave to be out of position and on the bench? What about baines