With Manchester United cruising at 4-2 up against Everton, it was up to the most experienced members of the squad to ensure that they didn’t slip up. With Rafael da Siva looking nervous and United’s defence being given the run around by the likes of Steven Pienaar and Nikica Jelavic, somebody needed to stand up and take responsibility. Somebody needed to gee up the rest of the side, get vocal, make sure discipline was maintained and make sure the unthinkable didn’t happen. Unfortunately nobody did and we’re all aware of the results.
Where was captain Patrice Evra? On a day where United needed a leader he went missing and that’s been the case on a number of occasions this season. Is he really the right man to bear the literal and symbolic weight of the captain’s armband?
He’s not the longest serving player within the squad. That honour falls to Rio Ferdinand, who I’d argue plays more consistently than Evra. He’s not the loudest or the most motivational player. I can’t picture him inspiring those around him with his words or passion. He’s certainly no Roy Keane. So why does Sir Alex Ferguson stick by him?
Michael Carrick has been a picture of consistency this season. He’s an organisational genius keeping possession effortlessly and working as the focal point of United’s passing game. Without him in the side the Red Devils look significantly worse – is the same true for Patrice Evra?
I’m not so sure. Carrick has some experience as a captain from his time at Spurs. He’s also deployed in a more central position (should left-backs ever be captains?) and is likely to stay with the club longer.
The truth is, there are a number of good candidates for the captain’s armband at Old Trafford. You could hand it to Rooney, who provides inspiration through his goals and work-ethic. When Nemanja Vidic returns from injury he’d also make for an obvious choice. Rio may be getting on in years, but he’s experienced and vocal enough to lead this United side.
There may be those who advise against switching things around unnecessarily. Yes United are on the verge of yet another title under Evra’s leadership. Yes they have performed well this season. But have United managed to do this despite the fact he’s their captain? The jury remains out on that one.
What’s your take? Is Patrice Evra still up to the responsibility or should the armband be passed on?
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