Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs have decided to stay on for one more season, but that is at best a short term solution for midfield problems. Central midfield has been a big issue with the Red Devils , and need for a goal scoring midfielder was felt more than ever during last season. That is the reason Wesley Sneijder was touted as the perfect replacement of Paul Scholes. However any suggestion of Wesley joining United was quashed by SAF when he rated Xavi and Iniesta as only comparables for Scholes. Ashley Young started the season with promise last year, but could not maintain the same intensity. Antonio Valencia has certainly raised his game and Nani seems to be growing, but still a consistent goal scoring midfielder is what United need. The signing of Shinji Kagawa seems to be a step in the right direction, but he also would have lots to prove as papers still dub that move as strategy to tap into Japanese market for United.
In defence age is probably catching up with Rio Ferdinand(33) and he does not seem to have the same agility and fitness. The Da Silva twins certainly posses’ talent as full backs but lack composure exhibited by Gary Neville and are not the finished article just yet. Johnny Evans is hot and cold, while Chris Smalling is yet to deliver consistent performances. Phil Jones is another one who showed glimpses of what he can do, but is in danger of becoming another Wes Brown or John O’Shea as he has been played in one too many different positions.
In attack Wayne Rooney epitomizes what United is all about – fire, fight and fervor. Having said that he plays better when is placed just behind the striker. Javier Hernandez looked to be the ideal match for him in his first season. However last campaign he was not able to bring his ‘A’ game. Danny Wellback has pace, hunger and dogged approach and given proper time, he may turn out to be another Andy Cole. But with Dimitar Berbatov also on his way out there is still room for another world class front-man in the squad.
The Euros always prove to be a big showcase event for players to catch big club’s attention. Sir Alex will surely have his eye open and so will his able scouts, perhaps a marquee signings in somewhere on the horizon before the new season begins.
After having touched upon the major shortcomings and strengths of current Manchester United squad, It is clear to me that there are still some pieces missing in Ferguson’s jigsaw puzzle and some rough edges to smooth out for the great man before he is able to spell out the phrase “next generation of Champions is here” and be able to sip a cup of tea in his backyard on a Sunday afternoon.
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