Wednesday 27 August 2014

Final Transfer Days Remaining..

Days passing by as the transfer window nearing to its end for this term. Manchester have yet to secure few quality central defenders and defensive midfielder. 

Will the pursuit of Arturo Vidal becomes a reality or will his Van Gaal turn his focus to Carvalho as an alternative signing? Both players are rock solid if you ask me. But if he is looking for Keano's aggressiveness + Cantona's flamboyant approach to the game and team with immediate impact, I would sign up Vidal. But if the boss wants someone really young and tough and definitely long term investment, then I suggest he sign Carvalho. Both of them have individual strengths and weaknesses. 

Whoever he chooses, he needs to do it really fast. Transfer is not the concern but the number of games wasted is rather more important. No matter how good the new signings are, everyone need time gel into the team. Some may have immediate influential into the team while others may require more game time. The Red Devils do not have such time at the moment. They need to pick up points already, no more game to waste. Fans can be patient but United need to show something in return. So let us hope that he'll sign more than one player before the transfer window closes real quick!

Great news...Bad News

WOW...really unbelievable!!! United...beaten 4-0 to a League One club?? SERIOUSLY?? MK Dons football club must be really proud of themselves. The soon as an Angel were introduced, Manchester United lost 4-0 to a League One club, MK Dons. Definitely not the kind of welcome gift Di Maria was hoping for.

What actually happened to the current United squad? Did they really turn up for the game? Well I'm not trying to say that it is not ok to lose. Manchester United match fixture got shortened for already not qualifying in the UEFA Champions League this season. They are now left with only 2 prestigious competitions - The Premier League and the FA Cup. If they were to be knocked out of the FA Cup, it'll be an empty shelf again this season. United have plenty of time to focus on their individual game plan. They don't have to travel much this season too. So what is wrong with the team?!

The players don't look happy at all. The defence were terribly shaky and looking lost most of the time. It just won't work!

Was Van Gaal really going to hard on them that the lads are breaking bad..?

Or are they going on strike? I understand that no professional individuals would want to know that they are no longer needed for the squad or not part of the program, especially from their boss. Thus, fielding the unwanted list of players. Maybe they felt like they were being used. It was no secret that Van Gaal wants to get rid most of the players but as a boss, he has to make his decision real fast. Coz the way I see it, it's not the tactics or any philosophy Van Gaal blabbering about that is having the problem. It looked like the players were unhappy. I hope Manchester United directors' & management team would be able to get it sort out and resolve this matter real soon.

Tuesday 26 August 2014

Be Patience...United Glory Days Are Nearing...

It was no surprise that I am still shock watching United's lacklustre performance last season. It explained my disappearing act; not my blogging for some time already. Let's move on...

I sincerely apologise to those who followed me. And for those who followed, you guys knew how much I hated Ashley Young playing for Manchester United. When is this guy going to be offload? Van Gaal recently said that it would be unfair to not giving everyone a chance to prove their worth. I think Ashley Young is one of those players don't need introduction. Just watch last season video, and Van Gaal able to see his “rare” talent. I have given up hope in this guy, need not say much about him anymore. My plea to Van Gaal to not waste time with Young and play Kagawa or Janujaz instead. Although I kinda think that Janujaz is a little over-rated for all the compliments he's getting. But I believe if given more game time, then we'll see how.

Anyways...we are about to receive and welcome a DAMN GOOD NEWS SOON!! Angel Di Maria is about to be unveiled Officially as a Manchester United Player! They used to say a man's rubbish is another man's treasure well this might not be the case...Angel Di Maria is never regarded as a rubbish player. I personally sees him as somewhere in between (young-aged) Giggs and close to Cristiano Ronaldo. This guy can really turn game quick. He's fast and tricky, something United's missing since Ronaldo. He'll be a major boost for the whole team. Great build up preparation for next season Championship League. First they have to conquer the EPL which I strongly believe they can. United however still need reinforcements in central defence department and another right winger just in case Valencia lost his footings again. The names of Blind from Ajax, former Manchester City player De Jong, Fiorentina's Cuadrado, Real Madrid's Xabi Alonso and Juventus' hotshot Vidal are strongly linked to United especially during the closing transfer window period. These are the kind of players United need if they want to bring back the glory days to Old Trafford.

There is no room for error and time wasting. The Red Devil's first 2 games looked like last season's circus is happening again or even worse. Patience is the key word guys! If you look at it carefully, Van Gaal did not have the chance to utilise his real starters. Some of the key players are either out injured or lacking match fitness. But once they have gained their fitness, Manchester United is ready to steam roll yet again! With the likes of Angel Di Maria, Juan Mata, Rooney, Ander Herrera, Shaw, Marcos Rojo and other reliable players, they will be a contender again. Van Gaal should stop starting Ashley Young first eleven, lessen Tom Cleverly playing time allowing Kagawa to play and Darren Fletcher days are coming to an end. Often looked vulnerable when they were counter attacked. Evans and Smalling are never a good combination. It is always good to see the young ones are given chances. Mike Keane and Tyler Blackett are super young and they are always driven to play better football. Van Gaal should make his selection carefully. Moyes did similar by fielding his personal favourites and look what happened?!


So let us vote for Van Gaal to sell Ashley Young and let him focus what he does best as always in the field...bringing United to be Champions yet again!

Tuesday 6 May 2014

Dust In The Wind...

It's been a while since my last piece. I have just lost of words watching Manchester United going through a horrendous season.  No longer the fierce club I once knew them of. Any under performing clubs visit Old Trafford and grab all those good 3 points. Where does the problem lies? Poor tactics by the former manager David Moyes? Or Moyes inability to psych up players. Or perhaps United players have lost their confidence the moment they had their poor run of games in the early season. Weren't these players the same bunch of guys who won the championships last season? What really happened?? Was it the silly quote by David Moyes that he'll inspire United to play like City....What the heck?!

An exceptional addition player like Juan Mata and Marouane Fellaini didn't have much to offer too. Games after games, United crumbled in their title defence. It was unfortunate to see a player like Mata joined Manchester United squad at the wrong time. But nevertheless we all know without a doubt what kind of player he is and can be.

With the season coming to an end, Manchester United are still in the hunt for a permanent manager to take charge for the next season. Strong links of Louis Van Gaal looking imminent to be the next successor at Old Trafford. Interim manager Ryan Giggs has done well during the Norwich game but somehow the lack of drive in the team may have cost United not having any European matches next season. It has been really frustrating to see Manchester United gave up their games so easily. Like I have said it before, it's ok to lose in a fight, but it is never ok for a club like Manchester United to give up their games so easily. They often look hapless during most of their games this season.

With all the rumour of signing players before the World Cup, whether it is before the season end or after, the relevant management United personnel need to quickly assess and look deep into each and every player. Manchester United really need to shake things up in the dressing room if they want to be a title contender like they used to.
Here are some of the under performing players United should consider of letting them go:

1. Ashley Young (DEFINITE SELL!!!), probably the worst player ever to play for Manchester United. He dives, his passes are abysmal and he even crosses the ball without looking. The only thing good about him is his electric pace and even that sometimes doesn't help at all. He took at least 90% of the share making United looked dumb in the attack this season. Yet he often starts the match even when he SUCKED!!

2. Nani (consider selling but wait...) It's really sad to see him go. Injuries and lack of games cost him dearly this season. Honestly I would love to see him stay and have more games under new manager. His inconsistent playing style was also another concern for him but when he is fit and puts on his dancing shoes...you'll get the best out of him. 

3. Marouane Fellaini (consider selling but may keep for another season) He was supposed to be a reliable midfielder but the plan didn't seemed to work. Always looking confused with his actual position on field. His recent matches he played quite well but I wouldn't mind seeing him having another season in Old Trafford, I doubt the new manager would want to retain him. With the likes of Toni Kroos & Thomas Mueller often mentioned in the papers it would be a tough season ahead although I believed he has the potential to improve as a player. Fellaini should know it...whether he wants to fight for his place or warm the bench. Only time will tell...

Tuesday 3 September 2013

Dead Man Walking...

More than three players were targeted during the summer and in the end, only one emerge as United signing, Belgian midfielder Marouane Fellaini! Thank goodness at least there is one catch. Fellaini is one also a target for Sir Alex Ferguson once. I think we need his aerial prowess and aggressiveness in the midfield which United are severely lacking since Keane left the building. I reckon Fellaini will be a superb signing for United.
 
However United signed off on a bitter note when a deal for Athletico’s Herrera looked almost set, failed. United new chief and board of staff inexperience were to be blame for this silly move. United had months to conclude a deal for a player they wanted but they chose to waste time on Fabregas. They should have moved on after the second bid and start looking elsewhere. My question was, why was Herrera move at the very last minute?? United should have known that the pursuit of Baines and Fabregas seemed to nowhere. United chief should have at least been aware of Europe’s taxation legislation that every club should abide. Why wait till the last minute only to have a deal collapse due to such reason?! This should not happened!!! Poor Herrera had even agreed to receive a pay cut just to sign for United. Now he has to face his team mates yet again, making him look like a donkey. Such failures in signings marquee player this season certainly did not do any favour in United’s reputation. All the trash talking of United spending power and the ability of afford to sign any players regardless of their fees, have gone into the sewer drain.
 
Damn those Gooners fans definitely have something to shout about….Mesut Ozil…my word! He’s an absolute class, captured at the very last few hours of the closing transfer window. Why hadn’t United made enquiry on him earlier rather than wasting time for Fabregas.
 
Now that summer transfer window are shut for good, many find that a club as big as Manchester United are a laughing stock rather than a club who has made an exceptional signing. Well not all big signing eventually became champions. Look at Manchester City and Real Madrid, these two clubs spent on players as if they p

More than three players were targeted during the summer and in the end, only one emerge as United signing, Belgian midfielder Marouane Fellaini! Thank goodness at least there is one catch. Fellaini is one also a target for Sir Alex Ferguson once. I think we need his aerial prowess and aggressiveness in the midfield which United are severely lacking since Keane left the building. I reckon Fellaini will be a superb signing for United.
 
However United signed off on a bitter note when a deal for Athletico’s Herrera looked almost set, failed. United new chief and board of staff inexperience were to be blame for this silly move. United had months to conclude a deal for a player they wanted but they chose to waste time on Fabregas. They should have moved on after the second bid and start looking elsewhere. My question was, why was Herrera move at the very last minute?? United should have known that the pursuit of Baines and Fabregas seemed to nowhere. United chief should have at least been aware of Europe’s taxation legislation that every club should abide. Why wait till the last minute only to have a deal collapse due to such reason?! This should not happened!!! Poor Herrera had even agreed to receive a pay cut just to sign for United. Now he has to face his team mates yet again, making him look like a donkey. Such failures in signings marquee player this season certainly did not do any favour in United’s reputation. All the trash talking of United spending power and the ability of afford to sign any players regardless of their fees, have gone into the sewage!
 
Damn those Gooners fans definitely have something to shout about….Mesut Ozil…my word! He’s an absolute class, captured at the very last few hours of the closing transfer window. Why hadn’t United made enquiry on him earlier rather than wasting time for Fabregas.

Now that summer transfer window are shut for good, many find that a club as big as Manchester United are a laughing stock rather than a club who has made an exceptional signing. Well not all big signing eventually became champions. Look at Manchester City and Real Madrid, these two clubs spent on players as if they print their own money. Yes, it’s really great being a City or Real Madrid fan seeing different players signed in whenever a transfer window opens. But Barcelona have achieved far better results than Real Madrid in recent years. Manchester City won the league two seasons ago but were unable to lift up to their expectations a season later. And to make their matter worst, their beloved manager sent packing.
 
Frankly after this disappointing summer transfer, Manchester United will definitely struggle this season with even teams like Tottenham and Liverpool have added excellent surplus into their squad. As much as I am a United fan, this season a new champion will rise.
 
I hope Manchester United’s backroom staff learnt a piece or two following the failing yet disappointing summer transfer and come back strong in the January transfer, should they require an addition. Well at least Moyes got a Hershey’s kiss with a big hair. Just wake up and smell the coffee Moyes, don’t get too excited for the Champions League. Pray hard that Fellaini will fill in the big shoes. As much disappointing as I am, I can’t wait to see Fellaini In United shirt in the next game. All the best, Buddy! Moyes….good luck this season coz as of now to most of the Red Devil fans, you’re as good as a dead man walking…. 

Sunday 1 September 2013

It's My Say On...Liverpool vs Manchester United...So Piss Off!

Saw the starting line up and all I can see, it's the typical Fergie's line-up yet again. Nani was available but Ashley Young started. Kagawa was available but Giggs was chosen. Chicharito is better than Welbeck,  but Welbeck made the cut for the team.
 
Honestly I am not a big fan Ashley Young. He gets excited often over the ball even when there's no one around him.
 
Short summary for the first half, United had couple of chances but due to damn poor corner takings and crosses especially from Young, lead the attacks to nowhere. Liverpool looked the better and I had to admit it but they deserved the lead into the half time.
 
Match resumes and United wonder boy, Carrick almost got himself red carded early in the 2nd half. Don't worry United faithful, Carrick will still win the Man of the Match tonight, even when he sucked like everyday.
 
Van Persie was having a good game so far but he was provoked by the not-so-red players. Phil Jones got injured in the first half, replaced by Valencia added spice into United's attack. If only Rooney was fit to play against his most hated club.
 
I can't stand a minute anymore watching Young on the field. Moyes, please replace him immediately!! The referee doesn't seem to be in favour to United, he yellow carded almost every United player. What's wrong with you, Ref?!
 
An hour has past, the home team looked quite comfortable so far. My prayers were answered when Young was replaced by Nani in the 62min. Nani will always be my first choice over Young. Sell Young back Aston Villa, I'm sure they missed him.
 
Manchester United's ball possession increased and Nani first corner taking almost lead to a goal by Giggs.
 
Liverpool substitute Sterling got jealous of Valencia perfect vision and nearly took his eyes off his skull.
 
Soon after, another prayer answered in the 72mins as old bird Giggs was taken off and replaced by Javier Hernandez...
 
Certainly Liverpool looked a better team than last season but only time will tell...
 
Nani's thundering shot in 76th minute nearly took Liverpool's goalkeeper hands off...what a chance that was!
 
United fans looked anxious as the match clock's ticking...could this be United's first lost of the season or...
 
Coutinho had a good game, got replaced by Luis Alberto in the 83rd min.
 
Van Persie nearly equalised from Hernandez pass...oh what a miss?! Attacks after attacks came in and still Liverpool leading. Free kick awarded after Cleverly was taken down heavily by Agger. RVP stood in front of the ball...yet no equalise. Liverpool were surprisingly strong to the end and with the help of referee on their side. 5 additional minutes into the injury time. No chance now...
 
Congratulation on your first lost, Moyes! Let's be stingy and not sign any players while other clubs are improving, Manchester United are digging themselves deeper into their own grave!!! Don't forget to carry on with your trash talking on new players!

Wednesday 28 August 2013

Master of Puppet

Second game for United into a brand new season of the Premier League 2013/14 and to be honest I see no sign of new management, no new tactics, no new style of play – just plain old boring Fergie style of football. I began to wonder if Moyes is a reincarnation of Alex Ferguson. Or Ferguson is still managing team behind the curtains, “puppeting” Moyes?? Yes they have won one and drew one but seriously, there were no bloody improvement on the team! The club has an eclectic pool of young talent at Moyes disposals yet he is not deploying them. Even with much ball possession, United never look comfortable throughout at least 50% of the game.
Let’s start with the last game against Chelsea. United attacks were superb with Rooney pairing with RVP, tearing Chelsea’s defence, only to be shortened by the lack of creative in the midfield area. Ever so reliable Welbeck & Chicharito were always excellent covers should the front two got injured. Prior to this, It is no stranger to millions of Die-Hard United fans that United midfield are super-lacking of its killer passing, creative midfield except 2 of them – Sir Alex Ferguson & David Moyes. United has Kagawa, Zaha, Nani even Anderson and yet Moyes is using Valencia and Giggs. Valencia weren’t as good as he previously was. Not that I am asking to ignore him totally or to sell him. We all know what Valencia is capable of just make him work for his place against the likes of Nani, Zaha & Young. Give Zaha a chance to prove his worth. Zaha & Nani played well during the pre-seasons. I’m not saying that Giggs should retire, Giggsy has always been very reliable but the last match while Chelsea have began to worn out, Welbeck should be replaced by Kagawa instead of Giggs.
 
And why was our Kagawa not given much play time since Moyes took over? Is he not good enough in the eyes of David Moyes?! C'mon...no one in the current Everton squad has better capabilities than our fine Samurai. Or I questioned myself sometimes...has Moyes really seen what Kagawa is capable of?

Another player is Phil Jones, he is becoming more of a clown recently. Often very clumsy with his donkey passes and silly tackles. I was very excited when Phil Jones joined United. He started very well in his first season but somehow his playing style dipped. His clumsiness is somewhat similar to Mikael Silvestre. I always bet Phil Jones will be an excellent England defender but sad but true now I kind of prefer Smalling to Jones.

Rio, Vidic & Evra, in spite of their catching age, they were superb and lasted throughout 90mins. Well done lads!!

In recent conference, Moyes made a confession that lack of creativity & fine final touches cost United not to bag 3 points against Chelsea. Took him awhile to realise this. Only days away until the transfer window closes. Will Moyes really pumping in new blood? Or is he sticking with whatever he has for now?

Here are the two possibilities and probably reunion parties;

Fellaini – Young & strong Belgian with the ability to score. Good in the air. Definitely a surplus, in my opinion, of course. It’s about time they find Carrick a replacement. Carrick is becoming terrible passer of late. His tackles were as bad. Like I have said many times, to me Carrick is just an over-rated player.

Baines – We’ve already got Lightning Evra, Bad boy Buttner and Samba Kid Fabio. Unless Moyes wants him Baines in Giggs’ position, left winger.

My worries are Ashley Young who is an injury prone and Valencia, hope he can pick up where he left off 2 seasons ago.

What United need are creative midfielders. Please don’t get rejected player from Madrid or Barcelona. Manchester United Football Club is a worldwide icon with great resources and establishment. I believe United scouts team have a major task to do now if they want to find untapped young Cristiano Ronaldo, young Zidane, young Ronaldinho, young Robben, young Ribery and other youngsters like them. Someone like Santiago Munez from the movie Goal, an example of what all rich clubs should be doing – tapping young unknown talents and not from bloodsucking clubs demand for ridiculous price for their good players unless you really have the money, of course.
This is Moyes first season, I extremely suggest Moyes not to sleep at all for the next 5/6 days, put on his thinking cap and seriously consider 1 or 2 quality & creative players coz if he fails to sign any of these players, he’ll soon to realise that next season’s arm emblem will not be gold one anymore. Imagine Jose Mourinho were to be Red Devils manager, he’ll definitely be making massive changes!