dioforce.

Rooney justifies midfield ambitions in balanced display against Arsenal

2011-03-13T17:20:00.000-07:00

Employing Rooney in Scholes' role instead of continuing to shoehorn him as an out-and-out striker he is not is the only scenario I can envision really unshackling Rooney's remaining and decreasing potential.

Well it's about bloody time.

Sir Alex Ferguson emerged from his carefully-carved thinking box and finally employed Wayne Rooney in the center of midfield for Manchester United.

Granted, it was only a bit-part performance: Against Arsenal on Saturday, Rooney was still, at most times, the second-most man forward.

But, particularly in the first half, he played like he was part of the midfield instead of someone without any defensive duties.

His head was on a swivel. He was involved, almost happy, pointing and directing traffic on defense and grabbing the ball deep to alternatively create triangles and slowly press upfield or ping it himself over the top through to Hernandez, occupying Rooney's old position. It was almost beautiful.

He even intimated that Ferguson did it on purpose, which is both refreshing and surprising.

"The work effort from the two lads on the wing, and we had me and Gibbo just in front of O'Shea, and I think it worked out well," the Englishman said.

"We worked hard. We stopped them getting through-balls to the forwards and we knew we could catch them on the break which we have done over the last few years against Arsenal.

"It was a gritty performance from us."

Hernandez was the target man as Rafael and Fabio also flew forward giving Rooney the foundation to really ply his inherent traits.

Why did we have to wait 65 million years for this?

And his traits are well-documented, just as this paradigm shift from his manager—if it's even that—is long overdue.

I wrote in 2008, advocating Rooney behind Berbatov and Tevez when the English striker was characteristically off-form and their rotation up top became counter-productive:

While they are healthy, the situation could easily be manipulated to the side's advantage, but it requires a break from dogma for the Scottish manager.

Ferguson's parochial approach to playing Rooney at the expense of Tevez must be shifted to slotting Rooney behind both [the Argentine] and Berbatov in an attacking midfield role.

Rooney is a workhorse. His penchant for tracking back is actually maligned when he is playing striker; slot him into a supporting role, and it would be glorified.

In addition to his work-rate, Rooney is a brilliant creative passer and a team leader. He is quicker and stronger than Carrick, and might even be better in the air.

The energy he harbors playing forward, which, as said, is often expressed rashly and impudently, could easily be displaced throughout the midfield.

There he can win balls and orchestrate forward movements: passing, firing long-range shots, and making late runs trademarked by the ginger-haired master.

Not a lot has changed. United still have two other strikers in more consistent form. Carrick is still shite. Why not get Rooney on the field in a position he can really express himself?

He could play the defensive in role in midfield better than the lanky Englishman while passing better, being faster, stronger and with better cardio and vision.

Furthermore, Wayne would absolutely revel in being able to constantly pick up the ball off the backline, eliminating the inevitably of them aimlessly booting it downfield to him.

He'd also love tracking other playmakers because players with huge egos love tracking other players with huge egos. Trust me.

He could start from deep, work triangles through the park, ping Hollywood balls from corner to corner, flying tackle people, throw elbows willy-nilly, spit to his heart's content, be closer to the referee to yell "FACK OFF", and get sent off more.

Where's the downside?

Rooney has always been a better footballer than a striker.

Different formations an' that

It doesn't really matter what tactics the gaffer wants to use, our Scouser would fit finely.

Even a center pairing of Rooney and Scholes is more combative than the Ginger Prince and "The Friendly Ghost" proved against Chelsea two weeks ago. There United's center midfield were overrun in the second half, Fletcher marooned out wide.

Then Ferguson again started Carrick and Scholes in the middle against Liverpool in front of a depleted backline. This time Rooney was the one marooned incorrectly in left field and thereby abysmal. United conceded more space and looked more amateurish than they had at any other time this season.

To be sure, in a 4-4-2, Fletcher should be the first midfielder on the teamsheet. Pairing him with Rooney is an equally creative—but substantially more bottled—alternative to Scholes and especially Giggs.

In a four-man midfield, if the ginger one isn't up to task—injured or otherwise, employing Valencia, Nani, Fletcher, and Rooney is much more appealing on paper than any other possible attacking array.

Ferguson's infamous 4-5-1 with Hernandez or Berbatov up top with Rooney, Scholes, and Fletcher supporting makes an otherwise ineffective and undesirable formation seem absolutely dreamy.

Sir Alex experiments elsewhere too

Basically, when it comes to five-man midfields, if it doesn't involve Carrick or Gibson, and has Wayne somewhere in the middle, then it's green pastures.

Especially since Ferguson also revealed against Arsenal his hitherto unknown or nonexistent willingness to try a da Silva twin on the wing.

The Brazilians are perfect like-for-like replacements to fulfill a Ji-Sung Park role, except they are much faster and far superior going forward.

They have fantastic engines and each get well stuck-in—with a grain of naivete, of course, and not that it's always bad.

They provide rambunctious, more defensive-minded wingplay if ever an overabundance of creativity in the middle had to be compensated for.

The da Silva twins do so with more attacking panache and ability along the wing than Park, Fletcher, Rooney, or any other player Ferguson would shoehorn in for a more defensive approach.

Russian doll phenomenon

Perhaps most importantly, slotting Wayne Rooney into center middle means Javier Hernandez gets to play more.

Chicharito gives a completely different look than any other United striker. It's become obvious even to pundits. His forward runs are absolutely electric, opening space throughout the whole park and enabling a

United counterattack that is otherwise stale without him.

Hernandez is more natural to the position and more effective in it than Rooney. Already. After half a season.

Ponch has vast, undeveloped inherent talent, as opposed to Rooney who had talent but plateaued as he became complacent believing was a premier world striker.

He's the better forward, better alone up top, and a better partner for Berbatov.

Frankly, the idea of Rooney creating play for the two up top is absolutely spellbinding in theory.

Whether it plays out in real time is unlikely to be ascertained until next season—a consistent, major postitional shift for Ferguson's most popular player wouldn't take place proper during the culmination of a three-front trophy assault. Rooney may not even be here then.

But if he is, and if it does, then United and its fans might have finally been rewarded with the replacement for Paul Scholes we've been desperately seeking already for several years.

It's a move that benefits the team and the player, giving United a younger, energetic version of—and replacement for—their best player of the last 15 years, allowing Rooney the space and role to do everything a relatively complete footballer should be able to do throughout the course of a match.

Follow me on twitter ya'll.

The absurdity of Manchester United's midfield and Sir Alex's selection

2011-03-07T13:09:00.000-08:00

For being a legendary manager, Sir Alex sure makes a lot of bad fundamental decisions.

Especially coming off a hopefully learning loss at Chelsea midweek.

But Ferguson showed no signs of insight or clarity when he sat Darren Fletcher and played a flimsy 4-4-2 away to his arch-rivals Sunday.

Selection askew again

Midweek at Stamford Bridge, Sir Alex got about as tricky as he can by playing 4-4-2 away to Chelsea.

But there he marooned Fletcher on the right wing so Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick could eventually give up control in the second half.

He should have learned from that display that any 4-4-2 needs to contain the Scotsman or a similar end-to-end player who can both get stuck in correctly and make occasional more runs into the 18-yard-box.

After all, I wrote about it after the match. Why didn't Ferguson read it? He should really follow me on twitter.

But at least he played Fletcher against Chelsea.

Sir Alex appallingly seated his Scottish nucleus on the bench at Anfield, setting the foundation for an abhorrent losing display.

Let's not get physical (physical)

The game was always going to be cagey and demanding. So why did Ferguson start his lightest midfield possible?

Especially when a five-man midfield in games like these had regrettably become his hallmark.

Giggs and Nani are poor tacklers. The latter particularly lacks defensive sense as well.

Honestly if you need some steal on either wing and Park isn't available, put another da Silva out there and let him run wild. Hell, the twins could probably interchange along the touchline with some really good football.

An approach like that against Liverpool (with Fletcher centrally) would have been very helpful.

But United's longest-tenured manager shows no signs of adapting his thinking or doing it outside of a carefully constructed box.

United could have gotten away with it, though, if their center midfield had any sort of bottle at all.

Carrick the friendly ghost

Scholes and Carrick are a horrible pairing and it's not the former's fault.

At least he has credible attributes that contribute to the team in a meaningful way.

Selecting Scholes is justifiable; his creativity in the middle is tantamount going forward.

But the Englishman isn't getting forward himself much these days, content, as everyone knows to spray passes from deep with artistry and precision.

But he needs the right partner. Someone who will go from box to box and really harry opposing playmakers and enforcers.

Carrick doesn't fit that description. He, ironically, is also content to attempt to do exactly what Scholes does but significantly worse, without equal guile, technique, or vision.

He tries to get by being being a ninja but he plays like a ghost. He is anonymous, hoping if he avoids detection he can keep being paid egregious amounts of money to have little or no impact on a football match.

But if you actually watch him individually over the course of a game, wow, he sure is rubbish.

The waferthin Englishman spent most of United's match against Liverpool standing 10 feet away from his maestro. Scholes was shimmying around constantly trying to get the ball as Carrick watched with mouth agape.

Meanwhile whenever United got the ball up to their forwards or wingers, there was no one to come knifing into the box late.

On the other side of the ball, as Scholes threw himself about, the former Spurs midfielder basically played a zone defense and only rarely pressured physically.

He doesn't assert himself or throw his weight around at all as evidenced throughout United's last two losses and recorded in these margins.

How has he ever been considered up to an English standard or meeting the grade in Manchester has always been purely beyond me and is archived in all my writings.

Rooney creates more problems than he solves

Wayne Rooney should be the player to replace Scholes as the club's prime central-midfielder.

He tracks back, gets stuck-in, and has a very wide passing range.

Ferguson is considered a genius but this simple idea, written time and again, remains just a pipe dream to those of us outside his rigid paradigm.

Instead he positions Rooney on the left wing and it is utterly mind-numbing.

Wayne never touches the ball with his left foot to turn or dribble and it makes his dribbling slower and his turns less effective.

He could dribble faster if he was are able to use either foot; therefore able to take a decisive touch with every step of a running gait.

Furthermore, if he can touch the ball and turn and dribble with both feet then not only is the ball protected between his legs, but it will be under his center mass, providing better natural balance and a quicker ability to change direction at any whim.

Furthermore, he could dribble faster if he was are able to use either foot; therefore able to take a decisive touch with every step of a running gait.

His array of attacking moves would be diverse and reactive instead of plodding, forecast, and obvious. He might actually get around someone with the ball instead of only rarely getting past them only to be off-balance.

But Rooney is so one-dimensional. He doesn't stretch play at all on the wing and his dumbfire intention of hoofing in an aimless cross is completely and laughably forecast.

Is this the United hallmark for football? A left-footer on the right wing and a right-footer on the left wing checking inside to hoof in hopeful crosses?

I guess so, especially without a central-midfielder getting forward to create play in the final third.

Evidence

Watch United's possession at 34:27 of the first half against Liverpool. Watch Rooney's inability, then track Carrick all the way until Liverpool get their clear-cut chance.

It embodies everything I've said and felt for the last few seasons.

We can still win the league, but it'd help if Ferguson is challenged by someone at his staff to change his parochial, stubborn, failing approach to selection and tactics.

We've been riding our luck thus far, something that has been consistently mused upon before being confirmed over the course of two regrettable matches.

Ferguson's selection, Chelsea dominance send United packing off to Anfield

2011-03-04T14:50:00.000-08:00

With a trip to Merseyside against Liverpool looming on Sunday, Manchester United have little time to ruminate over the frustrating loss to Chelsea on Tuesday.

Luckily, I have way more free time than any respectable person and I've decided to spend some of it sitting here typing this bollocks.

Errors on the teamsheet

The Red Devil's loss to Chelsea on Tuesday was pretty brutal. To begin, Alex Ferguson's starting lineup was a little confusing.

At this point, we're all completely desensitized to him opting for a 4-5-1 in any major away fixtures. He even flirted with it recently away to Wolves and Wigan and went with it at home to Villa.

Opting instead for 4-4-2 in a situation like this could have been refreshing. However, marooning Darren Fletcher out wide while Michael Carrick supported Paul Scholes against Michel Essien was never going to be enough.

Carrick has a tragic tendency to get near opposing midfielders without making a tackle. It's crucial to, at the very least, upset another player's balance and timing by putting a body on him. Carrick doesn't tackle often enough or well enough to guard Scholes in the middle.

I thought this stuff was obvious. I thought Fergie had only been playing him as a stopgap over the last couple months. I was wrong and Ferguson was wrong on Tuesday.

Scholes is necessary going forward, but he's gotta be protected. He alone has trouble anyways against more physical midfielders. In starting Lampard and Essien, Anceolotti put out a more balanced center midfield than Ferguson. Essien is the best player out of the four and our best midfielder was required in the core.

Blew it. Right formation, perhaps; wrong teamsheet.

I would have played Giggs out left, Fletcher protecting Scholes in the middle, and Nani on the right. That's our best four-man midfield, right? Without Valencia, at least. But, whatever.

Hernandez enables, Rooney delivers

Javier Hernandez and Wayne Rooney up front looked good on paper and performed in actual spacetime.
Hernandez was and is the great enabler: He stretches defenses leaving room for any strike partner and both Berbatov and Rooney prefer to drop in that space to pickup the ball, turn, and create play.

This played out at Stamford Bridge and Rooney benefited. He was flowing forward and using the Mexican smartly, showing fitness and marginally better touch.

Hernandez was a perfect foil for the Englishman to touch onto whenever he chose to drop in the slot.
Other times Rooney made forward runs and got in behind the defense in an impressive first half.

Chelsea's defence inexplicably let him carry the ball onto his right foot outside-left of their 18-yard box and Rooney fired a harrowing driven strike low into Petr Cech's bottom-right corner on the 28th minute.

The shot embodied perfect connection and execution. These long-range driven shots used to be Rooney's motus operanda; shall they become again not even I could deny we'd have a dangerous striker.

After five goals in five matches, and actually playing well in the outfield, showing engine, and driving forward, the Englishman may actually be entering a run of good form. His consistency has always been his achille's heel.

If the Scouser can perform in the northwest derby on Sunday, it'd be a good omen for United in the run out of a congested season's end.

Second-half tortures

The game itself contained some great football. Both clubs played as elite sides in the first half. In the second, things began to unravel for United.

David Luiz equalized for Chelsea after a scramble in the box that saw Patrice Evra drift inwards intuitively, allowing the centerback space to drive perfectly from six yards inside van der Sar's near post.

Later Chris Smalling yielded a soft yet not wholly unjust penalty which Lampard converted perfectly.

In the end, three great strikes created a 2-1 scoreline for the Blues. Nemanja Vidic was sent off late after two bookable offenses.

Credit belongs to the United goalkeeper for some ridiculous stops in the first half. Hernandez, Rooney, and Nani did well from open play as Scholes still managed to play the right passes inside the midfield despite having poor cover.

United's manager publicly bemoaned the refereeing performance, but seeming unjustices like this are investments for the future—surely it's been paid forward at this point. Expect some beneficial penalty calls, as ever, in the near future.

Every now and then we have a great game between two great sides where it's hard to find a player on either team that played poorly. This was that game and I ain't mad.

War wagon goes west

Man United now face the daunting prospect of facing Liverpool away without Vidic.

How Ferguson will line up his side is anyone's guess at this point. Hernandez has proven to everyone the effect his style has on our attack, importantly opening up play for either strike partner. Antonio Valencia probably won't feature, but is nearing fitness.

Perhaps Ryan Giggs could start in Scholes' stead, but at the very least the Red Devils will need Fletcher in the middle of the park where he can really assert himself.

Without him United have no bottle in the center of the pitch and would be certain to concede without their most important player this season in Vidic.

Ideally Rooney would start in center midfield next to Fletcher, something that should have been experimented with years ago—if not this year when Scholes was injured. Sadly this remains just a pipe dream.

However things play out, the title race is refreshingly closer and we should be looking at goals for either side come Sunday.

Note: Anytime I say "Fletcher" I also imply "Hargreaves if he was healthy."

Hernandez at the helm as Devils travel to Stamford Bridge

2011-02-28T14:48:00.000-08:00

Certain recurring narratives were reinforced when Manchester United beat Wigan 4-0 away on Saturday.

Whether or not their import will be heeded by their manager going forward remains to be seen.

United gaffer Alex Ferguson started Javier Hernandez up top with Wayne Rooney for the first time this season away at the JJB.

To be fair, Rooney dropped too deep too often so the formation often seemed a 4-5-1. His willingness to do so can be either that or desperation, the latter being more persuasive after he muay-thai elbowed James McCarthy for no reason in the first half.

Referee Mark Clattenburg wanted too much to be one of the guys and let Rooney off with only a manhug.
Hernandez meanwhile was busy doing the things that'll see him replace Rooney some day sooner than anyone would have expected.

At the very least the Mexican tailors his natural attributes to his game, using his speed to embody a dumbfire missile heading straight at the opposing goal whenever a midfielder with the ball looks up at him.

Being caught offside isn't nearly as lamentable for the Mexican as it is for another United striker, Dimitar Berbatov, who has zero pace but gets caught offsides more than virtually any other player in the Premier League.

Anyways, gotta keep this brief. United play against Chelsea in two days so this'll get buried under a bunch of other crap.

Therefore I'll skip how influential Scholes was, that Patrice Evra had his best game in awhile, or how underrated Vidic still is. Use your imagination I guess.

Hernandez opened the scoring for the Red Devils by again making the run both Berbatov and Rooney would be uninclined to. It's really simple and has been written within these margins before: run forward fast. The other two are much slower and tend to suspend runs into the box to pull off and get a cut-back.

Chicharito doesn't eff around, then he smiles about it. He finished Nani's cross to put United ahead. As the half winded down—after some outstanding saves by van der Sar that, in hindsight, obviously inspired Ben Foster—the Mexican pilfered again.

The second strike was one of the ilk United fans are quickly getting used to. The Poncharello lookalike nodded down his goalie's punt to Rooney who one-timed the reciprocal. The former Guadalajara striker sprinted through, took a touch, and finished ever-cooly. Then he smiled. Another thing Rooney doesn't do, although he does spit more.

United led 2-0. The game was over. The final score read 4-0. It didn't matter.

I would have sex with Javier Hernandez if only to brag to women about it and then bed them consequently. I truly believe he will replace Rooney as United's talisman once the grumpy scouser is inevitably sold for an exorbitant sum to a club that still buys his hype.

Rooney himself hasn't had two good games on the trot, and I've been increasingly lenient with the definition of "good". Having scored and picked up two assists, despite playing poorly from open play elsewise, his streak once again stands at one.

If he spent a little more time in training working on fundamentals still missing from his limited repertoire, instead of being grumpy, pugnacious, greedy, and lecherous, then I'd not have to use any of those words to describe him, at least. At most he'd become something of the footballer he was capable of.

Employing him in Scholes' role instead of continuing to shoe-horn him as an out-and-out striker he is not is the only scenario I can envision really unshackling Rooney's remaining and decreasing potential.

Anyways: United have a rather big game ahead of them at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

It's too bad but Hernandez is unlikely to start in it, despite coming off early for Gibson at the DW Stadium. Ferguson is likely to start a lamentable 4-5-1 with a lamentable Rooney lamentably up top alone and lamenting.

It might not be the wrong decision since he'll be playing for the draw, anyway. You can always tell when Fergie is playing for a draw because he doesn't start Scholes.

But as United's long run-out to the season continues, Hernandez's name should appear on more and more teamsheets or, at least, near the end of match reports.

His preclusion from the Marseille first leg was an egregious oversight from a passive manager. Ferguson should have been more audacious in nicking an away goal; Hernandez' specialty.

Man Red will need all three of their strikers at different points throughout the season's final third.

So far only two of them have produced consistently. Berbatov leads the top flight in scoring. Chicharito has nine goals in 18 appearances in his first season.

Who'd I forget?

I'm on twitter, for what it's worth.

Marseille-United: Player ratings and scathing analysis

2011-02-23T21:05:00.000-08:00

Three-time European Cup winners Manchester United travelled to the Stade Veladrome Wednesday in first-leg action from the UEFA Champions League knockout stage, squaring up against the successful French outfit Marseille.

For no legitimate reason, Reds manager Alex Ferguson opted for Darron Gibson in midfield in lieu of Paul Scholes.

Essentially, he was playing for a nil-nil from the onset; a blatant tactical mistake in two-legged ties that favor away goals.

The first half started and ended in the same fashion: Neither side getting a sniff of a goal, with the majority of possession going sideways or backwards.

Nani was the only dangerous player on the pitch. John O'Shea aimlessly hoofed long-balls forward—inevitably turnovers. Rooney predictably had no joy on the left of midfield. Carrick and Gibson neither hustled nor passed well in United's core. Berbatov did what he could up front (spoiler: not much).

The second half began as the first one ended and finished just as it began: Shots were few and far-between, in addition to being often catapulted into near-Earth-orbit.

Marseille had their best chance thus far on sixty minutes, but a few shanked shots eliminated any real possibility of scoring.

The game was crying out for an impact substitute. Scholes, Hernandez or both were basically required on principle. Mercifully Ferguson introduced the Englishman 70 minutes late into the match, replacing the always-lamentable Gibson.

Why the gaffer chose to start with a weaker midfield than he was afforded will likely be prevaricated upon in post-match interviews—looking forward to that.

Immediately, Scholes began retrieving from the backline and building from the back. Then my stream skipped and it was a Marseille goal-kick.

United controlled the remaining 15 minutes of the match during a period that contained their best attacking moves of the match.

Too little, too late. The match ends 0-0, but at least all my under-bets hit.

With a five-man midfield, there was no reason whatsoever to be even more pusillanimous by not putting Scholes in it.

As close as this match was, you'd think Marseille only need to nick a single goal at Old Trafford to seize the biggest upset of the round.

A few things are certain for the return fixture: Marseille will sit back and try to contain United in hopes of getting a lucky away-goal.

United will stack five in the midfield again in hopes to suppress the away side tallying.

The French club would be happy to take the tie into penalties at Old Trafford.

In other words, don't expect a cracking return leg!

Player Ratings

Manchester United

van der Sar: 6: Little to do; did little.

O'Shea: 6: Should never make vertical passes over the top into nothingness; otherwise helped contain a tepid Marseille attack.

Smalling: 7.5: Learning from Vidic as evidenced by his flying headers. Good, strong match again—second in a row! Rooney should be jealous.

Vidic: 8: Completely untroubled.

Evra: 6.5: Big game for the Frenchman who is reviled in France because of his antics during the World Cup. The fact that any scorn is reserved for people other than Raymond Domenech is very bemusing. Regardless, Patty was up for the match.

Fletcher: 6.5: Required, but not especially effective.

Carrick: 6: Also required, if only because United don't have a better player in their squad for the role. Unambitious. Should be sold in the summer if there's any justice in the world.

Gibson: 5: Had one or two good ideas. Unfortunately, that's not enough in 70 minutes of the most meaningful football you'll play. Slow. Unimaginative. Second-rate.

Nani: 6: Lively in the first half. Always seems to wait too long to pass. Decision-making askew, but everyone knows that by now.

Rooney: 5: Did bugger-all. Ineffective on the left side, duh. Just pass the ball with your left foot once; just once. Should be weened into a central-attacking midfielder really, but now is not the time.

Berbatov: 5.5: Better in the first half. Lost focus in the second. Held onto the ball importantly, at times, but never really got his swagger. Won some defensive headers.

I apologize to Marseille fans. I was watching a foreign feed and couldn't get a grasp on who was who in blue. It's amatuerish to post only player ratings for one team. Feel free to flame me.

Post-match pundits said it was a good result for United. I think they're on crack. Ferguson admits disappointment in post-match interview. Intimates wishing they'd scored one. Maybe next time he'll start his only creative center-midfielder if he wants to get a goal. He also should have introduced Hernandez late.

Vacant United survice creepy Crawley as Marseille awaits

2011-02-19T21:04:00.000-08:00

Oddly, the losing fans probably had more fun at Old Trafford than Manchester United's multi-national supporters.

Crawley Town gave an audacious account for themselves, losing 1-0 but leaving the Theater of Dreams with their pride, a million quid, and a distinct moral advantage over the Premier League giants intact.

United's starting eleven consisted largely of names usually reserved for the substitutes bench.

Their best player was the goalkeeper. Anders Lindegaard punted and distributed very well in maintaining his first clean sheet under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Each da Silva twin marauded up and down the wing, both bungling and brilliantly executing tackles and passes in equal measure. Each suffered what seemed minor injuries and were eventually substituted. Both are improving, both are useful.

John O'Shea and Wes Brown comprised a nostalgic centerbackline and at least did more for their respective reputations than any midfielder or attacker.

Darron Gibson refreshingly showed some incisive through balls—the same type Michael Carrick used to play whenever he was worth a damn. Otherwise he was slow, passed over-simply, and disappeared in the second half. They each did.

As inferred, Carrick laid back and played one-time passes backwards while Anderson was virtually anonymous until leaving at halftime.

Gabriel Obertan and Bebe both displayed speed and dribbling panache at times, but unfortunately each also showcased a regrettable unfamiliarity with passing, in larger quantities and to greater impact.

Ultimately United were attacking Crawley Town like they attack most Premiership sides, at least when Scholes is off the pitch: from the outside-in, with wingers hoofing in hopeful crosses. Bloody hell, we're not Liverpool.

It was good enough, though, for a single goal, Gibson rising above an inherent not-belonging to cross nicely onto Brown's head after a half-hour or so.

A direct approach would have seemed more intuitive but credit to the minnows for deterring any attractive football through the middle, even if it was more from the detriment of the attending United players.

Javier Hernandez again implied that's he's more useful off the bench, and why not when his righteous speed is that more surprising to defenders already tired. His through runs strive on service which was scarcely provided by his teammates poor passing. Hernadez's inherent attributes still need to be complemented by improving skills which are sure to come based on his eager displays this term.

Wayne Rooney was given a 45-minute run-out at halftime. He quickly proceeded to prove that he was indeed not "back" in form—shocking, isn't it? About as shocking as the last ten times the echo chamber hoped him so.

He lacked confidence with several poor passing decisions and had an increasingly-present heavy touch. A few driven long-balls added requisite gloss to an otherwise mediocre 45 minutes. Also required was an inevitable tantrum and rash tackle after giving the ball away three times in thirty seconds against non-leaguers as the tie ebbed out.

According to all the adverts, the FA Cup has an inherent magic to it, and if it does, it's reserved to the smaller sides like Crawley Town for doing their small supporter base proud, enriching their club's finances
significantly.and proudly displaying their badge to television audiences around the world despite losing.

They weren't fortunate most of the players in red shirts played poorly because their own good play certainly contributed at least in part to United's midfield malaise.

It shouldn't really matter how well Crawley played, at least not to United; any millionaire eleven they trot out—at home—should crush a non-league side.

But the ends justify their means. The Reds will travel to Marseilles midweek in the inaugural knockout leg of their 2011 Champions League campaign rested and focused.

Nemanja Vidic, Rio Ferdinand, Dimitar Berbatov, Paul Scholes, Nani, Ryan Giggs, and Patrice Evra should all start and start sprightly on French soil next Wednesday.

As such, Manchester United won't be bothered by any romance lost domestically.

An in-form Marseilles await their arrival in a much more lucrative and prestigious competition—one with even more manufactured romance and far more real consequence for the billion-dollar superclub.

Manchester derby: Player ratings and recap

2011-02-13T21:02:00.000-08:00

On Saturday morning at Old Trafford, Manchester United held off their local rivals 2-1 thanks to a cracking overhead finish from an otherwise off-form Wayne Rooney.

City enjoyed possession and were successful going forward throughout, but the Red side had enough luck with Rooney's unlikely finish to nick all three points.

Manchester United

Van der Sar: 6.5. City were the better offensive side but of their 14 shots, only three were on target.

O'Shea: 6.5. Big John has a penchant for hoofing vertical balls over the top that inevitably become turnovers, but today he was defensively stout.

Smalling: 7.5. Too much was expected of him, but he delivered. Very mature next to Vidic.

Vidic: 8.5. Gobbled up balls everywhere. Imperious in the air, brute and intuitive with interceptions.

Evra: 6.5. Competed well against the stronger Richards, but didn't do much going forward. Inevitably skinned by Wright-Phillips a few times; bailed out by Vidic throughout.

Nani: 7. His maturation has been required this season since Antonio Valencia went out with a long-term leg-break. Today the MJ-lookalike had a great first touch going over-the-top for the goal and finished it smartly enough. Otherwise, he frustratingly careened many shots over the goal after (to his credit) creating enough space to attempt them. A proclivity for poor passing still mars his game, but his emergence into an elite winger this season can't be undervalued.

Fletcher: 7.5. Despite being a slight lad, the Scotsman takes a physical approach to the game and throws his weight around. Anyone playing next to Scholes has to do as much. Who would have thought five years ago that Fletcher could end up being more useful to United over his career than Roy Keane? The former has assumed the same role, to be sure, and may just prove as important. Ironically the tirade which led to Keane leaving the club included rants about Fletcher (and others) but to be fair to both, the Scotsman was a much worse player then.

Scholes: 7. Turned the ball over three times under no pressure, but otherwise his creativity was and is absolutely necessary for United going forward. The little Salford playmaker sprayed balls around willy-nilly today and ticked his side going forward with experience and moxie. No one else on the team can pass and create play like Scholes. His legs have one more season in them, but his heart may not.

Anderson: 6. His speed and athleticism are real virtues. Sadly, his actual footballing ability pales in comparison to those other two attributes so far in his young career.

Giggs: 7. Definitely had some bemusing passes gone wrong today. Also was sometimes cast aside like a child by far more physically robust players in blue. The Welshman though is the best option on the left side until Valencia returns. Whether that's a credit to him or an indictment of United's depth is a fair debate. Giggs' experience helped as the game wore down Saturday.

Rooney: 7.5. Failed to do much from open play. Always eager to put the ball on his right foot whenever he shoots, and therefore doesn't get many clean strikes off. He was definitely up for the game, though, and showed good engine throughout. You see lesser players score similar highlight-reel goals every week, but Rooney's cracking overhead finish not only won the derby but also likely ended their most-storied rivals' hopes of the league altogether. Context is important. Rooney hasn't had two good games on the trot all season—we'll have to wait for the Red's next match to see if that trend continues.

Manchester City

Hart: 6. Could have conceivably saved Nani's first effort, alas. Rooney's goal was unstoppable. United had only three other shots on target and they were tame.

Zabaleta: 5.5. Destined to be sold and replaced.

Lescott: 7. Strong and athletic.

Kompany: 7.5. Stronger, more athletic. The nucleus of City's backline and a good footballer.

Richards: 7.5. Even stronger, even more athletic. Caused a lot of problems for United's left side.

Barry: 7. Very involved throughout as City generally outpassed their rivals in the center of the pitch. His disinclination to attempt anything outlandish can be a blessing or a curse.

Milner: 6.5. Slightly muted display, but direct, quick and strong enough to still show up in spurts.

Toure: 8. Uses his body very well to shield the ball. Uses both feet to dribble and pass. Puts emphasis and care on the shape of his passes. Plays simple one-timers with ease to create triangles around his opponents. Classy.

Silva: 7.5. Nicknamed "Quicksilva", supposedly, but I don't think he's that quick. He's got a great left foot, dribbles well, and was sure to be influential throughout the first sixty minutes. Later it looked like he tired out somewhat. He didn't know much about the goal; claimed it though, and technically deserved it.

Kolarov: 5: Largely ineffective.

Tevez: 5.5: Ran around a lot but was rarely dangerous.

I'd have to say City were the better side, but United were the better finishers. Follow me on twitter if you're really, really bored.

Ferguson blows it; Javier Hernandez restores it

2011-01-26T20:56:00.000-08:00

Manchester United's seaside jaunt to face an attacking-styled Blackpool promised to be an open affair, but United manager Alex Ferguson wasn't in on the plot. Instead he erred with a pusillanimous 4-5-1 to open the game, a questionable setup with questionable selections.

Rooney was on the left, where he often is over the years when the season's final third, and United's forays into Europe, become the priority. Sadly he has looked physically disinterested and, perhaps therefore, completely ineffective in that role so far this season (and usually in those past.)

Now, we all love to see him track back and make tackles. It's easy to hang your hat on that shit if your simpleton desire is to be an utter Rooney mark. But he's never going to make it to the byline or get outside and past the opposing right back when he's in that position. He can't dribble across his body and he's not particularly fast.

Also, Darren Gibson was preferred in the middle with two players who actually belonged, Fletcher and Scholes, despite Gibson having a poor season without any two games of clear repute on the trot.

It made no goddamn sense. Ferguson was afraid of Blackpool's attacks. And attack is all they did in the first half against United's unbalanced and unorganized hodgepodge of a formation.

First Half Sad Face

As I sort of implied, Blackpool were far superior in the first half. Charlie Adam lived up to his hype in the frame, creating countless chances with piercing, curling, left-footed through balls. United were on the back foot and offered little going forward.

The Seasiders scored twice from Adam corner kicks. The first tally arrived on 15 minutes with former United reserve Craig Cathcart assuredly heading home.

United weren't ready to pull up their pants yet. Ferguson's nebulous formation continually failed to achieve anything going forward. They had no width, Rooney was abhorrent and Gibson sucked again.

On 43 minutes, another Adam corner was flicked to and headed in by DJ Campbell. Blackpool heroically led 2-0 at the break.

United Restored

At halftime Ferguson appeared to remember he's one of the greatest managers in English football and has a pair of huge, swinging bollocks. After cathartically yelling at his players, he finally took off Gibson for Giggs, reverting to a natural 4-4-2.

Here Berbatov and Rooney were up top, Fletcher and Scholes patrolled the middle, while Nani and Giggs carried the team on their natural wings. Harmony; brilliance. But despite their improved football, there was still something missing.

At the 70th minute, I thought, "We must get Hernandez into this game." But who would he replace? Berbatov? That leaves a pairing of Rooney and Hernandez, with no one to win headers or retain possession.
"But Rooney scored 11 headers last season!" Yeah, and it was an aberration then, even though it didn't seem obvious until now. The Mexican would win more headers than Rooney in any case. Surely Ferguson didn't have the balls to take off Rooney.

But he did. And he did so audaciously.

Seventy-two minutes. Hernandez is shown entering the game, smiling and looking like Poncharello from CHIPS.

The tipped-off cameraman closed in on Rooney looking blankly at the fourth official's board, the self-realization that he'd been absolute shit thus far betrayed by his beady eyes; the knowledge that he's vastly overpaid by his recently adjusted contract clear on his puggy mug.

He watched his card get pulled. He jogged off stoically.

Hernandez Leads from the Top

United's reaction, though was full of emotion.

Immediately Hernandez started making the direct forward runs that have won several games already this season. United were plowing forward with waves of domineering attacks.

Their first goal was physically inevitable. They passed triangles down the right before an outstanding Darren Fletcher made the forward run and crossed at the byline for Berbatov to nimbly tap home.

United didn't stop. Hernandez was using his pace to draw defenders deep, and Ponch was rewarded just two minutes later. Giggs shipped him through and the Mexican continued to display his mature finishing by doing just so after just one measured touch.

It was hard to envisage United coming back to win without Ruud van Nistelrooy. But Paul Scholes, looking fit and sharp on his first match in months, drove sickly over the top for Berbatov. The Bulgar faked going right, instead finishing with his left foot to drive it past Kingston's near post.

United come from behind to secure a five-point lead atop the Premier League summit in one of the most riveting games in the league this season. Most importantly, in doing so, they played some of their best football of it during the final 20 minutes of the match.

Chicharito for President, Berba for Chairman

How many times has a joyful Chicharito turned United frowns upside down this season?

Javier Hernandez changes games. He does it simply. He's extremely athletic, has a monstrous leap, uncanny heading ability, makes runs in behind, uses both feet, has natural instincts and for good measure, tries hella hard without being all super emo about it.

His ebullience is expressed in his style; his class is expressed in his execution.

If Sir Alex Ferguson continues to have the balls to play him instead of Rooney, when the Scouser's form is off (oft), it'll benefit everyone—Hernandez, Rooney, Berbatov and club United alike.

In fact, it's not unreasonable to wonder if Rooney has re-signed just to be sold in the summer—not a dissimilar arrangement from the Ronaldo romance between United and Madrid.

It was only after Rooney mercifully departed against Blackpool that United started playing top-class football. Most strikingly, however, is the manner of United's last two goals. Hernandez's straight run over the top, with pace, and Berbatov faking right, going left decisively, and finishing with his left peg represent two things Rooney doesn't do.

More evidence of that nature will be damning for Rooney who could be worth far more to United in dollars than in action.

His reputation abroad still exceeds his form this season and throughout his United career—last year, now, being an obvious statistical outlier—and frankly United should sell him before the rest of Europe realizes it.

It would make financial sense, to offload a complacent and perpetually over-hyped Wazza while his value is still bloated, a move to unshackle Hernandez as United's talisman for the coming generation.

If that was the plan all along, we'd be the last to know, anyway.

But we may now be some of the first to realize that Hernandez, and not Rooney, is the future at forward.

Javier Hernandez is more valuable than Wayne Rooney (Bleacher Report)
Wayne Rooney signing seems a little fishy (Epltalk)
and follow me on twitter :D

Spurs-United: Player ratings and recap

2011-01-16T20:54:00.000-08:00

Man United traveled into White Hart Lane against Tottenham with more at stake than at least Spurs were accustomed. For neutrals, unfortunately, the added pressure resulted in a less carefree affair.

The game started openly, though, with some of the glorious back-and-forth attacks everyone expected.

However, the tempo and atmosphere changed as neither side could manage a crucial opener. Only Rooney was on target for his team in the first half while Spurs were ultimately muted by, essentially, just Vidic whenever they feigned threatening United's box.

The second half saw more technical and attractive midfield play from especially Modric and Giggs as they each ran the offense for their sides, but a final ball was always lacking. United began time-wasting around the 60th minute. Rafael then done got off for a second questionably bookable offense after 74 minutes had quickly passed.

Predictably Spurs began relishing possession but were mostly stymied by United's then five-man midfield. Vidic again was a swirling black hole for all of Spurs' attacks into the penalty box. The London club went for the jugular with a gross attacking spread to see out the game but United were mature.

And so the match ended anticlimactically at nils apiece. A lot of interesting football was ultimately unexciting since neither side could manage an opener.

Player Ratings

Tottenham Hotspur

Gomez: 7: Had to save nicely from Rooney on two occasions. Didn't gaffe greatly but punted askew at times.

Assou-Ekotto: 7: At worst, got beaten for a few corners. Didn't do anything special going forward nor anything especially bad on the back foot.

Dawson: 7: Got the better of Berbatov. Contained Rooney and kept him at range and on the wrong foot. . Defended corners needfully.

Gallas: 6: Quiet game, which isn't always bad for a defender. Contributed to Berbatov's poor game directly and matched up well against United's slow forwards.

Hutton: 7: Looked well up for this big match. Joy going forward opposite Giggs and did enough shackling the Welshman and Evra to feel confident after his display.

Bale: 5.5: Able to get behind Rafael on a couple occasions but having his reputation precede him today means his rating isn't as high as a lesser-known-player's would have been.

Palacios: 7.5: Combative like a De Jong or his opposite Fletcher. A couple wayward distance shots but credit for trying. Crucial to the midfield battle.

Modric: 8.5: Creative sparkplug. Classy over the ball. Turns were impeccable. Brilliant vision and technique. Outstanding pilot as his side cruised to complacence.

Lennon: 7: Has shown in matchups past he's able to get past Evra and even skin Vidic. Did less of the former today and none of the latter. Still got in crosses but ultimately you'd say he was muffed out by the two aforementioned defenders on the whole.

van der Vaart: 5.5: Looked slow and not at the races. Fitness issues perhaps for Spurs' new talisman.

Crouch: 5: Probably had as little success as he'll have all season winning headers and knocking down balls for all the brilliant attackers around him. Why? Vida. Crouch had a sitter early in the first half but inexplicably put it wide.

Manchester United

van der Sar: 6: Had less to do than his opposite number. His punts don't contribute much but the tenured Dutchman showed good feet at times and made a few above-standard saves.

Rafael: 5.5: Matched up well with Bale but when the young Brazilian was carded early he was always going off. Such is his plight. Luckily his silliness was not tragically detrimental to the result as it was against Bayern last March (it still stings). Rafael was United's best attacker on occasions.

Ferdinand: 6: Happy to be playing next to Vidic and tweeting bollocks.

Vidic: 9.5: Utterly imperious. Totally awesome. Sick-doggin' nadass. The best defender in the world. Bunkered down in his penalty box with real spit in his eye. Went horizontal on several occasions bending reality to his whim. Owned everyone. And I don't care if he tugs shirts, it's artful and good defense. If Vidic had scored he'd have a ten.

Evra: 6: Went forward craftily at times but still overly-reliant on his left foot. Lennon tears about lesser defenders, but the little Englishman still had some joy today against this Frenchman.

Nani: 6.5: Better technique and decision-making but didn't stamp any authority on the match.

Carrick: 5.5: Essentially his mandate was to stay back and don't mess anything up egregiously. He did that. He even contested for some 50/50 headers. But Carrick has never been United quality. He must have an outstanding game to even be on par with both his teammates and potential replacements, yet the bloke is ever-happy to remain anonymous on the field, hoping no one realizes he does not belong.

Fletcher: 7.5: Did a lot on each side of the ball. United's most active midfielder during the first half and much of the game. Covered more ground than any other player.

Giggs: 7: Pulled the strings in the second half after getting warmed up in the first. Sole creative source going forward for United through much of the game.

Berbatov: 5: Offsides lazily several times, a feature of his game. Everyone knows Berbatov has class, but everyone also knows he'd be better if he just tried harder. Hell he probably knows it. But having the potential to be awesome only goes so far when most time is spent unfulfilled. Too slow.

Rooney: 5: His limitations were again evident today. Not many people saying he's the best striker in the world anymore. Had a few open looks at goal but sent all his shots low. Shooting is the easy part, but getting the right angle and space is always troubling for him because everyone including Steven Hawking's football boots and Count Wankenstein know Rooney is going onto his bloody right foot. I don't care where his shots go, because they even out over time. Just wish he was an improving footballer. He looked completely disinterested once he was moved to right midfield, though I still fancy him as a central attacking midfielder in the future; if only Alex agreed.

Subs: Hernandez (fast and awesome), Anderson (chip on shoulder).

Baggies-United: Player ratings and recap

2011-01-01T20:52:00.000-08:00

Manchester United made the small jaunt south to the Hawthornes to k ick off the new year in the English top flight. The undefeated visitors topped the league table. West Brom were near its bottom.

Having not scored from open play since March, Rooney's first touch today brought the opening goal.

Obertan did work down the left before laying back to Evra in support. The French back crossed and Rooney placed a standing header down and into the bottom corner: 1-0 United after two minutes.

Albion didn't give anyone much time to celebrate. Less than 10 minutes later, after a forward hoof, Vidic could only clear down to Morrison. He volleyed first-time and the ball lazered into Kusczcak's far, top corner. All one's thanks to the Kodak finish.

Gary Neville should have been sent off shortly thereafter for an egregiously poor, chasing tackle inside United's box, but the referee was thankfully gun-shy to rule anything.

West Brom dominated possession for much of the half's remain. They were better than the league leaders on both sides of the ball, cutting out opposing attacks in midfield and passing triangles moving forward The Baggies penetrated United's right side again in added time, but Dorrans shanked his driven, close-range shot near-side when through on goal.

The second half began 1-1. Andy Gray said United weren't quite "at it." Whether or not Man United were indeed not "at it" was never proved or disproved. However, the second frame began as the first one ended: West Brom passing and playing better than the former European champions.

Alex Ferguson looked like he was playing for the draw after withdrawing his only winger for a fourth central midfielder, bringing on Gibson for Obertan. A smiling Hernandez replaced the frowning Berbatov.

Immediately after, in the 61st minute, Ferdinand was duped by Thomas and conceded a penalty. Odinwinge stepped up for the resulting spot-kick and dribbled it wide left. 1-1 still.

Shortly thereafter, Rooney had a lane through to goal, but he was hesitant to dribble to his left side and botched it. A minute later he made up for it by driving decisively past Cech to win a short free kick on 67 minutes. His own delivery from it was excellent but yielded nothing.

This game had "late Hernandez winner" written all over it. I sat in expectation. On 71 minutes, Ferguson mercifully withdrew the Neviller for a da Silva twin. The match was still combative and fairly even. After 75 minutes through, though, there's my boy: Hernandez stood in front of the goalkeeper and nodded in Rooney's corner very simply. United led 2-1.

Again Rooney drove strong through the middle of the pitch to unleash a counterattack. Fletcher crossed back for him but his header ballooned over.

West Brom had a right go at the Mancunians to close out the final 15 minutes. Hernandez showed good engine and desire to assist in wholesale back-tracking. With two minutes remaining Rooney appeared to suffer another relatively serious left ankle sprain. Some magic spray later and he was back on as the fourth official raised five added minutes.

United continued to man their hatches, albeit tenuously, to eventually secure the hard-fought and important, but perhaps ill-deserved, 2-1 victory away at West Brom on the first day of the new year.

Player Ratings

West Bromwich Albion

Carson: 5: Did not make any outrageous saves nor blunders of the same variety. Should have marshaled his defenders better on Hernandez' equalizer. Carson himself could have come out to contest the header and should have saved it standing between his sticks.

Scharner: 6: Looked good enough in a makeshift role to base confident Baggie football at the back.
Ibanez: 5: I tend to space out when West Brom have the ball. But I don't think this player did much.
Cech: 6: Did well enough for me not to notice him.

Reid: 6: Involved from the outside on both sides of the ball. Got stuck in n' that.

Dorrans: 6.5: Had a great chance in the first half but he blew it relentlessly. Otherwise more muted.

Mulumbu: 6.5: Athletic and explosive in the middle. But seriously.

Brunt: 7.5: Very useful. Strong but with touch. And a bang-up left foot. Ran over Carrick once like he didn't exist (spoiler: he doesn't).

Thomas: 7.5: Had success against Neville. Earned the penalty against Rio. Well done.

Morrison: 7.5: Scored a sweet volley early on the one-time to equalize. That equalizer set the stage for West Brom to play most of the better football throughout, in which he was consistently involved.

Odemwingie: 6: Combative against better center-backs but his penalty miss was excruciatingly poor. It's still a positive shift from him, but only just. It was a big miss that denied his team a just result.

Manchester United

Kusczcak: 6: Didn't have much to do but made a great save late-on. Goal was virtually unstoppable. Van der Sar wouldn't have saved it either.

Neville: 3.5: Why don't I just write "Still far from match fitness" out of respect for the tenured right-back.

Ferdinand: 5: Conceded a penalty and looked a little loose at times.

Vidic: 6.5: Played an unwitting part in Brom's first goal when his clearance was just poor enough for profit. Otherwise you could hardly say he had a bad game.

Evra: 6: Supplied Rooney's opener but didn't do much else remarkable besides manning his wide station diligently throughout the match.

Obertan: 6.5: His speed was an asset for the side. Gets the hockey assist on the first goal for keeping it simple. He was inventive if not still a little naive. Passing can be casual and wayward. As he beefs up and grows up he could and should stick around for years.

Fletcher: 7 Got stuck-in in midfield despite being employed unusually on the right side of it.

Carrick: 6: Did one or two things I liked and was overall economic enough despite being pedestrian.

Anderson: 5.5: Passing was poor. Seventh start in a row in all comps; perhaps it showed.

Berbatov: 5.5: Involved on offense but not at his best. Like most dribblers, he tends to wait too long before passing to options that were more ideal earlier. Lazily caught offsides on several occasions. His class exudes even on an off-day which today was for the Bulgarian.

Rooney: 7 At times his strength was questionable, at other times it appeared improved. He endured a mediocre first half from open play after scoring. His goal though, was well-taken and necessary. In the second half he played with more abandon and refreshingly drove at defenders with decision. Slower than people realize.

Subs: Fabio (better than Neville), Gibson (better than his last outing), Hernandez (sprightly and necessary).

Hail Javier Hernandez again. He is truly a sparkplug and plays with ebullience. Expect him to replace Rooney as United's talisman when the Englishman is inevitably sold.

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Birmingham-United: Ratings and recap

2010-12-28T20:47:00.000-08:00

Birmingham City hosted Manchester United in the late kick-off Tuesday on the second matchday of the gloriously congested festive period.

The home side had the fortune of having been postponed on Sunday due to inclement weather while most United starters put in full shifts that afternoon.

Birmingham played within their means for much of the first half, doing little going forward but absorbing United's tepid attacks.

The Red Devils characteristically succumbed to disinterest after the first quarter of the match. United's midfield was unbalanced; left-footer Ryan Giggs ran the right while the painstakingly right-footed Rooney cut in predictably on the left. Furthermore, their central trio consisted of Michael Carrick, the still malleable Anderson, and an average Darron Gibson.

Birmingham shunted dull incoming attacks and managed spells of possession themselves until the interval mercifully arrived scoreless.

The home side again appeared more fresh as the second half began. You knew things were boring when the play-by-play announcer said "Bowyer,... why not?" as the Englishman fired from range. Any crosses into the box were fortunate and hopeful for both teams.

But, at the 58th minute, the most form attacker on the pitch continued his vein to break the deadlock. Dimitar Berbatov started United's attack through the middle and finished it right-footed after interplay with Gibson.
The Bulgarian hit the post only a few minutes later when he shimmied around Liam Ridgewell atop of the box.

United enjoyed being a goal up and passed the ball between and around their opposition for the next twenty minutes. The European super-giant has a tendency of giving up leads this season, but if ever a 1-0 was secure, it was tonight. The game was peetering out accordingly.

That was, until the 90th minute. City's lanky striker Zigic rose to meet a deep cross and purposefully armed the ball down for an offside Bowyer to touch home a shoddy equalizer.

The color commentator, Steve McManaman, referred to it as a "great equalizer." It was't. But it was an important one, especially for a City side flirting with relegation.

Meanwhile, Manchester United drop two more points on the road again for their seventh away draw this year, but still, perhaps serendipitously, top the league tables entering 2011.

Player Ratings

Manchester United

Van der Sar: 6: Two easy matchdays in succession for the elder Dutchman. He fielded one shot on target today. The other went in and it wasn't his fault. His accuracy is wanting often when trying to release counterattacks on the punt.

Rafael: 5.5: City offered little going forward. Somewhat surprisingly, so did Rafael. But he didn't make any egregious errors, despite some silly fouls in dangerous positions. United's burgeoning right-back should benefit enough from another 90 minutes.

Ferdinand: 6.5: Another solid outing on the trot. Probably would have done more if more was required.

Vidic: 7.5: Same as his partner, but the Serb manages to get more involved in games even when there isn't great defending required. Powered a few headers on target for measure.

Evra: 6.5: Easy to overlook a consistent left-back. The Frenchman stayed tight in position, especially after United broke through, and was mindful of his modest duties this evening.

Giggs: 7: Displayed good fitness and engine. His creativity was required. His play on the left was refreshing though sparse.

Carrick: 5: Too concerned with managing impressions to take any hold on this game.

Anderson: 6: Harried and hustled around but looked a little knackered from Sunday's endeavors.

Gibson: 6.5: Wasn't outstanding throughout necessarily but made the right decision at the right time to assist Berbatov's opener.

Rooney: 5: Tracked back, which is fine, but offered little going forward besides the odd shot that was never going in. His one-footedness is highly lamentable, particularly when he is employed on the left side. When not in the best of form, he's a puzzle long` since solved by English defenses.

Berbatov: 8: Without being perfect, he flicked his way to creating several opportunities out of nothing. He was essentially the only creative player in the team and performed as such. He isn't playing especially better than he did in either of the last two seasons, but he's bagging the goals so he's no longer the arch-villain.

Birmingham City

Foster: 7:Had to make a few nice saves but otherwise enjoyed a pretty tame evening on a night that could have been much worse in theory.

Dann: 7: Picking up proven center-backs from the lower-divisions is paying dividends for City this season, supposedly. That narrative was reinforced today.

Johnson: 6.5

Ridgewell: 5: Has looked better.

Carr: 6: Pretty easy task today: shackle a Rooney already hamstrung by his own inability to play to his either side.

Bowyer: 7: Scored the equalizer late. He was offsides then but it doesn't matter anymore. Tried to bring his side forward. You could tell he was as up for this game as his nose was.

Ferguson: 7: Experience showed today (as it often does when you're looking for it.) Fortunate enough not to face his compatriot Fletcher over the ninety minutes or it'd have been a rougher day for this Scotsman.

Beausejour: 6.5: Provided out wide going forward on seldom occasions and even got stuck-in a bit for good measure. Not bad for a player I'd otherwise never heard of.

Larsson: 5.5: Not afforded enough space for comfort. Couldn't get behind United's backline. Didn't trouble from set pieces.

Jerome: 5: Willing throughout but ragged come game's end after ninety minutes in the trenches of United's defense.

Gardner: 5: Birmingham had two shots on target today. The second one was in the 90th minute and was bundled home after an intentional handball. Not much glory to go around to this striker.

Manager Ratings

Alex Ferguson: 5: Nebulous formation was more homage to his friend on the opposite touchline than competitive. Why Fergie continues to rest Javier Hernandez is bewildering. Gabriel Obertan should have also been introduced into this match. Ferguson could and probably should have mixed up his personnel more than just starting Darron Gibson after ten of his eventual starters played just 48 hours prior.

Alex McLeish: 7: Produced the formation and tactics which best suit his squad. Lucky to get a point at the end, but even a 1-0 defeat shouldn't have been depressing. To his credit, he had enough audacity to introduce attacking players as the game flickered out and it paid dividends.

United-Sunderland: Ratings and recap

2010-12-27T20:43:00.000-08:00

Sunderland visited Old Trafford on Boxing Day and lost 2-0 like they were supposed to.

United came out of the gates like a cartoon horse that'd just been branded. Berbatov scored within five minutes after Giggs made a marauding run through the center and fed Rooney, who curled his cross onto the Bulgarian's head.

Berbatov and Anderson each hit the post while Rooney came very close with a delicate chip, all within the first 20 minutes.

After that, as is usual, United took their foot off the gas, and you wondered if they'd blow another lead.
Eventually, around the 60th minute, they started dominating possession again. It paid off yet again. Berbatov braced on XX minutes when his trivella from inside the box took a great deflection.

Sunderland achieved their only shot on target with a few minutes left, a 30-yard driven shot from Zenden, which his co-patriot saved easily.

The final scoreline was 2-0. Why didn't I bet on that beforehand? In hindsight it seemed so obvious.

Player Ratings

Manchester United

van der Sar: 8: Had one save to make. Kicked some goal-kicks. Bravo, sir, bravo.

Rafael: 7: Awesome to see Rafael getting more mature while retaining his buccaneering style. United's first-choice right back put in a quality shift today.

Ferdinand: 7.5: Extremely composed. One of the best footballing central defenders in Europe, still.

Vidic: 9: So utterly dominant.

Evra: 7: Up and down the wing, very effective on attack, made few poor challenges.

Park: 7: Even I have to admit he looked good today. That doesn't make him good, but he at least appeared to be against the Wearsiders.

Carrick: 5: So frail and expressionless. Passed the ball forward so few times. It's always square or back for this pusillanimous being. Get his ass outta here. Even on a day when he plays well he's scarcely above average.

Anderson: 7: Provided bustle up the middle. Distinguishes himself from his peers by dribbling in the position. Must improve his passing, though. Hit the post.

Giggs: 7: Made a few vintage runs today. Nice to have his natural width, even if his natural time is soon approaching. Subbed.

Berbatov: 8.5: I defended him all of the last two years. This season I don't have to. Scored importantly on a header and finished the game with a fortunate deflected goal. Could have scored others, which means he was either penetrating or wasteful. Neat tricks and balanced as ever.

Rooney: 7: Some decent cross-field passes and such. Assisted Berbs on the first with a delicate curler. Also almost resembled Cantona on another chipped effort from outside the box. Profligate with the ball at his feet, aimless when driving at defenders. More suited to a central midfield role.

Sunderland

Gordon: 7: Kept his side in it while they often defended poorly around him.

El Mohamady: 6.5: What a funny name. I thought he did decently going forward and got stuck-in about.

Onuoha: 6: Central defenders are hard to come by. He may be one for the future. I think he'll look better on other days.

Ferdinand: 6: Didn't do too much beside repel many attacks, and what more can you ask, really? But he got skinned here or there and was out of position at times.

Bardsley: 4: Tried too hard to impress.

Malbranque: 5.5: Tried to spell his side forward. But, it was never going to be enough.

Henderson: 6: Good engine, eager to express himself. Could have played better or definitely worse.

Riveros: 5: Did little to distinguish himself.

Zenden: 7: Had the experience and gumption to at least attempt to get something from the game for his side. Unperturbed throughout a trying match.

Bent: 3: I realized he was playing in the 65th minute.

Gyan: 5: Apparently he looks decent when he's not playing against Monster Vidic.

United grabbed the two points in a predictable scoreline. The first twenty minutes were perhaps their best football of the season. However, the Red Devils need to start playing that hard throughout the whole match, instead of just at the beginning or end of each.

Ronaldo adapts technique on short-range freekicks

2010-12-14T20:42:00.000-08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo's latest cracking free-kick success had a minor but significant distinction from his numerous others.

The Portuguese highlight reel has had a proclivity—from his Manchester United days—to use the top of his foot, without following through, to create a driven, dipping, swerving strike on all his free kicks.

The only problem was that it's nearly impossible to get it over the wall using that technique. It's no coincidence that especially this season in Madrid the majority of his attempts bang into the wall.

Last weekend against Real Zaragoza, Ronaldo curled instead of driving and sweetly bent the 24-yard free kick into the corner with accuracy over power.

It's a single data point, but even if it only implies instead of proving his continued maturation of a player, then it's an important one.

Ronaldo's trademarked technique for dead balls is only practical on longer free kicks where the ball has more distance to sink under the crossbar.

But curling a shot is not only more accurate but provides more spin and dip to get it over the wall and under the bar from inside 28 or so yards.

It only took him five years, but it seems like he finally figured that out.

He gets a lot of attention from simple-minded people for whatever hijinx he chooses to create in his personal life. It's good to know he still finds time to think about improving his game.

It's hard to see why anyone else bothers caring about anything beyond that.

United somehow top the league after edging Arsenal

2010-12-14T20:40:00.000-08:00

Park Ji-Sung once again transcended an inherent mediocrity to edge Manchester United to victory Monday against Arsenal.

The Korean mimicked Javier Hernandez' own contortionist header against Stoke City to somehow steer Nani's cross into the net just prior to the interval at Old Trafford.

The second half, as the first, contained enterprising football from each side in a combative, classy affair between the two perennial contenders.

United should have gone two goals to the good but Wayne Rooney, despite looking quite fit, managed to balloon a dubiously-awarded penalty into the Stretford end.

Rooney aimed for the top-left corner but supplied far too much power than is required when aiming at one of the two corner quadrants of the goal the keeper can't reach regardless.

But it didn't matter as United held on confidently to finish match day 17 on top of the Premier League table with a game in hand.

Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand comprised a dynamic duo in the back without need for grappling hooks or prosthetic muscles. Vidic particularly asserted himself—as he tends to, being the most dominant central defender in the world. Rafael and Evra each happened to put in workman-like shifts to steady their squad going forward.

And going forward United were good enough. Alex Ferguson's five-man midfield could be hyperbolized as being genius, but how genius is it when everyone knew he'd do it anyways, as is his wont against England and Europe's better sides.

Somehow Michael Carrick managed not to make a fool of himself while Anderson and Fletcher harried about compensatorily, crashing into those in yellow, leaving them whinging on the floor clutching limbs.

Nani was predictable in his unpredictability; as is his proclivity: he made poor decisions and usually executed them with flare, seldomly—but appreciably—with effect. Players who dribble too much tend to be bad passers; it's not really rocket science. They practice dribbling more than passing, even when they're playing.

Ji-Sung, amidst turning the ball over under no pressure, displaying poor balance, and ever-showcasing an inability to work towards his left side, popped up for the crucial header before the break to ensure his lamentable inefficiencies are glossed over for another week by editorialists (well, most of them).

Up front Rooney showed good fitness and focus, two necessary attributes flagrantly lacking in his recent form. Of course, he's still the same player. His need to work the ball onto his right foot from the left side of the field is so obvious it's a wonder he ever gets a shot off.

But Rooney makes up for an inarguable lack of guile (except when attempting the odd chip) on days like this with tenacity and bottle, flying after headers, sweeping balls left and (usually) right, and importantly staying in position.

As for Arsenal, who really cares. There's 50 writers on this site who'll each have a different perspective of their game Monday, and I won't read a single one.

If I was forced to proffer an opinion, I'd say uninterestedly, and based on knowledge more intuitive than deep, the following:

Chamakh is an egregious diver. Nasri's combination of ambidexterity, balance and pace is world-class. Arshavin should arrive on form in January, resplendently for neutrals, and crucially for his side; and lastly, their defense without Vermaelen is a bit rubbish.

That's sums up the amount of neurons I'll spend on Arsenal. Thankfully United's unlikely march to the top of the Premier League have most of mine firing again.

If only it had less to do with Ray Wilkins' departure and more to do with consistent United potency this year.

Stoke-United: Player ratings and recap

2010-10-24T20:34:00.000-07:00

Agility trumped strength today as Javier Hernandez nimbly saved Manchester United from drawing with Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium.

If any side deserved to win, it was the visitors. But neither team could produce spells of flowing football. Most of the match was spent retrieving balls gone out of bounds.

United struck first. Evra implored Nani to play him the corner kick short. One wall-pass later and Nani was crossing in left-footed. Vidic powered up and headed it across the box. It was barely near Hernandez, but the jumping Mexican twisted in midair like a thrown cat to head in from close range on 26 minutes.

The match remained quite open for the rest of the half. Neither side was overly dangerous. That trend continued into the second half. The game slowed down, somehow, as Manchester tried to edge out the narrow win.

In the 80th minute Stoke equalized after Scholes turned over under little pressure. Even more, Tunjay equalized for Stoke. He cut inside Evra with surprising ease before curling in from 16 yards out at 81 minutes.

It was déjà vu all over déjà vu. The Red Devils lacked bottle with the lead and gave it up like chumps.
But, suddenly, our hero emerged from the din of doubt.

Berbatov controlled, stalling smartly before chipping into Stoke's box. Scholes rose importantly and headed on to Evra. The Frenchman half-volleyed somewhat wildly, but it deflected onto Hernandez who plundered heroically!

Chicharito must earn around six-times less than Wayne Rooney, but who's really more valuable? Certainly Hernandez was today, just as he was against Valencia last month, and just as he was for his national side throughout the World Cup. Meanwhile, Rooney is on vacation in Dubai after demanding, and receiving, an additional 60,000 quid-a-week from a Manchester United club currently relying on his alternate.

United saw out the final 10 minutes to mercifully hold onto the victory beating Stoke away 2-1.
Gary Neville got his 600th cap for the club, but lasted only 45 minutes. Stoke managed to score against the Red Devils for the first time in their Premier League history.

Player Ratings

Manchester United

van der Sar: 6. What do goalies earn when they've saved one shot all match but didn't screw anything else up egregiously? A six! But seriously, Stoke sent in a lot of throws and free kicks. Most were cleared by Vidic, while the rest were split between VDS and Ferdinand.

Neville: 4. Did not look at the races again. Should have been sent off, technically, but his first yellow card was dubious anyway. He didn't last past halftime, when Brown came on for him. Poor game, so let's assume he's still not at full fitness. The 600th cap for United ('Grats bro—Ed).

Ferdinand: 7. Quite solid. If this means his fitness is improving, then the Red Devils might not be out of the Premier League race yet.

Vidic: 9. So imperious. Vida had everything to do as City's aerial attack from set pieces was relentless. The Serb was an absolute rock and remains the best center-back in the world over three years' form.

O'Shea: 6. Actually played well today. Importantly, the Irishman performed within his limitations on offense thereby not betraying his inability. On the other side of the ball, he was desired and required as Stoke hammered in on attack.

Nani: 5.5. Dribbled well, passed poorly. He must improve his decision-making and passing ability if he is ever going to evolve further.

Scholes: 5.5. After starting the season in great form, Scholes has fallen off the wagon a bit. His maturity and generalship were useful today, but he turned the ball over needlessly on more than one occasion. The second occurrence led to Stoke's equalizer, but, it may have been Carrick's fault.

Fletcher: 6.5. Better today than in his last few matches. The Scottish captain was United's best player last season, but he has yet to regain that form. However, even playing averagely in an important role makes a huge—and positive—difference for his club.

Evra: 7.5. Employed on the left wing proper for the first time in his United career. Coincidentally, I called for it in my last article (Yes, Fergie reads my editorials). The Frenchman did well in the role, swung in many crosses, showed his good engine, and contributed directly to both goals.

Berbatov: 8. Very good match from the Bulgarian after possibly slipping off form in the last month. His cool touches were vital to retain possession going forward. He was simply masterful engineering the second goal and his overall open play was very good, displaying confidence, awareness, and a range of passing vision and technique.

Hernandez: 9. Huge brace from the Mexican. He's paid a fraction of what Rooney makes but is worth more both on and off the pitch. His first goal was simply awesome. He twisted like Neo in midair and headed home almost impossibly. For the late winner, Chicharito was right where van Nistelrooy would have been, and performed much the same, slotting home in a crowded box to save a near-death United. Hernandez will become a world-class striker in his time: evidence already exists for club and country.

Subs: Brown (reinforced the back line), Carrick (emasculated his own team), Obertan (came on late)

Stoke City

Sorenson: 6. Could do nothing with either goal and had little else to deal with. United only had three shots on goal. Two scored.

Huth: 6. Stoke's defense was solid today despite losing...

Faye: 6. ...leading to United not being exactly fluid nor dominating in the final third.

Shawcross: 6. City lost the match, but its defense escapes great rebuke.

Collins: 5. However, this guy didn't do much and got subbed.

Pennant: 6. Did a few things going forward before being subbed late.

Delap: 6. Several long throws led to some danger but no goals.

Wilson: 5.5. I don't know anything about this player and never really noticed him. It's likely that Fletcher outplayed him, in general, though Wilson probably shackled Scholes at times.

Etherington: 7.5. One of few players to shine offensively for Stoke today. Provided good, natural width on the left and sent in many crosses.

Jones: 6.5. Thankless task against Vidic, but the former Sunderland striker did pretty good on those 10/90 balls that would be 50/50 against most other central defenders.

Walters: 5. Anonymous to my eyes.

Subs: Tuncay (scored a fantastic individual goal), Higginbotham (null), Gudjohnsen (cool)

Manchester United ended its away malaise all thanks to cult hero Javier Hernandez.

Whatever crusade he is leading, I am on-board. The Mexican was a godsend again today. Hernandez has flat-out saved Man United in each of its two most important competitions this season.

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Selection hurting United more than Rooney absence

2010-10-22T20:33:00.000-07:00

I know, it's so very interesting: Wayne Rooney decided not to re-sign at Manchester United. (He's since changed his mind.)

But let's be honest: It's within his right. He signed a mutual agreement with Man United until 2012. Then, it'll run out. It happens. Did he misrepresent his desire to stay at United? Perhaps. Or perhaps it just changed. That happens too.

Frankly, as poor as he's been playing for the last seven months, and even considering his average over his United career, he may be better off elsewhere; and the club, as well.

It's not unreasonable. Rooney is a good striker. He's probably a better footballer, but his manager plays him almost solely up front, where his talents seem to naturally befit a central midfielder.

Regardless, at the moment, the saga between club and manager and player only helps to overshadow how bemusing Alex Ferguson's selection has been recently.

The Manchester club are not the same one they were two or three years ago. Form varies, players age, Ronaldo and Tevez are elsewhere, and United's most improving player, Antonio Valencia, is a long-term injury absentee. The United manager has been over-reliant on the fringe players he has left, players he overvalues against teams he underestimates.

Michael Owen, Park Ji-Sung, Kiko Macheda, Gabriel Obertan, Bebe, Darron Gibson and Nancy Carrick are each either simply not good enough to consistently feature—much less player better than their opposites—in the top flight; at worst, yet, for most, period.

Park's form this year has been nothing short of horrific. Carrick couldn't carry my own boots. Gibson, though young, does not particularly inspire, nor portend greatness. Macheda and Owen should be entering—not leaving—games late. Obertan and Bebe are for the future, yet, here we are needing them in the present; not a coincidence given the first team's depth.

Ferguson's lack of self-awareness about the tenability of his squad, and his over-reliance on unworthy or unproven players has been trending all season, but especially relevant in United's last two domestic outings.

Away to Sunderland two weeks ago, Ferguson opted for Macheda and Owen up front, though, one or the other was shoe-horned at left-wing, at times, as United floundered with its manager's nebulous tactics. Both were dreadful.

Rooney was "injured," while Dimi Berbatov—arguably United's best attacker until then—and Javier Hernandez, who'd just heroically defeated Valencia late, away in a crunch Champions League tie, sat the bench. The Scottish manager thought any ragtag team he put out would suffice for three points away. United only managed one in a dire scoreless draw.

When United returned last weekend from international break, hosting West Brom at home, Ferguson rested two players his side cannot—does not—perform without this season: Paul Scholes and Berbatov. Neither player had international duties; each was fully rested. Ferguson didn't even start Darren Fletcher, a player with an immense gas tank who's been the core of his side's midfield for two seasons now.

When Giggs went off injured against the Baggies, Ferguson introduced Darren Gibson. This is a player who is essentially a poor man's Michael Carrick, who was also on the pitch, equally strangely. Calling someone a poor man's Carrick, for those who don't realize, is a scathing insult.

Ferguson could have put Rooney on the left wing then, in an unnatural position he's nevertheless somewhat accustomed to, but he was ignored for the Irishman. Rooney would be introduced later in the match, belatedly, in futile endeavor for an equalizer than never came. "To prove a point, Ferguson dropped two," as Norman Hubbard wrote.

Without a natural left-winger (having chosen, or been forced to sell Zoran Tosic, a promising left-footed winger never given a real go at United) Ferguson should consider moving Evra up into left-wing. Fabio can deputize in the Frenchman's usual position. But one thing is certain, with so much talent on the side proving not talented enough, he has to play his best players elsewhere.

Darren Fletcher, Scholes, and Berbatov must start every game going forward if United are going to have enough attacking verve to finish games instead of drawing them. It's understandable to grant each a rest now and then, but the old bloke must realize that it's more practical to put them on the bench after you have the lead, instead of taking them off the bench when you need one.

Rooney being injured or unruly, or both, isn't a pleasant problem for the club or most fans, but, as Roy Keane agrees, Man United can survive without him. However, they won't survive if their manager continues making fundamental errors in the valuation and application of the talent in his squad.

It's a great time to write articles about Wayne Rooney. But it's a bad time for United regardless. The paucity of talent at the squad that is the claimed harbinger for Rooney's departure is very real, to a point where you'd almost not blame him.

Almost.

Rooney sale enables regrowth

2010-10-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Not for the first time, and not for the last, necessity forces a difficult, but correct decision.

Presumably Manchester United don't want to sell Wayne Rooney, but with admissions from the Englishman about his "adamant" desire to leave presently, it looks like they'll have to.

And that is not necessarily a bad thing.

Wayne Rooney is worth more to Manchester United in the transfer market than he is on the pitch. Javier Hernandez is already a more effective out-and-out striker, with far more potential, less worth on the transfer market, and a much better disposition. With at least ₤30m for Rooney's signature, United can buy five players who might already be better than him, or at least may evolve to be.

But Rooney, at 24, has already plateaued. He may be the oldest 24-year-old player in Europe. He started playing consistent top-flight football eight years and many injuries ago. The growth we all hoped for has manifested in only modest goal returns for club and drastic, dreadful failures for country.

Frankly, the only stylistic trademark Rooney has is one he rarely uses: dropping his shoulder and shifting his weight to deke past a defender. He used to have a penchant for long-range belters, but no more. We hoped he might evolve enough skill to beat defenders one-on-one, but he hasn't. He always dribbles to his right, like a schoolboy.

He is fast, but not very. He has strength, but less than most central defenders. His proclivity to drop deep and spray long balls doesn't really befit a striker. Oh yeah, and he's seriously emotionally troubled.

What is the big deal, here? Oh, right: millions of people around the world are deeply emotionally attached to a player they've been conditioned to adore.

That same marketing appeal will garner an absurd fee on the transfer market. Other European clubs will either also believe the hype, or, more likely, simply want him to sell more jerseys to those who perpetuate it.

Furthermore, it's obvious United have been reluctant to replace Giggs and Scholes as the heart of their side. Cashing in on Rooney will mercifully quicken that process, as it may just as mercifully assuage its manager's departure.

Alex Ferguson's recent selection and tactical decisions have been bemusing at best. When Rooney leaves, a new chapter will begin, and it's unlikely Ferguson will be around long enough to be its author in full.

It's possible Rooney may grow into a better player. But, as a bitter, rich, adulterous, troubled 24-year-old, I'd say the signs aren't very good. But they certainly—and hopefully—lead out of Manchester.

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United-West Brom: Player ratings and match recap

2010-10-16T20:28:00.000-07:00

Manchester United went up 2-0 and then let it all crumble away. Again.

It all started so brilliantly. Hernandez niggled home after a deflected Nani free-kick after just five minutes.

United controlled easily. Later in the half, they scored again after some interplay between Nani and Berbatov, with the latter setting up the other for a pretty simple slot. Two to the good, home and dry.

But the second half was all hairy. West Brom scored luckily with some pinball after a low-cross from a shallow free-kick. That was early in the half. Five minutes later, van der Sar howled ridiculously, dropping a blasé cross so Tchoyi could pass it home. Barthez-esque from the Dutchman.

So, United gave it up, again. At this point, let's just hope they compete this year, much less win anything. After such a dismal match, what'd you expect, a detailed recap? Come on! Onto player ratings.

Player Ratings

Manchester United

van der Sar: 1: Only had to make one or two real saves. Otherwise, his gaffe was atrocious. Sure, it's just a gaffe, some mistake that belies how good he usually is; but, it changed the game for the worse, and he was mentally at sea from then on. Maybe he deserves a four, but that's boring.

Rafael: 5.5: Added some impetus down the right. Usual stuff. By that, of course, I mean he doesn't play the most fundamental defense, but the end justifies the means. Nice to have him when United go forward, and besides, every game is an improving one for the Brazillian, unlike O'Shea or Brown who've already plateaued long ago.

Vidic: 6.5: Pretty quiet. West Brom weren't exactly besetting United's backline. Two crap goals weren't really anyone's fault. Wears the armband with pride. Vocal. Good enough for me.

Ferdinand: 6: Not too much blame to assign here. Rio surprises me with how consistently he's starting playing only just returning from injury. Good tidings, despite the suicidal result.

Evra: 5.5: Wonky back-tracking sometimes. Buccaneered forward enough though.

Nani: 5: Wasteful. Dove a bunch. Scored after some nice play with Berbatov, though. But, it doesn't matter how skillful you are when you don't apply it correctly. Looks good more than he plays well.

Carrick: 4: Absolute Nancy. Too scared to try to be above average. Content to pass the ball and hope no one notices him. Waste of space. If only United bought Huddlestone instead, way back when. Hated him then, still do; at least he rewards me by reinforcing the narrative that he is completely effing useless. Inevitably subbed.

Anderson: 6: Did a good job in the middle in the first half hour. Sadly he was again lampooned on the left-wing when Giggs took a knock. His drive and impetus in the center was not coincidentally paralleled by United's best patch of the game.

Giggs: 4: Came off just prior to the break with a little knock. Didn't have much say in what was going on, but did some good things here and there without overcommitment. Sadly, United needed his creativity, a dour indictment of a would-be elite squad.

Berbatov: 6: Some market correction going on here. Berbatov was in positive form in the beginning of the season. Looks to be equaling out a little. Granted, his form was over-stated by his Liverpool hat-trick. Still, some nice touches, good through-balls, and important headers were still hallmarks. A little wasteful here or there, though. Still fun to watch, still a great footballer.

Hernandez: 6.5: Portends well. Scored nice and early like a good poacher. From open play, he didn't have much influence. Unfortunately he didn't' make as many vertical runs behind defenders as much as his speed may allow. Got shifted to the left-wing when Fergie got desperate—since the mule gaffer sold Tosic and has no natural winger on that side, and the Mexican did alright there too.

Subs: Rooney (as poor as he's been lately), Scholes (briefly ineffective), Gibson (too much like Carrick)

West Bromwich Albion

Carson: 5.5: Parried Nani's early first-half free-kick right onto Hernandez. So that was a big of a gaffe. Couldn't do much with United's second. Otherwise, he didn't have a lot of work to do, because the Devils weren't getting many shots on target. Carson got better as the game went on, but his punting was poor at times.

Shorey: 6: Misplayed a cross here or there. Otherwise did pretty well snuffing out Nani's play.

Ollsen: 6: Presumably handled Berbatov and Hernandez for the most part. United weren't overly dangerous in the final third of open play, so, I give this guy a six without being able to spot him in a police line-up.

Tamas: 6.5: Another player I was studiously tracking throughout the match. I don't know where these guys come from, but I know they leave Old Trafford with a big point after shutting down the immensely more expensive team for the last 45 minutes.

Jara: 6.5: Got beat here and there by Hernandez and Giggs. Got forward really well, though. Didn't always work out, but when does it. United afforded a lot of space, and this bloke obliged.

Brunt: 7: Bluntly blunted the free-kick into the danger zone for the first goal, like mushrooms growing from a pile of dung. Got stuck-in, and such, and enjoyed space in the middle.

Mulumbu: 6.5: I predict West Brom turning a profit on him in a year or two. Athletic holding midfielder. Explosive too. Well, not really, just making an inside joke. This guy played pretty deep today. Hey, can't fault him.

Scharner: 5: Quiet match for one of the few Baggies I was familiar with. Where's Jonathan Greening? Yeah, that's all I got.

Tchovi: 6.5: Played soccer. Scored when van der Sar spilled his milk.

Morrison: 7.5: Nuisance. Good on the young lad. Not awed by the stage, played like he was on the home side. Good stuff. Deserved the result more than anyone

Fortune: 6.5: Able to befuddle his defenders sometimes, which is enough for a striker. Even if you're successful a third of the time squaring up and beating your opposite, you're doing alright. Got space, fired some shots; not bad for a visiting forward at Old Trafford against a supposedly elite side.

United should have won this game. The heart of the team quivers, pumped by no one. Ferguson would be sitting on three points if he starts Fletcher, but hey. In the end, they should have won, regardless, but totally gave it up. The vacancy showed by Carrick throughout personified United's lackluster drive to take back the lead once squandered. Who sees them beating Chelsea domestically or abroad this year? Not I, nor anyone else.

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Five Reasons Why Chicharito is More Valuable for United than Wayne Rooney

2010-10-07T17:17:00.000-07:00

Wayne Rooney has done too little to get so far. His stature as world footballing icon is assumed, but unearned: His actual skill with the leather has never been of the highest tier. It's time for the facade to end.

Luckily for Manchester United fans, Javier Hernandez is the white knight. At 22, he's faster, hungrier, and more polygamist. And those are only three reasons why, despite being less "experienced", and having less and less-prestigious winner's medals, Javier Hernandez is already better than Wayne Rooney, and more important to United.

POLYGAMY

Hernandez is 22 and ridiculously good-looking. He's not dumb enough to get married just as he's becoming one of the most popular footballers in the world. It shows more character to intelligently remain relatively single than to marry presumptuously, cheat repeatedly with prostitutes, and lie about it. Even Cristiano Ronaldo has enough sense to stay untethered, paying off any girls he impregnates. Rooney's personal misgivings unfortunately have a lot to do with his current professional malaise. It's systemic, and it's not the first time.

STYLE

Wayne Rooney is a midfielder playing forward. His most lauded attributes relate more to a buccaneering tackler than a finesse finisher. Rooney has a great long ball as well as a penchant for incisive chips or driven passes through the middle. Unfortunately he's plays in a position that necessitates him being the receiver, not the passer. He loves to drop deep and track back, two tendencies which are fine in a vacuum, but can be counter-productive to the larger picture.

As a more direct striker, Hernandez fits United's scheme better, better complimenting striker partner Dimitar Berbatov's creative style. The Bulgarian takes more joy in the final pass than scoring the goal itself. He also loves to drop deep to instigate play and express himself on his side's build-up. Hernandez supplements this perfectly, having the speed and inclination to be the first man darting into the box once his side opens up opposing defenses.

Rooney and Berbatov, though, often get their lines crossed, as both may abandon forward and drop deep; one out of frustration and impatience, the other from penchant and necessity. Hernandez is a more suitable yang to Berbatov's yin and quite simply plays more like a striker than a grumpy, roaming Rooney.

POTENTIAL

Rooney homers used to rely on his potential as a crutch. But now, having played eight full seasons in the English top flight, he is a very old 25. He looks more like Danny Glover than a mid-twenties British lad. The period when most of his improvement would have occurred is over. He has now plateaued.

Wayne hasn't added or changed his game for the better in several years. In fact, he's picked up some bad habits, losing the abandon and naivete that actually helped his earlier style. Having trained at the same camp for six years, in addition to the complacent influence of stardom he's projected, among other factors,has homogenized his current style. And quite frankly, he's not as good as people hoped.

Hernandez, a much fresher 22, has only begun to mature. Only last week he entered his first UEFA Champions League game, away to Valencia, and scored clinically on his first two touches. The Mexican international has netted against Spain, France, and Italy, among others, this year. He plays happy, as opposed to Rooney, and shows none of the stress and disturbance than mars Rooney's displays.

Hernandez might already be better than Rooney. At the very least, though, he has plenty of growth ahead of him during which to prove it, while the English pugilist looks every bit his 431 senior appearances.

United aren't going to outlast Chelsea domestically, nor numerous better clubs abroad, throughout the long season, so there's really no reason why Hernandez should continually sit the bench at the profit of Macheda, Owen, or even Rooney.

QUALITY

Over eight years, Rooney has proven that he isn't a world-class striker. His moderate goal-scoring exploits over the years have rarely met expectations. His goal tally averages to 13 each season as the most forward player on one of the world's most dominant football clubs. Many resulted more from finishing a team-worked attack than creating through personal brilliance. His individual ability has ever warranted promotion into the elite "world" class, despite the hopeful projections of so many.

Theoretically, the Englishman uses a mixture of speed and power to beat defenders. In truth, he can rarely get past or behind defenders. Wayne is definitely faster than some players, but he's smaller than more. He also doesn't use his body as well as he could. His current striker partner Berbatov is wiry, but shrugs off defenders easily because his body control and balance are both impeccable. Wayne usually fires himself like a dumbfire missile between or through defenders, using blunt-force trauma over agility, and can only rarely create by himself running at anyone.

Running is Hernandez's specialty. The Mexican was the fastest player in the World Cup according to FIFA. Their guns clocked him running at almost 20 MPH. That's one asset Rooney no longer shares and perhaps the single most important attribute of a through striker. Hernandez also shows a decent turn with his back to goal and an ability to finish with both feet. He is taller than Rooney and jumps higher. With speed, athleticism, ambidexterity, and prowess, he has raw natural ability upon which more skill will continue flourishing, besides being the more effective of the two players on current form.

MONEY

Wayne Rooney is undoubtedly very marketable. Just as David Beckham's did when he unwittingly became a footballing advert, Rooney's own image has long since surpassed his footballing ability. In other words, it's a seller's market.

After winning little with an incomplete and aging squad again this year, United should be able to garner around £60m for Rooney next offseason. Quite basically, that's a lot more than he's worth. United could buy several younger, better players with that money—enabling the paradigm shift necessary for Alex Ferguson's final retirement—as "Chicharito" assumes the forward-running striker role for many years.

Hernandez is quickly becoming a hero for Mexico, naturally displacing the aged Cuauhtémoc Blanco and Rafael Marquez rabid footballing country's darling. Furthermore, his best years are ahead of him instead of behind him. Mexico is fervorous about soccer, yet remains untapped by British clubs. It's a completely new marketplace of opportunity for United, and don't think they don't know it.

Most casual United fans—those that occasionally buy jerseys and such—will be interested in anyone who plays striker for United, as long as he's good. Hernandez is better than Rooney, in addition to having stronger character, being more consistent, better-mannered, and a far less hesitant star.

United, for better or worse, are more or less shit-broke. Even the most simple man knows money is the fuel that drives most clubs' decisions, making this (arbitrarily) the number one reason Hernandez, not Rooney, is United's future first striker.

Sell Rooney High

In "Chicharito", Manchester United have an emerging star who, despite being worth less on the transfer market, is arguably already better than Wayne Rooney—certainly on current form. Yet, the Mexican still possesses a much larger gap in which to grow, instead of the Englishman who, after almost 400 senior appearances, looks like a 35-year-old drunkard and hasn't added anything salient to his game in years.

Hernandez represents a sector of the world with little connection to English soccer, presenting a unique marketing opportunity to United's globalizing brand. His direct attacking style more befits a striker, particularly one next to Berbatov, than a player who's most celebrated function is tracking back and yelling "fack off" at referees. The Mexican is also one of the fastest players in the world and has little history of injury.

United still need Rooney to find some form, eat some minutes, and bang in some goals this year. Along the way, Hernandez should be used here and there, starting more, always growing. Once the year ends, if a cannibalistic Spanish giant are again inclined to offer an egregious amount, tight-wads United would be fools not to sell.

Because the bottom line is this: We already know Wayne Rooney won't be what we hoped he'd become. It's time to place our hope in someone else while Rooney's appeal is still inflated among nations and clubs who don't yet know better.

Ferguson's Sundered Arms

2010-10-04T17:08:00.000-07:00

It's hard to figure out what was going through Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson's mind when he made the starting lineup away to Sunderland last Saturday.

Away to a burgeoning, physical side, against a motivated protege, the legendary gaffer opted for two strikers up front, neither of whom really belong in the starting 11 of any Premier League side.

Both Federico Macheda and Michael Owen have profiles of an impact substitute, as neither display enough ability from open play to create flowing team football throughout a whole match. Not yet, at least, for one; not likely ever again for the other.

Macheda too embryonic as top flight feature

Federico Macheda's greatest contribution to Man United was in his first appearance, when he netted heroically against Aston Villa in the late spring of 2009. It's a testament to a players' value when his first action a year-and-a-half ago remains his greatest display of striking intuition. Unfortunately, the 19-year-old has subsisted largely on reputation since that day.

Macheda simply isn't that good—yet. What are his assets? He's not especially fast. He's not tricky, doesn't drive at guys. His passing is, at best, average. His finishing is nothing to write home about. He's not particularly strong and doesn't contend greatly for headers.

His touch is too loose to inspire great hope. His style belies a footballing intelligence easily rivaled by better players who never made the grade at United. The evidence exists on video and we've all seen it; this is not merely cynicism.

Macheda's growth has seemed to stagnate already
Michael Regan/Getty Images

Given time, he may grow into his body and become more useful. But now, at 19 years old, he is another of many starburst prospects at United that deserve to be on loan or playing for the reserves.

Owen a super sub, not serious starter

Michael Owen does not belong for different reasons.

His fitness is not only historically suspect, but obviously mediocre on more present testimony. As simply as possible, he is far too poor from open play to be a marquee striker. He has the "experience" and enough guile to niggle in for a goal late in games, but not after already playing 85 minutes.

Owen has proven his worth on large occasions during his United tenure, netting very late against Man City last season and equalizing nicely on a precious header recently away to Bolton. Both came after being introduced late in each match (It bears mentioning that a hat-trick away to Wolfsburg last season is an exception to this norm).

Despite being a sympathetic figure that we'd all like to get behind, Owen has little business starting up front regularly, especially with an unproven striker like Macheda. From open play, he is positively horrible. He can't outrun anyone, he can't out-muscle anyone. He can't dribble past anyone. His pacing has never been his hallmark.

In other words, he's just a bloke you throw on late to sneak into the box and steal a late goal, not someone you'd want involved throughout a grinding match. Of the two players, at least Macheda is young and may possibly improve, while Owen's hayday is long past and was short-lived.

Owen: More useful in a suit than a kit?
Pool/Getty Images

Ferguson's tactics bewilder again

Ferguson's decision to start either player—much less both—away in the top flight, as he did against Sunderland, was extremely curious. As United's best footballer this season, most assumed Dimitar Berbatov would be a shoe-in. Who'd partner him should have been an academic choice: Javier Hernandez.

The two form a complimentary pairing. Berbatov likes to drop between midfield and defense to harry play intelligently through the final third. Hernandez is inclined to make these vertical runs by utilizing his outstanding pace (The Mexican was the fastest player at the 2010 World Cup, clocking in at 20 MPH at full trot).

Furthermore, Hernandez finishes with both feet, something far underrated among top-tier players in England and abroad. He has scored against the Netherlands, Mexico, Argentina, and France in the last six months.

"Chicharito" had just scored epically away to Valencia in midweek, stealing two important points. He's shown better finishing instincts than Macheda, and more athletic ability to enforce them than Owen. He was primed for his second league start.

But against Sunderland—matching wits with his friend and former charge, Steve Bruce—Alex Ferguson seemed to take it easy, on some level. Bruce must have been elated when he saw United's teamsheet. Throughout the match, Ferguson uncertainly tarried between 4-4-2, with Anderson on the left, to 4-5-1, with either Macheda or Owen up front, at different times.

Hernandez scored awesomely against Valencia
Alex Livesey/Getty Images

The result was domination, and it was United wearing the gag-ball, getting spanked, and screaming the safe word. Thankfully, Vidic and Ferdinand prevented an ultimate penetration the rest of their outfield players were so passive to enable. Berbatov and Hernandez both appeared in the second half as United feigned to compete, but Sunderland had long since established control.

With two weeks of international break ahead, there was no reason to rest Berbatov, and little reason to protect Hernandez. Berbatov has two weeks of nothing ahead of him. Hernandez was rested more than enough to deserve participation Saturday.

At least the Mexican's class is not suppressed on his national team. There he'll likely continue to perform like he did in the World Cup, and could have against Sunderland: A dynamic pistol of a striker with reasonable prospect to evolve into a world-class player.

It's important to remember that Alex Ferguson's reputation is built more on motivating men and spotting and weening talent than for being a celebrated tactician. He proved that again Saturday.

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Letting van der Vaart go to Spurs proved paucity

2010-10-04T17:07:00.000-07:00

Ever summer, every fall, United fans like you and I wonder and whine aloud why Sir Alex Ferguson hasn't bought any number of attractive players on the transfer market.

Each time, ultimately, we are assuaged and affirmed by the old gaffer, claiming a complete squad is the reason for inactivity, not fiscal restrictions from up in the ivory tower.

But if there was proof that the Manchester side is being strangled by their owner's surfeit, it existed plainly when they let Rafael van der Vaart transfer from Real Madrid to Spurs for just £8m.

On form, the 26-year-old Dutch dynamo is one of the most creative left-footed attackers in Europe, and he is already in resplendent form (he needed no time to "adapt" to the Premier League, a rationalization reserved for less-focused players fumbling through the transition).

Sure, his form will vary and go down—presumably, but his mean should prove much higher than two players United have struggled to replace: their mid-30s stars, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.

On the wing, "Vaartman" is far quicker than Giggs, with much more pace and a far better strike. In the middle, his movement, passing, and vision rivals Scholes, being more like the ginger prince at the turn of the century, not 10 years since. Van der Vaart is younger, fitter, and has more gas than either.

He may not fit perfectly in a two-striker system, but his worth on the wing for United, or filling in as a second striker, would have arguably fixed two of the Manchester side's most impending problems with one player (it also would have helped plug the gap left when United have to sell Rooney this summer).

There were no reasons they wouldn't have wanted van der Vaart, especially at such a low price. United have sold most of their best players to Madrid, so there is a clear relationship. Real were desperate to off-load players players that didn't fit Jose Mourinho's vainly projected image.

These factors, and the Special One's sycophantic affection for Sir Alex, insures that roaming texts and calls were relayed between the two superclubs at some point before Tottenham's last-minute grab.

Ferguson has a history of buying and selling, but since Ronaldo's departure two years ago, his hand has been forced out of the transfer kitty (that's why John O'Shea, Michael Carrick, and Federico Macheda are starting in the Premier League).

The United gaffer may be forced to recite the company line, claiming that money is plentiful, and his recent, uncharacteristic miserliness in the transfer market is by choice. But we all know he'd have fancied van der Vaart, alas, just as he fancied Adam Johnson.

It was a lack of money—not desire—that decided glaring inaction, thereby providing more persuasive evidence of it's dearth.

Partizan Belgrade-Arsenal: Player Ratings and Recap

2010-09-28T17:04:00.000-07:00

Arsenal travelled to Serbia today to match up against Partizan Belgrade on the second matchday of the 2010 UEFA Champions League.

Arsenal led Group H after demolishing Braga 6-0 on the inaugural day of fixtures while Belgrade lost 1-0 to Shaktar Donestk. The Gunners travelled without Robin van Persie, Cesc Fabregas, or Manuel Almunia, but manager Arsene Wenger could easily afford wholesale changes with such a robust squad of attacking talent.

Each side pinged the ball around in the beginning, getting a feel for what promised to be a physical match in the loud, intimidating atmosphere of the FK Partizan Stadium.

Completely under the kosh, Arsensal broke on the counter after 15 minutes through Andrei Arshavin. He played through to Wilshire who brilliantly back-heeled back to the little Russian to strike home from eight yards, quieting the raucous crowd. Arsenal led 1-0 against the run of play.

On 26 minutes, the Londoners broke through with clinical triangular passing only for Arshavin to over-elaborate. They broke again from the half-clearance but Arshavin's close-range chip was blocked. The Russian sparkplug fed Rosicky through a moment later as the Gunners unloaded their clip; Belgrade's keeper did well, though.

On 32 minutes, an arbitrary handball by Denilson gifted Belgrade the chance to equalize from the spot. Cléo obliged, slotting calmly to the right..Belgrade 1, Arsenal 1.

The equalizer buoyed Belgrade enough to see the half out without any more clear-cut chances for either side.
On the opposite side of the break, after ten minutes, Chamakh was sent through down the middle and was felled by Jovanovic inside the box. The Belgrade defender was shown red; Arshavin banged the penalty, with power instead of accuracy, and Stojkovic saved heroically.

Despite being up a man, Arsenal were unable to consistently pressure the Serbian side. However, on 70 minutes, Rosicky crossed to Chamakh whose header was athletically saved by Stojkovic onto the bar. The Moroccan turned in the rebound, giving Arsenal a 2-1 lead.

Arsenal utilized their man advantage, playing keep-away for the next ten minutes. After winning a corner, substitute Samir Nasri curled in a sweet cross for Squillaci to rise to. Belgrade 1, Arsenal 3.

Immediately following the goal, Belgrade penetrated Arsenal's penalty box and earned a penalty via a Kieron Gibbs tackle. The head referee called it straightaway without help from any linesman. Fabianski saved the Cléo's penalty, diving left and low.

The Gunners pressured casually until the whistle, and left Belgrade as 3-1 winners and Group H leaders on goals, virtually assured of qualification into the knockout stages.

Player Ratings

Not all the lights were on in Belgrade
Michael Regan/Getty Images

Partizan Belgrade

Stojkovic (8.5) The best player on his side, despite ultimately letting in three goals. Ridiculous save after ridiculous save was a hallmark of his game today.

Krstajic (6) Masked captain led by example but couldn't keep up with Arsenal's passing, mostly.

Jovanovic (4) Being sent off enables me to give him a four without having to justify anything else.

Lazevski (5.5) Did well in the first half, but did little in the second.

Stevanovic (5) Most of Arsenal's joy was on the left side, where he was defending.

Petrovic (6) Had some joy in the first 15 minutes of the match, but only just.

Medo (6.5) Competed in the center with strength and flare until inevitably overrun by the more trained side.

Ilic (4.5) Anonymous, perhaps because of my own ignorance, but, what am I gonna do?

Tomic (5) Subbed early after generally ineffectual performance.

Cléo (7) Belgrade's newest signing looks like a bargain after scoring eight times in qualifying and netting again today.

Boya (6) Tracked back nicely on some occasions, otherwise did his best to contain an uncontainable Arsenal side.

Arsenal

Fabianski (8) Fabianski had a great game at a great time for his career. If Almunia continues to blunder, you may expect the Polish keeper to earn more time between the sticks.

Djourou (5.5) Some needless tackles, but otherwise did what little was required from him.

Squillaci (8) Headed strongly for Arsenal's important third goal. The summer signing was also the most assured member of his backline today. Central defenders are a real commodity in European football, and on evidence it seems Wenger made another intelligent signing.

Gibbs (5.5) Contributed on both sides of the ball, but conceded a silly penalty late.

Sagna (6) Belgrade offered little in attack. All the Frenchman had to do was pass sideways and track back occasionally.

Song (6) Marshaled the midfield athletically. Passing was askew at times. Good, positive drive.
Denilson (7) Needed to make a fantastic tackle early, and did. Partnered Song nicely to provide Arsenal's bevy of attacking talent.

Wilshire was on the verge of tears at one point
Michael Regan/Getty Images

Wilshire (7) Fans of the London club prize this young man. He's deserved their adoration and hope more on prior performances than that today, but to be fair, he was hacked down at every turn. Nice assist on the first goal.

Arshavin (7) Had several chances in an outstanding first half. Over-elaborate at times, though, and faded in the second. Took the dumb-fire approach on the penalty and earned the save from the keeper.

Rosicky (6.5) Saw plenty of the ball but didn't do anything totally remarkable with it.

Chamakh (7.5) Rose to score a crucial second goal, one of many nicely won headers. Seemed too eager to go to ground, which is not something new for the former Bordeaux man.

Scholes injury is bad ju-ju

2010-09-28T17:03:00.000-07:00

Paul Scholes was ruled out of Manchester United's crunch clash tomorrow at Valencia CF due to a calf complaint.

This is when things get pretty hairy.

Scholes has started every senior match this season, and he's looked bloody great. But his forced preclusion from the side on Wednesday will expose United's lack of natural cover in the central attacking midfielder role.

Let's run down the brief list of candidates: Anderson is a poor passer and only just recovering from injury, on top of being more natural to a holding role. Fletcher and Hargreaves are both holding midfielders, albeit good ones, decent passers, but not incisive or creative. Carrick's effect can best be described by awkward silence. Gibson can crack from range, but otherwise is a poor man's Fletcher. Giggs is crocked and obviously makeshift at best in the role. Who else is there?

If Rooney wasn't injured, he'd be the most natural replacement to Scholes in midfield. In fact, it's where he should probably play, period, especially as Javier Hernandez proves to be the better striker. But that's way out of anyone's paradigm.

Tomorrow is going to be a low-scoring affair. Take the under, sure, but hope that Scholes gets back sooner than later. Otherwise, it's going to not only be an aesthetically ugly season, replete with boring hoofs and hopeful crosses, but it'll be one filled with increasingly mediocre results.

Scholes is one of a few players United can't afford to lose this season; a strange circumstance for a 35-year-old player, a damning indictment of United's transfer and youth policy.

Valencia-United: Too early to need points... right?

2010-09-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

It's far too early in the Champions League season to be having must-win games, just as it's probably far too early in an editorial to use a cliche like "must-win."

Forgive me, but don't forgive Manchester United. The club's plight is highly relative: they're merely not a veritable top three side in the world. It's not enough reason for fans to go out and commit seppuku. But integrity and altruism from the owners, more courageous decisions from the manager, and simply better performances from the players would all benefit the product on the field.

And that's just the place they'll meet Valencia on Wednesday in the second matchday of the Champions League group stage.

Dearth of wingers, yet youth displaced

With Ryan Giggs out with a calf strain, United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is forced to shoehorn in Park Ji-Sung—admittedly a player he'd probably wrongly use anyway—going away to their toughest competition in the group, La Liga leaders Valencia.

Park has been arguably United's worst player so far this year, with Jonny Evans and Wayne Rooney both competing for the indistinction. Ferguson could afford to play Park in the past in such ties, at least when Ronaldo was around to release counterattacks and gloss over the Korean's attacking shortcomings.

Fergie is not faultless
Alex Livesey/Getty Images

But now, it's not as if the Scotish gaffer has many options: or does he? God forbid anyone suggest something radical, like playing Patrice Evra at left wing with a da Silva behind, or giving Gabriel Obertan or Javier Hernandez berth along one of the touchlines.

Antonio Valencia's injury—hell, even Cristiano Ronaldo's departure in 2009—will continue to reverberate up and down the peaks and valleys of this season without the right cover continually being purchased or selected.

United's youth must grow by fire, and fast, to compete throughout the long season, something that won't happen if they only get 15 minutes every other game.

Evans fails as defense wobbles

Having only mustered one point at home to semi-minnows Rangers, United definitely need at least one point come Wednesday.

Unfortunately, their usually Jupiter-solid defense is more likely to implode into a black hole than gravitationally deflect projectiles away from it's figurative blue marble.

Evans has been stretched further than that analogy throughout most of this season, and each time Vidic orbits away from the back line, United's inner atmosphere is inevitably penetrated.

He's been so bad, frankly, that I had to use the analogy again. That bad. This is the same player who displaced current European treble winner and World Cup winner Gerard Pique who, to be fair, at times looked just as wonky in his United tenure.

There's no reason to assume ultimate failure for Evans, but as Rio Ferdinand malingers in perpetuity on the sidelines, we might assume ultimate failure for United this season.

And not just for one reason; not just for Evans' current malform (were it to continue). United's other failings are well documented. They are a club in transition since they cashed in and sold Cristiano Ronaldo, led by an aging manager with a proclivity—or necessity—to rely on aging players, with an overrated talisman and without a natural on-field leader.

United fans would like to see this image less this year
Michael Regan/Getty Images

Doesn't mean they can't barely eek by Liverpool at home, or deserve to; but it should lead—on probability at least—to a tough, drawn-out season, inevitably ending in defeat to clearly more complete and robust squads.

Valencia sales not enough to assure hope

A point away in Spain would be a positive result, despite the Spanish leaders being presumably weaker this year. In place of their two best players, Valencia now have over £70 million, having sold David Villa to Barcelona and David Silva to Manchester City at robust profits.

On travels this year, though, goals have passed through United's defense like neutrinos, penetrating their back line wherever Vidic wasn't. Through six games this season, the Mancs have conceded nine goals, seven away from home. In their double-winning 2008-09 term, they conceded 24 overall, and just 10 away from Old Trafford.

That'll have to change to get anything out of a game that should be viewed, at least by the United team, as a "must-win," lest the cliche becomes more and more applicable to their match previews as the European season unfolds.

At the very least, fans of red or neutral orientation may enjoy the glorious, final bow from an in-form Scholes, and the majesty of Berbatov on song; two conditions less likely to continue throughout as United fall short, if not only just.

Forecast

As abysmal as Wayne Rooney has been lately, and considering their manager's penchant for the 4-5-1 in away European ties, the best-case scenario here probably involves Berbatov up front, alone. Rooney needs the rest, being knocked, tired, off-form, and stressed, and quite frankly, shouldn't even travel. (Reports state that Rooney is, in fact, not traveling.)

United's defense has been so porous, they could use an extra midfielder holding in front. The inclusion of Ji-Sung, in theory at least, contributes to more defending, but scoring should pose a problem. Expect a low-scoring game, perhaps even a nil-nil, as United continue to be competitive this year, if only just.

United-Liverpool: Player ratings and Recap

2010-09-19T16:56:00.000-07:00

United hosted Liverpool in Sunday's early kickoff. If you hadn't heard, it was totally awesome.

The game started very slowly, though. United controlled everything; Liverpool didn't appear to mind. Most of the first half consisted of long periods of possession for the home side punctuated by the odd half-chance or two.

After 42 minutes of dominant but deliberate United build-up, Berbatov opened the scoring from a Giggs outswung corner. The Bulgarian didn't have to jump, or even really try, as Torres pretended to apply defensive pressure. It was an awkward moment for the Spaniard, but who cared: United led 1-0 into the break.

This game would eventually get very hairy. Liverpool still didn't look like they felt like playing. United pressure with half-chances and whatnot until Berbatov braced up on 59 minutes with serious aplomb.

Nani crossed left-footed from out wide. Berbatov juggled the ball on his thigh and bicycle-kicked into the top corner from 10 yards. No luck about it. To call it "masterclass" would not be a misapplication of the vaunted term. His first touch was deliberate; his second was religious. United led 2-0.

As soon as the froth subsided, the match took a "Thelma and Louise"-type turn off a cliff. Johnny Evans clearly felled Torres in the box after 64 minutes of anti-football from the Mersey men. Gerrard stepped up and slotted in the penalty kick. Liverpool trailed 2-1.

Five more minutes, more bad juju. Gerrard curled in a free-kick from 21 yards out when Fletcher and O'Shea formed a window instead of a wall. Van der Sar was less stranded than he appeared, but it didn't matter. United gave up another lead in the top flight; the game was level at two.

As the violins played their despairing songs, Dimitar Berbatov stepped up and got his first United hat-trick to save the world from ending.

On 84 minutes he leaped highest and strongest, heading in O'Shea's cross after a square Scholes dish. I put down my samurai sword, stood up, and continued the live blog.

United saved at least blushes, at most their domestic season, by not utterly failing in the most Shakespearean way today. Berbatov deserves all the headlines he'll soon claim. The classiest player on the pitch proved his worth empirically today, and let me be the first to welcome so many finally onto his bandwagon.

Player Ratings

Manchester United

Van der Sar (5) Every shot on goal Liverpool had today scored.

O'Shea (6) Slowly traversed the right flank with characteristic neutrality. Subtracted from a few attacks before assisting Berbatov's final goal.

Vidic (8) Finally got the better of Liverpool today after being sent off in their last two matches. Vida is in very good form and it shows no sign of receding. Any errors his back line made today were not made by him.

Evans (5) This player looked so promising two years ago. Last season his form was forgettable. This year he is not even into third gear yet. Potential is great but only if it becomes kinetic.

Evra (7) Easy game for Patty because Liverpool had no width, intent, or desire. It's nice to see the Frenchman have an individually positive day at the office, for a change, after what's been a rough calender year.

Nani (6) Needs to stop diving so egregiously. It's pathetic and embarrassing.

Fletcher (7.5) Commanded possession. Played with real and obvious desire. Slowly, methodically getting into fine form for the season. Arguably his side's most most important player, and definitely one of three or four candidates.

Scholes (7.5) Fletcher and Scholes form a very yin-yang partnership which should have featured more last season. Unfortunately, Sir Alex was still playing Carrick then. Scholes has not played poorly yet this season. Today Liverpool didn't try to get in his face as much as they could have. One remarkable turnover led to an opposing chance. Assisted Berbatov's last goal by feeding O'shea out wide.

Giggs (6) Giggs had some moments. He also didn't have some moments. Fairly average day for him.

Berbatov (9) Played about as good as he always has for United in three years. The Bulgarian maintains a level of consistency throughout his play with only minor variance. It was only a matter of time until his positivity resulted in goals, just as it was only a matter of time for Rooney's own inflated numbers last season to self-correct.

Berbatov scored a masterclass goal today. He also scored two others. Furthermore, he importantly won headers throughout the match and contributed to build-up just as you'd expect.

United need him to play big up front more often and win more of those 50/50 headers than he did last year. Majestic day from Berbatov and a very fulfilling one for his greatest supporters. Leads the EPL in scoring with six.

Rooney (6) Had some decent passes, but otherwise appeared tentative to pull the trigger or assert his true self.

Liverpool

Reina (4) Off form, frazzled, bald. Didn't make many saves, let in three goals.

Skrtel (5) Assumed the same general sense of bewilderment as his teammates throughout.

Carragher (5) Pretty bad.

Konchesky (4) Meh.

Johnson (6.5) At least pretended convincingly to care about the result. Really good player; outshone the really bad performances elsewhere on his team without actually objectively playing that well himself.

Poulsen (4.5) Allowed Scholes and Fletcher to run proceedings according to their every whim. Is this really a player Hodgsen wants?

Gerrard (6.5) Converted a penalty. So. Also scored, somewhat luckily, direct from 22 yards. Otherwise he didn't really embody the gusto and hustle Liverpool unfairly require. Still almost stole a point by himself, though.

Meireles (5) Half chance here or there. Mostly ran around trying to contain Manchester's onslaught of patient, deliberate build-up. Might be a decent player, but will need time to gel with the rest of his asynchronous team.

Cole (5) Not so much. Tried to do some things on his own, but. Basically fell into the black hole of shitty football the rest of his team were spiraling down.

Rodriguez (3) This man was paid more this week than I'll make this year despite me having produced far more for the game today than him. When he was substituted, I remembered he was playing.

Torres (4) What's up with emo footballers? These guys get paid millions to play sport. Torres was very bad today. He got sent through and drew the penalty from Evans. Otherwise, from open play, he didn't appear to care. He literally let Berbatov score his first goal, standing behind him instead of defending the corner kick. It was a strange and awkward manifestation of his obvious listlessness.

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Manchester United-Liverpool: Live Blog, Play-By-Play and Analysis

2010-09-19T16:54:00.000-07:00

Really fun play-by-play of an outstanding game featuring an outstanding performance from an outstanding player.

United will win bugger-all this year and here's why:

2010-09-16T21:44:00.000-07:00

With such a title, it'll be assumed I'm a self-hating mofo, some reactionary noob. I'll be accused of a "doom and gloom" paradigm, and be further patronized with sarcastic, "sky is falling"-type rhetoric.

But I am certain when Antonio Valencia's left ankle dislocated and broke, Manchester United lost one of the two players they absolutely could not afford to, at least on last year's evidence.

Only Darren Fletcher was more individually important than Valencia last term. Even Wayne Rooney often scored despite his form, not because of it; and often as a result of the Ecuadorian's crossing.

Yeah. Without Valencia, and without real cover, United are basically screwed this year.

Not only will Nani now feature even more often, but United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will now have to play Ji-Sung Park, or more likely, Ryan Giggs, match-in and match-out throughout the year.

And it should be a relatively dismal one. Park has shown no semblance of good touch since the World Cup, and Giggs, though undoubtedly effective in patches, has been relied upon far too long by his Scottish gaffer.

Both Giggs and Scholes have a place in the side, as they have for almost two decades. But over the last few seasons, Ferguson has shown a disinclination to replace either, even with younger talent. Quite frankly no one else on United's roster is a natural left-winger or a natural attacking central midfielder.

Giggs should be a luxury, not a necessity
Alex Livesey/Getty Images

Whatever Zoran Tosic did to Sir Alex, he was never forgiven. Nor should Sir Alex be granted any pardon for transferring the promising Serb without a legitimate chance in Manchester.

Gabriel Obertan looked equally dynamic and atrocious throughout the minor opportunities he was given last year. He could fill Valencia's boots on the right side, but without the pace, delivery, strength, or maturity. Not yet, at least.

Bebe—a player not a single United fan knew of a month ago—played with potential today for the reserves in a loss to Aston Villa. Could the 20-year-old provide relief on the flank? Sure. Should he be expected to already? Definitely not.

Yes, it's all very sad. Fergie will invariably opt to move Nani to the right wing and employ Giggs on the left. Unfortunately, at this stage in his career, the Welshman is much better in the middle than he is on the wing, and even then mainly only in a 4-5-1 (4-3-3), which has been proven as an ineffective formation for United over the last several years.

Either that, or United fans will be treated to watching Park play more; good, at best, and abysmally, at worst, with some of the heaviest touches in the English top flight.

In short, another season of inadequate incoming transfers, or blossoming homegrown talent, equates to the stubborn and nostalgic gaffer overusing Scholes and Giggs for another season to try and cover either his club's financial shortcomings, or his own egregious tactical blind-spots.

There's no way the shortest player on the field scores 10 headed goals again this year, and sadly, there's little chance United compete seriously in either of two major competitions come springtime.

The Red Devils are too shallow. They can only trump Chelsea at home, or a myriad of clubs abroad, if their best players perform out of their mind throughout the whole season—an extreme improbability that other clubs with more depth don't need to rely upon.

Ranger loss pales to Valencia blow

2010-09-15T21:43:00.000-07:00

Manchester United went out and drew nils Tuesday evening at Old Trafford with Glasgow Rangers.

The result itself isn't as alarming as some would have you believe. United manager Sir Alex Ferguson opted to rest the majority of his first-team players—only some of whom surely needed it, though all benefited from it.

United dominated the match, but Glasgow had their tactics right. Not that their manager's ideas were revolutionary: the majority of sides coming to Manchester just try and put 10 behind the ball. More often than not, United eventually breaks through after constant pressure, and while they controlled throughout on Tuesday, the opening goal never came. If it had, it would have been for the Red Devils.

As things stand, United can afford to drop two points here rather than any more in the EPL. Their group consists of Spanish side Valencia and Turkish minnows Bursaspor. Valencia are without their two best players of seasons past: striker David Villa is now at Barcelona, and David Silva rides pine for another Mancunian club. Bursaspor are essentially walkovers. United should be fine.

On the home-front, United host Liverpool on Saturday, and are already four points behind Chelsea in the EPL rankings. That's not to say Ferguson didn't gaffe by leaving Berbatov off his teamsheet Tuesday night:

''We wanted to see how Javier Hernandez would do in a full game,'' said Ferguson. ''Because of that we left Berbatov out and his form has been absolutely fantastic. He has been one of our best players this season and his ability to create in tight situations would have made a difference.''

Javier Hernandez looked better than his strike partner, which would become a trend if they were expected to play together often. Wayne Rooney's poor form for United continued despite being rested on Saturday after playing brilliantly for England twice last week.

Obviously, the most alarming development Tuesday night was the injury to Antonio Valencia. Behind Darren Fletcher, the Ecuadorian was United's most form player last season, with Wayne Rooney in third for sheer goal glut. But only the two former players arrived and ended the season in positive touch, while Rooney often scored despite his form, not because of it.

Looking at United's roster now, you wonder why Ferguson was so eager to get rid of Zoran Tosic, or why he wasn't eager at all to sign Adam Johnson. If the gaffer wasn't so bloody stubborn, United fans could hope to see more of Gabriel Obertan, but what we'll probably end up seeing is more Ryan Giggs on the wing throughout another trophy-less season.

Having said that, you'd still expect them to get out of the Champions League group stage. Ferguson's notion to rest his first team players wasn't imprudent, but his second-tier players were ineffective, more an indictment to his personnel than his ideas.

arguably the worst play-by-play ever written

2010-09-11T21:40:00.000-07:00

Manchester United visits Goodison Park for the early kickoff in the English Premier League's fourth matchday.

It promises to be a tense tie for many reasons. Everton, despite being a perennial top-six contender, have yet to win a match this campaign. Their squad is largely the same as prior seasons, so you expect the variance to equal out. It may begin today: Everton defeated United 3-1 last year in the same fixture.

Rumors also have it that former Everton teen star, current United superstar Wayne Rooney, will be rested against his former club. Obviously on the heels of allegations he cheated on his wife—something so commonplace in professional spots it's a marvel why anyone pretends to care—he'd be assured an utter lambasting from opportunistic Everton fans.

Whether he plays or not, it's a meaningful tie for both sides. Both clubs and their most cheesy writers may view it as a "must-win," but don't be surprised if they each settles for one point, instead of three, after 90 minutes.

10:22 AM ET

So, BR dropped around the 80th minute. I went and had breakfast (sherking all responsibility) to come back and see Everton tied the game at 3! Unbelievable, as a United fan. But as a person who bet on the draw, I'm not unhappy. It was a cracking match apparently made even better. Thanks for listening and I'll wrap up your footballing perspectives in a nice bow in the coming days.

09:21 AM ET

Fellaini takes his turn to fire over but Everton are enjoying more possession. Couldn't blame United for being a little lazy with a comfortable lead.

09:19 AM ET

70 are past and Baines is lining up a free-kick from the left side. It's a foot wide, though. United lead 3-1 after going down a goal, just as Everton did last year in the same fixture.

09:16 AM ET

68 minutes. Everton are ringing in the changes. Coleman and Yakubu are in for Everton. They're possessing without making any real chances.

09:14 AM ET

Berbatov uses his trivella after a diaganol ball from Scholes. Everton 1 United 3! Distin got skinned by Berba's quick first touch and United are far ahead now.

09:10 AM ET

United pass the ball around the back. It ends up with Berbatov up top but he's crowded out by virtue of there being more blue than red up there.

09:08 AM ET

56 minutes so far. Pienaar skins O'Shea but Evra makes a superhero tackle. Everton continue to pressure, though.

09:05 AM ET

Vidic and Cahill exchange more than words after some argy-bargy. In other words, they're enjoying themselves.

09:03 AM ET

Giggs and Berbatov combine to turn the ball over after some heavy touches.

09:02 AM ET

Everton win a corner but Vida knocks it away for Scholes to clear. Heitinga is carded for a rugby tackle.

08:57 AM ET

United's captain headed home excellently to lead his side ahead. Awesome stuff, and a great beginning to what should be a cracking half.

08:55 AM ET

Berbatov again earns a shot but it's deflected out for a corner. Nani crosses in and it's back out to him. He crosses in again and it's Monster Vidic who slams it home! Everton 1 United 2!

08:54 AM ET

United kick off and Berbatov charges forward.

08:37 AM ET

The half is finally over. I am spent. Really exciting half with some excellent chances, excellent saves, and excellent goals. Both sides are up for it. Both managers will get up in their asses at the half, and both will come out blazing in 15 minutes. See you then!

08:36 AM ET

Giggs gets booked as an afterthought for some foul. He crosses for Berbatov a moment later and his excellent volley just skims by the left post. Berbatov on the volley is legend.

08:32 AM ET

43rd minute and I'll eat my right shoe. Nani decides to cross first time instead of turning the ball over and Fletcher screams into the box like the awesome Scholes-Keane hybrid he is to equalize! Everton 1 United 1!

08:31 AM ET

Where's your 4-5-1 now, playboy? Ferguson's pusilanimous tactics have United behind and lacking hope or reason for revival.

08:28 AM ET

Neville gets beaten for pace and Everton get a couple chances to score which they do, PIenaar slotting it home from around nine yards after a deflected shot and square ball. Everton lead 1-0!

08:26 AM ET

Giggs shoots right-footed and Howard makes another awesome save! The man always performs against United. Everton counter and, oh, no...

08:24 AM ET

36 minutes done and Everton are swinging in a free-kick. It's one of those situations where the referee blows his whistle for some arbitrary foul that no one saw or complains about.

08:23 AM ET

United are finally enjoying themselves but Nani keeps turning the ball over. He sure is fast, though :(

08:22 AM ET

lays it off to Scholes. He strikes; it's deflected on target and Howard makes a ridiculous save. He looked like Morpheus there.

08:21 AM ET

31 minutes past. United have a free-kick from 20 yards. I prefer Berbatov in this range. He's been successful curling free-kicks for Bulgaria and Leverkusen from close range. Nani takes it and...

08:18 AM ET

O'Shea turns over in Everton's attacking third. Another sentence I hopefully never have to write. Why is he even playing? He is lamentable enough in his natural positions.

08:15 AM ET

United would be down 2-0 at least if Everton weren't firing each shot over the goal. Good tackle from Vidic on 27 minutes shuts down another attack.

08:13 AM ET

Scholes typically plays an absurd driven pass out left to Berbatov but there's no one else in red up there.

08:10 AM ET

Pienaar is plenty lively. Nani writhes on the ground as the game unfolds around him.

08:08 AM ET

After 19, United are slowing playing like a professional team. They lead possession in the last five minutes but just the one clear cut chance so far.

08:07 AM ET

Gary Neville hasn't played this poorly since him and Phil were in the sandbox with holey knickers.

08:03 AM ET

14 minutes gone and United finally string a few passes together. Ultimately it's John O'Shea who volleys against the post from range! I will never type that again in my life!

08:01 AM ET

A few minutes and a few corner-kicks later and United are getting totally owned. Everton are firing in shots willy-nilly and their whole stadium is going nuts.

07:58 AM ET

Nine minutes in and Everton have another free-kick after Arteta's long shot is deflected. Everton play it short and earn a couple shots on goal that are deflected or wide. They retain possession on the ensuing goal kick, though.

07:56 AM ET

After seven minutes, two of which I've observed, Everton are controlling posession and United look unsure of themselves. After a scramble Nani breaks down the right side, over-elaborates and turns over.

07:53 AM ET

As I hope becomes my trademark, I've missed the first few minutes. Arteta has a free-kick outside the box from about 20 yards. Arteta fires it over but it's a corner to Everton. Referee Stuart Atkinson changes the call so VDS takes the goalkick.

07:43 AM ET

My rabid friend texts me to alert that Vidic receives the armband for United ahead of Giggs and Neville. Looks like Fergie got at least one thing right today.

07:42 AM ET

David Moyes starts Howard, Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Hibbert at the back, behind Heitinga, Arteta, Fellaini, Pienaar, Osman and Cahill. Not really much more ambitious than his knighted countryman. This game should be an outright snoozer. Prediction: 1-1., both goals in the second half.

07:40 AM ET

I've rolled out of bed and into the starting line-ups. Rooney doesn't start as Ferguson seems to opt for a 4-5-1; pedestrian to put it nicely. Van der Sar, Evra, Vidic, Evans, Neville, O'Shea, Scholes, Fletcher, Giggs, Nani, Berbatov. I have no idea where O'Shea is playing but it looks like their gaffer is aiming for a nil-nil. Sadface.

02:20 AM ET

Match begins at 0445 PST, 0745 EST, or four years from now if you live in Alpha Centauri.

Never mind his bollocks

2010-09-08T21:36:00.000-07:00

It shouldn't take Wayne Rooney allegedly cheating on his wife to introduce the realization that most people eventually cheat on their spouses; especially rich people.

If you want to know why, it's unlikely that scrutinizing his arbitrary situation, of millions of others, will bring that final clarity to your world view. So who cares?

When our vicariousness extends into the personal lives of footballers, it reflects more poorly on us than it does on them. Presumably people like Rooney are revered for their footballing skill, not their moral fabric. It's not my business what he did, and I don't care, because I don't care what kind of person he is, I just care how he plays.

But the one can relate to the other. Sunshine disinfects, and now, hopefully alleviated of some of the guilt and shame that faithfully accompanies deceit and disloyalty, Rooney's form has only one place to go—the same direction his member is inclined : up.

His form has been the worst of his career for the last six months, the same time period that News of the World were threatening to publish his scandal.

Imagine his plight: He was a young husband and a new father, with the most rabid media culture in the world forever prying into his private life. Upon his small head, he carried the hopes and sad vicarious needs of his rapacious nation throughout their abysmal World Cup.

All this while being essentially blackmailed by England's most salacious news carrier and lying to his wife, family, and self.

At least now, that stress is mostly gone. The world is off his shoulders. Better for him that everyone know he's a reprobate than for him to have to hide it all the time.

The painful process, only just now underway, will be a cathartic one, and it will matter most importantly: Both helping to account for his dismal form from last April and ushering in a less-harbored Rooney playing more carefree and more effectively.

Beyond that, I don't care and nor should you.

The only way to change a regrettable subculture is by not participating in it. Blame Rooney for his trade on the field only and leave the rest to hopefully less and less of lesser people.

Manchester United-West Ham United: Player Ratings

2010-08-28T21:32:00.000-07:00

Manchester United comfortably downed visiting West Ham 3-0 Saturday afternoon at Old Trafford.

It was all downhill for West Ham. The game started with a little give-and-take before it slowly and steadily shifted in favor of the Reds. West Ham held out for some time, but United's pressure was always rising.

In the 32nd minute, just around when you'd expect, United struck first. Ryan Giggs beat former United right-back Johnathan Spector forcing the American to lunge in from behind. Wayne Rooney stepped up calmly and confidently to dispatch the spot-kick into the lower-right corner, celebrating as if he'd done it before and'll do it again.

The red United continued to out-hustle the purple and teal version, controlling more of the ball with ultimately failed ventures inside West Ham's half.

After the break, Man Utd struck early on the counterattack. Rooney played Nani through, who ultimately finished the sequence left-footed from 15 yards after a little dilly-dally.

West Ham never really gave up completely. Parker, Dyer, Cole, and Noble showed good energy at various times, but every attempted conjuration fizzled before production. Just the one shot on target for the West Londerers.

Berbatov deserved a goal and he got one in the 68th minute. Fletcher played forward to O'shea who feigned the compulsory cross from the right, instead deeking and shifting inside to Nani. Nani chipped in a precopis, curled cross—deliberately!—right into Berbatov's wheelhouse, who jumped and side-volleyed from inside six yards.

That scoreline would hold after each side made several substitutions and perfunctorily concluded the already foregone result. Manchester United 3, West Ham 0.

Player Ratings

Manchester United

van der Sar: 6: What score do goalies most often get? Six. Because they didn't need to really do anything, but still got a clean sheet.

O'shea: 6: Earning anything higher will always be difficult for the lumbering Irishman. His rough touch ensures daily turnovers. Directly contributed to United's third, though, and, I should be fair: it wasn't his only positive
contribution. Would prefer a da Silva on the wing. Most United fans seem to agree.

Evans: 6.5: Sort of just let Vidic do everything. Evans was stuck-in when he needed to be, but that wasn't very often. More will be needed from him by harder opposition, but at least he should benefit from an overall leisurely 65 minutes.

Vidic: 9: The Serb determined very early in the match that he could do anything better than Carlton Cole and Luis Boa Morte. Vida teased them at times, giving them a few steps into the box only to crush their souls with last-second tackles, sometimes neatly, sometimes brutally. Games like this were the norm for Vida two years ago when United conquered Europe. Coincidence?

Evra: 5.5: Quiet game. Still ran a lot. Looks unfocused. I grant him that after the World Cup he endured.

Nani: 6.5: Poor first half saw him doing his usual routine: bad ideas but nice touches, good ideas and bad touches. He played much better in the second half and scored a decent goal. His form is so up-and-down I don't think he's reliable as a top-class winger, but he can still prove me wrong. Seems to have a growing fanbase among your average lay United supporter.

Scholes: 7.5: Again the ginger midfielder controlled the game going forward. He perhaps looked overwrought here and there, but if he can at least play this well throughout most of the season it'll be much more than anyone could have otherwise rightfully expected. His role is pivotal this year for Ferguson who doesn't have ample cover in that spot, especially someone as currently as effective as Scholesy.

Fletcher: 6.5: Still looking to discover his season long fine form from last term. He did more than enough today to snuff out West Ham when it mattered, despite being in fourth gear most of the match.

Giggs: 6.5: Was surprisingly sprightly today, which makes sense as he hasn't started yet this season. He was both tricky and wasteful, though, at times. Earned the breakthrough goal with his run into the box, drawing a foolish tackle from West Ham's right-back. Not very physical, but displayed a good gas tank and leadership by virtue of presence. Some nice passing.

Berbatov: 8: Berbatov was popularly undervalued the last two seasons. Fortunately for my credibility I wrote precisely that sentiment over the period. United play their best football with him as their lynchpin. He reinforced it today. It must be said, though, that today he added an extra amount of hustle, attacking 50-50 balls and headers with just a modicum more desire. That marginal difference is all it takes to convert his widespread detractors. Deserved his goal and the applause he garnered as he was substituted after a complete performance.

Rooney: 7: Rooney was well-rested and played like it. I'm not just saying that because I called for the rest last week. Rooney was refreshing in his approach not trying to be everywhere all the time, but he did characteristically track back on the most needed occasions. His assurance with the penalty was much needed and his interplay with Nani and Berbatov was often harmonic. First goal since March. Thank God.

West Ham United

Green: 6: Avoided any outrageous gaffes. Misplayed some crosses, handled others. Wasn't to blame too much for any of the goals, especially Rooney's penalty and Berba's full-volley. Shouldn't be England's number one, but is not out of place as West Ham's.

Spector: 5: A bit naive in whole. Very poor decision to up-end Giggs once the Welsham had already earned a route past him. Didn't contribute much to his side.

Gabbidon: 4: I'm not sure he touched the ball. Very anonymous.

Upson: 6: Combative with United's forwards, but outmatched by relentless pressure.

Ilunga: 5: Dealt with Nani when Nani let him. Probably conceded seven corner-kicks alone. It was always a lose-lose for West Ham's defense.

Dyer: 7: Looked twice as fast as normal today with twice the engine. Really encouraging from an oft-injured former starlet. Couldn't quite get over the hump or past Vidic and Evans, though.

Parker: 7: Reinforced why he is such a fan favorite to neutrals, myself included. Even as his side was defeated, he swash-buckled around the pitch with his characteristic blend of abandon and control. Unfortunately he was usually alone in his unbounded desire and eventually became consumed by United's community showing.

Noble: 6: Got involved on the attack whenever West Ham rarely had time to pass. Made some tackles, too, but was the fourth-best central midfielder today.

Faubert: 5.5: Flashy and sloppy. Passing is poor. He can whip in some crosses, or at times pull a rabbit from a hat, but in general his decision-making and fundamentals curb his individual progress.

Boa Morte: 3.5: Very poor. Would you blame him?

Cole: 6: Outmatched by Vidic & co. Made some niggles here and there but always muted. The tall and able Englishman has potential, with an above-average ability to hold on to the ball and turn with his back to goal. He can finish with both feet and is big in the air. Just not today.

Check out this live play-by-play I did, Mary, you hot ass bitch!

2010-08-28T21:26:00.000-07:00

Man United win fairly routinely (in hindsight) at home 3-0.

Scholes again displayed good fitness and form. Berbatov was refreshingly positive and eager as was a rested Rooney who didn't try to do too much. Nani had a nice second half, recovering from being extravagant and wasteful in the first term. Vidic enjoyed himself; if he has another season like 2008-09, the world is in trouble.

West Ham weren't mockeries but they were never in the match competitively. They're still pointless after three games but showed enough here to warrant hope as the new season unfolds. Avram Grant is more than capable of keeping that squad in the Premier League.

Very comfortable win for United without being too depressing for West Ham. I'm inspired to go out and play today. United's next game isn't until Sep 11, for some reason. That really sucks.

Mercifully I'm outta here. Live-blogging a match means I missed most of it, so I'm looking forward to watching it later and forming some sort of conceptual masterplan.

---
91: They took it. They didn't score. They took another one and turned it over. There's the whistle.

90: West Ham are jogging into United's half. Barrera sends in a hopeful cross from the right and gets a corner without earning it. Boa Morte is replaced after a haggard shift, Stanislas slotting in up front.

87: West Ham swing in a corner kick. Noble gets in another cross but United clear and counter. Carrick, Owen, and now Giggs on the right side. He dribbles and turns over to Noble who somehow escapes from the corner. West Ham neatly play out of their half finally but United's midfield holds tight.

85: Carrick just made the strongest challenge of his United career on Barrera and it ranked behind six or seven of Vidic's tackles on the day's power-meter.

83: The commentators imply Rooney is still showing good workrate today. I'm busy typing and editing a play-by-play in a word processor format without any built-in functionality.

80: This is usually the part of a game when I'd tune out and think about the consequences. O'shea plays a vertical long-ball that goes out of bounds. West Ham pass it around five or six times and Parker lung-busts inside the box. He shoots off-balance from ten yards. It was pretty ugly but his dedication was and is heroic.

78: Giggs crosses in for Nani but Upson sends it away. Ten minutes left but West Ham are walking for the most part. Except for the sub Piquonne; he flips in to Carlton Cole but Vidic slide-tackles at the last second. Brilliant defense. "He comes from Serbia, he'll effing murder ya," we're reminded.

75: The match has really slowed down now. United attack casually but West Ham scatter it clear. The Hammers feign to attack but Vidic clears twice.

73: Chris Smalling also entered for his Old Trafford debut. Dyer departs for the Hammers after a positive shift, replaced by Piquonne, whose name I'll misspell.

72: Berba got carded for taking his shirt off there. Not sure if he had something written on his undershirt. Didn't look like much. He gets the goal he deserves and applause he has always deserved. Michael Owen replaces him and Carrick shockingly replaces Scholes.

Manchester United 3: West Ham United 0

68: Berbatov scores and I'm clapping. Fletcher played to O'shea. He feigned a shot and passed to Nani. From nowhere he dinks in a brilliant little cross. Berbatov volleys on the flying side-turn and scores from five yards, his third goal of the season.

66: The Welshman takes a sharp free-kick but shoots instead of crosses. Nice idea, worse execution. It goes over.

65: More Joy Division from the Old Trafford fans as they serenade Giggs. He's had a decent game without being great today. Early reports indicate a "7" player rating.

63: Berbatov is trying hard today. It must be frustrating being the player with the most class on any team you play. But his head is up and he's attacking 50-50 balls, looking very mobile and willing.

62: West Ham's Faubert departs for Mexican international Barrera.

61: Rooney plays a one-two with Berbatov but it's out for a throw. Rooney releases Evra down the line. He crosses for Berbatov who uses Scholes for support, teeing him up for a driven shot from 18 yards. It's right at Green.

60: West Ham attack again but Faubert's final ball is lazy.

59: Rooney broke from half-way after a scramble but he's pulled down by Upson who gets the deserved yellow card for the professional foul.

58: Berbatov tees up Nani after turning with usual grace but Nani miscues his shot.

57: Giggs projects being fit with another energetic run, but he again forces using his left foot to pass and turns it over.

56: Almost every West Ham player takes a touch in their best passage of play. Noble, Dyer, Faubert, Parker, and everyone else, until Dyer gets an open shot from 18 yards right and curls onto the outside of the post.

54: Come on you Hammers. Faubert shoots or crosses over the goal.

52: Rooney should have scored. Some really nice passing with Berbatov, Rooney, and Nani but Rooney's final touch through on goal was heavy.

50: Nani needed that goal but didn't deserve it. Rooney put him through with a deft touch. It's nice to see the Englishman rested. It's 2-0 United but it may as well be 5-0 the way West Ham are playing.

Manchester United 2: West Ham United 0

49: West Ham pass it around for awhile but United snuff it out. Scholes plays through to Rooney, who feeds in Nani. Nani dribbles too much, but finds space and shoots left-footed from 15 yards. Goal for United!

48: Giggs buzzes around West Ham's left corner but Mark Clattenburg awards some arbitrary foul and it's a free-kick for the Londoners.

47: Parker passes it around for a bit before trying a Scholes-like pinged cross, but O'shea pops it back to Vidic who heads it down to VDS.

46: It was Man United who kicked off the first half, a conclusion I've come to deductively as West Ham kick off to start the second.

Second half kick-off 10:35AM PST

---

For West Ham, Parker and Dyer looked more with it than their colleagues. On the other side, I liked Berbatov's energy, Fletcher, and Vidic for their first half showings. Nani is especially wasteful today and poor.

Man United controlled the great majority of possession but only have the one goal to show for it, and it was a penalty. There was no reason for Spector to make that challenge on Giggs but you won't hear me complain too much. Man Utd lead 1-0 and I'm off to reformat this article and drink some coffee. See you back in 15.

46: Looks like Giggs who puts Nani clean through. Nani tries to chip the keeper but instead chips the goal. West Ham try to relieve the pressure but just give the ball back to the Mancs. That'll do it.

45: Two minutes of added time incoming.

44: Nani takes too long on the ball again and turns it over. West Ham try to counter through Dyer. He's very willing and almost fit but only just unable to release down that side. Red United have the ball again, passing with little aplomb as the half teeters out.

42: Goal kick for West Ham after struggling to get it out of their half. Parker to Spector to Cole to Faubert. United defend and counter. Berbatov, O'shea, Fletcher, Scholes, Berbatov, Giggs all take touches winding into West Ham's box. Berbatov gets a half-volley but he completely shanks it. Tough technique on that bouncing ball.

39: Darren Fletcher cracks a brilliant half-curled, half-driven shot from 23 yards out, but Green matched his technique and saved nicely.

38: van der Sar rushes a clearance under pressure from Cole but West Ham do nothing with the deep throw-in. Man United control and pass their way into West Ham's box but Nani's control lets him down after busting in from the right side.

36: West Ham break with both Scholes and Fletcher forward for United, so Rooney tracks back and muffles the flow. West Ham, though, retain possession and attempt to move forward with sideways and backwards passing.

34: Another corner for the Red Devils. Another corner. United fans sing Joy Division. Giggs swings in the corner. Green saves and Dyer breaks. Stuffed out by a back-tracking Giggs. Man United possess.

33: United want more. Nani breaks down the right, earns a corner while I'm typing.

Manchester United 1: West Ham United 0

32.55: Rooney takes a very long run-up and slots the penalty lower-right side. Good composure. His celebration is refreshingly slightly muted. Man United lead West Ham United 1-0.

31: Scholes pings cross-field to Giggs foot. Former United young-boy Jonny Spector gets beat by Giggs and fouls him from behind, inside the box. Penalty to Man United.

29: Red United control the ball in West Ham's half, passing around the outside. Giggs cuts inside from the left, never using his right foot, and turns the ball over.

28: Cole hobbles off as replays confirm a sick-ass tackle from Vidic inside the box. Cole looks set to return after some magic spray.

26: The surprisingly sprightly Kieron Dyer fires from range, keeping van der Sar on his toes. West Ham attack again, and Vidic tackles awesomely on Carlton Cole who worryingly stays down and looks in some agony.

25: Fletcher barnstorms into West Ham's half. He passes to Berba whose first inclination is to do the same, back to Fletcher. Attack fizzles.

24: United turn over. West Ham reply in-kind. Nani balloons a shot into the Stretford End from inside the box. United are beginning to outclass West Ham, yet, parity remains.

23: West Ham had a chance but I was too busy reading an e-mail. United attack, Vidic playing long to Berbatov who lays it off side-boot to Nani. Nani cracks from range and Green saves onto his bar. United control again.

West Ham control Green's punt forward and pass the ball around comfortably for the first time in ten or so minutes.

20: Nani uses strength to salvage his short-corner kick and gets in a cross from open-play at the byline. Goes straight to Green, though.

Still nil-nil here, though the Red United are starting to control and threaten more than their London opponents.

19: Noble goes in studs-up on Rooney. Mark Clattenburg doesn't book him, which is a good decision. Rooney doesn't complain overly. The play must go on. Rooney dummies for Berbatov who is fouled. Free-kick to United is played short. United win a corner on their right side through Nani.

17: Bodies are flying everywhere as the sides exchange possession. West Ham get in a cross but it eludes Carlton Cole. United build again through the lumbering O'shea. Now West Ham try to control the ball but end up just punting it forward through Green.

15: Rooney, Nani, and Giggs sit behind the free-kick. I wish Berbatov would be allowed to take some close range free-kicks. I think his technique is best and he lacks overpower. Looks like Nani will take it, unfortunately. His shot goes over. Too close for Nani.

14: Rooney drops deep for United this time and plays it wide to Nani. He steps on the ball and over-elaborates. United ultimately turn-over. As West Ham does immediately from Green's punt. United have it again. Berbatov plays through Nani and United have a free-kick in a dangerous spot, about 24 yards out, slightly left.

13: Berbatov flicks onto Rooney inside the box but Rooney mishits. West Ham have a deep free-kick from their own half but turn it over immediately. United begin building through Evans, passing horizontally, moving slowly forward.

12: Scotty Parker always has his head up. He makes about ten passes on one West Ham attack, the last one being the vital miscue, as the last one always is.

10: Berbatov drops deep as Rooney stays forward. Good tidings. Rooney fires from 22 yards on target. Green doesn't bobble it comically and let it trickle in, though. Still nil-nil.

08: Corner came to nothing as they often do. Berbatov ultimately gets a shot on goal from the right-side but he's ruled offside.

07: Scotty Parker is getting stuck-in as usual. Berbatov and Rooney interplay nicely going forward. Evra wins a corner for the reds.

06: Noble plays to former Real Madrid man Faubert who feeds Cole but Vidic nicked it away. Man United have been sloppy at times. Pretty even stuff.

05: West Ham turnover in the middle of the field and Scholes chips in Berbatov behind West Ham's defense. Berba tries to cross to Rooney but it's blocked out of play.

03: Giggs does to same thing with the same result. West Ham counter all the way into United's box but Kieron Dyer loses control and Man United rebuild.

02: Evra breaks down the left after some slow build-up and pops in a cross which Robert Green manages to hold on to.

01: Scholesy drives his first cross-field pass of the day to Nani's feet. Fletcher tries to play the ball into Berbatov but West Ham cut it out and start to counter, but fizzle.

00: Didn't even see who kicked-off as I was switching tabs and confusing myself. So far, so good.

Kick-off 9:31AM PST

---

Good morning United fans on both sides. The Hammers visit Old Trafford in the late kick-off today starting at 09:30 PST, 12:30 EST, or 17:30 local time. There will be absolutely no spoilers of other matches in this thread. Starting line-ups should be up presently.

And here they are:

Man United: van der Sar, O'Shea, Vidic, Jonathan Evans, Evra, Nani, Scholes, Fletcher, Giggs, Rooney, Berbatov. Subs:Kuszczak, Owen, Smalling, Hernandez, Carrick, Rafael Da Silva, Valencia.

West Ham: Green, Spector, Gabbidon, Upson, Ilunga, Faubert, Noble, Parker, Boa Morte, Dyer, Cole. Subs: Stech, Barrera, Kovac, McCarthy, da Costa, Stanislas, Piquionne.

Prediction: Man Utd win 3-1 after scoring late.

Assigning blame for lost points at Fulham

2010-08-25T21:15:00.000-07:00

Whenever a huge club like Manchester United drop points, it's natural to point the finger.
From within the club, though, hopefully any finger-pointing is done using the thumb; better for our favorite athletes to take accountability for any under-performance.

But on the outside, it helps for analysts and fans to pinpoint singular reasons for deficiency, if only to mass-offer changing ideas to the clubs' decision-makers or simply just rationalize our disappointment.

One of the great obstacles to analyzing a football match is determining how much of a result is due to one team's failure or the other team's success. But one is not exclusive to the other, nor can either team (or any single variable) ever be assigned total blame for whatever result in this dynamic team sport.

Despite that, after United lost the lead twice at Craven Cottage on Sunday, perhaps some opinion-makers and opinion-givers alike aren't giving Fulham enough credit for stifling the larger club on the second matchday in this nascent season.

Hodgsen's Fulham

Roy Hodgsen's Fulham—now coached by Mark Hughes—aren't a forgone three points for England's top sides anymore, largely due to the Hodgsen's influence.

The well-travelled Englishman took over halfway through the 2008-09 season and magically led the side from the absolute brink of relegation. The following season Fulham finished seventh in the Premier League.

Last season was arguably the club's most successful campaign in history. Fulham finished 12th in the Premier League, but reached the quarterfinals of the FA Cup and defeated storied sides Shaktar Donetsk, FC Basel, Hamburg, and Juventus en route to the inaugural Europa League final.

Fulham's recent resurgence from perennial top flight basement-dwellers resulted not only from their manager's wizened tactical acumen and good ol' English leadership. His signings still reverberate positively for present-day Fulham.

Center-back Brede Hangeland looks and plays like Nemanja Vidic—a compliment on both counts, their flat noses symbolizing a nonsensical, physical style. Hangeland joined Fulham the month Hodgson took charge, reuniting coach and player from an earlier stint together at Norwegian side Viking.

He's a player that is sure to garner the club at least £10 million when they inevitably choose to sell him.
Damien Duff seemed to resurge from under a rug when he joined the side two seasons ago, form that continued in the Cottagers' match against Man United.

Players he didn't sign nonetheless were clear to footballingly fuse during Hodgson's uber-successful reign in southwest London. Stalwart Aaron Hughes, the improving Clint Dempsey, somehow Paul Konchesky, and especially Danny Murphy continue to help make Fulham away no longer a plus-ROI "win-to-the-over" parlay.

And to be fair to Mark Hughes, he seems the type of gaffer who won't overthinkingly turn a cohesive unit back into a relegating pile of dogshit.

United aren't perfect

Having hopefully projected that I know more about Fulham than your average pub-fly, there are redder reasons why United only left Thames-side with just the one point.

First, let it be written that if Rafael da Silva started at right-back instead of John O'Shea they'd probably have all three.

The lack of offense the big Irishman is capable of is almost wholly unmitigated by whatever defensive special abilities are in his repertoire: seemingly mostly being big, strong, and slow.

His status as a reliable stopgap applies more to central defense than it should on the wings where his lack of pace and creativity unbalance United, especially when Park Ji-Sung is trading on one wing.

When Antonio Valencia is off-form—something that rarely happened last season, to his credit and United's need—O'Shea and Park are rarely going to be able to compensate in attack. Park is consistently average with the ball, at least at United, and his own utility was diminished, if not voided completely, when Ronaldo left the side in 2009.

Nani is only effective in-form, displaying frustratingly immature decision-making in times of lower confidence. He is also a player who changes form like a chameleon changes color, with the exception that the transformation doesn't take place when it's needed most.

United will require the added flare of a da Silva twin on the right-wing when Park is on the field or Nani is off the boil, particularly as Patrice Evra continues to recover from his soul-shattering experiences in South Africa last summer.

Vidic and Jonny Evans will also have to gel quickly and completely for this year's campaign to be a serious one. Rio Ferdinand will likely never consistently feature for United again as he toils away with high-arches and lower-back issues.

Darren Fletcher's player-of-the-year performance last season also basically has to continue into every game this year if red Manchester is to sing in glory come May. Without him defending Scholes' freedom and anchoring the core of the side, the malform of the players around him will be amplified instead of masked.

Scholes' own purely resplendent form must be taped, transcribed, and scorched into our visual memories, but they should also be tempered with reason; there should be no expectation for it to continue consistently throughout the term.

His foudroyant strike against the Cottagers Sunday hearkened back to a game two seasons ago against the same side when Scholes played like he was on some serious ecstasy. Who assumes the creative mantle during the inevitable periods his little legs leak lactic-acid and labor lethargically? Michael Carrick? Lol.

But, as ever, there is not one variable upon which all the others hinge, not in any sport, not ever; despite what pundits'll have us believe by overusing the word "key".

Not even Nani's uncomposed penalty gaffe could assume all the blame for the Red Devils last Sunday.
The English and Asian-speaking world's favorite side will need a little bit from everyone—and a lot from a few certain—to bring another big trophy back up the M-6 into Manchester in 2011.

(Especially without the greatest variable of them all, one afforded to most of their rivals: petty transfer cash)

Top flight penalty misses reveal poor approach from players

2010-08-24T21:11:00.000-07:00

Despite advanced training technology, more elaborate research methods, and most importantly, the gross volume of money involved in top-flight football competition, many soccer stars still approach penalty kicks without enough thought.

In particular, Manchester United's Nani proved Sunday at Craven Cottage why his effect as a footballer—at least currently—is one of pomp without procedure, flash without fundamentals.

Quite simply, there are several rudimentary mistakes continually made by players at the elite level each year over.

The run-up

To begin, the literal approach each penalty-taker takes itself is crucial to the placement and success of the ensuing spot kick. Known as the "run-up", most players take roughly five steps before their attempt. Other players take less. Some don't take any.

When a player takes only a few or no steps before his spot-kick, it's naturally harder to drive through the ball, thereby making it more difficult for the player to aim his shot to the far side. Therefore, players who take too few steps in the run-up more often than not will pull the ball (shooting across the body, aiming left for right-footers, right for left-footers.)

But even if a player decides to push his shot towards the far side, without more than three steps to truly drive through the ball, a placed shot into that side will generally lack power.

Therefore, players should always take at least five steps in their penalty run-ups. Otherwise goalies can assume the player will pull the ball (aiming at the near side) and be right more often than they are wrong.

Taking enough steps also allows the taker to push the ball (aiming at the far side) with enough force to beat the keeper even if he guessed correctly.

Below, Nani takes a few stutter-steps and blows his penalty, having tipped his chosen direction in part by his minimal run-up.

Curl towards, not away

Using the instep of a boot to "curl" the ball, when aiming at the near post, also slightly reduces the probability for success. The natural bend of these curled shots (as opposed to curling with the outside of the boot, a more uncommon technique known as the "trivela") take them closer to the keeper, curling away.

However, if you aim to the far post (shooting right for right-footed players, left for left-footed players), the ball bends away from the keeper before curling in towards the inside of the post.

Below Pederson takes a healthy run-up but his pulled, curled shot is blocked by Ben Foster.

Set your goals high

It's a cliche to aim high when setting your goals. Well, there's also a bit of a pun there when it relates to penalty kicks.

Generally, from open-play, it's important to aim shots low because you decrease your chances of shooting over the goal. If your shot is on target (aimed between the goal posts), aiming high gives you extra odds to miss than if the ball was travelling less than eight feet off the ground.

In other words, you can only miss right or left if you keep the ball below the crossbar. But this changes somewhat with regards to penalty kicks.

There are areas of the goal that no man or woman can reliably attend when defending penalty kicks: the upper corners.

The lower corners are more feasibly defended by goalies diving horizontally. But it'd take an eight-foot keeper with serious hops to defend either upper corner from a standing position at goal center.

As long as you can control keeping your shot under eight feet, shooting into an upper corner is far and away the most surefire way to convert a spot-kick—provided you don't balloon it.

Left, down, up, right (b, a, select, start)

Even if you take the safer route and deign to shoot penalty kicks low, there's at least one more thing you should remember.

Shots travelling on or along the ground are more difficult to save than shots travelling even one foot off the floor.

This is because a goalie begins a left or right dive by jumping. In mid-dive the goalkeeper is hard-pressed to defend shots under his body, especially when his arms are outstretched.

So even if the goalie chooses the correct direction to dive, if you keep your shot along the ground, you're odds for success increase, as opposed to shooting a few feet off the ground; that's a keepers bread and butter.

West Ham's Carlton Cole shoots near-post along the ground but took too few steps and telegraphed his intent.

From halves to thirds

Soccer is played on two halves of a field, but more advance analysis of the game divides it into thirds: the defensive third, the middle third, and the attacking third.
For whatever reason, though, the customary tactical approach to aiming a penalty kick is yet to advance from a binary decision.

Which is basically a wordy way of saying that professional players don't shoot the ball down the middle enough, when goalkeepers' often decision to dive left or right makes it a solid mathematical option.

Of the six penalty kicks taken last weekend in the English top flight, the goalie dove to one side every time. This is the prevailing paradigm in top-flight football. Goalies are accustomed to takers choosing a corner, and will almost invariably dive to one side of the goal just as the ball is struck.

On pub teams, keepers aren't likely to dive prematurely. But across the top tiers of the game across the world, keepers expect the shooter to be good enough to find a corner, and will almost invariably dive to either direction.

This means there is a nice niche—at least at the moment—in prevailing professional footballing culture for players to shoot down the middle.

So what's the ideal penalty kick?

Place the ball. Look at the referee until he blows his whistle. Turn-around and walk seven or eight steps away from the goal. In one motion, turn to face goal and begin the long run-up. Combining the top of the foot and the instep, strike the ball high into the far corner, curling inside the post.

Probability is always on the side of the shooter; especially when the right approach is taken. It's wonderful why the best players in the world still display poor decision-making taking penalty kicks, and a greater wonder why their managers let them—especially with all the money often at stake for a straightforward procedure.

Rooney should be rested, but he won't be. (He was)

2010-08-20T21:09:00.000-07:00

It's strange to need rest a game into the season. But as shopworn as Wayne Rooney has looked lately, in a vacuum, he'd be riding pine on Sunday at Fulham.

And why not—when at least two of United's other premier strikers appear fresher, and are firmly in better individual form?

But United manager Alex Ferguson's reliance on the storied number nine is more likely to see him start without scoring, than give him well-needed rest on the bench as a sharper Berbatov and Hernandez pair interplay without him.

Rooney recovery

If the last several months have proved anything, it's that Wayne Rooney is not playing good football. He looks physically and mentally drained, and you can hardly blame him.

His touch was very heavy in every lamentable performance this summer with England, and his two recent appearances for Man United since have not been admirable.

As I've written before, his maturation as a player is possibly stunted by gross attention, hype, and wish-fulfillment. He wouldn't be the first young assumed superstar to become conflicted, frustrated, or complacent.

But last season perhaps Rooney provided some empirical evidence to support his class, and fulfil his hype, scoring 26 goals in 32 games.

Without getting into the quality of his goals, or more importantly, the quality and consistency of his play last season, unfortunately, starting 32 games and resting only three times contributes now to his own overburden.
During one of those starts, last March against Bayern Munich, Rooney injured his ankle and was feared out for 2-4 weeks: His manager had him in there next week as United crashed out of the competition.

As soon as the club season finished in May, he began starting for England in World Cup warm-ups and ultimately, as everyone knows, in the Cup itself.

Still seeming slightly injured, with the weight of his nation and beyond on his shoulders, he played really, really bad—like many of his teammates—as England was, once again, rudely awakened from a dream too early.
Taxation and exhaustion would be problems for any player mercifully allowed three weeks rest and recovery after a full year of complete physical and mental investment.

This is amplified for Rooney, as he bore excessive pressure from without to perform like a superhero.
And now, worn and grumpy, he'll likely suffer from his club manager's intractable inclination for starting him regardless.

The great shoehorning

There's a good question somewhere why Alex Ferguson considers Rooney a staple in his starting eleven.
Of course, Rooney gives good cause, generally. Uniquely, he is a forward that tracks back readily, ideal for his manager's dirtiest vice: a sole-striker situation, the 4-5-1.

And in-form, "Wazza" is one of the better strikers in England and perhaps Europe regardless of partner. Also uniquely, though, off-form, he becomes very average and sometimes simply just poor.

At 24, he's still young, but he's a fairly old 24. Rooney started consistent top-flight football at 17. He sort of plays like he's old, too, rarely, if ever, adding new skills to his repetoire, on evidence. He still handles the ball in the exact same manner as he did at 17, but now without the abandon, and he still heavily favors his right foot, something opposing defenders have long-since realized.

Regardless of his natural inconsistency, or his understandable and expected limitations, a knackered player is usually not a useful player. And playing him more only makes it worse. As off-form as Rooney is now, he might as well be off the field. And he should be.

But his manager will continue to play him, either from a skewed perception of his current footballing worth, or as a continuing ode to the media, shareholders, chest-thumping supporters and millions of casual fans, perpetuating Brand Rooney, whether it's quality is reflected on the playing field.

The reputation that largely sells all those jerseys is done no favors, though, when the frustrated, obviously tired Rooney plays poorly for United. Playing poorly is all he's done lately—having not scored since March for club or country—and the trend is likely to continue without rest for his overburdened body and mind.

Break from subscription

Both Dimitar Berbatov and Javier Hernandez have proved to be in better shape and in better form, here, at the beginning of the 2010-2011 season.

The Mexican, Hernandez, at 22, is basically the Mexican equivalent to Rooney. Hugely popular in his homeland, he is a striker who utilizes pace, runs behind the defense, and adept finishing from his repertoire.

All being said, he does all those things, at least right now, better than Rooney. In fact, Javier Hernandez may just be better than Rooney, period. But it'll take some time and experience before that idea is either proven true or accepted globally.

This raises an interesting idea. How long must a player perform better than another before people accept he's better? A few games? A full season? Hernandez has already shown to be quicker than Rooney, and ultimately, I think he will prove to be a better finisher and a better striker.

Berbatov, who is also in good form, benefited from a summer-long rest since Bulgaria didn't qualify for the World Cup.

It may seem counter-intuitive, but United's most maligned striker is actually the staple in any forward pairing. Hernandez and Rooney are similar in style and stature; Berbatov is required to win the headers, drop a little deeper, and link the midfield to attack, while one of the other two burst through on runs.

He's very capable in the role. The Bulgarian, hardly consistent himself, always retains the penchant for sliding through balls to willing forward runners—his ideal partners. He is also inarguably the most gifted ball-retainer throughout the side, benefiting more from guile and balance than brute strength to hold the ball as his team transitions.

Unfortunately, as Hernandez continues to perform and justifiably earn acclaim, it'll probably be Berbatov who's sacrificed for him, if Ferguson's tendencies continue. The gaffer showed last year that he is extremely hesitant to rest Rooney even during times of malform or visible exhaustion.

As Fulham visit Old Trafford Sunday, with Hernandez inspiring imaginations each time he plays, and Berbatov rested, healthy, and generally in form, the time is now to rest Wayne Rooney, if only so he may find his own form sooner than later as another long season unfolds.

Even though Rooney is generally overrated across a world-wide fanbase, a rested, mentally-healthy version of him is still very integral to United's success going forward.

But his ability to remain a top-20 European striker is hampered by constant, fallible expectation he always play, and play like he already belongs in the top three.

Manchester United moving forward into 2011

2010-08-17T21:07:00.000-07:00

Manchester United began the 2010-2011 English Premier League with confidence, generally controlling and out-passing newly promoted Newcastle United at Old Trafford Monday.

Paul Scholes enjoyed some sort of renaissance, as he does against poor opposing midfields. Afforded space, he sprayed driven passes willy-nilly to every corner, enabling United to overcome a tepid opening and score thrice throughout the 90.

Dimitar Berbatov scored the opener after Scholes fed him in. The Bulgarian rifled home as you should at a tight angle, low-and-far into the bottom corner, affording an exhale from Old Trafford on 33 minutes.
United's best player last season scored just before the break to make it two-nil, Darren Fletcher turning in Patty Evra's driven cross after it pinballed into the six-yard box.

United newboy and Mexican superstar Javier Hernandez arrived shortly after the break in lieu of a grumpy and off-form Wayne Rooney. United camped out in the Tyneside for much of the half.

On 85 minutes, two United oldboys combined when Scholes chipped cross-field for Giggs to volley home from 18 yards. It was a champagne finish from an aging player who will hopefully be relied on less this season than last.

Start to finish

With a one-match sample size, it's not impossible to prophet good things for United this season, though there are still a lot of question marks throughout the side.

United still don't have a natural left-winger. Letting Tosic leave in the summer means another year of Nani's up-and-downs, and shoe-horning Giggs, Wellbeck, or worse into the role at times.

Manager Alex Ferguson is likely to show a disinclination to sit Rooney in favor of Hernandez, someone—so far—much more sprightly, probably choosing instead to forcedly partner the two when Berbatov inevitably is scape-goated sooner than later.

Apparently van der Sar is going to be #1 in red for yet another season until Ben Amos assumes the reigns; fair enough. Players like Vidic and Jonny Evans have the format to rebound after disappointing seasons last year.

If Darren Fletcher improves again this year, ostensibly becoming the best central-midfielder in England, United's success has a base upon which to rise.

Paul Scholes' ability to stay healthy will be crucial if United fans are to be spared seeing Carrick feature prominently. But beyond Fletcher, Scholes, Nani and Valencia, United don't have great depth in the midfield, which—if anything—could be the harbinger for ultimate defeat this year.

Financially shackled to buy younger replacements, United have relied on Scholes and Giggs for too long already. They'll each have a role to play this season, particularly Scholes, but if Ferguson expects either to feature consistently in a starting eleven throughout the season, then it may just be a long one.

World Cup 2010: England Mediocrity Explained

2010-06-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

The Internet will presently be deluged with innumerable narratives explaining or rationalizing England's destruction by Germany in their 2010 World Cup knockout tie.

There are a few that should remain more salient than the countless others, for posterity's sake, before history is revisited, revisioned, and rewritten over and over under the bias of regret and disappointment.

Width

Capello left Adam Johnson at home, meaning England had no natural left-winger—the same issue which plagued their attack in the last two, or even three World Cups.

The Italian manager opted for a midfield of James Milner, Frank Lampard, Gareth Barry, and Steven Gerrard across in England's last two games, essentially employing four central-midfielders across.

The result was a total disability to counterattack or play any meaningful attacking football. If Capello wanted to have a defensive midfield setup, he should have played 4-5-1, with Rooney alone up top, three central midfielders, and two natural wingers. At least then their attack could be released with true attacking, wide players.

Instead, he used a narrower 4-4-2 without any wingers, therefore without any width, and therefore without any flowing or attacking promise.

Defense

Perhaps Capello's first mistake was assigning Rio Ferdinand captain of the squad despite alarming injury concerns. Ferdinand featured only briefly for his club side this year with an omnipresent back issue dating back several seasons. He withdrew from the tournament just weeks before it started.

On form, Ferdinand is arguably England's best defender. And like him, off-form, John Terry is horrible. He was slow, detached, and thoughtless against Germany and was shaky throughout the tournament.

It's hard to begrudge Capello for choosing him and Matthew Upson, but unfortunately for everyone involved neither were good enough— individually or together—at all Sunday. Nor did anyone in England's backline, besides Glen Johnson, inspire confidence at any time in the tournament.

Speed

Terry, Upson, Barry, Lampard, Gerrard, and Wayne Rooney, especially, were plodding against Germany and throughout the tournament. England, as a whole, without Shaun Wright-Phillips and Aaron Lennon, relied almost completely on fullbacks Johnson and Ashley Cole to provide overlapping width and speed.
The English were neither particularly strong or fast. Germany's Miroslav Klose out-muscled and outran virtually every member of England's defense Sunday.

It's one thing to be a quick side that counterattacks through the wings and runs in behind defenses. It's another to be a physical side, winning headers, sticking in and controlling matches. England were neither and did none.

Cultivated arrogance

The attention England garners from the media, domestically and abroad, is significant. However, it's no different—in magnitude, at least—to that found in rabid South American countries, or France or Italy.
The stark difference in the attention and pressure applied by both media and fandom is in the receiver, not the sender.

England's players are largely overpaid by their clubs, the result of surfeit only now rearing its head back upon the owners, as debt piles throughout many Premier League outfits. As a result, the individual egos of the British are more sensitive and more predisposed to being affected by it, being generally coddled and overly revered from without, and overly complacent, self-indulgent, and vain within.

Their lack of chemistry compounded an evident dearth in skill and athleticism, exposing them as a second-rate national side once again.

Reliance upon an overrated Wayne Rooney

Being one of the most marketed players in the world, it's not totally Rooney's fault that he's one of the most overrated. Each time he touches the ball, casual fans around the globe bate their breath, expecting anything. But there was nothing in his replies in an England shirt in June.

Rooney, on any team, will retrieve the ball on the left side, but doesn't have either the skill or confidence to dribble in that direction. Instead he opts to cut back with his right foot almost invariably.

Without the ability to sell movement to the byline, or the balance to switch the ball between his feet naturally, his offense is completely predictable. His only meaningful moments against Germany were a few fouls that he was gifted with as he ran into German defenders standing in his premeditated path.

Rooney has a low center of gravity and above-average vision, passing skill, and shooting power. But he is not strong enough to out-muscle large central defenders, nor fast enough to (or having the inclination to) make darting runs in behind them.

Therefore he often finds the defender between him and the goal. But what can he do to get past them? He is a very unambitious dribbler. He doesn't even try to create for himself with the ball, opting instead to usually turn back (to his right) to play square or across.

It's disappointing to realize how little trickery the Englishman picked up from a former clubmate—ironically also one of few players vaunted as a world soccer superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo; although the Portuguese striker actually deserves it, and lives up to it.

At club level this year, Rooney scored 26 goals, the majority of which completed United counterattacks through close range headers or tap-ins.

Unfortunately, though, it's hard for a player to push himself to improve when he is constantly being trumpeted as already one of the worlds' best, which Rooney, in reality, is not.

He remains a good striker on a great team at Manchester United, and an average player on a mediocre team in England. In the 2010 World Cup, Rooney played like a grumpy ghost, visible but immaterial, haunting England's dreams instead of opposing backlines.

Epitaph 2010

For posterity, let it be known that Barry, Terry, and Rooney were England's worst players in the tournament. Barry's dribbling, passing, and forward play was wholly regrettable. Terry's frazzle, lack of composure and speed, and insecurity marred his declining reputation. Rooney didn't get sent off, but may as well have been, by the lack of effort and effect he had on any of England's matches again, still scoreless across two World Cups.

Capello was supposed to be the difference to take England to the 2010 World Cup finals. In the end, he was one of the many reasons they crashed out prematurely.

His tactical reversion to vertical attacking play, without natural width (especially on the left) hearkened back to 2006 and 2002. His inclusion of Heskey instead of Crouch was nostalgic at best.

Employing Gerrard on the left side was an egregious repeating of the same mistake of manager's past, despite it being well-documented and lamented then, and surely again now. Lampard and Barry consistently left huge gaps in front of their defense as they over-committed forward, and not just against Germany.

Without a doubt, Capello's dogmatic and conventional formations, selections, and use of substitutions—in other words, his managing of his side—detracted more than it added for England throughout the World Cup this year.

But he remained, as the last few English managers were, at the mercy of his personnel, a crutch the next manager won't share, as England's current generation will mostly be mercifully cycled out and replenished by 2014, after failing abjectly so far this millennium.

England suffer from tactics and selection, not pressure, likeduhobviously

2010-06-20T20:54:00.000-07:00

One day removed from another vacant performance, several English players sat down last night and had a beer with their manager, the Telegraph reported Sunday.

Understandably depressed, as most English fans are, after a numbing nil-nil draw with Algeria Friday, vice-captain John Terry and several other players reportedly expressed their opinions about England's best formation, over vino and pints, to Fabio Capello on his birthday.

Terry spoke of squad division and differing opinions—some red, some blue—regarding what must be done to ensure progression against Slovenia on Wednesday.

It is rumored that several members of the squad believe Gerrard must play closer to solitary striker Wayne Rooney. Another belief present in the squad is that Joe Cole must start. (Hopefully proponents of both realize that the two are mutually exclusive.)

He also implied some rebellion against their stalwart, cerebral manager, stating "When things don’t go too well it is important the lads stay together. That is what we had the other night when we expressed ourselves.’’

Oddly, with all the talk of unity and division, captains and responsibility, there are no quotables from David Beckham. But, if nothing else, the English are good at camaraderie. Ball-busting and banter are part of their footballing culture.

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No, morale isn't much of an issue for the English players. They're mostly too simple to overthink their mateships. Nor is the real problem the media, their country's expectations, or any other arbitrary pressures that all participating sides are struggling to balance.

England's celebrated manager, who made the side appear so attractive leading up to the tournament, despite being a highly-touted tactician, has shifted his strategic paradigm nostalgically similar to his failed predecessors.

When Capello regrettably left Adam Johnson at home, he doomed his side to play like the same-old modern England: hoofing long balls forward, hoping they're nodded on to Rooney, because sadly, like other recent England managers come-and-gone, Capello doesn't have the balls to sit either Lampard or Gerrard in lieu of the other.

Relegating Gerrard or Lampard unnaturally to the left wing, and unimaginatively plopping Heskey next to worker-finisher Rooney, just as McClaren and Erickson did, will see Capello and England fall tragically out of the world's biggest sporting tournament, two years after the same squad failed to qualify for Euro 2008.

Yet against Algeria last Friday, Gerrard was shoe-horned by Capello into the left of midfield just as he, Lampard, or Scholes were in past major tournaments. The result? No width.

Though, it's true, over those several years—and the first game against the United States—Lampard and Gerrard proved they don't work together in the middle of the field, leaving huge gaps in front of their own defense as each of them naturally drifted forward or counter-attacked.

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Therefore, either Gerrard or preferably Lampard must sit to allow the other to play with the holding Barry if England are to succeed Wednesday in a 4-4-2.

The Oggmonster Peter Crouch must replace Heskey if England continue to use this formation. He enables England's blunt attack by winning more headers, being more mobile, having better feet, trickery, and generally better at everything than Heskey. The lanky Spurs forward must replace him if Capello opts to use two forwards.

If, as Chelsea's Terry and Lampard wish, their former club teammate Joe Cole is drafted in against Slovenia, he can certainly help on the left side where England now lack a natural left-winger. But he doesn't offer the width that Shaun Wright-Phillips can on that side.

This makes Cole's best position the right side with SWP on the left. If Cole is in the form that Terry suggests, a flier on him out there couldn't hurt, as Aaron Lennon has failed to impress and seems to prefer impacting games as a substitute, anyway.

If Capello plays 4-5-1, with Rooney up front alone—overestimating, as everyone does, his ability—both Lampard and Gerrard could feature in a five-man midfield with two wingers while Barry holds.

But Rooney himself, it must be said, is more effective with a partner, at club level and beyond: Even while he was tapping in goal after goal for United in a 4-5-1 last season, his outfield play was usually quite mediocre.

Besides, England must win to ensure progression into the elimination rounds. Therefore, Capello must use their most attacking formation. Crouch must be drafted in instead of Heskey, and either Gerrard or Lampard must sit, instead of lampooning either uncomfortably on the left wing.

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Hopefully this was all sorted out in a bevy of man-hugs and cheers as players and manager relaxed Sunday evening to rationalize over pints.

A source from Soccernet said Sunday that Capello's message to his side would be "Just play." Hopefully his desperate players find his terse imploration more profound than spurious.

Their manager's stern propensity for discipline and sense was indeed useful, if not crucial, to changing the failing atmosphere at the England camp post-McClaren. He led the Three Lions through friendlies and World Cup qualifiers with aplomb and authority, garnering respect, if not outright fear, from a usually domineering British media.

But now that the tournament proper is upon them, his side would likely perform better if they were allowed to relax more, by manager and country, heading into the make-or-break match against a stodgy Slovenian side. Their countenance got them here; they no longer need it.

But, any wide range of understandable pressures, egos, affiliations, or the timing of the team-sheet won't add or detract especially from England's performance if their gaffer dogmatically trots out the same uninspired line-up, employing the same dull, vertical attacking style only freshly inscribed on the tombstones of predecessors he once appeared so superior to.

“It does seem like two years’ work was for nothing,” Capello told The Mirror Monday. Hopefully it isn't any more apparent come Thursday morning.

France Hopeless Without Lassana Diarra

2010-05-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

Someone who walks with an uneven spine is sure to have an awkward gait.

Without recently ruled-out central midfielder Lassana Diarra, France will similarly be unable to engage their core correctly. It is the final damning factor proving their march through the 2010 World Cup will likely be an uncomfortable one.

Any side’s most important player

At times, Diarra is the best player on his club team. This is no small feat considering he plays at Real Madrid with both Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain —the second and third best attackers in the world during the 2009/2010 season.

Lass’ approach to midfield generalship relies on balance. Not necessarily his own physical balance but the averaging of both his offensive and defensive acumen, and his equal timing and measurement of each one’s application.

“Defensive midfielder” describes his position but does not define his effect on matches.

He goes forward and backwards, rarely over-committing in either direction. His blunt and oblong forehead leads his taut, but small frame, eagerly into tackles. But it’s his important distribution, his ability to use either foot to dribble or pass, and penchant for a nice-looking through-ball that really makes his mold unique.
The guy makes Michael Carrick look like Nancy Reagan.

There are very few players even like him among Europe’s elite: Roma’s Daniele De Rossi, Man United’s Darren Fletcher, Barcelona’s Keita, or even Liverpool’s Stephen Gerrard.

Like Diarra, their presence almost solely enables their respective clubs’ attack to flourish.

Yet in Europe, year after year star forwards garner more glory and transfer fees, while the true foundation of each side remains largely unheralded.

His private sickness

And so the Real Madrid midfielder was the perfect foil for France playmaker Yoann Gourcuff in South Africa, but now he’s out of the tournament with an interesting stomach ailment.

Apparently, the sickness is severe enough to know that a stomach ache won’t heal in 17 days. The French federation was alarmingly coy in their reaction Sunday.

“Further to his intestinal pain contracted on the glacier in Tignes, check-ups have detected evidence of an unpredictable illness which justifies rest for an indeterminate period. Consequently Lassana Diarra will miss the World Cup 2010 in South Africa,” a statement from the FFF read.

After Diarra, of the just six midfielders left, only Alou Diaby has the combination of grit and skill to weigh down his team’s core. However, his lower center of gravity and slightly over-buccaneering approach to attacking make the replacement hardly like-for-like.

Although Diaby’s style isn’t wholly dissimilar to Diarra’s, and he gamely fulfills his crucial role for Arsenal, the general disparity in class between the two Frenchmen is a marked one.

It’s very improbable that Diaby will slot in and do better than Diarra would have on the basis that the latter is better at everything.

Domenech proposes poorly

But hell, Diaby might not even play, nor might not anyone else with maniacal manager Domenech at the helm.

If a cold and confident Jose Mourinho didn’t recently remind everyone to the value of a coach in form, let the dithering, hopelessly romantic French manager remind you to the effect of the opposite.

He’s been so appallingly nervous and dim-witted over his three-year tenure, the FFF, on May 16, hired former Bordeaux coach, venerable Man United legend, and famed former France defender Laurent Blanc to replace him after the World Cup. Not exactly a show of confidence.

And that was before the maligned coach Domenech unforgivably omitted Samir Nasri from the final 23-man squad.

After also snubbing the inconsistent but prodigal Benzema from the team, bust-ups with almost every player, and generally mediocre results throughout prior tournaments and qualifying groups, the conclusion throughout France appears to be that Domenech never quite grasped the plot throughout his surprisingly long six-year tenure.

Now, Same old Post-Zidane France

Should be more letdown for France this year. If the FFF really had balls, they’d have just replaced Domenech with the younger, fresher, and more cerebral Blanc outright before the tournament.

If they had even bigger balls, they’d have just signed him to play for ‘em. They could use Blanc’s saggys, because sadly the French defense is too small, and none are real center-backs. Gallas is likely to start. Full stop.

The wing-backs are awesome, and the wings as well, but without Diarra to act strongly both in front of and behind them, playing off Sagna and Evra, releasing players like Gourcuff, Malouda, and Ribery to feed into Henry or Anelka, the French side have no base. Besides, their goalkeepers are usually a bit squirrely too.

In the classy but only semi-fit Ribery, a steadying Anelka, an impressive Malouda, and even an off-form Gourcuff, France have plenty of options going forward.

Despite that, with such a poor tactician at the helm as Domenech, without their underrated handyman Diarra plugging holes centrally, France will fall awkwardly against so many other more balanced sides striding past them throughout the tournament.

free verse post-Europe

2010-04-11T11:05:00.001-07:00

Man United's departure from Europe was always inevitable, but it somehow remains suprising.
With a squad comparatively thin to Europe's better sides, few picked United to triumph over Inter, Chelsea, or Barcelona abroad, much less past the London side domestically.

But as the both campaigns progressed, United stayed in contention without always playing their best, and seemed likely to progress past Bayern after a swashbuckling first half.

But if the Reds' slight Brazilian right-back wasn't sent off, visions of the Manchester side prevailing against Barcelona or an even more complete Inter side were never founded.

Because ultimately, a perhaps forced disinclination to purchase resulted in a predictably incomplete United side. This imbalance forced, and was worsened by tactical misinterpretations and player form, two of many factors fulfilling United's destiny this season as European bystanders.

Filling the void

One obvious theme became popular before, and throughout, this season: How will Man United fill the gap left by their most effective player, Cristiano Ronaldo.

However, a more subtle vacuum of creativity existed through the side's core, not on the wings, which were supplanted principally by Antonio Valencia's growth, as well as some good luck towards Nani's still unpredictable displays.

Through the core of the side, back from defense where their first choice starters were often injured, into midfield, United clung to Darren Fletcher's brilliant form throughout the season to often--but not always--mask an underlying deficiency.

With Wesley Sneijder on the market, manger Alex Ferguson couldn't--or wouldn't--be tempted to buy, despite lacking an attacking, central midfielder who could redeem some of the spontaneity of Ronaldo's appreciable offensive arsenal.

Scholes was never expected to feature everyday, Carrick was. But the younger Englishman's continued dismal form from last season continued consistently throughout this year, causing his gaffer to pull out the shoe-horn on a number of occasions.

An ever-changing starting line-up featured anyone from Carrick, Scholes, Giggs, or even Park, as attacking support for a striking line-up that increasingly consisted of only Wayne Rooney.

However, neither of the former three have enough defensive knack to allow the 4-4-2, United's best formation, and Park sucks too much at playing with the ball to fit into that role at all.

Manchester United-Bayern Munich: Player Ratings

2010-04-07T20:41:00.000-07:00

United hosted Bayern Munich in an epic Champions League quarter-final return leg Wednesday evening.
The home side dominated possession from the start and opened up the scoring early when Gibson was afforded great space and nimbly curled from range past a gaping Butt.

United struck again when Valencia patiently proffered Nani up in the six-yard box; the Portuguese trickster back-flicked past the despairing goalkeeper for a 2-0 advantage inside ten minutes.

The dream continued when Nani, for once, used precision over power from range after Valencia crossed low through Bayern's box at the 41st minute.

Olic, though, pegged a massive away-goal back for Bayern just before the break to setup a tense second frame as United led 3-1 (4-3 on aggregate).

Rafael's mind went astray in the 55th minute, forcing his body off the pitch for good after earning his second yellow for no cosmic reason. Bayern therefore dominated the second half.

In the 75th minute, Arjen Robben volleyed brilliantly direct from a corner, after Carrick had released Bayern carelessly. Robben's connection was perfect, arrowing into the far, bottom corner.

Bayern held on late against slight pressure from United's ten men, and, after one of the best games of the season, the Germans agonizingly leave Manchester United behind, winning on away goals 4-4 and advancing to the semi-finals to face Lyon.

MANCHESTER UNITED

Van der Sar (7): Perhaps could have done better for Bayern's first goal when he was off-balance, allowing Oljic to score from an unforgivable angle. Otherwise he was mature and made some legitimate saves from Robben and Ribery to keep United in it until the death.

Rafael (4): His rambunctious tendency brought life into his side's winning first half display. Should have scored or assisted United's third but his ball control was pitiful breaking through clean on goal. Otherwise he tackled with alacrity and ran around the pitch like a madman. However, his naivete caught up to him early in the second half when he made a deplorable transgression, sent off after a needless second booking. His knack for immaturity is sometimes cute, but in a game of this historic importance, such behavior is unforgivable for any professional.

Ferdinand (6.5): Looked better and more assured today than in recent shaky performances. Bayern's forwards aren't the best in the world, but Rio left the most glaring mistakes to other players today. Out of position, perhaps, for Bayern's first.

Vidic (8.5): Inspired his side before and during the match. Faultless and dominant today in a losing effort. There is no reason to believe United will sell him in the summer.

Evra (7.5): Forward and back excellently. His cardio and athleticism are second to none.

Nani (8): Arguably the best game of his United career, eclipsing his match against Arsenal in January. Nani looked more like Ronaldo and less like himself throughout, scoring two fine goals in a huge match for the club.

Fletcher (8): Each match the Scotsman leaves everything on the pitch and can assume no blame for United's tragic departure from Europe.

Carrick (3): Out-muscled for Bayern's first and throughout, Carrick was shit again. Sure, he can pass the ball sideways under no pressure. Under little tonite, he turned the ball over for no reason, allowing Bayern to earn the corner that led to Robben's masterclass strike. He was outmuscled comically for Bayern's opener. Advantage: Team without Carrick. He has no base. He prances like a doe. If United buy in the summer, it's an attacking central midfielder they need before a forward or goalkeeper. Sneidjer would have been ideal last year; perhaps Gourcuff is available this summer, along with Blanc?

Gibson (7): Scored smartly from range, curling with finesse for United's first goal. Contributed to dominate possession in the first frame. Ineffectual in the second.

Valencia (8): The most improved player in England this season, the Ecuadorian assisted United's second and third strikes and used his speed and strength in attack and defense all game. Prefers his right foot, though, so obviously, it's a wonder he's able to get in as many crosses as he does.

Rooney (5): Miraculously recovered from a sprained ankle. Rooney didn't do much throughout, especially after taking a deliberate knock in the first half. United scored today from the outside-in without the only half-fit Englishman ever being greatly involved. Notable long-ball to setup United's second.

BAYERN MUNICH

Butt (4): Looked less like cheeks and more like a hole in the first half. Made saves in the second.

Demichelis (6): Poor in the first half during some wonkish transactions between the Bayern backline. Didn't have much to do when United went down to ten, fortunately.

van Buyten (7): Bigger in stature and strength to his partner, the Belgian got forward to contribute and shoot and was the most effective Munich defender tonight.

Badstuber (3.5): Null.

Lahm (6.5): Enjoyed more space forward after Rafael walked slowly off. No Bayern defender had a good first half, but none either were troubled in the second.

Schweinsteiger (7): Surprisingly effective in the tackle, the German attacked with range and looked lively, particularly in the second half.

van Bommel (6.5): Got booked early which changed his approach. Still got stuck in though and passed his club sideways out of defense.

Ribery (7.5): Especially dangerous in the second half. Cracked a few shots on target from range. Good footwork and balance. Rarely turned-over.

Robben (9): It wasn't as legendary as Zidane's 2002 strike against Leverkusen, but it was of the same ilk. Masterclass stuff from a world-class player. Robben was the best player in the world for the first half of last season before losing form for Madrid. Often injured, he is outstanding when on form. Somehow defenders allow him to cut inside from the right. As long as they do, he'll score goals similar to this, but rarely as nice.

Muller (5): Enjoyed no joy as center forward today.

Olic (6.5): Bullied Carrick for Bayern's first, importantly changing the mood of the match just before the break. This seems like normal service for him. Doesn't do anything spectacular with the ball, but can end up in good spots through strength and knack.

Bayern Munic-Manchester United: Player Ratings

2010-03-30T20:39:00.000-07:00

United had a dream start when Demichelis fouled Nani needlessly in the first minute. Bayern's defender slipped on the following free-kick to allow Rooney a simple tap-in. Rooney did nothing further —and often, nor did United —throughout the first half as Bayern dominated possession and fired in crosses and shots.

This theme continued in the second frame, in part to thoughtless substitutions made by Ferguson, who lacked the audacity to take Rooney out and keep the 4-5-1, instead going to 4-4-2, despite already conceding so much possession.

Ribery equalized in the 76th minute with a Rooney-deflected free-kick. Bayern continued to control the waning moments of the match and snatched victory from Draw's jaws at the death when United's backline, sans Neville, got in a total muddle, allowing Olic to skip through and finish.

BAYERN MUNICH
Butt (7): "Didn't have much to do today."

Demichelis (6.5): Started in bad shape, needlessly conceding a free-kick, and slipping as it ensued to allow Rooney's early goal. Made roads to make up for it as United failed to tally again.

Van Buyten (7.5): Enjoyed getting forward, even, on occasion, and shut down Rooney easily with help from his friends.

Badstuber (6.5): Should be thankful he was up against Nani today instead of Valencia. Poor decision from United's manager is this left-back's personal gain today.

Lahm (8): Bayern's best player in the first half. United didn't press enough and Lahm was able to ping in dangerous crosses. The trend continued in the second frame. Didn't have to defend much against Park, or Giggs.

Pranjic (7): Got a couple shots off on goal and, despite being run ragged by Fletcher, enjoyed possession during the Scotsman's absence.

Van Bommel (8): Laid the foundation for Bayern's control. Assured and dominant in the air against a clucking Carrick.

Ribery (8.5): Bayern's most creative player. Outstanding balance similar to Arshavin. Created several dangerous opportunities for forwards who didn't otherwise deserve them. Scored when Rooney deflected his 22-yard free-kick.

Altintop (5): Extremely slow. Failed to release his side on the counter despite several chances to do so easily. Plodding and useless.

Olic (6.5): Laughable for 90 minutes. Deadly for one second. Made a huge difference pouncing late to give Bayern an advantage heading back to Old Trafford.

Muller (5.5): Didn't show much of his game, whatever it may be.

MANCHESTER UNITED

van der Sar (8): Had a lot of work to do today. Zero culpability for the first goal, his chances weren't fair for the second, either. Strong in his box and using both feet to clear the ball. Bayern had 20 shots overall, 10 on target.

Neville (6): Guileful display from United's right-back until he reactively handled outside his penalty box. Ribery's ensuing free-kick crucially levelled. Neville wasn't outclassed today from open field, despite being often against the Frenchman. Nani didn't help track back enough, and considering, Neville put in a good shift.

Ferdinand (5.5): Rio is not fit. Looked at sea at times. Bayern were able to get behind United's backline on several occasions. Somewhat culpable for Bayern's late go-ahead goal when he totally took himself out of the equation, being ridiculously off-balance.

Vidic (7): Also discombobulated for Bayern's second, Vida won headers and tackled well otherwise throughout the match.

Evra (6.5): The French left-back didn't enjoy as much running forward as he is accustomed, but jumped highest throughout to win headers, and handled the ball sufficiently on United's left side, despite Lahm having a good game opposite him.

Park (5.5): Ahead of Evra, Park was assigned to harry Lahm, who beat him on different occasions. As expected, Ji Sung was mediocre on offense, controlling poorly, and generally being aimless going forward.

Fletcher (8) : Pin-balled across the pitch with vigor. Made United's best forward runs and tackled throughout. Never runs out of energy. Put everyone else in white to shame. Not helped by Ferguson's employment of him most forward of the central triangle. But it's to United's detriment, not Fletcher's, because he is outstanding wherever he plays this season.

Carrick (4): Pranced across the pitch unknowingly. Tentative in the tackle and the pass. Weak across every attribute. Carrick will be glad to one day to be completely anonymous.

Scholes (6): Some genuinely brilliant long-balls, but Scholesy was a little careless with his close control at times. It's reckless of Ferguson to employ him at the tip of a backwards triangle. Scholes should be the forward tip of such a shape with Fletcher and ideally Hagreaves anchoring. United conceded 60/40 possession today.

Nani (5.5): Started well for 15 minutes. Nani then decided to dive at every opportunity. His attacking play took on the same sentiment, as he elaborated at nearly every turn. Faded fast. Naive footballer.

Rooney (4.5): Apparently Rooney left his world-class touch on past headlines today. His holding play was poor, full stop. He created virtually nothing and turned the ball over many times. He was unmarked for his five-yard tap-in when Demachalis slipped after two minutes. He missed a sitter when United needed anything to relieve the pressure. One of his worst footballing displays this season which have otherwise been very positive. He limped off at the death and will likely miss several forthcoming matches during United's title run-in.

Ferguson's tactics today were pedestrian and United paid for it. Valencia should have started instead of Nani to further suppress Ribery. Carrick and Fletcher need to play behind Scholes. Ideally Gibson can feature instead of the lanky Englishman next week for the return leg at Old Trafford, but if Robben is fit, on today's evidence, the English champions will be very challenged to advance.

Bolton-Manchester United: Player Ratings and Reca

2010-03-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

Wanderers hosted Man United at the Reebok Saturday evening. The first half was argy-bargy as both teams wrestled for control. Each side had chances during the often end-to-end passages of play. The breakthrough was fortunate for United and abysmal for Bolton when Samual carelessly own-goaled right before the interval.

Bolton continued playing well in the second half; United continued to play better. Berbatov tapped home after 60 total following an audacious left-footed strike by Fletcher. Nani reamed his opposite full-back after 78 played with skill to setup another tap-in for Berbatov 3-0. Nani did the same thing five minutes later for Gibson to finish, 4-0.

MANCHESTER UNITED

van der Sar (8) It’s not a goalie’s fault when he doesn’t have that much to do. He is, though, accountable for what is tasked of him. The Dutchman made a world-class save today, his second of the season for those counting. His distribution was fine, and he had several important decisions to make as Bolton piled their meatshields forward, despite Wanderers only shooting on target five times. Clean sheet.

Neville (7) Some United fans think Neville has little left, but against sides like Bolton he’s very serviceable. Sure, he’s ploddingly slow; but he’s wily: That’s why everyone hates him. Still a quality footballer, if not defender.

Evans (6.5) Unable to redeem his form from last season, the Northern Irishman at least put a decent game under his belt today. Bolton are a challenging team for opposing backlines. They’re huge, and a few of them can even play. Therefore, Evans had to be big today, and he was big enough.

Vidic (9) Is there a better style matchup for Vidic than Kevin Davies? The Serbian monster was at home in the trenches today. He’ll be gutted he didn’t finish the match with a bloody nose. The happiest player on the pitch not to smile, Vida enjoyed himself thoroughly today, as all observing neutrals should have. Dominant. Brilliant.

Evra (7) Extremely consistent season continues. Over-hyped as a defender, possibly, Patty Evra has been owned by Bolton’s Davies before, but not today. He patrolled up and down the left wing willy-nillily, as usual. Solid.

Fletcher (8.5) It’s so easy giving Fletcher gaudy ratings. United’s best player this season continued his world-class form today. The war wagon rumbled all across the pitch today. A brilliantly driven, long-range, left-footed strike optioned Berbatov to easily tap-in their crucial second goal. He’d be player of the year in England and elsewhere; if he was English and uglier.

Giggs (6) Looked nifty, just didn’t get stuck-in. His left-footedness was a virtue apart from Scholes in the middle. He provides another creative avenue for United through the pitch’s core, but other players asserted themselves more ostensibly today.

Scholes (7) Easy job today: Lay back, ping the ball around, and let Fletcher do all the dirty work. That’s a winning formula, and a practical one for the aging maestro. Dangerous when forward.

Valencia (6) Anomalously quiet game from the most consistently improving player for United this season.

Nani (8) Although I always look forward to lambasting Nani, his shameless lampooning of Bolton’s right-back on several occasions in the second half begrudges me. Even in the first half Nani played within his means, which is refreshing, but he must continue to use pace over trickery in the middle of the pitch to be consistently effective. Good game today; if only a poor one wouldn’t almost surely follow.

Berbatov (8) Berba on form drops deep, wave-rides defenders, and creates chances for overlap and interplay. Though, he still throws little tantrums here are there, and they’re cute. His frustration is natural, though; imagine if you were the classiest player on every team you played. None of your teammates are likely to do the cool shit you think of. His positioning is still poor, at times, probably due to never-ending wine hangovers. Two deserved goals today for United’s most creative player. He’s yet to score as a substitute this season. United are 20-3-1 in games Berbatov starts.

BOLTON

Jaaskelainen (6) Should have done better on Fletcher’s driven shot. Otherwise didn’t have a lot to do besides pick the ball up out of his net. Good keeper on an average team.

Knight (6) Didn’t get worked or anything drastic as United fielded their lone striker. But his team lost 4-0 and Berbatov scored twice, so, you wouldn’t expect him holding his high too high tonight. Allowed Berba to nod goal-kicks onto his teammates. Made plenty of clearances, though.

Cahill (5) Cleared headers inevitably as United poured in crosses. Unfortunately three of those crossed ultimately ended up in his own net. Not good enough.

Samuel (4) Passed the ball into his own net under little pressure for the opener after a very even first-half. Not much else matters after that.

Ricketts (3) Got lolwtfowned by Nani several times which must really suck for someone’s self-esteem. Perhaps an intervention or vacation is in order; or a complete re-evaluation of his life’s meaning.

Cohen (6) The aptly-named Israeli had a few bright moments, but was playing against Darren Fletcher and a balanced United midfield, thereby sealing a darker fate for Cohen than he might otherwise deserve.

Muamba (6) Invoked a world-class save from van der Sar. Looks like a former Arsenal signing, plays like it too. Athletic but crafty, he could be named Song or Diaby, but without class around him, he’ll be hard-pressed to emulate their form, especially against United.

Wilshere (6.5) A bit slow, but his creativity punctuated an otherwise straightforward Bolton approach.

Lee (7) Korean was nifty on the right-side against Evra. Held on to the ball very well, turning sprightly on several occasions.

Elmander (6) Bolton played well, in part to his performance. He’s hulking, inevitably, but can work with the ball in addition to taking up space. Vidic owned his face aerially.

Davies (5) Vidic may as well have collared his neck and drug him around by chain tonite; in fact, he did.
Davies could not and can not compete with the Serbian aerially, and without that ability, was virtually useless.

‘Lo and behold, Rooney doesn’t play and United still win. Ferguson should have begun resting his talisman sooner because Berba’s form is not a surprise nor a recent development. Darren Fletcher and Vidic share man-of-the-match plaudits as the former sustains the best form of his career while the latter made strides to return to his.

United compensate Chelsea’s goal difference, beating Bolton by a 4-0 scoreline that deceives how well Bolton played for 70 minutes but rightly renders United’s dominance across all 90.

beckam's dream ends; let his nightmare end too

2010-03-15T15:44:00.001-07:00

Shame on all who derided David Beckham after his naive—but genuine—iconoclastic display at Old Trafford last week.

Then he donned a green-and-gold scarf, the symbol for the populist movement against the club's overleveraged, self-indulgent American owners.

Where's the malice?

Not within his intentions or action. But he was decried as being a "shameless self-promoter", always looking for the cameras. In truth, he's just a simple footballer, thrust into stardom for others' profit. He supports Man United when he plays on other teams. He loves Old Trafford. He always missed it. He's really not that complicated.

He was also accused of insincerity, as he distanced himself from the act afterwards, in mumbling, dulcet slang. But he shouldn't have have to inject himself politically into their movement to justify his support of it. Nor should you have to run for office to agree in some principle.

Given no evidence, sometimes editorial writers must adopt arbitrary stances to create a dramatic narrative. Some English opinion-makers elected to continue an onslaught of guilt-strking lampooning that's continued ceaselessly since Beckham's sending off against Argentina at World Cup 1998.

One cynic even questioned Beckham's ostensible, pining love for his father figure Alex Ferguson and Man United, suggesting—for nothing—Beckham, in fact, betrayed every club he left, fueled by greed and selfishness—the same motivators behind his green-and-gold tribute.

Hindsight bias is crippling when it is founded upon a general, arbitrary cynicism that manifests itself through, basically, practice and muscle memory—to continually offer nothing but negativity.

Such an approach might be more right than wrong, half the time, but journalists—especially editorialists—should strive for better than 50 percent accuracy. In fact, they shouldn't have to, because writing opinion for any media outlet—even a fading newspaper—should imply thoughtful precision, articulation, and depth.

It's simply lazy to join upon an anti-Beckham bandwagon, but lazier still when other arcs are equally—if not more—compelling, practical, and certainly more evident.

Regardless of whether you think he was a dullard, Beckham wasn't greedy or superficial. These presumably obvious traits were borne from lingering, mass-effect bitterness after his 1998 dismissal.

Through clearer windows than those of foggy pubs, the career of this simple footballer became far too complex for him to control. His good looks and ability cursed him to a life he would never be able to master.
When Beckham was sent off against Argentina at the World Cup, there were—literally—burning effigies in his likeness outside pubs in England. He became a national villain. He never lived it down.

Becks' error then was not slight, but it was wholly overexageratted, and any amount of bias cannot mask that, now 12 years past.

As an aside: Wayne Rooney was pivotally sent off in the 2006 World Cup knockout stages, but the anti-Rooney meme never caught on, there were no effigies.

But following Becks' leveling mistake, what—if not aghast humility—did he ever exude? What, if not nostalgia, contrite, and patriotism? Yes; he's that cheesy. But he's sincere, not superficial. And he's not greedy.

When he left United, he did so at Ferguson's behest, not for love of money. The departure was mutually beneficial: Becks continued good form—though not injury-free—in Madrid, and played with Zidane; United gave his jersey to Cristiano Ronaldo who arrived the same summer and ultimately became more marketable.

Beckham's venture into America, surely, was neither founded in his greed—perhaps that of others. If you want to find money-mongering, depraved characters, look past Beckham at AEG, who own his rights, the Galaxy's stadium, and entities in Manchester.

And sure, marrying Posh probably didn't help him: Who do you think wears the pants?

Yes, Beckham has been an unwitting observer to his star cruise across the skies. He just wanted people to like him. He's been made rich by it, sure; but he was already rich.

Who wasn't then? The people around him who are now. And—in spirit, at least—the writers who salaciously fueled the demographic for cynicism in English tabloids throughout his career.

And now, just days removed from that historical image of Beckham once again asking England and Old Trafford for forgiveness and endorphins, there is another image:

Achilles tendon torn, a forlorn Beckham was carried off the pitch in Italy on Sunday. He will now miss the World Cup; the dream to assuage his 12-year-long guilttrip is shattered, his England career cruelly ended before its natural death.

The acquiescent figure, who carried not only Man United, but the English Premier League into the forefront of global footballing consciousness, loses his final chance to win the hearts of even those bottom-dwelling sensationalists that've enjoyed slagging off his elite career.

Completely crestfallen, the mule everyone loved to kick is on his knees. But who will snivel? Where are the snarky articles about his greed and self-indulgence? "Where's Tom Cruise at?"

Beckham's career is over. There are no more editorials in the well. It deserves accurate accounting and perspective as it is written into history.

The Man United hero was very much a simpleton, and he had a big, dumb heart.

It's time for those lacking to find another good-looking Englishman (or Rooney) upon which to pen their feast.

conflicting emotions for united legends

2010-03-11T16:28:00.000-08:00

Emotions couldn't have been more polarized for three already Manchester United legends after Tuesday's historic Champions League matches.

In Manchester itself, a hero continued his ascent into lore while a champion of the club punctuated his mark on its history.

But while both United stars past and present emerged from its knockout tie against AC Milan with repute, the lamenting anguish of greener pastures overcame one of its former starlets on Spanish shores the same day.

Rooney takes goals, glory

Man United entered its return leg against Milan comfortable. They exited in full-out party-mode.
The Red Devils demolished fading perennial European giant AC Milan, 4-0, completing a gross 7-2 victory on aggregate.

Once again, Wayne Rooney popped up to convert another cross with his small, balding head, and tallied again in the second half for his second double across both legs, taking his goal sum this season to 30.

With the ball, Rooney is not without peers. But, if ends justify means, there's few others as justifiably posited as "world-class" this season than the Englishman.

There are better players in the world, but none are having as good a season as Rooney—at least statistically, so who can deny him eligibility for Player of the Year awards in England and abroad?

Of course, in years hosting the World Cup, players must primarily excel on the national stage to accommodate voting bias, so such a rapacious campaign for club may be overshadowed.

But at club level, with 30 goals in all competitions, Rooney is doing everything right for United.
And there's plenty of games left, including at least two legs in the Champions League quarterfinals.

Beckham pens his own script

While AC Milan had nothing to take away from their humiliating cumulative loss, one of its players walked away from Old Trafford with pride intact, if not bolstered.

David Beckham's first competative appearance at Old Trafford since leaving his boyhood club in 2003 was marked by romance.

Certainly Becks himself made it so; in the years since his profitable departure, his love for club and manager was often on the nostalgic midfielder's tongue.

Whether plying his hybrid brand of football and pop stardom in Spain or America, Beckham is always more than willing to heap sentiment on his memories in Manchester.

The club Beckham loved as a kid continues to receive his affection, and as he entered the foregone match, he visibly held back not pining sadness, but joy unbridled as the terraces chanted his name with love and conviction yet again.

Arguably Milan's best player during those last 30 minutes, Beckham exited the Theater of Dreams still a primary player. As the curtains fell, he dressed in costume, donning a green-and-gold scarf in support of the populist anti-Glazer movement, creating another indelible image across a storied career.

If the most-capped Englishman stays healthy and continues to play often and well enough for Milan, he seems odds-on to get a final chance at glory and make the squad for the 2010 World Cup.

There lies the final catalyst in what has always been his personal crusade to fully and finally restore his pride after his personal hell in the 1998 World Cup.

The simple man who, so unwittingly, shouldered the game across continents, is at least deserving of the chance to extinguish his career in a last, personal blaze of glory and redemption.

You might even say the fans of the game deserve it too: Witnessing the midfielder, commodity, and tentative icon returned to his element on pitches across South Africa as the blinding spotlight on his career finally and mercifully dims and extinguishes.

Ronaldo comforted only by his coffers

Another former United number seven to leave Manchester for the starry skies of Madrid also tasted defeat this night, but for him it was bitter without sweets.

For the always emotional Cristiano Ronaldo, the post-knockout concussion must weigh even heavier, as his Galactico side Real dropped out of Europe entoto as his former club again progressed.

It's been proven before that simply splashing cash around for surfeit of attacking talent doesn't equate to trophied success; in fact it was the same Madrid club who proved it some years ago!

As his old friends continue deeper into Europe without him, the hypersensitive Ronaldo could do little else but scurry off the Bernabeu pitch as cameras caught the familiar look of anguish strewn across his conflicted visage.

But there is no room for regret within these margins. Ronaldo left United to mutual benefit. The club needed the money, and Ronaldo could do little else at United currently, having already won every trophy and individual honor while a Red.

No one should blame him for moving abroad to further challenge his immense talent, but that surely won't stop him from carrying around regret like a bag of bricks.

And as Beckham learned, so does Ronaldo: You can take the player out of Manchester, but you can't take United out of the player.

Cristiano said in February, "Maybe in the future I could return to play there? Of course I miss Manchester United."

Surely now more than ever.

another romantic european night analyzed until its devoid of all anticipation

2010-03-08T16:01:00.000-08:00

With each teams' most important player doubtful for the biggest game of the season for either thus far, perhaps a grain of salt should but applied with predictions or previews.

There's a strange tendency for star players to get knocked prior to big matches only to miraculously make the team-sheet, and both AC Milan's Pato and Man United's Rooney were included in their squads for the pivotal clash this Wednesday.

If the latter, at least, remains legitimately injured with knee inflamation, it forces United manager Alex Ferguson to apply Dimitar Berbatov up front alone. Sometimes a good decision results from necessity, not choice.

Without arguing the efficacy of the five-man midfield—the formation Ferguson historically flavors as the season enters its second half—Berbatov is actually the more naturally suited for the reclusive role when compared with Rooney.

There's no doubt the Englishman's form this season has been outstanding enough to illuminate himself regardless of formation, but on each's fundamental strengths, Berbatov should have no problem slotting in at Old Trafford.

Still Written Off

With Rooney inspiring the imaginations of fans worldwide this year, Berbatov has been at times forgotten, at others dismissed entirely.

Even Antonio Valencia, who's linear growth this season existed plainly for all to see, manages to still join Berbatov's name on lists of under-performing players.

While the Ecuadorian's inclusion may or may not be slightly more ridiculous, Berbatov's form this season—and last—precludes him from consideration in such consumer-friendly rankings.

It was bemusing at best, infuriating at worst, when the emotional Bulgarian couldn't get a game in November. Ferguson finally leaked that the forward's ailing knee was resulting in the pine time, which, if nothing else, restored some of the managers' credibility.

Berbatov started the season as he resumed it in December, generally in good form with the occasional mediocre game an exception, not the rule.

If only images of player form were resistant to the faulty memories in which we store them, we'd not have to check statistics years later to reinforce what is then an incomplete rendering.

But in the 22 matches Berbatov started this season, United are 18-3-1, compared with an overall record of 31-9-4 in all competitions. The moody striker has a goal tally of 9 goals in those 18 starts, never scoring as a substitute.

This is all fine and dandy. But considering the emotional Bulgarian's style, his tally becomes more impressive.

The importance of dribbling and flair

Berbatov's most salient attribute is his ability to dribble past opposition with timing, a subtle shifting of weight, and an inscrutable change of pace.

Unfortunately dribbling has a lower success rate than passing and can often be derided by impatient commentators or fans. Even former United gloryhog Cristiano Ronaldo, currently enjoying absurdly brilliant form at Madrid, can be heard lampooned by Ray Hudson with hackneyed lines about "looks nice, end product? FUUUU".

But in England especially, and at United, where passing is the hallmark, one or few players with individual class and a penchant for the ridiculous is the difference between a draw and win.

Alas, the geometric effect attacking dribbling has remains underrated in the English game.

Essentially, when any attacker can lure a defender into a challenge, and go past him, the mathematical advantage shifts. The defender is subtracted from the equation entirely and more triangular options become immediately available.

Berbatov is one of only two players (Valencia) on United who can singularly get past a defender, and the only one who uses skill to do it. Allow me to run down a list of United attackers, to reinforce my point and slag a few of them off.

Park stays in front of the defense and couldn't dribble oatmeal. Nani will utterly fail more than he'll succeed only marginally. Carrick is an apparition. Scholes can niggle and wiggle but isn't played forward enough by his gaffer. Rooney is better moving without the ball than he is with it. Valencia has the raw strength and speed to get past defenders, but only on the wings.

So, besides being an intelligent and outstanding passer, Berbatov can dribble with aplomb, using the oppositions' weight against themselves like his last name was Gracie.

His ability to confuse and bemuse with the ball—dropping deep, in the box, at the byline, or out to touch—remains the most ineffable, and least quantifiable, aspect of his underestimated value to United.

Even as reports emerge today that Sir Alex will have $100m to spend in the offseason, and targets a striker, it's not alarming to Berbatov proponents, because Owen clearly isn't the long-term answer for a third striker, just as Saha and Tevez apparently weren't either.

Forza... United?

When Milan and Manchester finally resume yet another glorious tie on Wednesday, Berbatov will have the stage to showcase his utility to any stubborn critics.

His aforementioned strengths should translate directly to the style United will hope to employ, as being better at holding the ball and passing makes Berbatov more naturally fitted for this European role.

The 4-5-1 and the 4-3-3 are really different names for the same thing, and in such a formation attacks become naturally more horizontal than vertical, mitigating Berbatov's retarded speed.

The five-man midfield also necessitates a passing forward, and Rooney's touch can be too rough, lacking the finesse required when an isolated striker more rarely gets the ball.

United already lead on aggregate, three away goals to the good. Knowing that, Rooney's engine and tenacity—the hyped defensive aspects of the forward's arsenal—might lend themselves better without the ball.
But with it, Berbatov is virtually peerless not only at United, but in England and across Europe.

Those who manage to suggest that his transfer was a bomb are either positively naive, or likely dissuaded by his nuanced style.

Make no mistake, though, that the ones who enjoy his brand of football the least are the opposing players as he shrugs them off like autograph seekers.

With Rooney limping, the result of playing too much this season, there's no better time for Ferguson to be forced to try something that made sense a lot earlier, before United's talisman became overworked.

Though a Rooney on life form might be better in the role than a Berbatov in only good form, less will be required from the player more aptly suited to the lone striker role, especially as Milan must win by two at Old Trafford to advance to the quarterfinals.

And it's the sensitive Bulgarian's romantic style that makes him a fine—but dissimilar—replacement for Rooney when Milan march into town that frigid evening.

Tempering excitement about Rooney

2010-02-19T20:07:00.000-08:00

Many writers of English football generally don't need too much ammunition to exalt Wayne Rooney into the echelon of elite practitioners in their sport.

After scoring twice against AC Milan midweek, his name was omnipresent in editorials on and offline making arguments for his graduation.

Before each season, pieces invariably surface with angles conjecturing just how and why this year will be different than every other when similar claims were also made.

However, the United gunner tends to succumb to inconsistency with only patches of good form interspersed between drawn-out periods of varying averageness on the field.

So it's all just a big, fat lie, then?

While always being projected as one of footballing's elite, Rooney has rarely shown enough consistency over the years to gain any credible foothold for individual awards or world-class status.

And similarly, while being vaunted as the next incarnation of Christ prior to—and throughout—this season, the young Scouser was patchy in its first half and particularly nauseating in December.

He's only been rested for two United matches all season. So he's bagged the goals commensurate with such playing time, regardless of how well he played at the time, which was never exceptional. Many of his goals were examples of profiting from his teammates' endeavours, finishing after defenses were exploited.

Only now, in mid-February, after six months of overstated prophecy, Rooney has finally begun to fulfill all the hopes and dreams of his Anglo-centrist promoters and worldly well-wishers.

From mid-January—when he attacked confidently in a losing effort against Man City—the Shrek look-alike has been reliably positive and occasionally brilliant for a month on the trot.

This is exceptional because, throughout his United career, rich veins of form for the young Englishman usually haven't lasted more than a couple weeks. At least on the field, they tend to last longer in the papers.

Another "Beckham effect"

To be fair, even when he is at his best, Rooney is not the most obvious of great strikers.

Didier Drogba turns and fires inside and outside of the box with aplomb during veins of fine form. Lionel Messi's dribbles are masterfully balanced, passing multiple defenders. Ronaldo chops and bursts his way towards the net before booming shots from all angles.

These players do so with flashes of skill apparent to fans of all cores and ages.

However, indications of Rooney on song aren't always as evident.

He doesn't dribble past or generally overwhelm defenders. His dependence on his right foot is telegraphed. When he does fire in front of defenders, his shots are often deflected or go through the opponents legs by chance. He doesn't use tricks and isn't particularly two-footed, especially when controlling the ball.

When he's playing well, he does little things. He makes runs behind defense. He hustles and harries, but stays in a forward position. He gets off shots from range with both feet. He niggles into the right space to head home from close. But he's rarely flashy.

Like United fan-boy David Beckham, a lot of Rooney's virtues stem from his indefatigable engine and vague platitudes about his "desire", "heart", or "dedication".

And like his former club and current English teammate, Rooney's false reputation as a glamorous, dominant player often precedes him with casual fans.

They tune in expecting either to be a world-beater, when both Becks and Wazza can aesthetically appear average, even in form.

Sycophantism breeds complacency

The hollow nature of many plaudits regarding Rooney can stifle the growth of the sport in America and elsewhere. Casuals tune in with unrealistic expectations only to be let down by reality.

But furthermore, constantly projecting a player's greatness not only fosters casual fans' over-expectations, but it can also stunt the player's growth.

Not only do overrated or over-marketed players have more pressure on them, but they're more liable to lull into complacency when they're constantly being proclaimed world-class too soon.

Complacency can be cited as a reason Rooney has not grown at nearly the same rate as another former United teammate—now at Madrid.

Nor much at all. Over the last four or five years is there any facet of his game that he's clearly improved? Beyond controlling his temper more, or heading better this season?

There is little excuse for a player in his early twenties to add virtually nothing to his game after training with one of the world's best clubs and managers for several years.

Theoretically, criticism is as equally useful as reinforcement when motivating sportsmen. It becomes even more necessary when players are put on pedestals early in their careers as they suddenly grow rich and powerful.

If his form so far this year becomes the norm—not the exception—into and through the World Cup, than he may climb the final rung into the rightful elite of the sport.

Consistency shows final maturation

Not only will he join an imaginary group of pound-for-pound best players in the world, but if England can conquer all this summer at the World Cup, Rooney would be a shoe-in for individual end-of-the-year honors.

In fact, FIFA's World Player of the Year award has only gone to World Cup winners in years involving the famous tournament.

Whether or not the swarthy Englishman ultimately deserves such hype, pressure, and accolade, he would at least be more deserving than in seasons' past.

But only if he managed to continue his current form; finally establishing the consistency his better play has otherwise been lacking.

AC Milan-Manchester United: Player Ratings

2010-02-16T14:16:00.000-08:00

AC Milan dominated the first half but a fortuitous Scholes equalizer set the stage for a United recovery in the second frame. Rooney headed home twice in the second half on United's first two truly serviceable crosses. Ronaldinho later combined brilliantly with substitute Seedorf to peg one back. Milan pressure at the death but United win 3-2.

MANCHESTER UNITED
Van der Sar (7 ) Fairly busy game. Made one top-class save from Pirlo. Showed good distribution and ball control. Charged decisively to meet crosses when necessary. Let two by but was not greatly culpable for either.

Rafael (8 ) The young Brazilian had a tall order in covering Ronaldinho in such a huge European tie. Though Dinho had a quality game, so did Rafael, playing with a maturity that Ferguson will be well chuffed by.

Ferdinand (6 ) Looked a little squirrely at times. He's an odd choice for England captain because of the physical failings and mental instability he's shown this year. He can become rattled when forwards drive at him. Off form.

Evans (8 ) Another youngster expected to really step up in this classic tie. He was reamed by his manager for one instance of naivety but otherwise was stalwart against a star-studded Milan attack. If United's finances are in truly poor order they'll be thankful to have youngsters like this to plug possible transfer departures.

Evra (7.5 ) Arguably United's most consistent player over this season. Rarely puts in a bad shift. Showed good sportsmanship in avoiding a stamp against Ambrosini in the second half, and otherwise was a more than useful outlet when United transitioned from defense to attack.

Park (6 ) Too slow. Like his wingman, Park had a couple decent games in January but is still having a bad year. Didn't do much on offense; he appears off-balance often. His utility for the side has always been to harry on United's side of the field which he did so today only averagely.

Carrick (6 ) Sent off late for time-wasting, so he loses a half-point. Otherwise, he did just enough to spare criticism I'd otherwise be more than willing to spew. He is too content to be a supporting player, never really inspires anyone or thing with his play. However, he was economical enough to warrant a slightly above-average rating for his day.

Scholes (7.5) When he started to make forwards runs and occupy advanced positions in the second half, United played better. There's no point having him lying deep when Carrick and Fletcher are more suited to. Mishit the first goal as it came off his standing leg, but to his credit, he was unmarked. Otherwise marshaled the game wisely. His manager likely would have opted for Giggs if the Welshman was healthy; let's be glad he didn't.

Fletcher (8 ) One of the few United players to show improvement, week-by-week, over the season. Some players dip into and out of form; some players actually grow and get better. At 26, he is entering his prime. His engine is inexhaustible; he tackles willfully, turns and holds the ball, and always tracks back.

Nani (5 ) Tales of his ascension were greatly exaggerated, and not by me. Continues to flatter and deceive. Had two good games in January and people wanted to anoint him reborn. Cooler heads prevail: Nani is still rubbish. His passing is still awful. As soon as he left, Valencia dinked in a cross for Rooney to convert; perhaps the firt cross of the game finding the striker's head. Nani can occasionally bust out a trick that woos casual fans, but certainly all the poor decision-making, bad passings, and ostentatious dribbling he's displayed over the last three seasons are not lost from memory? They shouldn't be on today's evidence.

Rooney (9) Finally playing as well as everyone's been saying all year. Not because he headed in nicely on two occasions, but because of the decisions and touches he's making on the field. Had a great turn-and-shoot in the first half with his left foot. Drove through the middle of the park and fired from distance several times in the second half. After finally getting a decent cross he converted skillfully from Valencia and again from Fletcher. The time he spent in the offseason heading the ball is clearly paying off. Since United's first January match against Man City Rooney has excelled into perhaps the best form of his career. He can and hopefully will still get better. When he dips his shoulder, drives at defenders, makes runs in behind, and shoots from range, he is confident and effective.

Subs:
Valencia (Changed the game with his first cross, should always start instead of Nani)
Brown (Did not touch the ball)

AC MILAN
Dida (5 ) Does not inspire confidence.

Thiago (6.5 ) Getting better as the season goes on. His partnership with Nesta is blooming but the pairing is by no means foolproof. At sea during Rooney's headers.

Nesta (6 ) Let's be honest, I don't pay nearly as much attention to the Milan players. But, intuitively, I think if I say that Nesta didn't look especially good or poor today I won't be far off the park.

Antonini (5 ) Substituted in the first half after injury.

Bonera (6 ) Unremarkable.

Pirlo (7 ) Nifty in the middle as Milan controlled the first half. Forced a good save from Van der Sar from a dead-ball. Legs are looking heavier as the years race by but his creative mind is still sharp.

Ambrosini (6.5 ) Poor man's Fletcher. Good first half. Faded in the second. Clumsy with the ball, but willing.

Beckham (6 ) Beckham is virtually always Beckham. Passes sideways and backwards usually. Occasionally dinks in some nice little through balls or inside passes. Swings in crosses that look nice and are sometimes in an ideal vicinity. Stayed out wide; substituted for Seedorf as Milan trailed 1-3.

Ronaldinho (8 ) If you've read lately that Ronaldinho is finally nearing his world-class Barcelona form, you were not misled. Over the last month or more his confidence has returned. It either results from or contributes to his stylish play. Scored the first goal after getting a helpful deflection. Drove at defenders and was involved throughout. Passionate.

Huntelaar (6.5 ) Strong first half. Underrated striker. Wouldn't have started if Boriello was healthy, rightly so, in truth. But he shares the ability with his national teammate van Nistelrooy to finish decisively in the box. Unfortunately today those efforts were blocked.

Pato (7 ) Quiet first half. Better second half. Some ridiculous turns of skill to get through and around defenders. Always willing to drive at pace against United's backline. He's a handful even if he doesn't have a great game.

Subs:
Favalli (Blah)
Seedorf (Class)
Inzaghi (Provided pressure)

Rooney and Kaka suck balls; the truth behind player form

2010-02-14T22:53:00.001-08:00

Kaka and AC Milan rampaged through Manchester United en route to the 2007 Champions League trophy. Kaka was literally in the form of his life.

Literally because he hasn't played nearly as good since.

After winning World Player of the Year honors and the Ballon d'Or that year, Kaka became the odd-man out at Milan.

The Rossoneri failed to qualify domestically for the Champions League the next season. Kaka was almost instantly overshadowed on the pitch by the younger, vibrant Pato. Ultimately Ronaldinho arrived and shared Kaka's position.

There were too many cooks in the kitchen, but only one could be sold for far more than the others, and far more than he was worth.

Milan showed their hand—and their valuation of it—by allowing Kaka leave to Man City last January for a rumoured $100m. He nixed the deal, though, citing God or honor or something.

That summer, he was off to Madrid for the still inflated price of $80m.

Kaka was overrated, and Milan knew it

Milan had Pato, who is now inarguably better than Kaka, much younger, and less reliant on pace. But Milan didn't just sell Kaka to free Pato as their creative pin. They sold him because the world still thought he was as good as he wasn't.

But Kaka had won the World Player of the Year in 2007; how could he not be worth that exorbitant amount of cash? Well, rhetorical man, you just answered your own question.

Players who have outstanding seasons often become overrated. Or they simply plateau. Why?

With anything else, there are innumerable factors, of which only a finite number can be perceived and addressed.

Why is everyone so wrong and dumb?

But for starters, there is a tendency for fans to view player form inductively, deriving broad, qualitative opinions from a small sample of performances.

For instance, virtually everyone saw Kaka dismantle Man United in the 2007 Champions League quarterfinals because it was the 2007 Champions League quarterfinals and Kaka dismantled Man United.

What I'm sayin' is, the majority of fans probably all watch the same few games each year starring certain European players, but they're still more than willing to argue about why their favorite player on their team is better than every other.

Consequently, a vast majority of fans might see a few of any player's games or highlights, while the minority of fans study most or all of a player's action. That's why the minority is usually right when it comes to popular discourse about football. Also, most people are kind of dumb (like, IQ's less than 100!). Avoid the forums!

As such, unfortunately, for every insightful, risky article challenging popular culture there are thirty more recycling common consensus and regurgitating the same contrived rhetoric back and forth.

"Did you see that horribly banal and unremarkable game today? Oh."

As I said, everyone saw Kaka dismantle United because Kaka dismantled United.

When good players have Youtube-like performances, they're viewed by exponentially more people than are their lesser showings. No one makes or watches highlight packages of great players turning the ball over, making bad decisions, losing out on tackles, or misplacing passes, with the odd exception.

As such, the relationship between quality of play and quantity of viewers is directly proportional.

Players playing great attract more observation. Those players become great in the minds of many who watch.

But they don't lose their perceived greatness by then playing poorly, because most of those casual people aren't seeing or watching then.

"I looked into her eyes, but all I could remember was her cleavage."

Secondly, exceptional displays of skill and craft—like Kaka's four-touch destruction of Fletcher, Evra, Heinze, and Van der Sar then—make the strongest impressions on our minds, while the more numerable performances of lesser quality are naturally given less reverence.

Not only will more people naturally see highlights like Kaka's flaying of United's back-line, but these moments become most salient in our minds, dominating and drowning out all the instances to the contrary.

Granted, I wouldn't expect you to remember thousands of inconsequential touches specifically when our memories themselves are not boundless.

But a player's objective quality results from every touch, not just the most famous or aesthetically pleasing ones. We can't be expected to recall the banal, but we should be practical enough to retain it all in the subconscious, or else our valuations become skewed to the outliers instead of the norm.

Maybe it's just easier to rationalize a Kaka or Rooney having a shit game than having to reconfigure the way we think about football, media, or culture.

"How are you? Good. How are you? Good."

Thirdly, there is a tendency in the civilized world (at least the one I'm in) to frown upon criticism and negativity.

That's right. I'm not saying my society's insufferable penchant for political correctness is responsible for the erroneous popular perception of individual player form, but I am seriously implying it, and doing so wordily.

Most people try to live unbalanced to the good, hesitant to express disapproving opinions of anything less they hurt someone's feelings.

This works relatively well for most people to manage relationships accordingly, but in football—where form is an objective truth—it fosters carebearish treatment of our heroes' reputations.

No one wants to point out each of Ryan Giggs' turnovers because everyone likes Giggs. We want to believe that he is what everyone tells us. It makes us feel safe in our rationale. Saying he isn't nearly as good as most people believe is a buzz-kill, man!

Similarly, most casual fans or hardcore fanboys aren't going to dwell on Rooney's 35 poor touches; as long as he gets a goal, he's played well.

Because that goal—that plus-1, that empirical little digit—supplies millions around the world with the stone-cold empirical ammunition they need to convince themselves and others of his marketabil...quality.

Who cares if they only watch one in three games: Rooney has 20 goals! We are all vindicated!

To the same extent, Brazilian or Madrista fans might return to their fond memory of Kaka alone destroying Manchester United instead of balancing all the datapoints to form a more accurate—but less fulfilling—rendering of the player and game.

The "Oh Shit" Moment

If Giggs isn't as good as each promo posits, or if Rooney really isn't the world-class all-beater the newspapers say, and if Kaka isn't one of the best in the world anymore, what does it say about the game and the way it's covered?

It would mean that most people who write about it are either suffering from the same distorted lens as the innocent, casual fans they fed (and feast upon), or that it is their agenda to do so; to draw in more viewers, aggregate more clicks, sell the damn t-shirts, and promote World Cup bids.

Call it wish-fulfillment, vicariousness, projection, selective memory, or just call it bad, pretentious writing; but when players, elevated in ours minds and on TV, don't play like Gods, we naturally gloss it over or otherwise defend them.

Make no mistake: Kaka's name appeared in the last two years' individual award runs not because of ability he displayed on the field throughout, but because of a wholly shared, misconstrued perception of his footballing value, in part cultivated and largely perpetuated from that brisk Old Trafford night and our own inchoate proclivities as both wishful fans and lazy opinion-makers.

Another Ode to Scholes

2010-02-05T17:32:00.000-08:00

Paul Scholes' little legs may have life in them yet.

Often on the periphery this season and last, his appearances had been patchy both in quantity and quality. Ryan Giggs since emerged as the focal "elder knight" for the club as Scholes' fitness and career trickled down in a more direct, less romantic fashion.

However, the gingerman's unique ability and individual passing style are tailored to make an even greater impact—on the pitch—than the Welshman this season, at least in the center of the pitch where either are likely to reside, and where United need it most.

Scholes' role remembered

Many assume Scholes' displayed tendency to sit back and quarterback the team result as much from his aging legs as an intention of his manager's tactics. Presumably the savvy Sir Alex Ferguson is aware of the creative limitation this creates, but, nonetheless, employs it purposefully.

Bemusing tactical decisions aside, Scholesy has nonetheless been in good touch over the last fortnight (the minimum time elapsed required to declare someone "in form," ye over-zealous plaudits), apparently benefiting from the extended twenty-day break granted after his putrid display against Fulham in mid-December.

Since then, most namely in United's last three matches, Scholes has been on song.

As so, his long-range passes more often zero onto their marks. His crafty wiggles and turns in midfield evade younger midfielders instead of resulting in almost sad turnovers. He finds his forwards through the middle with greater frequency and predicates most of United's movements.

But besides being simply—and finally—rested and sharper, away to Hull City on Jan. 23, Scholes' early 32-yard belcher—the longest strike he's attempted in years' time—led to Rooney rebounding for United's first goal. Flood gates -> Open.

Does the audacity required to uncork from distance result from confidence or coincidence? Who knows. But good things happen when Scholes shoots from range—noteworthily an attribute devoid from Giggs' repertoire.

Against Man City a few days later, the number eighteen started again, balancing power and accuracy to score the tantamountly important first goal from the edge of the box, in addition to assuming the creative mantle in a five-man midfield. United don't lose when they score first, and they look best when they score early.

In United's next game against Arsenal last weekend, in a rare paradigm shift, Ferguson mercifully deregulated Scholes, granting the minute midfielder license to get forward while both Fletcher and Carrick marshaled the middle, further contributing to arguably United's best spell of football this season.

Andy Gray remarked during United's comprehensive, whack-a-mole destruction of the Gunners that Scholes stated he still wants to play all the time and doesn't like being rotated. After starting three club matches on the trot for the first time since the start of last season, it seems he was right.

Who knows. Maybe Scholes needs more consistent playing time—not less—to stay in good touch. But even if he falls out of it, an average Scholes applied correctly—at the tip of the spear, instead of the handle—piques the current squad's potential.

A note on tactics

In 4-5-1 or 4-3-3 formations, his manager is granted less of doubt in using him correctly.

Such a formation generally preclude Berbatov, who is unlikely to surpass Rooney on any United team sheet—ever, which is not necessarily his fault (see: group-think [2]). United's attacks invariably suffer in the build-up, thereby magnifying the significance of the Scholes role.

But more so, the presence of two other central midfielders in such a line-up—each better defensively, but worse offensively, than Scholes, as the case is—equates to nil reason why the ginger man shouldn't feature in front of them then.

What I'm saying is

Hopefully Sir Alex is beginning to see that Paul still has the life in him yet to get forward and do the cheeky things he built his reputation on.

Visions of Scholes' skidding into the box, dinking through balls, driving from distance, and tick-tocking an attractive United side are not necessarily lost to lore.

But the synergy of confidence and fitness is somewhat wasted if he is not allowed to attack, unsupressed by tactics, if not the attrition of age—continue from January into the new month and beyond.

Confidence is invisible

2010-02-04T11:17:00.000-08:00

All the analysis in the world goes out the window when a top team finally begins to exude confidence, the factors for which are numerous and inabsolute.

Conjecturing about tactical tinkering, player shifting, and behind the scenes turmoil loses all significance when the side, as a whole, suddenly coalesces to finally produce flowing football and gritty maturity.

Such is the case at Manchester United. But it's hard to garner a clear rendering of their real efficiency if all you consume are the easy, prevalent headlines borne from their results.

Everyone wants to root for Rooney, and it's easy to make an argument for him being the alpha and omega, et al, when his goals are plentiful. In truth, United's most consistent players through the tortuous first half of the term were Evra and Fletcher, which is reflective of the problems they were having going forward.

The over-reliance on an inconsistent Scholes, injured Berbatov, and patchy Rooney were closest to the prime reasons United were playing unattractively. In six loses this season, United were shutout in five, managing a tally only against Man City in a 2-1 loss in January.

Most importantly, though, even when they were winning, they did so without too much aplomb, rarely scoring early, often scoring late, only then piling on goals as their opponents were stretched and beaten.

But after brazenly dismissing Arsenal away, and ultimately besting City over two legs—which sandwiched a 4-0 destruction of Hull City—the confidence in the side is visceral. But where did this new-found belief manifest?

Do individual performances—like Rooney's recent and eventual turn of form—inspire the rest of the team?

United's hood ornament has finally hit stride this year, driving at defenders and making correct forward runs, his passing and dribbling sharper, brimming with confidence. Perhaps his influence by example led the rest of the team to play in kind.

Or is this simply the culmination of a training regime specifically tailored to provide physical—and somehow—mental peaks in performance as spring unfurls?

United have always had a history—perhaps more a legend—of finding synergy as the year changes, embarking on rapacious runs to start each new year into March and April. Alex Ferguson claims their approach to training is intended to bear fruit during this period.

Maybe a brief chain of emotional results against historic rivals—Leeds, Man City, Arsenal—fosters the galvanization of the squad. Or does it result from it?

It may be mere coincidence that Rooney, Nani, and Scholes found form at the same time while Fletcher, Evra, Valencia, and Rafael continue to excel and put in useful shifts. Even Ji-Sung and Carrick look to be finally on song this year.

Perhaps United at current are simply overachieving. Only a month ago the squad looked thin, Rooney looked tired, Nani was abysmal, Park was useless, Carrick, ever average, and Scholes ineffectual.

But all that appears to change when a squad finds conviction.

Where it comes from, though, remains consigned to speculation, sure to continue here and everywhere else as we scramble to rationalize trends, derived from major stories and minor rumors, to form a cohesive rendering of player form, that, like life itself, can often appear to hinge on confidence alone.

Birmingham-Manchester United: Player Ratings in Red

2010-01-09T17:25:00.000-08:00

Kuschack (7 ) sold out on the goal, made a few nice saves. Nothing totally heroic required today, but he did bail his defense out more than once.

Rafael (6.5 ), or was it Fabio? Regardless, with a five man midfield, his attacking licence was hampered. Defended his flank with credit.

Brown (5.5 ) had some reckless challenges. Didn't look spritely. Didn't have to do much, though, as United maintained possession and Birgmingham sat back.

Evans' (5 ) culpable for the goal with a poor, albeit reflexive, touch. Maybe showed his rust a bit after being out with injury for several weeks.

Evra (6.5 ) failed to deliver the final ball on some occasions, but went back and forth up the wing as everyone expects him to, week in, week out, integrating into attacking and defense.

Scholes' (5 ) average display yields an average rating. Played too deep by Ferguson in a pusillanimous 4-1-4-1 formation. Needs to pull the trigger more from 20+ yards when he has the space, which he did today since United (partly as a result of Scholes playing so deep) couldn't penetrate City's penalty area.

Carrick (5.5 ) was happy to not make any egregious mistakes; content to therefore not take any risks. Nonchalant. Ordinary. Dull.

Fletcher (6 ) got sent off, but still gets a higher rating than the other three central midfielders. Tackled better than either and didn't pass much worse as well. Some nice through balls actually. Sent off late for a weak challenge when the stalemate was already insured.

Valencia (5.5 ) had a bad day crossing and didn't get behind the Birmingham flanks as much as you would have suspected.

Park (4 ) was generally useless. His touch was laughably poor more than once. Hasn't shown anything this season. With prospects like Obertan and Tosic in competition for a left-wing birth, it's baffling how Park makes the teamsheet.

Rooney (5 ) was marooned by Ferguson alone up front. Couldn't really influence the game. Ran around and got angry. Had one shot on goal during the only instance he got behind the Birmingham back-line. Expected to do too much for United without Berbatov. He's bagged goals this year as a consequence of leading the attack every match, without ever really having a consistent run of form.

Birmingham 1 - Man United 1

United have always played better football away from home, but not when Rooney's up front alone, and United stack their midfield like they're playing in the Champions League final. Berbatov didn't even make the bench and is likely to play even less with Diouf in the picture, which bodes poorly for fans and neutrals. Senility may be a factor with United's gaffer. Very poor football on display, perhaps the worst in the last ten or so years thus far this season.

Manchester United-Hull City: Player Ratings

2009-12-27T12:58:00.002-08:00

Manchester United

Kusczak (6.5 ) Didn't have to do anything spectacular. Distribution was a little wayward, as usual. Good shot-stopper.

Rafael (7 ) He's definitely not shy. Added impetus to a United attack requiring it. Reckless at times, as usual, but quick and resilient. Had United's best chance in the first half which he attempted well.

Vidic (8 ) Again looked perhaps more comfortable in Ferdinad's old position as right-centre back. Provided the difference in the air. Hopefully he's not carrying any more knocks as United look to make a winter run.

Brown (7.5 ) Good game. Strong in the air. More a natural centre-back than right-back here at the peak in his career.

Evra (7 ) Good technique and pace to provide much-needed natural width. Caught forward a few times. United's most consistent player this season.

Valencia (6.5 ) Got behind the defense a few times in the first half, looked positive when he was able. Touch needs refining, which will come.

Fletcher (8.5 ) United's man of the match back in midfield where he belongs. Looked like he was moving in fast-forward next to his midfield partner. Broke up play and created it throughout an energetic 95 minutes.

Carrick (5 ) Pedestrian as usual. Casual passing led to casual turn-overs. The invisible man.

Giggs (5 ) Definitely has been practicing his free-kicks. However, he's still very old and looked ineffective again on the wing. Passing was poor. Had little effect on the match, little presence throughout.

Berbatov (6.5 ) Held the ball up per usual. Didn't make enough runs. His form has been inconsistent since returning from injury. Needs a good run in the team and these 90 minutes help.

Rooney (6 ) Torrid first half. Lacked belief. Lacked confidence. Passed abysmally. Ball control was wayward. Made a good run to tap in Fletcher's nifty cross, though. Completely culpable for Hull's goal when he panicked under little pressure. Felt guilty and made amends by making more good runs behind the Hull defense in the second half. Nut-meg pass to Berbatov was a bit lucky. The three positive moments of his match don't outnumber the poor decisions and technique he displayed throughout the rest of it, especially in the first half.

United's young wingers

2009-12-27T12:58:00.001-08:00

The idea that young players with potential should be weened ever-slowly into first team action is a fallacy perpetuated at the highest level.

At Manchester United, Alex Ferguson employs it capriciously. He shields starlets with the requisite skill and panache to balance his asymmetrical side in favor of experienced, "what you see is what you get" players, like Ji-Sung Park or Ryan Giggs.

But when Ronaldo emerged on the scene in 2003, the deliberate growth of his prodigious talent was quickly marginalized when United needed results. Ronaldo started 23 games in his inaugural season.

The situation is not dissimilar to current circumstances at United. With a dearth of creativity in central midfield, compounded by a disinclination to start Berbatov consistently, Ferguson and United suffer from a lack of innovation going forward.

This weakness of unbalance can be assuaged by compensating the creative paucity with the right selection in United's wings.

Giggs' days as a wide player are essentially over, despite perhaps one performance on the wing to the contrary.

Similarly, Park's efficacy as a defensive winger went out the window when Ronaldo left; his back-tracking is no longer required because he is not playing across from, essentially, a third striker in Ronaldo who rarely tracked back against opposing wingers.

However, players who can provide the required natural width aren't getting the same allowances Ronaldo received at the club, despite the Portuguese player having a much higher ceiling; a much greater need for protection.

Gabriel Obertan has started only one game this season for United, despite being the only winger in United's first team capable to dribble past defenders with skill.

Against Wolfsburg, Obertan arrived in the 73rd minute and immediately skinned two defenders before setting up a sitter. In a rare start, Obertan featured against Wolves in United's next match, playing for 70 minutes in a game United comfortably won with their best attacking six.

Zoran Tosic, a natural left-winger, has started all of none, despite being the only natural left-footed attacker in the squad not named Patty Evra—United's best offender this season..

Over many reserve games, and throughout few first-team appearances, Tosic did very little wrong, and looked spritely, eager to pass and play, and willing to take on defenders. Sadly, he wasn't even included in United's Champions League squad this year.

Either player, opposite Antonio Valencia, help provide the needed balance to their sputtering attack. And they could be rotated with each-other to prevent overburden.

They're both young, and surely shouldn't be thrust into first-team starts consistently, or perpetually, like Wayne Rooney, who's featured every game for Untied this term.

But just because they are young and yet to fill into their bodies, yet to fulfill their potential, doesn't mean they must be coddled with pussyfeet, especially during a time when their attack must relieve pressure on an ailing defense.

Alex Ferguson has done a lot right in his career, enough to be remembered as one of the greatest managers ever.

But, to think he is above changing, or thinking outside of his carefully constructed box, means he will not continue to evolve as a manager, a condition some of his young wingers are currently suffering, through non-use, as players.

Rooney needs a rest

2009-12-24T12:57:00.001-08:00

Like his manager, Wayne Rooney is a publicly revered sportsman, generally beyond reproach from the English media.

Despite not being the best player in the England side next to a Gerrard or Lampard, he is the most marketable, and as such, World Cup aspirations are almost solely entrusted upon his swarthy shoulders.

Rooney’s quality is often described in intangible terms. But, the heart and drive which fulfill his forced legend are often exaggerated in masking of his attacking inefficiencies. Never able to beat defenders, and too inept to create space for himself, Rooney is ineffective when off-form or exhausted.

Such is now the case. He has started every United premiership match this season, and it shows.

Lately, besides not threatening defenses at all, the Englishman doesn’t even have the engine upon which his numerous proponents can hang their hats. At least when he wasn’t passing, dribbling, or shooting well, he would track back and get stuck in, giving reason behind the repetitive chants of his name.

But, currently, a knackered Rooney can do little to achieve space or use it. Even his passing—his supposed offensive hallmark—has been askew in his last few appearances.

This is compounded by a natural inability to use skill or trickery to beat defenders, which is compounded further by a general disinclination to dribble to his left. Despite having a strong (if not especially accurate) shot, ultimately, what you have is an overrated, overused striker.

It's important to remember there hasn't been an offseason yet in Rooney's reign at United where he wasn't vicariously expected to evolve into the cabal of footballing elite.

For two seasons prior, Rooney often partnered Carlos Tevez, a player very smilar to himself. Each season, Tevez arguably outplayed the Englishman. Rooney started this season well, partnering splendidly with Dimitar Berbatov, with pundits expecting the Englishman's evolution into the world-class in the Post-Ronaldo era.

Halfway through another season, it remains a hope unrealized.

For some reason, his manager is inclined to play him every match, without any heed to mental or physical exhaustion. Instead of pairing Owen, Macheda, or Wellbeck with the necessary Berbatov, Ferguson chooses instead to employ Rooney awkwardly with the aforementioned three, instead of granting an occasional, needed break.

With a cluttered holiday fixture list forthcoming, the perfect time for a Rooney rest may have come and gone, but the opportunity remains rife for Ferguson to remind Rooney that he is not irreplaceable, and must continue to work in training to achieve his growth, without featuring perfunctorily every match.

When players like Peter Crouch, Jermain Defoe, Gabriel Agbhonlahor, and Bobby Zamora are proving more creative, effective, and predatory in the top flight than Rooney, a rest and reapplication are surely required for the statured English talisman.

If complacency weren't a feature of Ferguson himself, perhaps Rooney would be employed in a role he naturally fits: as a central midfielder, where his passing, strength, engine, and tendency to drop into the pocket to instigate play would be better utilized.

Rooney has potential. But his inability to evolve into a more balanced player, plugging the holes in his incomplete arsenal, means his growth has been deliberate and ordinary, instead of meteoric.

He watched Ronaldo surpass him in almost every category. Then he watched him leave.

Yet Rooney remains. And he remains just Rooney; instead of something more he could have been, he's becoming something less; complacent a world star, never to become world-class.

Berba must start

2009-12-24T12:57:00.000-08:00

In regards to United’s relative woes, Alex Ferguson would like everyone to throw up their hands and blame the extensive injuries to his back-line, just like he does.

But perhaps the most bemusing aspect of United’s current descent is the Scotsman’s bewildering usage of his most expensive player, striker Dimitar Berbatov.

Ferguson said in early December that he was “completely satisfied” with the former Bayer Leverkusen striker, and immediately continued to only play him sporadically.

The mysterious playmaker returned from a month-long injury absence in late November, and was featured as an unused substitute against bottom-dwellers Portsmouth.

He started United’s next match against Tottenham, essentially running the game in a comfortable victory. Instead of starting United’s next match at West Ham, Berbatov came off the bench in the 67th minute only after stasis was removed by long-range strikes from midfielders Paul Scholes and Darron Gibson.

United’s next match was a dour home loss to Aston Villa. Ferguson started a 4-5-1 formation, with a mentally and physically exhausted Rooney again expected to succeed up front, alone, as he rarely does. Ferguson pressed the panic button in the 62nd minute, sending Berbatov into the fray to unlock a Villa defense already well retreated within itself.

In their next match, it seemed like the Scotsman begrudgingly realized his best attacking six. Berbatov and Rooney were paired up top—a combination bloomed this year and last—with dynamic, balanced wing support from a rare Obertan start across from Valencia.

Though United, or any of the aforementioned attackers, didn’t play their best, they walked away three goals to the good.

In United’s next and latest game, Ferguson made one of his most egregious tactical mistakes in recent memory. Starting a nebulous 3-5-2 formation, the legendary manager put a fatigued Rooney up top with an unfit Owen, a like-for-like pairing, with no guile, incision, or aerial presence.

Once again, Ferguson teetered and desperately brought in Berbatov after 52 minutes, down two goals, and once again, it was too late for United, who were shutout 3-0.

Simply put, United are 11-1-1 this season in games Berbatov starts. With Scholes and Giggs on the wane, and Ronaldo in foreign shores, the graceful striker is United’s most creative player. Hell, he’s one of the most creative players in the world; largely why United paid such an exorbitant sum for him.

Granted, he’s not perfect. His laconic style is personal, but, there are often times he could hustle more into goal-scoring positions, instead of shrugging his shoulders, almost self-congratulatory, and maundering slowly forward after he’s sent in a splitting through-ball.

However, his ability to cast off defenders and retain possession is absolutely world-class. His vision and passing are outstanding; better than Rooney’s. He holds and shuttles the ball intelligently, seemingly with little effort. His close ball control, again, is unparalleled. His volleying technique—magnificent.

Unfortunately for Berba, his inimitable style beguiles onlookers just as it does defenders, making him one of the most opinion-dividing stars in the world football. But Berbatov is the truth. His play doesn't lie, it only confuses.

He can’t really seem to get a game, though, while his manager strangely tinkers with new formations. Omnipresent in these formations, though, is Rooney, who does far less to create and produce goals, even though his actual goal tally this term is markedly higher than the Bulgarian’s—mostly tap-ins with four penalty conversions.

Rooney doesn’t create goals exceptionally well, but he does finish goals, albeit not at the frequency of more predatory strikers. Berbatov is not a natural predator, but creates goals better than Rooney, other forwards and most attacking central midfielders in Europe.

Their combination to start the season was and remains Ferguson's best option, short of pairing Berbatov with Macheda and pushing Rooney into center midfield.

But now Rooney is tired, Berbatov can’t get a start, and United are playing their worst football this season.

Ferguson can’t blame all that on injuries, and nor should you.

Ferguson minus plot equals United

2009-12-13T21:03:00.000-08:00

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson again complained about not being granted enough injury time, but his tactics throughout the match Saturday are what sent United packing.

Apparently believing the hype of certain outlying, individual performances over the past few weeks saw Ferguson start the home match against mid-table Aston Villa with an overly cautious 4-5-1 approach, with several players again expected to play better than they generally are.

Ferguson believed a starting eleven featuring Wayne Rooney uncomfortably alone up top, Ryan Giggs as the central, creative driver, with only Valencia and the Ji-Sung Park to overlap would be enough to beat Brad Friedel, arguably the best goalkeeper in the top flight over the last decade.

But the manager's reliance on Giggs and Rooney as the soure for impetus and innovation going forward indicates as much of his crooked perception in his own player form as bringing on Michael Owen—for Rooney—when United desperately needed a goal.

The stubborn persistence of this tactic employed will see United lose out to Chelsea for this seasons' EPL crown as most followers already predict.

The inoften times Giggs unlocks a defense or confuses a defender are happily exaggerated in the general public, leading to a surprising growth in legend for the Welshman over the past few seasons.

But his growth is mainly in legend only, for his inability to boss games, much less hold on to the ball consistently or unlock defenses, are eagerly overlooked for the outlying occurrences of any successes.

Wayne Rooney, by this account, is having another inconsistent season fluctuating from mediocre to only above average. Despite the incessant hype and world-wide adoration from the casualist of fans, his most explosive years in the top flight trace back to wearing a blue shirt, or in his earliest United campaigns.

Then he wasn't robotically trained to pickup the ball left of center, inevitably going to his right, without faking or attempting any sort of guile, to pass square or backwards.

Rooney past used to duck his shoulder, shrug off defenders, and both belt and curl shots from range past pony-tailed goalkeepers. But in the Youtube era, his reputation precedes him each match, and defenders know his disinclination to attack them head-on, use his left foot, or dribble to his left side.

Simply put, when a forward players' greatest asset is his penchant for tracking back, or the intangible "heart" he posesses, there is quality and potential being masked and left wanting.

There's less doubt that Rooney can be more than a serviceable striker for a perennial global top-five club, but certainly not playing alone up top in a pedestrian formation formation usually reserved for away matches at Europe's continental giants.

Ferguson's player selection didn't help Rooney's or United's cause.

Although fully fit, Dimitar Berbatov was left on the bench, despite having recovered from a knee injury that interrupted a run of fine form for the Bulgarian. Ferguson said recently that he was "completely satisfied" with the classy linchpin, but his selection doesn't mirror his spoken platitudes.

Berba returned from injury Nov. 28 against Portsmouth as an unused substitute. He then started the following match, running the game against Tottenham for the first 60 minutes, before inexplicably only appearing as a sub in the last two matches.

Without Ronaldo to beat defenders and create space, United need their best creative players in their spine, and Berbatov has proven this year to be their absolute best in that regard.

The United head coach also optioned Park Ji-Sung on the wing across from Antonio Valencia, who, despite improving, is consistently expected to do too much going forward.

But most of Park's value to United went awash when Ronaldo left. The Korean's purpose at the club was to defend as much as Ronaldo attacked, compensating for the void left by the former Ballon d'Or winner whenever he burst forward.

Without such an obstensible attacking winger to foil, there's no real reason for the clumsy but tenacious Park to be gifted a start in a side gravely lacking in verve. Like a poor man's Rooney, Park's best quality is his engine and back-tracking, useful attributes--when you need them.

The complete exclusion of the spider Gabirel Obertan, who has only impressed in his spotty performances this season, shows a crotchety reluctance by Ferguson to give the young, dynamic attacker a starting berth, a philosophy contrary to the manager's supposed motus operandum as a promoter of younger talent.

And when it all went wrong Saturday night, the knighted gaffer continued to err in reason. Instead of finally and mercifully pairing Rooney and Berbatov together to field his most attacking, flowing side, duly assuaging the audience's expectation for enterprising football at Old Trafford, Sir Alex replaced Rooney with Owen.

But despite what recent headlines read, a happenstance hat-trick in a European rubber match has not warped Owen back to 1998 as a prime finisher and integral ingredient in the England national team.

Owen was not instantly restored to his former self after finishing thrice against Wolfsburg, and until he consistently resembles a predator, he can't be expected to patch over his manager's tactical mistakes, saving matches after they're already lost.

If he is to be the ace in the hole for United's current campaign, Alex Ferguson is clearly believing too much of what he's been reading.

The romantic headlines United's attackers garner are reflective more of each's inconsistency then they are a trustworthy expectation of form throughout the year.

Without allowing Berbatov to dictate play from the beginning, playing 4-4-2, or letting starlets like Obertan or Tosic grow by fire and balance a void for originality in the center, needless setbacks against lesser sides will continue to mar a sub-par year for United.

Bifurcate

2009-12-03T21:12:00.000-08:00

It's refreshing to watch United win without Rooney or Giggs, if only to be spared the fawning ballyhoo they receive following a game they even only marginally influence.

Such was the case midweek in the Carling Cup against Tottenham, when a youthful United side without the two superstars beat Spurs old-fashionedly, with stout defense, concise passing, and a rampaging midfield, with a dose of class from Berbatov up top.

Though Darron Gibson got all the headlines, more importantly, it was a team performance in a match containing flow, reciprocity, and good spirit, all encouraged by a laisse-faire approach in an excellent showing from referee Mark Clattenburg.

Last weekend, though, the media's two favorite British players were once again forcedly elevated to Pantheon status, glossing over what was otherwise a pretty poor display from the Manchester reds at home to Portsmouth.

A frustratingly tentative United side could have gone into the tunnel at half-time down if not for Pompey's abysmal finishing and Kuszczak's Brobdingnagian goalkeeping.

Almost immediately after the intermission, United scored their only goal from open play to seize and keep the numerical advantage. The best pass of the move was from Fletcher forward to Giggs, who in turn played forward deftly—but simply—to Rooney who finished neatly—but somewhat fortuitously—under the onrushing goalie.

The floodgates were opened. United poured through. When the rainclouds cleared, the scoreboard read 4-1. But the truth was not alone constructed by digits.

The two players who appeared most on the scoresheet at match end—Rooney and Giggs, with four goals and an assist between them—were actually two of the worst players in red, especially for the first half.

Rooney was quiet and unproductive, maundering, producing no inspiration, turning past all of zero defenders. Giggs was misplacing passes left and right, perfunctorily getting the ball stolen from his slight frame and slowing feet, out-swinging corner kicks fruitlessly.

Only Giggs was marginally better in the second half from open play. Pompey were stretched, knackered, and mentally beaten. Only then did the Welshman produce two good passes which, along with his late free-kick and assist, somehow ended up representing his whole performance.

Lost to selective memory are all the misplaced touches, poor decisions, and lack of physicality that really comprise most of Giggs' forays these days. Lost to the greater good is each instance Rooney can't hold off, turn past, or drive through defenders, drifts completely out of influence, or gets caught offside needlessly.

It's not that good players, on even great days, do everything perfectly. But when they weren't having even a good day, they should be credited as such, without special weight given to either the exceptional few acts of quality, or a serendipitous goal return.

To be fair, whether it's Ryan Giggs or Randy Couture, aging athletes are easy to get behind. But at least in the mixed martial arts world, where discourse is fueled and driven by a youthful Internet community's online forums—not in newspapers or megasites—the latters' real stature is known self-evidently as merely entertaining, not competitively qualitative.

In football, though, a wishful perception recycled and promoted repeatedly becomes reality.

Goal.com editorialized Rooney's performance as such: "His every flick was delightful, shooting exceptional and link-up play effortless. Without the United No. 10, the fires of the comeback would have been impossible to stoke."

Such vivid imagery. The writer added in the player ratings, "[Rooney] finished all his chances superbly and didn't give the Pompey center-backs a moment's rest." Both the elder Welshman and the balding scouser received a nine rating, while players who actually played better , like Kusack, Valencia, Fletcher, and even Scholes, had lesser marks.

You wonder if the writers are sponsored by the FA and England's 2018 World Cup campaign, or just caught up, like most others, in cultivated group-think, consuming and fostering the Rooney brand.

On Match of the Day , the dim Alan Shearer thought Giggs was "absolutely sensational," literally highlighting Giggs' only positive moves on the 90 minutes as justification. Mark Lawrenson incorrectly added "Giggs and Rooney were difficult to play against today" before Gary Linekar obligatorily and needlessly concluded "as they so often are."

It can be easy to get caught up in the hype and romance. But football should be judged where it's played, beneath the layer of hope-fulfillment and emotion, beneath the artificial film of production aesthetics and commentary. It's during those 90 minutes where players' quality is expressed, not in the arbitrary sensationalism written afterwards.

Though Rooney is at times better than most players, he is not yet in the world class, and it appears it never will be without developing his left foot and dribbling.

Giggs is mostly unable to cope or create against midfields better than the mediocre majoity in the incongruous Premier League.

But, just as Rooney and Giggs were cultivated as all-beating heroes last weekend, Gibson took home the crown after belting two wicked goals Tuesday against Spurs.

Several pundits likened him to Roy Keane, apparently because they're each Irish, because the United player most emulating Keano on the pitch is actually Scottish.

Goal.com correspondingly titled their United-Spurs match report "A Star is Born." It's click-worthy, but really, it's stretching. A following editorial reads "Darron Gibson Could Be the New Frank Lampard at Jose Mourniho's United." Now that's definitely a shameless combination of hyperbole and whimsy.

But now that we're reading, if we want ripped abs in 40 days, we might think about clicking on that banner ad...

Robbie Keane would have done the same

2009-11-20T18:19:00.001-08:00

More than enough has been written about the unfortunate turn-of-events when France advanced to the 2010 World Cup at Ireland's behest.

Though Thierry Henry is the culprit, he should not become a villain, nor have his reputation tarnished by what will surely become the omnipresent fine print in his character bio forever.

First, the ball hit his hand. Then he knowingly moved hand to ball, effectively trapping prior to crossing. This reaction is the same most other players would have had in extra-time for a crucial World Cup qualifier.

As a player, you do it instinctively. It's not conscious. But in the milliseconds after the act, you assume to be caught, penalized, and possibly booked.

Unfortunately for the Irish, and fortunately for the French, he wasn't.

But his blink decision to handle the ball is the same any other player would have, whether they're honest English or deceitful French. There is no one player of the top 30 in the world that haven't purposefully handled a ball, or fallen over easily. Too much is at stake to do otherwise.

Henry is certainly culpable, and he was in no way honest. But language like "disgraceful" and "specialist cheat" are hyperbolic at best.

The Frenchman's post-mortem comments probably could have been nobler. Though he stated that he handled the ball, he didn't absolve himself of guilt. Nor was he proving skeptics correct; he obviously handled it, purposefully, and twice, and could not have hid that fact. Owning up was par for the course.

Only after FIFA rejected the FAI's request for a replay did Henry pipe up with, "Of course the fairest solution would be to replay the game but it is not in my control.'' Saying something like that before FIFA's decision would have showed some more gall and class.

But, regardless of those particulars, the unfortunate result is that Ireland misses out on the World Cup. Also, all the money commensurate, while Henry suffers lasting ignominy for what would have otherwise been a brilliant career.

Who's to blame, then? Irishman Roy Keane grinds his ax such: "I'd focus on why they didn't clear (the free-kick). How can you let the ball bounce in your six-yard box? How can you let Thierry Henry get goal-side of you? If the ball goes into the six-yard box, where the hell is my goalkeeper?"

But accountability is passe. Should the match officials be blamed? Is FIFA's structure at fault? Does the game need television replay?

It'd be fruitless to blame the match officials. The mass of players prohibited the referee from seeing the infringement. Even if he had been closer, and had a clear view of Henry, he'd have only seen the French striker's back.

However, there is certainly cause for having four line judges at a match of this caliber, when there are millions of dollars at stake, as well as the pride of a nation. A third and fourth line judge would cover more viewing angles on the field.

But television replay in the game would detract from the beauty of football, which is found in its subjectivity and continuity of play. American sports suffer from constant stoppages and TV time outs, which detracts casual fans not bred in the sport.

It's too bad to have to say this, but it all comes down to luck, or a lack of it. Apparently even the luck of the Irish has no bias, just like the luck of everyone else. All sides find themselves at the receiving end, both from the good and bad variety, at varying times and to varying degrees.

It all averages out, more or less, and may that never change.

Do the Irish deserve to be at the World Cup? No. They lost to France. Paul McShane should have cleared that ball instead of letting it bounce to Henry.

Does Henry deserve to be forever remembered a cheat and a liar? No. He did what many other players do and have done since the game was invented, which is all we ask of them: use trained instincts to try and win football matches.

Evans and Vidic, together forever

2009-11-20T12:09:00.000-08:00

Most casual observers of Premier League football attribute Manchester United's trilogy of consecutive championships to be largely based on an ingredient no longer present: Cristiano Ronaldo.

But it's intellectual evasion to simply attribute anything to just one factor. The current Galactico's emergence into the world class certainly paralleled United's resurgence against what was Chelsea's brief dominance of the top division, but his influence was not absolute.

Often overlooked—as defenders are—was the capturing of Patty Evra and especially Nemanja Vidic in January of 2006.

Despite each taking time to acclimate to the British game, both Evra's swinging wingplay and particularly Vidic's gorilla mentality provided the foundation for players like Ronaldo to get forward with complete abandon.

Then United started winning titles again.

If that trend is to continue, it'll likely be predicated on defense again. United are famously without CR7 and conspicuously without any great creative threat in his absence.

Unable to rely on that big, red button, the great Ronaldo emergency pressure valve, activated after each successful defense, launching marauding counter-attacks, now United are stagnant getting down the field.

Often Wayne Rooney drops deep, sensing need, to spray the ball to the right, and if a cross comes in, it's only Dimitar Berbatov in the middle to fend for himself. Or vice versa, as Berbatov links play, leaving Rooney's considerable head—but small stature—in the center alone.

When once they sprang forward, they now progress more deliberately, making their attack less incisive, their defense more important.

As such, any success in Mancunian parts will be founded again upon a murderin' Vidic with his new partner Jonny Evans.

Rio Ferdinand is mercifully taking ample time to tend to his injuries. He can afford to, already cemented in Fabio Capello's England plans. Therefore Evans has at least two months of consistent football ahead of him.

In the games he's earned this season and last, the Northern Irishman has proven more than willing and capable to fill Vidic's position in the left of central defense. The right-footed Vidic actually seems more comfortable in Ferdinand's vacated position to the right of Evans.

Just a fortnight ago, against Didier Drogba—formerly Vidic's favored nemesis—Evans cheekily and knowingly stamped the Ivorian's chest in a pugnacious display which brought joy to anyone rooting red, as Vidic himself chuckled on the sideline while Drogba writhed epileptically.

It's the same physical, simple-minded approach that Vidic himself brought to the club in 2007 which perpetuated what is now a decade-long dynasty for Man United.

Each player will have a chance to put their head in where it hurts when they greedily welcome the blue-collar Everton to Old Trafford on Saturday. For Evans, it begins what should be a long run of games alongside the fan-favored Serbian.

If Jonny Evans continues to impress fans, pundits, and his manager, while causing our rivals' show ponies to spasm comically, Ferdinand might not be—nor should be—featuring even into the new year, or even well beyond.

Owen Hargreaves and the United Midfield

2009-11-12T12:08:00.000-08:00

When Owen Hargreaves finally returns from injury, in what may be his last chance to achieve his prime, United manager Alex Ferguson can again field his strongest midfield.

But the Englishman, so influential in United's 2008 European double-winning season, is not the only significant addition required to create United's most balanced side.

In a 4-5-1, Ferguson's preferred—though not always proven—formation in Europe and major domestic matches, Hargreaves and Fletcher are a staple. In a 4-4-2, the two comprise the ideal pairing, though it could be debatable.

If only Giggs and Scholes weren't solely effective against lesser quality midfields. Psychologically and physically, against sides like Chelsea, Arsenal, Man City, and further at Inter, Barcelona, or Madrid, United will need Owen Hargreaves and Darren Fletcher to partner in 4-4-2.

Such a pairing, going forward, isn't disimiliar to a central pairing of Carrick with either player, but both Fletcher and Hargreaves bring more energy, truculence, and consequently control to the middle.

Ultimately, Giggs or Scholes could still feature in a five-manned midfield, or if Hargreaves has to slot in at right-back, partner Fletcher in the middle. With the Canadian-born Englishman back in the fold, at no point should Carrick's name appear in any ideal starting eleven.

However, as with any central pairing not containing Scholes or even Giggs, this leaves a need to attack and counter through their wings. The imbalance created by having two holding midfielders can be compensated by faster, more creative wingplay.

The left wing has been a void this season. The star-crossed Nani continues to waste his potential. His decision-making hasn't improved, despite being given more than enough time on the field to grow. He stops when he should start, and dribbles when he should pass. He has no composure. He defines inconsistency. He's done.

United's right flank is in somewhat better shape. Serviceable but not particularly exciting, Antonio Valencia can supply crosses regularly, but he almost always dribbles to his right, making it increasingly predictable for defenders to smother.

Furthermore, if United aren't on the counter, the opposing team generally has plenty of bodies in the middle, which isn't really ideal with usually just Rooney with Berbatov in heading positions.

A team with two such skillful forwards would benefit more from a counterattacking philosophy, wingers going past and through defenders at pace or playing off Berbatov to eventually feed a darting Rooney.

Gabriel Obertan has captured the imagination of United faithful with his pace and naivete. As such, the French prospect is not only an obvious (and merciful) replacement for the egregious Nani, but a feasible alternative to Valencia.

Naturally right-footed, the French prospect can cut in effectively from the left, a-la Ronaldo, or drive down the right, with more guile and abandon than the straightforward Ecuadorian.

When Obertan is not opposite Valencia, Zoran Tosic is the man to drive past defenders, deliver set pieces, and provide a natural width most teams lack and crave.

However, Alex Ferguson is, so far, willing to give Tosic the consistent run-out he deserves. Whether or not the Serbian was bought with fellow midfielder Adam Llajc simply to bring security or comfort to Nemanja Vidic, he's proven in few chances that he's a quick and tidy player.

At 22, Tosic may have less gusto than a similarly aged Giggs, but there's no reason he can't fulfill the same classic left-winger mold, in a natural role every team craves, for the next many years in Manchester.

If only his crotchety manager agreed. But Ferguson precluded the Serb from United's European squad this year, making the youngster's maturation dependent on his inclusion in United's domestic games this season.

With a combination of Obertan, Tosic, and Valencia, United's wings are very dynamic. Hargreaves and Fletcher can gamely control the middle while Tosic, in his natural position, provides balance and flare as Obertan or Valencia slice in from the right, supplying Berbatov to pivot and create for Rooney running behind defenses.

As stated, Scholes and Giggs can still contribute in the center, albeit sparingly and against the right opponents.

But just because Ronaldo is plying his trade in Madrid doesn't mean United can't, or shouldn't, continue to feature wingplay, particularly on the counter, and especially since a marque creative midfielder wasn't sought in the summer transfer window.

And without a Wesley Sneidjer or Yoann Gourcuff to partner world-beater Fletcher in the middle, Ferguson will need to trust both Hargreaves and his two young wingers if United are to regain their attacking acumen and compete with Arsenal and Chelsea throughout the season.

United can look ahead from Chelsea loss

2009-11-09T12:06:00.000-08:00

As mostly everyone knows by now, Man United lost 1-0 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge Sunday after John Terry scored a controversial goal in the 76th minute.

Different articles on different sites will all tell you more or less the same thing: United had several major decisions go against them and probably didn't deserve to lose.

Maybe United deserved a point. But, without Berbatov to link chains in the middle, and with a midfield containing three holding players, with Ryan Giggs unable to create anything against Chelsea's athletic midfield, the Reds weren’t likely to score and didn’t have many chances to.

But now that it's behind United and its fans, it doesn't really seem to matter.

Last season, United played Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool all away in the first half of the campaign en route to their domestic double.

This term, their two toughest fixtures of the season—away to Anfield and at Chelsea—are again already behind them, with the corresponding reverse fixtures coming at home in the second half of the season.

After 12 matches last year, United were eight points adrift of Chelsea. After Sunday's loss, they stand only five points behind.

It’s these data points that save us pseudo-neutrals from having to read any doom-and-gloom declarations by the “anything but United” contingent or sourpuss United fans.

Hell, the Red Devils couldn’t have played much better against Chelsea barring a few finishes being just slightly more calibrated. Of course, they could have made much better measure of themselves against Liverpool three weeks ago when they lacked all composure and lost 2-0 after Vidic was sent off—again.

In hindsight, though, United's loss to Liverpool can be promoted from "embarrassing" to "fluky," as Liverpool plummets down the table—now 12 points behind Chelsea—and are essentially out of Europe.

So, if there was any team to play well against, it was Chelsea. They're the only likely competition for a long title race which, as of Sunday, unofficially began.

And just as interest piques, so too it wanes; two weeks of friendly international matches now interrupt the narcotic transmission of competitive continuity.

But Alex Ferguson's men can hang their hats during their vacation, knowing they'll need to put them firmly back on—Draper-esque—as they embark on a long winning streak all their fans now demand.

Fletcher the catalyst for the future

2009-09-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

It was always going to be a tense year for United and its fans.

The situation is distinctly lose-win: go trophy-less with an aging, crotchety Alex Ferguson who failed to replace Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence, or win the EPL or the Champions League led by the wily, sagacious manager who proved doubters—fans among them—wrong again.

Though early, there are signs to where United’s season might go, and some point to Ferguson’s blushes being saved by his favored Scottish midfielder Darren Fletcher.

Next to Nemanja Vidic, Fletcher was United’s most capable player last season. However, he was still an unsung man coming into this season. Plaudits and pundits hailed Wayne Rooney’s imminent evolution into the world-class as being the necessary ingredient to mask losing Ronaldo's influence.

Thus far, though Rooney’s bagged goals, Fletcher has been United’s best player.

He tackled with real abandon in United’s four top-flight wins, fulfilling the necessary “anti-football” role in the middle of the park.

With his bunker mentality, the Scottish captain is quickly becoming a fan favorite after several years being a fringe player.

His passing ability and decision-making are on par with Michael Carrick’s, despite it being the Englishman’s supposed trademark.

Carrick also occupies a holding position, but out of complacency not virtue. He doesn't get forward because he shouldn't, nor because he's busy doing a fantastic job tackling. It's his natural playing style, rationalized as "relaxed" and hyperbolized as "composed", without bottle, passion, and drive.

Owen Hargreaves will likely be joining Fletcher in the middle of a five-man midfield for European ties. His influence during the double-winning campaign in 2007-2008 saw him also fill in seemlessly at right-back.

At the back, Ben Foster has pleasantly proved to be capably athletic in goal. He hasn’t had enough games to be England’s clear No. 1, but his performances so far deserve him United’s first jersey, whether Van der Sar is healthy or not.

Jonny Evans continues to grow and may now, at just 21, be one of the top ten center backs in England. Vidic has maintained his appetite for headers and bloodying sport despite moving to right center-back. Outside, Patty Evra has been United’s most dangerous attacker, overlapping with pace and trickery, swinging crosses and winning corner kicks.

United’s wings are, uncharacteristically, their weakest position this season.

Antonio Valencia has shown pace, but his approach to wing play is one-dimensional. Nani still holds on to the ball far too long and makes peculiar decisions when and where to pass.

Zoran Tosic should feature when Ryan Giggs wanes, but his manager shows no inclination to play him, so perhaps new-boy Gabriel Obertan will provide the needed natural width on United's left side throughout the season's run-out.

Ji-Sung Park was the perfect foil for United's former number seven. Ronaldo had licence to follow his every whim while Park tracked back against opposing wingers. But with a dearth of creativity across the middle he is likely to feature less prominently this season.

Going further forward, strikers like Fernando Macheda or Danny Wellbeck, though tipped for emergence in preseason, have yet to feature with Michael Owen occupying the third-striker role. But when the former Liverpool favorite gets injured, influence from either youngster may be desired and required.

Elsewise, an in-form Rooney, though not a world-beater, is a top-five Premier League forward, as well as Berbatov, who pivots play from midfield onwards with a very personal class.

Ultimately, though, any success Manchester United enjoy will again be predicated on their defense and who is anchored in front of it.

If Hargreaves or Fletcher can reinforce the back line, and United find enough invention going forward through Paul Scholes, Rooney, and the inimitable Berbatov, they will contend at home and abroad. But if Sir Alex plans on tipping Ryan Giggs for PFA Player of the Year again this term it’s going to be a very long season.

With the Portugeuse superstar now in Madrid, at least United are no longer the most fashionable side in Europe, which should be a welcome respite for its most ardent fans.

The odds are not with them this year, but the pressure is still on the aging Ferguson to again revamp his side now in the post-Ronaldo era.