Authors: Doron, Nik and Rob

Follow Doron, Nik and Rob on Twitter

Here’s installment number five of the “Things” column. Musings this week are brought to you as ever by Nik, Doron and Rob along with Anam from the excellent Arsenal Column who’s written about on Rooney. Boomshakalaka!

Former teenage prodigy needs to move again?! (by Doron)

Victor Moses shot to prominence as part of a group of talented youngsters at Crystal Palace – Clyne, Bostock and Scannell being the others. He was in the Palace first team from just before his 17th birthday and whilst he’d often impress in patches, he could never hold a regular starting spot – which of course was fine as he was just a teenager.

His move to Wigan in January 2010 was probably well-timed. He’d just been on a goalscoring run for Palace and would be involved in Wigan’s first team as much as he was at Palace. Whilst Martinez and Wigan attempt to play passing, attacking football, they’re not a particularly progressive team. Wigan are unlikely to ever advance much beyond the relegation zone and more often than not, are defending more than attacking.

In hindsight, Premier League football having just turned 19 sounds like a good idea but one has to wonder whether Victor’s ability has improved on the expected trajectory. Usually he’s used wide and sometimes through the middle as a striker – the lack of a settled position that truly suits him seems to be an issue. I think he’d be best used wide in a front three, a bit like Sturridge at Chelsea.

With Wigan battling against relegation, Moses issued a reminder of why he was so highly coveted as a teen – his composure and finish away at Norwich on Sunday was superb and got me thinking. He’s been involved in almost every league game for Wigan this year as well as being capped by Nigeria; yet, the hype around him seems to have dissipated.

I wonder if this summer is the time for him to move on again – to a better team. Wigan’s likely relegation won’t help his progression; surrounded by better players who are in possession more than Wigan may well benefit him. The question is, who’d make that gamble?! Villa, Swansea, Everton? Weird as it sounds, maybe even Arsenal? Either way, I’ve come to the conclusion he needs to move and get back onto the path he was on a few years ago.

The Dave, Rio and Jonny Show (by Rob)

United are finally back on top of the league, after spending approximately 23,791 weeks hot on City’s heels. The run-in has gotten off to a good start, and we’re starting to hear lots about ‘squeaky bums’ – proctologist fodder – and ‘every game being a cup final’ – glee for knockoff trophy manufacturers, Flava Flav, and hopefully this guy – all that means that the teams at the top will be under huge pressure, will probably play a few bad games, and will have to ‘win ugly’ a number of times in order to win the league*.

As any hackneyed American sports commentator can tell you, the key to winning championships is a good defence. This isn’t actually true, but having a good defence certainly helps. Since the long-term injury to Vidic, United have spent months hoping and searching and groping** for a solid goalkeeper and centre-back combination, to add some solidity to the backline. Finally, it seems like we’ve found it, as David de Gea, Rio Ferdinand and longtime fans’ favourite Jonny Evans have been superb in recent weeks.

Since the injury to Anders Lindegaard, Big Dave has looked like a man transformed. We all know about the brilliant saves he’s been pulling off practically every game. But look at how much more confident and commanding he looks when coming out for crosses, or barking instructions to the defence. He’s got lots more improvement still to do, but what a long way he’s come in 7 months. A scary thought: despite the beard, he’s only 21.

We all know what Rio’s capable of, and he’s adapted his game really well, using his positioning and reading of the game to make up for his new physical limitations. The revelation of the season, though, has been Jonny Evans. On either side of the City defeat – where he was unfairly scapegoated – Jonny has been fantastic, not just getting stuck in with great tackles, blocks and interceptions, but in supporting the attack by making smart forward runs and exhibiting his vastly improved ability on the ball. Even in the sound defeat against Athletic Bilbao, he had an excellent game while all around him was crumbling. In short, it’s been a pleasure to watch him play recently, and he’s arguably been the standout under-25 defender in Europe in 2011-12. The trio were rock-solid again at the weekend vs. West Brom.

We can only hope that this outstanding combination stays fit until the end of the season. Once it does, we’ve got every chance to win the league.

* – Some snarky observers would suggest that United have been ‘winning ugly’ all season. To which my response comes in two parts. 1: No they haven’t. 2: Look at this picture of Luis Suarez.

** Apologies if I’ve made the team sound like a pervy old man on a train.

Sagna rekindles Walcott flame – and Arsenal’s right (by Nik)

It was only the start of last month that Arsenal appeared to be staring into the abyss (3 straight league defeats and a 4-0 pasting in the San Siro), and worryingly, were completely devoid of ideas and/ or fluency on their right side. Sagna was missing through injury, and Walcott, though tirelessly working the flank, had seemingly forgotten how to ply his trade on the right wing. On the left, Arsenal’s approach was working with greater efficiency, with Gibbs’ support (and Santon before him) and Arshavin’s inconsistency allowing Oxlade-Chamberlain to flourish; despite results remaining poor. Sagna’s return from injury in the goalless draw versus Bolton has re-invigorated Walcott, and with it, Arsenal’s form. Since then, the North London side have won five straight games – the last four of which have been won having conceded the first goal in the game – scoring 18 goals in the process. Walcott’s contribution has been exceptional, with 3 assists versus Blackburn; 2 (essentially) versus Newcastle and scoring 2 goals versus London rivals, Tottenham. Sagna has played more than a supporting role, always an out-ball on the overlap or making a decoy run inside, he too has chipped in with a couple of assists, most notably versus Liverpool at Anfield with a super cross for van Persie. More, his defensive acumen and ability to intercept danger with speed has allowed for a more cohesive back four unit (Wenger tried and failed to fill the gap with four separate players), injecting a much needed confidence boost in defence and Walcott ahead of him. Arsenal have benefited in a number of ways of late, not least Rosicky’s return to something like the player he was at Dortmund; Song’s advanced role and the Koscielny-Vermaelen partnership. But Sagna’s return has arguably had the greater effect. Last night, Gary Neville picked out an interesting statistic at half-time, telling us how Sagna and Walcott had nearly three times as many touches as Gibbs and Oxlade-Chamberlain; Santon was duly substituted at half-time for Perch, but Arsenal continued to attack that zone given the neat interchange on the right – and were subsequently rewarded late on when yet again the goal was assisted from this side.

Have Fluminense found Conca’s successor? (by Doron)

I’ve always enjoyed watching Brazilian football – so many technical and attacking players who want to try and entertain on the same pitch. Ever since word broke about the signing of the Da Silva twins from Fluminense I’ve had a bit of a soft spot for the club and followed their progress closely; introducing me to Dario Conca.

Conca quickly became one of my favourite players. Playing anywhere he fancied in the middle he was the playmaker and the heartbeat of the side for the best part of three years. His appreciation of space in terms of both finding it himself and finding it with his passing was second to none in the league. His left foot was capable of both the most deft touches and thunderous drives.

His transfer in July 2011 to Guangzhou Evergrande in China came as a surprise – at 28 he was unlikely to move to Europe but was getting somewhat restless at Fluzão. Mind you, when you consider that Guangzhou made him the third highest paid player in the world, you can’t blame him for moving. Already his turn of acceleration, trickery and movement have seen him average nearly a goal a game in China.

For Fluminense though they had a problem – replacing the guy who made their team tick. Maybe though, they’ve now found the solution – Wellington Nem. Impressively, Wellington is even shorter than Conca (who’s only 5ft 5) and despite playing slightly wider than Conca it appears that he’s become the go-to man for Flu already this season.

Wellington spent last season out on loan at Figueirense and was voted the best Brazilian newcomer. He’s quick, skillful, always demanding the ball and loves to run at players. Capped as a teenager for Brazil’s youth sides his progression seemed to stall as he couldn’t break into the Fluminense set-up but already this season he’s had a crucial role in the Campeonato Carioca, bringing his goalscoring form from Figueirense to Fluminense.

Early signs are that Wellington has become an important player for the club already – eight years Conca’s junior, he may well end up in Europe unlike his predecessor.

If Rooney wants to succeed at No.10 he must learn how to roam laterally (by Anam)

Against Athletic Bilbao, Rooney played some delightful passes and some very bad ones, at times his influence becoming a hindrance, retarding attacking moves due to poor execution of the final ball and at times, getting in his own team-mates way. That’s because his positioning is often Manchester United’s best and he knows it, the Gaffer knows it and that’s why he’s been playing as United’s number 10. In the 2-0 win over West Bromwich Albion at the weekend, United might have found the answer with Rooney, even if it did require a certain adjustment to his role – as part of a 4-2-3-1 system, with two passers in the centre and Danny Welbeck on the right. Instantly, the side looked better than they did in midweek – and there wasn’t the same reliance on Rooney. He didn’t have to continually drop back to pick up possession because Scholes and Carrick could do that ably – indeed, he only passed it in his own half once in the first half. Rather, he operated mainly in the opponents’ half, spraying ball wide and trying to get onto the end of crosses.

Welbeck, who continually drifted inside of the flank, did so again, with Hernandez latching onto the ball in the vacated space as he cut in and shot; Rooney helping the ball into the net. It wasn’t Rooney’s movement, however, that made the goal, it was Hernandez’s and initially Welbeck’s. Because, as Michael Cox writes for ESPN, creators and number 10′s in today’s game, “simply have to be capable of roaming laterally.” And that’s because, he continues, the top clubs increasingly want the wide players “to come inside into the middle of the pitch, or they field them as “inverted” wingers on the side opposite their strongest foot, where they can cut in and shoot.” By doing that, space is created away from the centre and the defenders are dragged out of position. In the end, West Brom’s defenders didn’t know who to mark. If Hernandez didn’t take up the space Welbeck vacated, the home side would have been throwing away a space that was free on the pitch. However, that should have been Rooney’s job to do so. It’s interesting that he did that more often last season and he frequently swapped positions with Ronaldo and Tevez in 2007/08. If the Englishman wants to get back to his most influential best, he has to learn how to better roam laterally.

Premier League: the weekend in numbers (by Nik with a tip of the hat to Duncan Alexander)

It was a funny old weekend in the Premier League, with 8 home wins; 1 away win and one draw, and 17 goals scored in this latest round of games. It is rare that a game isn’t drawn (has only occurred 3 times this season) and we had to wait until the last game on Sunday for the draw at Norwich vs. Wigan (1-1). With the only away win being Kean’s rejuvenated Blackburn (at Wolves), the remaining teams used home advantage to great effect (5 of the wins came with a 1-0 scoreline, again highlighting the importance of scoring the opener). In fact, it could probably be argued, that due to current form and rhythm most teams were enjoying, the wins were largely predictable – Arsenal attempting to overhaul Spurs; Sunderland enjoying sterling home form under O’Neil; United hitting peak form in March as the title run-in hots up etc; with the only real outliers being City and Fulham failing to win – both teams of course notorious of late for failing to open up defences away from home. Spurs might have expected at least draw at Goodison park, but instead suffered a third consecutive defeat, against a resurgent Moyes side, for the first time since Ramos’ time at the Lane. With 10 games to go then, United are in the driving seat at the top of the league (meticulous planning from Fergie yet again!), and it still 3 from 5 as the relegation battle twists and turns by the week.

A few more numbers for you:

- It was the first time since December 17th/ 18th 2011 that any team failed to score more than two goals.

- Saturday saw the record for the most attempts (10) on goal hitting the woodwork in a single round of games

- Chelsea conceded 0 shots on target for 1st time this season

- Arsenal have now matched Spurs in counter attack attempts (28)

- Drogba has now scored 68 of his 100 League goals at Stamford Bridge

- Balotelli caused his 23rd argument (this time with Yaya Toure) since joining City in the summer

- Liverpool fans sung that Dalglish has won more in a year than Moyes has in 10 years but, Dalglish has spent in 12 months the same amount that Moyes has spent in the last 9 years – £114m

- Downing has now played 1944 minutes in the league for Liverpool without an assist or goal to his name

Authors: Doron, Nik and Rob

Follow Doron, Nik and Rob on Twitter

Despite being a website with content about Man United written by Man United fans – we all happen to not only enjoy football in general, but watch a lot of it. Therefore, we’re trying something new – a weekly column looking at a few learnings and observations from the weekend’s football and not necessarily just in England. A new scribe shall be joining us on this column, Trinidad & Tobago’s finest, Rob. We’ll make no attempt to be neutral and we’ll attempt to link back to United where possible but otherwise enjoy our thoughts and ramblings.

Michael Oliver’s star is rising fast

Newly promoted to the Fifa list of referees this year, Michael Oliver is making exuberant progress in only his second full season on the Premier League. Given plenty of time on the sidelines (at the highest level) as fourth official last season and at the start of this, Oliver has been learning his trade vicariously, much in the same way as Ole Solskjaer did as a United legend from the bench. Referee bosses have been cautious in handling what looks like the hottest British talent in many years, gradually easing him in to pressure cooker of top-flight football. In a turbulent period for referees in this country, Oliver has stood out as the jewel in the proverbial crown. His fitness is exemplary, his positioning improving by the game and his calm demeanour and management of hot-headed ‘superstars’ unimaginably superlative given his age. In recent weeks his appointments have been more high profile too; Swansea v Arsenal last week, a West Midlands derby this (drafted in as Atkinson’s replacement on his ‘week off’). Nothing typified Oliver’s confident and no-nonsense approach than his dismissal of Karl Henry on Saturday for a stamp on Albrighton. In the right position as always, the 26 year old calmly surveyed the scene whilst approaching Henry, turned in behind the midfielder allowing a greater control of the situation and showed him the red card. You know you’re doing a good job when Mick McCarthy doesn’t even complain about your decision. Oliver is no longer one ‘for the future’, his star is rising fast, but he has already arrived.

Patrice Evra is still the best left-back in the Premier League

United captain Patrice Evra now seems well and truly out of the rut that saw him lose his swashbuckling form in and around the disastrous French World Cup campaign. In the months following the summer of 2010, Evra’s usual defensive domineering displays turned into placid, error-prone offerings; Last season there was a distinct change in emphasis, Evra instructed not to be so cavalier, and when he did venture into the final third his delivery was often very poor. Yet he remained in a successful side, and importantly, Fergie’s most trusted asset. This season has seen him gradually re-find his mojo and attacking acumen, with Smalling’s and Jones’ presence at right fullback crucial – their natural tendency as a centre half to form a three-man centre when the fullback is high gives Evra the confidence to attack with verve. Whilst it is true that Evra’s forays forward have often left United short down the left side, Ferdinand’s switch to left centre-half has aided the defensive shape. As has Young’s defensive work on that side, often in tandem with Carrick’s ubiquitous presence in the midfield sweeper role that he has made his own.

In fact, it has been the inverted wing play of both Young and Nani down United’s left side that has accidentally on purpose re-enlivened Evra’s spirit. Their movement inside as part of a fluid front four approach, has allowed the Frenchman the opportunity exploit the space, and he is a constant threat when in the mood he displayed at the Emirates – whether it was assisting Park’s opener versus Wigan or doing the same for Hernandez in the crucial game at Everton, or simply starting the moves with an interception that led to both the openers versus Arsenal and City away, Patrice is once again proving why the modern-day fullback is of vital importance to the team’s potency. He has also improved his general defensive outlay, particularly evident in the bigger games; notably more considered in his positioning in these games, he has worked hard to track his opponent as we saw with Walcott’s anonymity yesterday, and he has also helped out in central areas. Man of the match performances against Chelsea and Arsenal were the reward for his diligence, and his output versus City in the Cup, Totenham at home and Liverpool away should not go unnoticed.

With Cole struggling, many will point towards Jose Enrique’s progression at Liverpool or Baines’ work ethic and crossing ability as proof that there are better left sided fullbacks in the league. But both are far from the finished article and lack the ‘completeness’ of the Evra package. Not 31 until May this year, the left back is at his peak for a defender, and worryingly for United’s closest rivals, he seems to be finding consistency just at the right time.

Boo sucks to Arsenal “fans”

I’ll put this simply: Arsenal fans do not deserve a manager as good as Arsene Wenger. Before a season starts, “In Arsene We Trust” is the motto, but when the footy gets going, they mumble songs, murmur and whinge despite the excellent home form of their players and the surroundings of their brilliant new stadium. Booing when Wenger, one of the great youth developers of the Premier League, subbed a tiring 18-year old off? It was a truly cringe-worthy moment.

Their reaction could’ve been to give a standing ovation for a coruscating performance by a great young talent. But they decided to negate all that, by booing both a substitute and the manager, shattering the confidence of an already demoralised player, and killing the very significant tide of momentum their team had at that point in the game. They couldn’t do anything about the substitution being made or not, but they certainly did something to the morale of the team. Credit them, not Arshavin, with the assist for United’s winner.

Things that Arsenal fans should’ve been more concerned about:
1. Djourou.
2. The most overrated player in the Premier League playing at left back for them.
3. Ramsey getting tired after playing a hell of a lot of games this season… hmm, young player fitness issues? NAH.
4. Ignasi Miquel. He didn’t play, but I just find he has a weird face.

I’d love to see Arshavin come to United on a free, and smash a hat trick past them next season. Also, Arsene, could you resign from AFC and come manage the Trinidad and Tobago national team? We’ve got some good young players! Anyway, Arsenal “fans” are rubbish.

On the road… to a great away record

Few things in life can beat an away win over Arsenal. But one thing that’s been quietly overlooked is the amazing turnaround in our team’s away form. This campaign, United have the best away record in the league – albeit with some extremely taxing trips to come. What exactly has changed?

For one, aggression in midfield has been key. The mauling at Newcastle aside, United haven’t been overrun as often or as severely as they were last season, where Villa, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Wolves can each claim to have dominated United in central areas.

The side has been pressing and controlling the middle third with more authority, showing renewed vigour away from home *insert Giggsy pun*. Last season, United were 17th in the league at tackles per game (with 18.3), and 16th in terms of interceptions (14.6) away from home. This season’s away record sees the side jump to 6th in tackling (20.8) and 7th in interceptions (16.9). When the energy of Cleverley and Anderson was used earlier in the season, the attacking tailspin it created was too much for opposition defences to handle. The Jones-Carrick combo against Villa and QPR showed a pleasing mix of steel and silk, and could feature again when The Greatest Man in the Universe returns from injury in a few weeks.

When Giggs and Carrick have played together, they’ve relied on the finer arts of passing and dribbling to tire the opposition, and that’s helped to put teams like Fulham to bed by halftime. The Arsenal game demonstrated this very well, and if the first-half finishing from Danny and Nani had been better, it could’ve been a very comfy win. Even with Carrick carrying Giggs on a feathered palanquin (until Scholesy came on), and nursing a hamstring injury for 45 minutes, United dominated possession and dictated the tempo in the first half, while retaining the shape and fortitude in the second to repel a stirring Arsenal comeback, snatch a fine winner, and see out the game.

P.S. I could’ve named this bit “Best away record in the league? Blame Michael Carrick.” Since coming back from injury, he’s been sensational. According to WhoScored’s average player ratings, the Geordie Guardiola has been the 6th best player in the Premier League this season. Caveat: WhoScored also has Nasri in 10th place, so take this ranking with a pinch or an industrial silo full of salt, as appropriate.

Darron Gibson’s role at Everton

Since moving to Everton, Gibson has started in both league games away to Villa and home to Blackburn but what’s his role been and how’s he done?

Given plenty of responsibility, Gibson’s been used centrally as a link-man between Cahill and Fellaini. Whilst often found as the deepest of the three, he’s by no means played far back for Everton, he has license to push on. He’s certainly benefited from playing as part of a three and having players who move a lot around him – it’s given him freedom to play some nice attacking passes.

Maybe the biggest asset Gibson’s brought so far is his reading of the game, something he maybe wasn’t appreciated for at United or never got the chance to show. He’s made numerous interceptions in his first two games and has been key to ball retention. Whether Gibson is a bit too one-dimensional remains to be seen but he certainly provides a nice foil for those around him. If though Moyes does at some point decide to play two in the middle it’ll be interesting to see if he keeps his place – for now the early signs are solid and encouraging.

Fulham’s (mini) revival

Impressive wins over Arsenal and Newcastle in recent league games have seen something of the Fulham that Martin Jol envisaged when he took over. Make no mistake about it, two men in particular have been central to it.

Zamora’s recall to the side has served to prove just how important a player he is both for club and potentially for country with Euro 2012 looming. His link-up with Dempsey has been intriguing to say the least. The Newcastle game in particular, where Dempsey scored a hat-trick was fascinating. Despite playing as a striker, Zamora regularly dropped deep and was on the ball over twice as much as Dempsey, who, as soon as Zamora was in possession, set off on a forward run. One might have expected it to be the other way round but with Dempsey being direct and all-rounded, and Johnson fast, Zamora’s physical presence deeper is unnerving for opposition players and he ends up winning the ball on numerous occasions.

Murphy’s contribution also can’t be overlooked. As a deep playmaker he’s still one of the best passers in the league and is regularly spotting opportunities to float delightfully weighted forward passes.

Whilst Fulham are starting to tick at home they are just one of four sides who’ve only won once away from home – their seven goals scored in eleven away games is the worst record in the league and maybe Jol needs to have faith in the attacking football that’s recently been so successful at Craven Cottage.

The weekend’s unsung hero: David Luiz

Having been the subject of a lot of criticism this season, David Luiz turned in a really excellent performance away to Norwich. Up against physical and bullying strikers Morison and Holt this game had trouble written all over it.

However, it was Luiz’s partner, Terry, who appeared to be the one who struggled. Luiz was assured, confident and strong, Refusing to allow Holt or Morison get the better of him, Luiz for once used his physical presence to win battles and the signs that he appears to be learning are starting to show. Whilst in the past he’s committed to tackles too early and has been turned, this time he perfectly judged when to get tight and when to allow space between himself and the strikers.

Chelsea’s defending has been questionable at times this season but Luiz was crucial to a really impressive clean sheet.

Authors: Doron and Nik

Follow Doron and Nik on Twitter

With the players knowing that City had beaten Spurs, United took to the field knowing they had to match their rivals and beat Arsenal. Arsenal were hoping to avoid a third straight league defeat and importantly put some pressure on Chelsea in the Champions League positions. Ferdinand missed out due to a back injury whilst Giggs partnered Carrick in the middle. For Arsenal, Oxlade-Chamberlain was handed a Premier League debut and Vermaelen was passed fit to start.

Below, we discuss the talking points and invite Arsenal fans as well as United fans to join in the discussion.

Park for Rafael

Rafael looked disillusioned and dejected as he warbled off down the tunnel having been subbed for Park with 12 minutes to go, and it is hard not to have sympathy for the young Brazilian. Gradually finding his match fitness of late, Rafael is getting more minutes on the pitch, and was even mooted to start today, with Arsenal having to resort to playing Vermalen (a centreback) at fullback. In fact he probably should have done, in place of the slightly erratic (possibly lacking match sharpness) Phil Jones. When the latter got injured early on in the first half, Rafael’s introduction gave United more of a balance and the away team quickly exerted their control on the game. Rafael and Valencia worked well in synergy down the right side, despite the majority of United’s ambition very much being down the left with Evra and Nani in the first half.

Chalkboard 1: Valencia pulled back deep

Then two things happened: Firstly Rafael was harshly cautioned by Mike Dean for slightly tugging at Van Persie’s shirt as the forward pounced on a loose ball and drove forward. (It was Dean, who has perhaps ‘categorised’ the Brazilian who cautioned, and sent him off, in a fixture away at Spurs two seasons ago for a similar offence, but this one was even harsher.) And secondly, the fullback later went on a marauding and opportunist run on the counter, as Arsenal were left short at the back. Rooney slid him in perfectly, only for Koscielny to execute a perfectly timed tackle and distribute up field. Because Arsenal had already committed numbers to the attack, United’s three-man defence was overwhelmed and Oxlade-Chambers laid in Van Persie to finish. He was subbed shortly after by the aggrieved Ferguson (for Park), and United can think themselves lucky to have snatched the game in the manner they did. Valencia was moved to right back to counter Arshavin, but as Park drifted infield, the Ecuadorian did exactly what Rafael attempted and seized the initiative; scoring from the position he knows best, wide right. The manager may well tell us that the substitute was in fear of second caution or injury, but the truth is Rafael was intelligent in his defensive display throughout. This slightly defensive substitution aside (see chalkboard), United won away again, and hopefully the fit again Rafa can challenge Sagna as the league’s best in the months and years to come.

Nani’s wizardry

If it were a boxing match, the ref would have ended the fight much earlier than half time, something Arsene Wenger did for Johan Djourou. Wenger may have made a daft substitution later on in the match, however he had no choice in taking off Djourou as he was terrorised all afternoon by United’s number seventeen.

Whether it was a dummy, step over or burst of pace – Nani had the beating of Djourou all day long. To be fair to the make shift Arsenal fullback, he had little support from Theo Walcott or Alex Song – who was no doubt more occupied with Wayne Rooney (more on that in a bit). Many reds may have been critical with Nani’s final ball or his hesitance at certain times when he got in behind the Arsenal defence, but his build up play and constant threat down the left hand side no doubt shook Djourou. The chalkboard below highlights how Michael Carrick tried to shift play to the left hand side for Nani to latch on to:

Chalkboard 2: Carrick passing

The goal may have come from a sublime Ryan Giggs cross, however Djourou’s awful defending – where he failed to cross down United’s number eleven and made himself as narrow as possible to block the cross – was due to his nightmare first half up against the Portuguese winger. Valencia, for me, was MOTM – but Nani was a joy to watch at times against Arsenal.

Appreciating Rooney

After strange form and missed penalties, Rooney decided to put in one of his most selfless displays of the season. Playing behind Welbeck, Rooney not only occupied Alex Song but also stopped him. Song is somewhat under-appreciated by non-Arsenal fans, he’s not just a player who breaks up play but he’s a ball carrier too. In the past, Anderson has been deployed as the destroyer but on this occasion it was Rooney.

Chalkboard 3: Rooney tackling and Song passing

Rooney won an impressive nine out of eleven tackles and forced Song not only to play higher but to play more horizontally than usual. That’s not necessarily a bad thing but considering Arsenal like to play through the middle, it forced them to change their tactics. Rooney’s own passing may have been inaccurate but he didn’t have a shot all game and constantly played for the team both defensively and offensively.

Strong at the back

Rafael’s contribution has already been touched upon but I think in general it’s worth stating just how impressive United were defensively. Evra was awarded man of the match and he had some swagger back in his game as he marauded forward down the left. On the other side Rafael showed how good it is to have a natural right back play in that position. Between them they won an impressive 16 tackles:

Chalkboard 4: Evra and Rafael tackles

The real bonus for United though came in the middle. With Ferdinand missing due to yet another back injury (he could be back for Liverpool), Evans and Smalling were paired together. As per many performances this season, they were imperious. Smalling is a natural and scarily may well be our second best centre back already, behind Vidic. Despite one slip he showed his calmness in possession and cleverness when defending. He seems to compliment Evans well – Jonny’s equally as comfortable with the ball at his feet but seems to enjoy contact that bit sooner than Smalling. Not only did they keep Van Persie quiet for most of the game, but they reduced him to a minimal involvement and played a big part in his poor 44% passing accuracy. It seems hard to look beyond the Smalling-Evans pairing as the long-term option.

United’s away support

It may seem a bias point to make, but I make it sincerely nonetheless. Having been part of the ‘away crowd’ for a large part of the 90’s and a lot of the noughties, I can safely say that United’s away following is always absolutely superb, if not the best in the country (however you measure that). Not only do they (we) have an unequalled array of songs across the land, often singing heartily throughout any given game, but they also seem to have a unique telepathic understanding at times, more so when the chips are down. This can often translate into spontaneous vocal support for the team, differing from the general revelry shared in games where the result is less ‘meaningful’ or at risk. Today, after a brief period of stunned silence after Arsenal’s equaliser, United’s following sprung into action. The clock read nine minutes to go, and with Valencia receiving the ball in an advanced position on the right, testosterone-infused shouts of ‘United’ were heard echoing around the stadium. The group just ‘knew’ that this was their moment, United’s moment; a crucial juncture in the title race had been reached, with City clinching a late winner versus Spurs only two hours earlier. The team sensed it too, and more to the point, Valencia did. Buoyed by the crowd his dribble was opportunism and direct wing-play at its best. While Arshavin was harshly criticised in the aftermath, there was only ever going to be one outcome with the Ecuadorian in this kind of mood. Valencia even had the panache and concentration to pull the ball back for Welbeck, who subsequently stroked the ball into an empty net. Cue wild celebrations from the players and Fergie alike; but more importantly, cue frenzied outpouring of emotion from the little section away in the far left corner of the Emirates. They had sensed the 3 points was there for the taking, but more importantly, they had impelled it to happen.

Summary

United made sure they matched Man City by winning 2-1 at Arsenal. A hard game took its toll though as yet more players picked up injuries and knocks – Rooney, Rafael, Jones, Nani and Carrick all could face some time out.

Arsenal started both halves strongly, lead by Oxlade-Chamberlain on his debut. In the middle, Rosicky had his most effective game in a long time but his performance was bettered by Carrick for United who was and his controlling-best. United always looked dangerous on the counter-attack and regularly got joy out wide through Nani. Right on half time they got what they deserved as Valencia powerfully headed in a perfect Giggs cross.

Arsenal’s response was positive and various efforts from outside the penalty area were fired in on goal but Lindegaard was untroubled. Welbeck lead the line well for United and could well have scored a few goals on the break but good defending from Mertesacker and Koscielny denied him. Arsenal drew level late on through Van Persie. His finish was instinctive and deadly after a clever through ball from Oxlade-Chamberlain. The goal stemmed from a quick break after United had committed men forward.

Arsenal’s fans turned from delirious to grumpy soon after though as Arshavin replaced Oxlade-Chamberlain. Boos rang around the Emirates and a chorus of “you don’t know what you’re doing” could be heard. Sure enough, United went on to score a winner which Arshavin maybe could have done better on. Valencia’s surging run into the area saw him exchange passes with Park before he had the presence of mind to lay the ball back to Welbeck who scored but was incredibly left unmarked.

United’s walking-wounded collapsed at the full time whistle but most still found the energy to go and applaud the away fans. An exhausting day in London may have taken its toll injury-wise but United showed an incredible amount of character to win such a hard-fought game. Next up is a trip to Anfield in the FA Cup. With the league looking increasingly tight, Fergie’s team selection and possible prioritising of the league should make for an interesting weekend.

Author: Doron

Follow me on Twitter

United start a tough run of games with a trip to London to face Arsenal. Both teams have had cursed seasons when it comes to injuries and for Arsenal it shows no signs of letting-up. United will be hoping Spurs can take points of City whilst Arsenal are looking to recover from defeat in Wales last weekend.

The opposition:

Arsenal’s season has been something of a wake-up call for some of the club’s fans. The entertaining style remains but the inability to get results and the lack of quality signed has left plenty disillusioned. A year ago I was inundated with tweets from Gooners who believed they’d win a quadruple and yet now, many of the same fans have been joining in the calls for Wenger to go – his stubbornness and philosophy are failing him – his once ruthless managerial streak is way behind him but he continues to survive off the back of it despite the 7 year drought for a trophy.

With the January window upon us, Wenger will no doubt be under pressure to sign some much needed experience and quality (again). Henry has already signed for a few weeks on loan and whilst he’ll add “know-how”, he won’t necessarily have a huge impact on the pitch. Oddly, Wenger doesn’t seem to trust his squad players – Park’s yet to play in the league for them. Even more bizarre when you consider the injuries they’ve had this season and the fact he was prepared to let Frimpong leave on loan.

Even after this weekend, Arsenal cannot finish inside the top four but fourth place is still very much possible – it’ll be a battle they’re locked in with Newcastle, Liverpool and Chelsea to the end it seems. Unless the FA Cup or the Champions League are won, this may be yet another trophyless year.

Form:

Following defeats against Blackburn and Newcastle, United went to Man City in the FA Cup and won before defeating Bolton at home last weekend. Oddly, United’s away form has been somewhat reliable this season with just one loss and the fewest goals conceded in the league (6). Their last away game, against Newcastle was the only game all season in all competitions that they’ve failed to score.

Arsenal’s form is equally as shabby with just two wins in their last six in the league and no win in 2012. At home, despite their injuries, they’ve only conceded six goals but also not been that prolific, scoring 16 in 10 games. Amazingly, they’ve lost one in every three league games this season.

Rooney’s the only United player in double figures for goals scored (13) with Nani, Hernandez and Berbatov on six. Van Persie is the league’s main man with an impressive 18 goals – Gervinho and Arshavin both have four. Van Persie is also their leading assister with 6, the same number as Walcott. For United, five players have six or more assists: Young, Giggs and Rooney (6); Valencia (7); Nani (8).

Team news:

United are definitely without Vidic, Cleverley, Fletcher, Anderson, Young and Owen. Fabio is a doubt but Smalling, Jones, Welbeck and Rooney are all fit after knocks.

Arsenal’s missing list is somewhat extensive: Jenkinson, Sagna, Gibbs, Santos, Arteta, Diaby, Wilshere, Coquelin, Gervinho, Chamakh. Vermaelen and Henry are huge doubts too.

United formation and starting XI prediction:

For me, there are just two debatable selection issues in this team – the goalkeeper and the right back. Lindegaard has been in goal for the past three games but it would be so Fergie for him to bring in De Gea now, particularly against a team who aren’t renowned for crossing and physical football. With Smalling fit again I think it’s him or Rafael at right back – Fergie likes the Evans/Ferdinand pairing and it’s worked well previously.

The return of Jones is a huge boost and he in midfield with Carrick has proven to be a success before. Welbeck and Rooney is the striking partnership that appears to have the best chemistry and understanding – it’ll be a surprise if that’s played around with.

Key battle:

Stopping Valencia – since being recalled to the starting line-up after the fiasco in Basel, Valencia has been at times, unplayable. He’s created seven goals in the past 6 weeks with classic wing-play, much-like in his first season with the club.

The thing with Valencia is that he’s not like other wingers. He’s both fast and strong, when the two are combined it makes a player so hard to stop. He may not have the tricks but he’s a clever footballer with an amazing ability to forever run.

Stopping him should be simpler than many left backs have made it seem. Valencia’s left foot is rarely used and he’ll almost always look to go outside a defender, faint a cross, then try to get a cross in from the byline. For some reason, despite the predictable nature of his style, most left backs struggle. Tasked with halting him is likely to be Ignasi Miquel, the young Spanish centre back.

Miquel has shone below Arsenal’s first team but isn’t naturally a left back. Against Swansea he struggled – rushing clearances and looking nervy in possession as he gave the ball away on various occasions whilst deep inside his own half. His positioning was poor too but one could argue he was getting minimal help/advice from his centre backs. Should he start he’ll certainly need more protection from probably Arshavin but even so, Valencia must be licking his lips.

History and last meeting:

This will be the 186th league meeting between the two sides and United have a poor history of results away to Arsenal. In the Premier League era they’ve only won 5 out of 19 games, keeping just three clean sheets. Following the 8-2 win at Old Trafford this season, United fans may be interested to know that they’ve never scored more than 5 goals in a game away to Arsenal in the league (1958).

Last year the sides met at the beginning of May at The Emirates and Aaron Ramsey’s goal sealed a win for the Gunners.

Prediction:

United’s away form has been dependable but Arsenal don’t concede many goals at home. Injuries at the back though may be key – United are getting players back at the right time whilst Arsenal seem to be a few weeks away from having that luxury. United will be playing after City and Spurs and tend to respond well to pressure, therefore I predict a 3-1 win for United.

Referee:

Mike Dean – Arsenal haven’t won with him as the referee for 10 games now. Dean’s issued one red card this season and has been awarded more games that any other referee. He shows no clear favouritism to either side in terms of bookings but does award 70% of his yellow cards in the second half of games.

Connections:

It’s the rivalry of old – for me as a young football fan it was what made the latter half of the 90s so exciting.

Quick facts:

- No side has used more players than Arsenal this season (30)
- It’s over a year since United last were involved in a goalless draw in the league
- United have the best away record in the league

They say:

Ferguson on Henry’s return: “There was talk about him coming back last January and it didn’t happen. But to me there are no negatives, just like us bringing back Paul Scholes. When I saw them erecting the statue of Henry I thought that will be a nice lead-in to bringing him back for a short spell. You saw how the fans reacted when he scored the goal against Leeds [in the FA Cup] – it was fantastic. He’s still a great player and the players in the dressing room will be motivated to play with one of Arsenal’s greats.”

Ferguson on Hernandez: “His form in training is fantastic. He is looking really well. That is a bonus because you want variations in the striker’s position. If we get Hernandez back into the frame of things we know what an addition he can be. We know the goals he can score. It will only help us.”

Rooney on Van Persie: “There are a lot of top strikers in the league – Van Persie, Aguero and Yakubu is playing well. But Sunday is not about me and Van Persie. It is about us against Arsenal. That is what we will be focusing on.”

Wenger on how United play against Arsenal: “They sometimes have a very compact midfield to kill our passing game and get us on the counter-attack. They do that very well. I believe that sometimes it works for them, although last year we beat them 1-0 [at the Emirates] in a convincing way. It depends on how well we play on the day, how well we pass the ball through their lines – no matter how many are in there.”

Links:

For all pre-match banter, tactical discussions, team and score predictions click here.

Videos:

Authors: Nik and Doron

Follow Nik and Doron on Twitter

United thundered home to a 8-2 win versus a bewildered Arsenal side this afternoon at Old Trafford as Fergie’s men continued their (atypical) fantastic early season form.  If somebody had predicted that United would score 11 with only 2 in reply against the two North London sides in the opening two home fixtures, you would quite easily have thought them crazy. Ferguson has talked up his young side (averaging 23.1 years today) since early on in the pre-season tour of the US, and so it was no surprise that he chose to select the same 11 that performed so admirably versus Spurs last week, something he has not done in the league since the consecutive selections for Bolton and then Liverpool early last season. Fergie has always been one to select according to form, and with fitness levels getting back to optimum, he saw no reason to change a winning formula here.

Despite dominating from start to finish however it is worth noting that Arsenal have lost two of their strongest assets in Fabregas and Nasri, and were without the highly influential youngster Jack Wilshere – as well as Vermalen, Diaby, Song, Gibbs and Sagna (Jenkinson looked timid and unprepared, and perhaps should have been withdrawn long before his red card for a second bookable offence).  In fact it is nigh on impossible to read too much into the emphatic win given the lack of cohesion in the Arsenal side, and thus system at present. United were at their rampant best, and exploited Arsenal’s every weakness, but tougher times lie ahead for the Champions. Here we discuss some of the key talking points from the game.

4-4-2 becomes 4-2-4

We have discussed formations here on Stretford-End.com, and how Fergie is seemingly moving towards a more fluent and fluid attacking approach, in contrast to the past two seasons in which he has relied on the tried and tested 4-4-2 approach with his wide men hugging the touch-line, and either Berbatov or Rooney dropping the deeper of the two forwards. With two holding midfielders, the approach is usually that of ‘4-2-3-1’, but given the role of Rooney the back end of last season, and Welbeck to some extent this, it could quite easily be argued that United are moving towards a ‘4-2-1-3’ template, with Nani and Young pushing high up the pitch to join the striker allowing for the smooth interchanging of positions in the final third. Either way, we will settle for the description of 4-2-4 for now, noting a clear change of direction from Sir Alex as he has seemingly taken a personal affront to the dominance of Barcelona on that fateful day at Wembley in May.

For sure, Ferguson was not happy with the way his team were unable to counter-attack with any kind of penetration in the aforementioned Final, and it is noticeable this term that greater onus has been placed on getting the ball from back to front in the shortest possible time frame. As soon as the ball is intercepted in the defensive half, United seek to break in numbers, with the first pass often to one of the deep lying forward players, either receiving wide or central. This was evident on numerous occasions today, albeit it was two defenders who initiated proceedings with Evans’ penetrating pass to Evra down the left in the build-up to the first goal.

Chalkboard 1. Welbeck and Rooney positioning

Another benefit of this system of course is the ability of the deeper lying striker (Welbeck predominantly thus far) to press the opposing deep central midfield player, enticing him into defensive errors; we can see from the chalkboard above that both Welbeck and Rooney take it in turns to drop deeper to create – with the onus then on the wide players to join the other in the penalty area. It is no secret that Fergie gave Rooney a dressing down at half time in the Champions League Final for continually allowing Busquets time on the ball, failing to stick to pre-match instructions. This season, it is notable how each of the ‘front four’ is working hard to close down and tackle the opposition at every opportunity (Nani, Rooney and Young attempted 16 tackles alone today), which of course allows United to regain possession in dangerous areas on the field.

Each of the ‘fantastic four’ went on to score in the match, with Welbeck netting a poacher’s header, Young two pearlers from outside the area; Nani chipping deftly over the advancing Polish keeper and Rooney scoring a hat-trick of set pieces – his first a superbly worked freekick to make it 150 United goals for the Englishman, adding perhaps an even better one in the second half with shades of David Beckham with a ‘deceiver’ from right to left from 20 yards – before converting a penalty late in the game to ensure the match ball was his.

Anderson and Cleverley: the unlikely duo

Carrick’s injury in the Community Shield, and Fletcher’s prolonged absence has been somewhat of a blessing for both of these midfield youngsters. Since the two came together earlier this month, United’s midfield has looked compact, tidy, creative and ambitious. Aided of course by the fantastic 4’s behind and ahead of them, Anderson and Cleverley have combined almost in perfect synchrony, a central midfield partnership which on paper at least looked destined to fall short. It has been a tough journey for the 23-year-old Brazilian, having started his United career very well, the central midfielder has found the last 2-3 seasons a struggle as he has failed to reach the consistency that Fergie has demanded of him. Injuries haven’t helped but neither has his attitude, having looked unfit for most of this time and more likely to be found at an all-night party rather than in possession of a football. Today, Anderson carried on his superb early season form which started at Wembley versus City, and has quickly took the mantle as the deeper lying midfielder of the pair (finally reverting to a position in which he has had prolonged success!), allowing Cleverley to receive the ball in areas further up the pitch. Today Anderson was quick to intercept the danger, but was also keen to support the attack, and it was his quick thinking and scooped pass which enabled Welbeck to capitalise early on with a fine goal.

Chalkboard 2. Anderson: Deep lying

The ten minute period between 50 and 60 minutes typified his performance (from today and since the start of the season); the Brazilian astutely positioned to foresee the danger, tracked a penetrating run by Arshavin, tackling the Russian just as he was about to let fly with his trust left foot. Then at the other end, Anderson calmly took the ball forward from a central position and slotted Cleverley through on goal with a perfectly weighted ball – the youngster electing to open his body, aiming to the far post when perhaps the better option was to go near.  Cleverley attempted 69 passes (and completed 89%), and his close control and one touch football has been equally fundamental to United’s direct approach this term. He was heavily involved in much of the play, and used the ball well in the final third. It was also noteworthy in how Cleverley was continually holding his defensive shape, and tracking back when relieved of possession. The chalkboard below shows how both he and Nani attempted 14 tackles between them in central areas. The season has barely started, and there will be times when Cleverley will have to be content to play second fiddle, but this has been a fantastic start for the lad, and long may it continue.

Chalkboard 3. Cleverley and Nani tackles

Mixed emotions for the strikers

On the day when Wayne Rooney scored goal(s) number 150 (and 151 and 152) for Man United it’s odd to suggest not everything went to plan. Rooney was outstanding once again, revelling in a role just off his strike partner and being the perfect link-man in the periods of intricate play, often between Cleverley, Anderson and the wingers. His goals were well taken – all set pieces and all with a touch of class. He was unlucky not to score more either – a deftly chip from 25 yards beat Szczesny but not the post; whilst an audacious long range shot from 60+ yards had the young Arsenal keeper scrambling backwards.

Rooney broke into the top 10 all time scorers for United with his goals today, moving 9th ahead of Ruud and Scholes who are joint 10th on 150; he’s now less than a hundred away from Sir Bobby’s 249 and he aims to beat it. He does top one list though, he became United’s leading Premier League scorer, his 107 goals scored now sees him move two ahead of Giggs. Seeing Rooney hungry, happy and scoring is a joy to behold and a total contrast from a year ago. He truly is a world class footballer and United are lucky to have him.

Whilst it was joy for Rooney, Danny Welbeck’s afternoon had a premature ending. Pre-season form followed by positive displays in early games including a key role in the win over Spurs, saw him keep his place in the United XI today. He opened the scoring by showing incredible determination to beat two Arsenal defenders to the ball and nod it in the goal but just over 10 minutes later he pulled up chasing a long ball and appears to have pulled or torn his hamstring. Either way, he’s likely to be out for at least 5 weeks. Aged only 20 still, Welbeck was almost certain to be in the latest England squad and now his injury will mean a chance for another striker to come into the side and find both rhythm and form. When Welbeck is eventually fit again he’ll have to start all over to win his place back. Harsh on the young man, he was starting to look at home in the starting line-up.

Balanced wingers

Since Giggs has moved almost permanently infield to become a central player, United have struggled to find someone to play wide left with the right amount of ‘leftability’ – someone who stays wide left rather than cuts in all the time. Nani and Park both did well but the former invariably comes infield whilst the latter generally just drifts. Ashley Young’s signing has so far proved a master-stroke. Whilst he’s right footed, he likes to stay wide and is happy coming on the inside of a defender or going outside him.

Up against Jenkinson and Traore, Nani and Young had a field-day. Both came infield at times but generally they stuck out wide, allowing Rooney to drop deep and giving Cleverley and Anderson space to work in. Right now they’re providing a wonderful balance to the United side – not to mention that they’re contributions are superb too. It’s worth noting just how disciplined they were today in sticking to their wings (see below). When a side is so on top and dominating, the temptation is to come in and seek the ball out to try and be as involved as possible. Yet all game they worked tirelessly to exploit the space that Arsenal’s full backs and wingers were leaving – particularly Walcott whose tracking-back was non-existent.

Chalkboard 4. Nani and Young heatmap

It’s worth noting how well assisted the two wingers have been by the fullbacks so far this season. Whilst we’re used to seeing Evra bombing up and down, creating overlaps, his link-up play with Young has taken off remarkably quickly – they seem to already have an excellent understanding of each others game. On the other side, Smalling has been a revelation at right back. He is simply a natural footballer, the game comes easy to him and right back suits so many of his attributes. He’s pacey, so elegant on the ball, feisty and direct. Right now he shouldn’t be removed from that fullback spot and it should be of interest to Fabio Capello too, England could do with someone like him.

Arsenal – what next?

I’ve (Doron, not Nik) often taken great pride in watching Arsenal throw away games and competitions; I’ve found some of their fans on social networking sites to be some of the most arrogant and I enjoyed being told numerous times last year that Arsenal were going to win a quadruple. However I’ve always respected them, their club and their manager – excellent adversaries for many years now. Tonight though, I have so much sympathy for them – their club has had the spirit sucked out of it and appears to be in a mess.

Whilst a United win seemed likely today given the line-ups, 8-2 is an annihilation and an embarrassment. Yet, having 7 or so players out should never force a manager into giving a debut to a youngster or picking a bench with minimal experience. The truth is, Wenger’s vision of buying cheap, selling at a profit, and attempting to win playing only one style with kids hasn’t worked. He’s allowed his squad to shrink so much that they have only 7 players over the age of 25 – two of which are goalkeepers (neither first choice) and one is the incredibly out of favour Squillaci. Having kids as back-up is never a good option, a squad needs depth to it. The Arsenal back-up kids are too young and inexperienced – they need nurturing and loans before they’re thrust into the first team, that can only work if there is a squad to act as the depth beyond the first XI first. At United, Cleverley and Welbeck have learnt their trade elsewhere as United have had the numbers to allow them to be loaned out – now they’re back and ready to perform because of their footballing education despite being young.

Arsenal’s need for experience, squad players and players for the first XI in various areas has been evident to footballing fans for a few months, yet Wenger hasn’t acted upon the need for more players. Now with just days left in the transfer window he’s under real pressure to deliver. His naivity stretches beyond the transfer window though – he still only has a ‘plan a’ and essentially sent his lambs to the slaughter today. I have huge respect for what Wenger has achieved but he appears to be dragging Arsenal deeper and deeper into murky waters right now; it’s hard to know what’s next for them and I have total sympathy with their supporters.

In Summary

Fergie will be extremely satisfied with the way his team has started the season for once, and despite the poor opposition today will take heart from the desire, thrust and penetration that his side espoused at times today. More importantly, he will relish the selection dilemmas ahead (Smalling, Evans and Jones carried on their fantastic form) and thrive on the opportunities he has to make this his next (and possibly last) great side.

Author: Doron

Follow me on Twitter

Two big clubs of the Premier League era with contrasting amounts of optimism and morale right now meet at Old Trafford tomorrow. Old foes who are now friends are at the helm and whilst Keane and Vieira may no longer dictate just how dirty this fixture will be, it remains one of the most anticipated games of the season.

United vs. Arsenal is rarely dull and given the ongoings both on and off the pitch in the past week at both clubs, this game should be as enthralling.

The opposition:

It’s hard to know what to say or where to begin when introducing Arsenal. Last season went from potentially bountiful to downright messy as they lost in the League Cup final, lost to Barcelona in the Champions League, were beaten a youth United side in the FA Cup and ended up finished 4th in the league meaning they’d have to play a qualifier to get into the Champions League. Roll on a summer of investment and re-energising…

…Well not quite. In came Gervinho, a winger a bit more direct than anything they already had but yet no signs of any experienced centre back or central midfielder. Instead, Carl Jenkinson was plucked from Charlton with a similar fairytale of a story to that of Chris Smalling. He was joined by Ryo Myaichi who now having been granted a work permit and impressing out on loan last year has formed part of the first team squad. In true recent style, Joel Campbell was signed – a player without a work permit (following Miyaichi, Pedro Botelho, Vela, Galindo and Wellington Silva). Finally, there was the classic Wengerite signing, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – very young, very hyped-up, seemingly very talented, and lots of money (circa £12m up front for a 17 year old).

Yet whilst the average age of the squad was reduced by signings youngsters, it was only lowered further by the loss of four first teamers. Eboue moved to Galatasaray in Turkey whilst Man City paid over £30m for Clichy and Nasri – the latter claiming to have turned down United for the Blues. Finally, captain Fabregas got his move back home to Barcelona. Roughly £70m received in fees and with four days left of the transfer window, almost none of it invested in players for the present. There are signs things aren’t quite right though – Nasri and Cesc have both made unsubtle remarks about the fans and the stadium whilst the ballsy little tyke, Frimpong, decided to publicly have a little dig at Nasri on Twitter.

Sympathy can be had with our often optimistically cocky enemy Arsenal fans – the very same who proudly boasted they’d win the quadruple last year (ignore the generalisation – not all were quite so deluded!). Right now though they appear to be mislead, the manger of their club is a legend but all good things must come to an end. The Wenger-out movement has grown immeasurably over the past six months as the fans want a return to glory days.

It’s not all doom and gloom though. Financially Arsenal are as strong as ever and despite losing players who didn’t want to be at the club, they’ve still got talent right throughout their squad. Van Persie for now is their captain and if he can stay fit he alone could fire them to a top four place. At the back they have Vermaelen back, a player of class and someone with leadership qualities. They still have last year’s talented youngsters, a year older, wiser, more experienced and now with the pain of knowing what failure feels like – Wilshere, Ramsey and Szczesny are no ordinary players. It now remains to be seen just how and whether Wenger will add to his squad for the season ahead, time is ticking.

As always though the Arsenal style of football and ethos remains – a commitment to short one touch passing with movement in between the lines of opposition players. Yet there is a bullishness about this team too, they want to get stuck in and intimidate opposition players, sometimes a bit too much. Some leadership may well be required to try and direct energy into the football rather than confrontation.

It’s difficult to know what exactly Arsenal are aiming for this year in terms of the league. With their current squad, Champions League qualification must be the aim. If money is spent though then they may be able to look a little higher and compete with City, Chelsea and United. Away from the league, silverware in any of the cups would be welcomed. Another barren year though may well spend the end of Wenger’s reign.

Form:

It’s been a good start to the season by United. Three competitive wins in a row have provided three very different games. The comeback against Man City; the hard-fought win at West Brom; and most recently the cruise on Monday night versus Spurs. The win over Tottenham showed the kind of depth United have at the moment – the bench had Berbatov, Carrick, Giggs and Park whilst the younger generation of players on the pitch did the business. Confidence is high and there is a buzz around the squad right now as well as trust from the fans that whoever is selected can do the business.

Pre-season is nearly a distant memory but it’s worth remembering that it too went well for United and to date they’ve scored 34 goals in 9 games – 6 pre-season friendlies, the Community Shield and two league games.

Arsenal had a tricky pre-season. A young squad did ok in the Far East before failing to win the Emirates Cup back in London. Their friendly fixtures ended with their only non-competitive defeat against Benfica. They’ve only picked up one point from their opening two league games as they drew with 10 men at Newcastle and then lost at home to Liverpool – again ending the game with 10 men. Injuries and suspensions have seen Wenger call upon inexperienced youngsters to fill gaps; this made Arsenal’s Champions League progression over Udinese all the more impressive than it should have been.

Team news:

United are much closer to having a fully fit squad than one might realise. Only Vidic and Rafael are long-term(ish) absentees – everyone else is back in training or fit. The game is probably too soon for Antonio Valencia, he’s in training but hasn’t had any minutes with the Reserves yet. Darren Fletcher is part of the match-day squad having completed 90 minutes for the Reserves on Thursday evening. Rio Ferdinand should also be available but may not be risked after Jones and Evans played so well against Spurs. Hernandez joins Berbatov, Macheda, Owen and Diouf in trying to remove either Welbeck or Rooney from their starting berths now after Ferguson declared him ready for selection.

Unlike United, Arsenal are in a spot of bother in terms of availability. Gibbs, Diaby, Koscielny, Squillaci and Wilshere will definitely miss the game through injury. Sagna is a big doubt due to illness whilst Vermaelen will need a fitness test before he can be confirmed as ‘available’. Song, Frimpong and Gervinho all miss out through suspension. It means Arsenal are having to take a number of youngsters up to Old Trafford with them, including Oguzhan Özyakup and Francis Coquelin.

United formation and starting XI prediction:

It’s one hell of a dilemma Sir Alex has ahead of this game. He has a youthful team playing very well in a 4-4-2. At its core are youthful players who’ve stepped up wonderfully well to the challenge of performing for United. However, this is Arsenal and Fergie likes a 4-5-1 whether home or away. Furthermore, it’s one of those games where an experienced head or two may not go amiss. Sorry to disappoint, but I’ve opted for caution, (again).

Defensively there’s little to play around with. If Rio is ready to start a game as the boss has suggested then there is a case to be made for having him alongside probably Evans. However, Rio’s ageing body seems to take badly to being rushed back so a place on the bench seems more sensible, especially given how well Evans and Jones did last week. The only other position that could be debated over would be the right back area. Smalling though doesn’t look far off a natural fullback and despite Fabio’s availability he should continue to play from the start.

Ahead of the defence it all gets a bit hazy. Arsenal always play a three man central midfield and United have had lots of success sticking a player on the deepest of the three to occupy him. That player has often been Anderson, yet he’s doing a fine job going box-to-box at the moment so instead I think Park will play behind Rooney, often switching with Young. Despite Cleverley’s wonderful form, Carrick may be the experienced head in the middle of the pitch that United need – up against youth and inexperience it’ll be an advantage to have some older players in. If things aren’t going as planned there is always the option of bringing Cleverley on like in the Community Shield. Nani and Young may well hold the key for United as they come up against probably Jenkinson and Traore – both United wingers have started the season well and should relish the chance to come up against ‘lesser’ players.

Despite the fact that it looks like United have gone one up front with Rooney in my team, Nani, Young and Park all get forward well and would support Rooney. It is feasible that Welbeck, Berbatov or Hernandez will be selected to partner Rooney but for me, it’s safety first; no need to go all-out attack from the start.

United are fortunate to have these kind of problems. Whether it’s a cautious 4-5-1 type formation or the bold, entertaining, youthful 4-4-2 of recent weeks, United should be able to dominate against a heavily depleted Arsenal side at the moment.

Key battle:

Nani/Young vs. Traore – In theory United should worry about Van Persie and Walcott’s good form but instead I think the key area United can win the game in tomorrow will be out wide. It remains unclear whether Sagna will be fit to start but it looks certain that Armand Traore will be at left back for Arsenal. Despite being quick and direct, Traore is susceptible to just that – pace in short bursts and directness. The movement of Nani and Young inside and outside fullbacks this season has already been exciting to watch, particularly because they’ve each added to their game. Young, surprisingly is much more of a team player than he appeared to be at Aston Villa, tirelessly working hard to win the ball back; whilst Nani looks even deadlier, faster, stronger and more confident.

Traore has only played in 25 games since the start of the 2009 season – injuries and an inability to keep his fitness levels up have been the main reasons behind this. He’s previously suffered from a lack of confidence and after a loan spell at Juventus last year, the conclusion over his future was: “he could be a solid back up player” – not great if he’s to start at Old Trafford. Winning this battle will put Arsenal on the back-foot. They like to try to encourage teams to go through the middle where they tend to pack-it-out; going wide will only hurt them in areas where the personnel are likely to have minimal experience.

On paper, certain players on each side in certain areas of the pitch can cancel each other out – however when it comes to winger vs. fullback battles, United have a huge advantage over Arsenal tomorrow. Form and confidence make Nani and Young key players.

History and last meeting:

With the exception of a 6-1 drubbing, this fixture rarely provides lots of goals. In 19 previous games, only 33 goals have been scored with United averaging a goal every 1.3 games and Arsenal averaging less than a goal a game. However, Arsenal have got three league wins at Old Trafford, the last came in September 2006. That said, Arsenal have only managed 3 goals in their last 8 visits to United; that said, United have only scored 9 in that same time-frame too. Arsenal have never scored more than one goal in a league game since the Premier League started, at Old Trafford.

Last season United won this fixture 1-0 – a looping header from Park went in off the far post in what was a controlled victory. Whilst Arsenal had the ball for long periods of play, United were more than able to keep them 30+ yards from goal, seemingly going nowhere. It’s worth noting that Rooney managed to miss a penalty in the game, something often forgotten.

Prediction:

Arsenal are missing so many players for one reason or another and are yet to click into gear in the league. Their record at Old Trafford isn’t awful but they struggle to score goals there. By contrast, United having found some early season rhythm and have a swagger about their play at the moment. Therefore I predict a 2-0 United win.

Referee:

Howard Webb – has refereed one game this season, showing 6 yellow cards.

Quick facts:

- Ferguson and Wenger have faced each other 45 times before: Ferguson has 20 wins; Wenger has 16 wins; and there have been 9 draws.
- United are unbeaten at home in the league in nearly 17 months.
- United are good at making their substitutions count – last season subs scored 11 goals for them, more than any other team.
- Danny Welbeck’s last five league goals have all been headers – fitting given that over the past year United have scored more headers than any other side.
- It’s 42 years since Arsenal started a season without scoring in their first two games.

Forum links:

The Stretford-End.com team have each given a predicted starting XI and final score ahead of the game – give us yours here.

For all pre-match banter, tactical discussions, team and score predictions click here.

Videos:

AUTHOR: – Doron

United endured a fourth league defeat this season and ensured that trips to London have not been an enjoyable experience for travelling fans this season. Arsenal meanwhile kept alive slim hopes of a league title whilst the biggest cheers will have come from Chelsea fans as they are now just three points behind the Reds on the same goal difference with a trip to Old Trafford next weekend. Here we discuss the talking points of the match and welcome both sets of fans to contribute to the events.

Talking Points

Change of set-up from Fergie and Rooney in the wrong position

Selection and set-up away at Arsenal is often something Fergie gets spot on at Arsenal. If by chance and luck or tactical nous, Fergie had a winning system. A 4-5-1 built to soak up pressure and contain Arsenal but able to hit them hard on the counter attack with deadly pace.

Click on images to enlarge

Arsenal away ’09-’10 (won 3-1)

Arsenal home (league) ’10-’11 (won 1-0)

The key to both of those victories was a solid defence, a three man midfield that would work back and wing play. In the match preview I alluded to the fact that Fergie would have a selection problem. In Rooney and Chicharito, Fergie had a pairing in form however it would mean going away from a system that has served him so well against Arsenal. Personally, I opted for the system over the partnership leaving out Chicharito with Park playing as a CM in the absence of Scholes, Fletcher, Hargreaves and Giggs who is ill.

Fergie opted for fitting in the successful Rooney-Chicharito partnership with this formation:

Arsenal today (lost 1-0)

Rooney has done very well in a ‘number 10′ role lately but today there was only room for one striker to start (be it Rooney, Chicharito, Berbatov or Owen). It was key to match Arsenal’s 3 man central midfield with out own. Rooney isn’t a central midfielder and never will be. His instinct is to attack be it from deep or a high line. I’m not singling him out for criticism rather the selection, it wasn’t his choice to play there. He wasn’t disciplined in keeping on Arsenal’s deepest man, Song and nor were his combative skills good enough to play in that position today:

Song vs. Rooney

Rooney tackles

Rooney, if asked to play as the third central midfielder, had to copy what Anderson did earlier this season and sit on Song in the middle of the pitch. As the heatmap shows, Rooney was erratic in where he was. That’s part of his game though, he doesn’t like to stick to one position and nor is he someone you’d usual detail with a man-marking job, hence I thought Park would have been perfect for this role. Song was passing in United’s half for 54% of the time today but Rooney was only that deep as a starting position for 25% of his play. Rooney also struggled with his tackling. He’s passionate player who’ll always attempted to win the ball back but too many of his attempted tackles today were unsuccessful, again highlighting the risk in asking him to play the role much more suited to a natural midfielder.

This change in system from Ferguson, to not pick three central midfielders was key. Arsenal most definitely won the midfield battle today with Anderson and Carrick often caught out by slick passing from the Arsenal players. A third natural midfielder in there helping could have made a big difference.

Anderson substitution leads to Arsenal goal

With the scores at 0-0, Ferguson took off the ineffective Anderson. He’d only completed 14 passes in 55 minutes and hadn’t made a single tackle. Having left Gibson out of the 18, there was no central midfielder on the bench – although O’Shea has before performed in a deep central role.

On came Valencia, with Park moving centrally in a deep role. Park is usually very disciplined, he sticks to his man well. However he was asked to play much deeper than usual – previously when he’s played centrally, he’s been the furthest forward of a three, sticking to the opposition’s deepest central midfielder (a famous example would be the job he did on Pirlo in the Champions League at Old Trafford last season). However in a deeper role Park is understandably more uncomfortable.

It was Park’s error that lead to Arsenal and Ramsey scoring the game’s only goal. As the series of images below show, having originally been tight to Ramsey, he lost sight of him and allowed him to be totally free. It’s worth adding that Ramsey’s finish was excellent and despite being free he still had a lot to do in order to pick his spot with players onrushing to attempt to block any effort.

It’s frustrating that the passage of play came immediately after the substitution and tactical change for Park. It was the one rare slip by a United player in that respect during the game. Errors have cost United lately, against Man City the game was similarly won by a United mistake. Anderson would have been tight on Ramsey as he had been all game despite not influencing United’s play greatly when he had the ball.

Ferguson even admitted to MUTV post-match that this was why Arsenal scored:

“When we made a substitution, taking Anderson off, Ji didn’t adjust to it immediately and still went to the left-hand side which freed to Ramsey to score.”

Song and Wilshere standing out

As previously mentioned, the midfield battle was well and truly won by Arsenal today. Song, Wilshere and Ramsey have an average age of just over twenty and a half yet supported by Nasri and Walcott cutting-in with Van Persie dropping deep, they passed rings around United’s often isolated midfield duo of Anderson and Carrick. That isn’t to say it often lead to much other than Arsenal pressure, as often is the case against Arsenal, United were more than happy to let them have the ball 30-35 yards from goal.

Keeping possession is though key and both Ramsey and Wilshere did this well with the latter often demonstrating quick feet to get away from a challenge as well as good strength to hold off players:

Wilshere and Ramsey passing

As the chalkboard above indicates, both Wilshere and Ramsey kept the ball well without really hurting United. Both of them concentrated their passing 35 yards from the United goal with excellent accuracy – Wilshere had a success rate of 87% and Ramsey’s was even better with 89%. They were supported well by Alex Song. He as mentioned was given a bit more license given Rooney wasn’t able to nullify him like previous United players have. As a result he was free to roam about chopping up United attacks with ease:

Song interceptions and tackles

Song made five interceptions, more than any other player on the pitch as well as having an impressive 100% tackle success rate – 9 made, 9 won. He was key to frustrating United and certainly had his best games in months after a poor 2011 so far.

United’s best performer also got lucky

In a game where collectively United were poor, it seems odd to pick out someone as a good performer. However, Vidic was as he so often is a rock defensively particularly in the first half. Arsenal started the game on the front foot and put in a lot of crosses in the first half. However, Vidic was on the end of most of them, clearing 12 balls in the game with 10 of those in the first half. His performance also included a few key tackles and he won every challenge he made:

Vidic tackles and clearances

Vidic was also incredibly fortunate. Just after half an hour he inexplicably handled a cross from Walcott. At first glance there appeared to be nothing wrong with it as only Van Persie appealed but with the aid of a replay it’s clear that Vidic handled the ball and may well have been lucky to even stay on the pitch having denied Van Persie a goalscoring opportunity.

At first glance (above) it’s hard to tell that there has been any hand involved at all. However on a replay…

…Vidic’s misdemeanour is clear to see. It begs the question of why the linesman, who had a clear view, failed to wave for an offence. After Chelsea’s fortuitous win yesterday the subject of video technology reared itself again. My stance is that I would like goal-line technology where by there is an immediate ‘yes’ or ‘no’ that is given to the referee if the ball has or hasn’t crossed the line. Human error is key to the game, it always has been and importantly it doesn’t interrupt the flow of the football. Referring decisions to a video referee would disrupt the regular action and even then, decisions are still often unclear. Feel free to debate this point further and elaborate on how you feel in the comments section below.

Arsenal may well have been aggrieved by the failure to award a penalty but United too had their own penalty appeals turned down. First, Ramsey charged down a shot/cross with his hands and the referee awarded a free kick despite replays showing the incident happened in the penalty area. More clear-cut though, late on, Owen was clearly fouled by Clichy (see image below) inside the area but the referee, who’s sight may well have been blocked, gave nothing.

Match Conclusion

Sir Alex Ferguson chose not to shuffle his strike-force or defence as United travelled to Arsenal, unbeaten in their last 7 meetings. Instead he opted to select Nani and Park out wide with Carrick and Anderson in the middle – the system was heavily reliant on Rooney’s ability to offer the qualities of a midfielder rather than an attacker. Whilst Arsenal lost their skipper Cesc Fabregas to injury yesterday.

Arsenal started the match strongly, having more than 75% possession in the opening ten minutes. Wilshere had the games first chance as he fired wide from an uncharacteristically poor Vidic clearance. Chances were few and far between though, Walcott’s outstretched leg could only direct Clichy’s shot over the bar whilst for United, Fabio’s breakaway couldn’t find Chicharito – in truth the Brazilian should probably have had a shot himself. Just after thirty minutes the half’s talking point occurred. A Walcott cross appeared to be cleared by an excellent Vidic header only for replays to show he’d used his arm. Arsene Wenger having seen the replay on the big screen was understandably furious.

Arsenal were forced to bring on Arshavin for Nasri at half time due to an injury but United kept their shape the same and started the half well with Rooney’s free-kick saved by Szczesny. United then made a tactical change, Park was moved centrally to allow Valencia to be brought on to replace Anderson. Immediately an Arsenal attack saw Park lose his man and Ramsey was able to pass the ball accurately into the corner of the net from 12 yards out. It was Arsenal’s first shot on target all game – Van der Sar would only be tested once more on what was a quiet afternoon for the Dutch keeper.

Having fallen behind, United responded. Vidic headed wide when he should have at least hit the target and following a good run from Rooney, Nani shot straight at Szczesny when he should have squared the ball – United had broken with four men against Arsenal’s two. There was further drama with the referee – Ramsey handled the ball inside the area but Mr Foy only gave a free-kick. Then with three minutes to go, Owen was brought down from behind by Clichy inside the area but the referee gave nothing at all much to the displeasure of Sir Alex Ferguson. Despite ending the game having had more possession and 7 shots on target to Arsenal’s 2, United couldn’t muster a goal and slumped to a fourth league defeat of the season.

United’s next game is home to Schalke in the second leg of the semi finals of the Champions on Wednesday 4th May.

AUTHOR: – Doron

AUTHOR: – Doron

It’s incredible how fortune can turn so quickly in football. Just over two months ago Arsenal were battling for four trophies and now there is only league left for them. It’s something United must be wary of going into this game – a loss at The Emirates coupled with a potential Chelsea win later today would make the top of the league tighter than most would feel comfortable about. League title ambitions aside, this is a tasty fixture in itself between two of the great clubs of the Premier League era.

What of Arsenal then? Lost in the League Cup final, knocked out of the FA Cup by a youthfully rotated Manchester United side, knocked out of the Champions League by Barcelona and all but out of the race for the league title having been in a strong position. It’s been remarkable to watch the capitulation of Arsenal but one must be wary of a very wounded side here. There should of course be little doubt that Champions League football is assured for the Gunners next year but even that remains somewhat in the balance with City and Spurs breathing down their necks. As it is, Arsenal are 3rd on 64 points, a win behind Chelsea and three victories behind United. Last year they ended the league on 75 points, it’s a total they really should have surpassed this season but inexplicably that looks unlikely.

Arsenal’s style is now a familiarity with football fans (if it isn’t then have a read of this or this from Zonal Marking). Confident passing football not with the aim so much of walking it into the net as is often ascribed but rather it’s about the combination of entertainment coupled with making a shooting chance as easy as possible for a team-mate. In many ways teams have “wised-up” to this way of playing now. United have learnt that it’s ok to let Arsenal have the ball 30-35 yards from goal as they can’t hurt you from there. Ferguson has become a master at teaching his team to soak up the Arsenal pressure and play on the break – it’s something Arsenal don’t like.

There is much to be admired in what Wenger has done and continues to do both on and off the pitch. However the growing faction of “In Arsene We Rust” fans suggests their frustration is coming to a tipping point. Wenger isn’t a tactician and that’s been shown up of late, he is naive in believing he can go into any fixture the same way and expect to win – it was evident at Old Trafford earlier in the season that Arsenal just didn’t have a ‘plan b’. The other major grapple is in the transfer market – it seems obvious to the average football fan just what type of player Arsenal need to buy, but then you realise there are so many different opinions that actually it’s not so obvious at all. A short while ago I wrote about Wenger’s transfer policy, how it’s changed over time and how it’s inextricably linked to Arsenal’s on-field success. My opinion now is that Arsenal have too many players who do the same kind of thing, their squad contains little variation, especially in midfield.

The fact that Chamakh was a ‘different’ signing actually was positive news. He showed early promise but the tiring nature of the league coupled with no winter break for him has seen it catch up and he will end this season as little more than a good free signing. If this year has taught us anything though it’s this… Djourou when fit is an excellent defender; Nasri is certainly one of the best midfielders in Europe; Arsenal could do with Van Persie remaining fit (15 league goals in 21 games is Golden Boot stuff); and finally, in Wilshere they have one of the best young midfielders in the game today. Wilshere deservedly picked up the Young Player of The Year award – yes he has his childish immature moments and often his tackling looks like something out of the Paul Scholes guide of ‘how to…’ but he’s stood up and played as well as anyone in that Arsenal team, particularly when others around him have let their form slip.

Including the Carling Cup final defeat, Arsenal have played 11 games up until now and only managed 2 wins They look a team bereft of a winning mentality giving their opponents the belief that they can score any time. Arsenal’s home record is ok but 17 points dropped is simply too many. Their defence at home has been tight – 13 conceded in 17 games but isn’t in the best top four in the league and their goals scored at home (31) isn’t in the top five. As current league form goes, Arsenal have one win in seven and they are only the 14th most in-form side in the league with a miserly 7 points from the last 18 available. At home it’s 12 from the last 18 points available with the draws in a row however Arsenal haven’t lost at home in the league since 20th November when their arch-rivals, Spurs completed a wondrous turnaround.

Arsenal have more key men available than they have for long periods this season. Vermaelen made his comeback against United’s Reserve side on Thursday evening but this game is too soon for first team involvement. Rosicky is a doubt with an illness whilst Fabianski and Diaby are both ruled out.

United have a losing record at Arsenal in the Premier League – P18 W5 D6 L7. Last year’s fixture ended in a 3-1 romp for United, a rare fruitful result for United with goals from Nani, Rooney and Park. Since 2000 United have only managed two away wins at Arsenal though. Earlier this season United won 1-0 at Old Trafford with a goal from Park – the return fixture is much more emphatically in United’s favour as is recent form. In all competitions United are unbeaten in 7 against Arsenal with 6 wins amongst those results.

Enough on Arsenal… onto Man United and my predicted line up:

United’s absentee list is now actually rather normal. For the first time in months every single defender is fit and available. Missing from the action will though be Hargreaves, Scholes (suspension), Fletcher (played 45 minutes for the Reserves on Thursday) and Lindegaard (only just back in light training).

I’ve gone for a 4-4-1-1 – Ferguson said in his pre-match press conference that United will be going for the win and not settling for a draw. In front of Edwin I believe three of the back four pick itself – Ferdinand, Vidic and Evra. Ferdinand’s latest return has added even more security to United’s defence, despite not being as pacey as he once was, all the class still remains. At right back there are a few options. Fabio was excellent at Schalke, and may well have a good chance for a third start in a row. John O’Shea who turns 30 today would be a dependable option but possibly would struggle against Arsenal’s pace. I’ve gone for Rafael – he’s fit and probably needs some minutes. He’s more experienced than his brother and defensively a little less rash right now hence I’ve picked him.

The midfield area is key. Arsenal play a 3-man central area and hence United cannot afford to be overrun. I think Carrick will continue in a deeper role with Anderson alongside him. Ferguson ruled Giggs out of contention earlier this week and so I think Park will move into the middle just ahead of Carrick and Anderson – he’ll be charged with picking up the deepest Arsenal midfielder or simply sticking to Wilshere. On the wings, Valencia and Nani should provide pace and thrust against the Arsenal fullbacks. The downside to that selection is that it only leaves space for one striker. Chicharito I think may need a mini-break despite outstanding form and I think Rooney has made himself almost undroppable right now. This would see Rooney higher up in more of a ‘number 9′ role than the deeper one he’s flourished in lately. Having Chicharito off the bench may well be a good tactic against tiring legs late on. Berbatov is fit again and he’ll also be in contention to start.

United remain top with a lead of 6 points now having played the same number of games as Chelsea. The late winner against Everton last week kept up belief that a 19th title may just be a few games away. Chelsea host Spurs in today’s late fixture.

Recent form shows United 2nd in the form league with 13 points taken from a possible 18 in the last six games. At home, United have been almost unstoppable but away from home their form has been heavily criticised this year. Their current away form is the 7th best in the league with 7 points taken from the last 18 available. In fact, United’s away record isn’t so bad, it’s the fourth best in the league and could be better if they weren’t the side that had drawn the most number of games away from home. Similarly, United have had no problem finding the net on their travels, with only Chelsea and Arsenal scoring more however their 23 goals conceded is bettered by 4 other teams including Fulham.

In Dimitar Berbatov United have the league’s top goalscorer (21 goals) as well as the joint 5th and 7th top scorers (Chicharito with 12 and Rooney with 10), whilst Nani is the league’s top assister (18 assists; Rooney is joint 4th with 11). Should John O’Shea start it’ll be his 300th for United. There have been a couple of memorable meetings between these two sides in London so do check out the videos at the bottom of the piece.

Arsenal are wounded and morale is low. However there are few better ways to liven up a gloomy mood than by beating United. In many ways Arsenal will feel they have nothing to lose by playing attacking football and I think they’ll have a real go at United. The Reds haven’t travelled that well this season but are in form and can sense a title. United will be going for a win but in truth a draw will be adequate. Therefore I predict a 1-1 draw.

You can share with us your thoughts ahead of the match and your favourite moments from games away to Arsenal on our forum.

Some of the better league visits to Arsenal (for the first video skip to 1min 42sec):

AUTHOR: – Doron

AUTHOR: – Bricki

I witnessed two excellent games this weekend. I was lucky enough to be at Old Trafford for what turned out to be a very entertaining game against Arsenal and i was able to watch the FA Youth Cup game between Liverpool and United via MUTV.

Both games contained some fantastic skill, drama and what we all love to see… Goals. However, both games also contained an unsavory side of the game that needs to be addressed and has no excuses.

I am course talking about some of the vile and downright offensive chanting that took place at both games.

In the last few years Sir Alex Ferguson has had to use his programme notes on the chants that Arsene Wenger has had to face when he visits Old Trafford. I’m sure many of you are aware that the chant in question likens Wenger to a paedophile. It is a horrible chant and still occurred Saturday in the early stages of the game, it was replaced as the game went on by ‘Sit down you paedophile’ as he emerged from the bench. There is no justification for this chant and everytime it is sung it drags the club and its supporters down to a gutter level.

We then came to the game at Anfield between two ‘youth’ teams, lets not forget that point in all this. Any game between the two clubs will be hotly contested as it is a case of playing for the badge and local pride. This game was no different with 5 goals, 4 red cards and scuffles between players. However it could be said that both sets of fans let themselves down in the great contest that happened yesterday with the chanting that took place. Chants about Munich, Hillsborough and Heysel came from both sides so this piece is not going to take sides saying one side is right and one i’snt. As far as I’m concerned it is all disgraceful and nobody has any credit in the argument.

I am 28, i wasn’t born when Munich happened, don’t remember Heysel and have the slightest recollection of the Hillsborough disaster. Why would i need to chant about these subjects? It doesn’t affect the game today, doesn’t affect the rivalry between the clubs and is the most unimaginative way of trying to ‘taunt’ the opposition fans.

There is a ‘tribal’ element to supporting a club that has started to rear its head again in recent years after a decline of sorts during the mid 90s which i believe occurred due to the introduction of all seater stadiums and more families starting to attend games.

An ignorance of the behaviour that has started to come back into grounds is no excuse. Any discussion regarding this topic becomes a tit for tat affair amid claims of ‘well they started it’. That is not good enough in the society we live in today, we rightly condemn other countries that allow behaviour such as racist abuse from the stands to go largely unpunished. Whilst i am not suggesting that these chants are in the same bracket as racism/homophobia (that is a different topic altogether) we are breeding a new generation of fans who will grow up singing about these incidents and also singing things to players/managers such as the song aimed at Arsene Wenger and feel this is acceptable.

One of the most emotional moments i have witnessed in a ground was the Manchester Derby that occurred on the anniversary of the Munich disaster. All the build up before the game was about whether the Manchester City fans would observe the minutes silence at the start. This was never in doubt however and my view from the top of the North Stand was a magnificent one. Thousands of fans with red/black and blue/white scarves raised in the air as an amazing silence fell over the ground. I had a Manchester City fan in the United crowd with me, this lad was only 15 years old. He turned to me at the end of the minutes silence and just said that this moment would live with him forever.

For me this is what the game should be about, moments like Munich, Hillsborough and Heysel have shaped the clubs they have affected and also shaped the game itself in this country. For this reason i am proposing that as fans we are stand together and attempt to eradicate this from our game.

Crawley Town had an incident with a ‘fan’ on a club video prior to their trip to Old Trafford for the FA Cup game. The swift manner they identified and removed the fan, who was then subject to criminal prosecution shows it can be done and with the clubs we can fight this pathetic behaviour.

The question that needs asking now is…

If this is the ‘minority’ that we all say it is, why can’t we stand up and remove this from our game? Failure to act is as bad as the chanting itself, but by allowing this behaviour to happen are we allowing the minority to in fact become the ‘majority’?

The onus rests with us as fans, failure to act could result in this behaviour becoming commonplace and once the cat is out the bag its very difficult to catch it again.

We all talk about the Respect campaign for Officials but what ‘Respect’ can we have as fans if we fail to act on what is happening right in front of our faces…

Manchester United booked their place in the last four after a 2-0 victory over Arsenal at Old Trafford. Brazilian full back, who was operating on the left hand side of midfield, scored the opener midway through the first half before Wayne Rooney scored a header early in the second half. Both Arsenal and United had good chances throughout the match – however Edwin Van Der Sar put in a great performance to deny Arsenal time and time again. Many Reds are hoping that Sir Alex Ferguson can convince the Dutchman to change his mind on retirement and sign for another year. Here we discuss the talking points of today’s game and welcome and comments from both United and Arsenal fans.

Talking Points

Team Selection

With the exception of Alex Song and Cesc Fabregas – the outfield ten looked pretty much the strongest side Arsenal could pick, whilst United fans were left scratching their heads when it was announced that Rafael, O’Shea, Gibson and Fabio would make up a four man midfield. If starting O’Shea, who hasn’t played in the centre of midfield since the 2-1 victory over Wolves, in midfield along side an under fire Gibson wasn’t enough – then the thought of two fullbacks pushed on into wide left and right areas maybe didn’t fill me with great confidence to be honest. However, all four put in decent performance to combat Arsenal’s passing style through the middle of the park.

United’s first goal was made in Brazil, as Rafael and Fabio exchanged passes on the edge of the Arsenal box before a Hernandez header was parried into the path of the onrushing Fabio who smashed the ball into the top of the net. Fabio’s first goal for United only came last month in the 4-0 victory of Wigan Athletic and brother Rafael’s first goal for the club was against Arsenal in the 2-1 defeat back in 2008 at the Emirates. Fabio was withdrawn at halftime, and I have spoken before about a little concern that Fabio hasn’t completed the majority of games he has featured in for the first team.

The shape of United changed in the second half due to the introduction of Antonio Valencia – who has been out of action since September last year – as Ferguson shifted to a 4-3-3 with Rooney operating on the left hand side, Hernandez through the middle and Valencia on the right. United’s central trio was changed from O’Shea, Rafael and Gibson to Giggs, Scholes and Gibson – with O’Shea dropping back into defense. The team selection was an eyebrow raiser at first but looking ahead to Marseille, Ferguson made the correct move to rest players that will be involved and demonstrate that he believes he has a squad capable of challenging on multiple fronts.

Edwin Van Der Sar, Wayne Rooney & Jack Wilshere

We are massive supporters of Edwin Van Der Sar at www.stretford-end.com, and his retirement at the end of the season is a massive blow to United who will have to try and find a replacement for one of the best goalkeepers ever at the club. Against Arsenal he demonstrated he still has superb reflexes, distribution and is an still an assured shot stopper. Chants of ‘one more year’ and ‘Fergie sign him up’ rang around Old Trafford in the hope that Sir Alex Ferguson may be able to change his mind. Marouane Chamakh should have beaten him from a header, however Van Der Sar got across to his right to stop, what turned out to be, a tame effort from the Arsenal substitute. A superb performance from United’s number 1 and a reminder that he still has so much to offer at the top level,

Wayne Rooney’s has at an awful season in comparison to previous years – however, I must say that he was excellent against Arsenal. Rooney got on the score sheet early in the second half with a header to the far post that spun off the surface. His distribution, vision, selfless running and tracking back on the left hand side was exceptional. Glenn Hoddle or David Beckham would have been extremely proud with some of his cross field passes from left to right to find Valencia, whilst his deft touches and through balls were a constant worry for Djourou and Koscielny. Hopefully Rooney can find some consistency and hit top form as we approach the business end of the season.

Lastly, I was again very impressed with Arsenal’s youngster Jack Wilshere – who must surely win the PFA Young Player of the year award. Although some his Twitter ramblings (as with many players that sign up to the social networking site) may appear somewhat juvenile at times, his talent and style of play resembles that of a player who has played first team football for many years. What I like about the lad is his acceleration to get away from his marker into space once he has played the pass. These driving runs from midfield draw players into him, which allows him to dribble or pass to a team mate. If Fabregas does leave in the summer for Catalonia, I doubt Arsenal fans will be as concerned as they were last year after the impressive emergence of Wilshere.

Valencia back & Smalling impressive again

What a great sight it is to see Antonio Valencia galloping again down the right hand side of the pitch. The Ecuadorian winger suffered a horrendous leg break in September in the 0-0 draw with Rangers but made his comeback at half time against Arsenal. Valencia had an impressive debut season at Old Trafford, hitting the back of the net six times and accumulating twelve assists. He was expected to be a big player in United’s season – however, progress was halted due to his injury. Stretty Rant blogger Bricki wrote an informative piece on Valencia being United’s ace in the pack for the season – sooner rather than later, we are going to find out.

Chris Smalling continues to impress with his reading of the game, anticipation and composure – which were all on show against Arsenal. His ability to step into midfield and provide a counter attacking option is a signal that the boy is growing in confidence and can provide a useful counter attacking option when required. He was very unlucky (although I thought it was a penalty) against Chelsea two weeks ago with the challenge on Zhirkov, but he will learn from the experience and although I have no doubt that Ferdinand will partner Vidic if fit this season – next term may be a different story.

Match Conclusion

Manchester United were worthy 2-0 winners despite Arsenal having more chances. Edwin Van Der Sar put in a good performance, although United’s tactic of sitting deep and restricting Arsenal to wide areas worked yet again for Ferguson. Fabio’s opener highlighted the Brazilian’s urge to get forward and showed good anticipation to follow up on Hernandez’s header. Rooney’s header skimmed off the Old Trafford turf to slide into the far corner, with Almunia scarpering on the floor.

Ferguson’s decision to go with a makeshift midfield in preparation for the Champions League tie with Marseille worked a treat – with the versatile twins impressing. Arsenal now only have the Premier League to concentrate on, after being eliminated from two cups in a week – something that could bode well for the North London club when the games start to come thick and fast for United. I wouldn’t swap our position for Arsenal’s at all – however, I remember in 2007 when United simply ‘ran out of steam’ and were eliminated from the Champions League by Milan and lost to Chelsea 1-0 in a dire FA Cup final. The games do stack up but hopefully with Valencia’s return, Hernandez’s continued form and players eager to prove their worth – we won’t have a repeat of the rainy night in the San Siro.

United’s next match is at home to Marseille on Tuesday.