Manchester United Banter Archive August 02 2014

 

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02 Aug 2014 23:13:57
I'm not getting over excited yet as it is only pre season but how well is this new system working? I think it proves that under a good manager this team is not as bad as some may think.
I think Young has been great when he's played, Rooney looks awesome and I was one of his critics, Welbeck is going to have a big part to play this season and I also think Fletcher has been magnificent.
It's worth noting that up to now we have conceded 3 goals on this tour, 2 penalties and a wonder goal that 9 times out of 10 would never happen.
I think this system suits us against the more attacking teams in the league such as city and arsenal, I do however worry about teams that are willing to sit back as inter did against us, it seems more suited to counter attacking.

I'm really hoping we sign Vidal, him in fletcher a role would be unreal, we definitely need a cb, if Evans, smelling or jones get injured then I don't think Keane is quite ready to step in yet, he struggled tonight and that penalty was very sloppy.

In all tho it's been a great pre season, so much better than last year, lvg will know the rivalry between us and Liverpool so I hope he plays his strongest team n we smash them.

Here's to being a united fan

Hip hip hooray

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Really good post mate.

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It has been a very positive pre season. defence looks okay and with a strong addition could be excellent. Fletcher looks a revelation, system suits our attacking players and the young players have really stepped up.
If Vidal or similar comes in that would really add that extra edge to the team. strong leader. Also would allow for us the switch to 433 if needed next year with Vidal/harera/Mata or fletcher/vidal/harera as midfield 3.
Looking forward to next season.however next up Liverpool!

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02 Aug 2014 23:08:31
What everyone's thoughts on Zaha after the game? Judging him on this game he has good pace and movement but he can't get past his man, he can't tackle and the he can't shoot.
Like most people on this site I had high hopes for the kid when signed him, but I can't help but think he is turning out to be the next Bebe but at double to price.

By the way I thought everyone else looked great and I can't wait till Monday.

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I am afraid he might turn out to be another Nani but he has the time and has a really good coach in Van Gaal

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02 Aug 2014 23:29:13
He's quick and has all the talent in the world, his decision making is very poor at times though but hopefully that will only improve under LVG

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02 Aug 2014 23:29:25
I think he could turn out to be a good player under LVG if he works hard. He can shoot and he's usually very good at creating space if you watch him during training he looks very good I think nerves just get the better of him in matches.

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02 Aug 2014 23:29:57
Also he worked really hard tonight, closed down well which is really good to see

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He looked surprisingly hesitant when he had the chance to go at players. And defensively he does not move that well laterally, or maybe even lacks the desire to. But to improve, he needs minutes. Too many better players ahead of him, for me.

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Him and Nani have bee the only two individual disappointing players so far.

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I would add cleverly he's been load of rubbish

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To be fair to Zaha he was up against two of the best defenders in world football, so I wouldn't expect him to be able to beat them too easily just yet.

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02 Aug 2014 22:32:38
Hi Eds, it may not be important but do you happen to know when Juventus leave on their pre season tour?

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{Ed002's Note - Tomorrow.}

03 Aug 2014 10:11:34
Thanks Ed002, their departure may, or may not lead to some developments.

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02 Aug 2014 22:23:08
The Mrs wants to know who the Spanish looking guy who on bench is has a bit designer beard going on. Not as good looking as me of course. I searched online can't find anyone who looks like him. He was on the half time video on Mutv for that put your hands up song.

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Oh 'The Mrs want's to know'.

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I think that was Rooney's ass!

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02 Aug 2014 22:19:35
Just watching the game. at half time paddy said he had a long talk with wazza and he said that he was talking about a player were trying to get. any ideas eds.?cheers

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02 Aug 2014 22:15:17
Not to bothered about the latest comments coming from Juventus regarding Vidal.

Does anyone remember what was coming from United before they sold Ronaldo or Tottenham before they sold Bale. The comments are expected and if they were not the Juve fans would not be happy as it would seem as though Juventus are just letting their best player leave without putting up a fight.

On another note, if we do not get him it won't be the end of the world. There are other players out there who would improve us, Vidal being just one. Have faith in LVG. he knows where we are lacking and I am sure he is not going to sit back and do nothing about it.

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Agreed Jamax, but you also don't get a complete midfielder like Vidal very often, you have to sometime go the extra mile and get what you need.

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Vidal is a box to box midfielder. From watching the pre-season Herrera seems to be playing the box to box role in the formation which leaves the defensive sitting midfielder (occupied currently by Fletcher). So would Vidal's talents of being a complete midfielder not be wasted on that role or if he ended up playing the box to box role what would happen Herrera? I've been very impressed with his movement in tight spaces and use of the ball.

Surely someone more defensive minded would be ideal, mind you I would'nt complain if we got Vidal for the role

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Agree Jamax,

You also have to bear in mind Vidal can tackle, attack and shoot.

Herrera is class but he isn't as experienced as Vidal and if for any reason Herrera gets injured then we will have the same midfield as last year.

There are alternatives but those alternatives either are hard to get or they aren't experienced as Vidal.

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02 Aug 2014 22:12:57
Paddy saying there that Wayne told him what players they are getting ummm

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02 Aug 2014 22:12:46
Paddy Crerand just said Rooney told him he is excited about a player we are about to sign!

Come on Vidal.

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Hoping it's Vidal.

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Count me in guys on the hopes.

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02 Aug 2014 22:07:09
What has van gaal put in youngs cereal? I know it's pre season but he looks a different player

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02 Aug 2014 23:07:06
A little placebo called Belief

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WE have gone from wanting about 10 players out to maybe five at the most Nani Cleverly Hernandez and Anderson will probably leave after a bad pre season there was a time when Young Valencia were sure to go and Kagawa but these all seem to have a future even Fletcher has been a really good player and will imrove the midfield

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02 Aug 2014 21:54:42
Hi guys I am watching this match.

This was my thought before our second goal, I was observing Ashley Young and thought is he the same player of last year?.

He has looked so much composed by him given a important role in the team, he has pace and could defend a little bit.

What Van Gaals done to him in three weeks is great, imagine ehat he could do to Luke Shaw in the next few years, he will turn Shaw into a beast of a lwb.

We are playing some amazing football.

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Agreed Singh.

Fletcher, Young, Evans, Welbeck - class.

Only poor performance so far has been Herrera, giving it away quite a lot. But on the whole wow, what a transformation. Add RVP, Vidal and Hummels we will be unbeatable.

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Young has looked very good tonight but for me Fletcher has been our standout player over the last 4 matches. A lot of people have been suggesting that another CM is essential if we're to secure a top 4 finish next season - and whilst I'd love Vidal to be signed - I think Fletcher could be the third man in our midfield if he's able to continue performing at this level.

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Is it me only who feels that the only player not to improve had been Valencia?

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PR - I thought he looked a little better in the last game but today he was back to his usual mediocrity. Between that and Rafael's injuries - I think we need to sign a new rb.

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I thought Jones looked good like Sydney use to say defenders need a run of games to be confident at defending and this is exactly what we are seeing now, but we may get caught out in the premier league if we don't sign an experience centre back.

Appreciated your replies.

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03 Aug 2014 00:34:33
Redseven, on this form neither Valencia or Rafael will be able to shift Ashley f**king Young for the RWB spot. Lol.

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Johnny Evans has been a favorite of mine for some time and with no Vidic or Ferdinand has really come out of his shell Jones is showing why he was bought Smalling is good but one more defender is crucial Keane is there but its still a little light for a back three

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02 Aug 2014 21:39:12
Can I get a live stream of this match somewhere. Thanks

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Mate download Xbmc and you will have the world of tv in your house, amazing software.

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02 Aug 2014 21:04:45
you know, after listening to Ashley Young speaking on Mutv I got to say I like the fella and his attitude. there's no hint of bitterness at the absolute ripping he's had in the public forum. hope he swings the general fans opinion. I think he's a good footballer and underated and so far on the tour has shown what good management can do for his input.

"we're the bigger giants" pure quality response.

Tonight its an almost set eleven against an almost b team of Madrid. We should win it then a better indication of where we are for the season against Liverpool.

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He has been class this first 45 as well. Hope he turns the corner.

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02 Aug 2014 21:57:15
He's just bagged 2 goals in the first half too! He struggles defensively a bit though, especially when crosses come in but hopefully he can improve on that with LVG

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You can hardly call that a b team. Admittedly Benzema, Ronaldo and Marcelo would be the changes.

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And maybe Rodriguez and Kroos would get a look in too?

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They havnt joined up with the squad yet as far as I am aware.

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"almost b team"

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Still a pretty good team though :P

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02 Aug 2014 20:49:52
Aguerwho? Jovetic has looked fantastic for City so far this pre-season. I was surprised he didn't play more last season but think that given a decent run in the first eleven he could prove to be a huge asset for City this season.

Thankfully they still look weak at the back!

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02 Aug 2014 20:13:47
Oh and Ronaldo should play a part. We need one point tonight to play the final.

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3 points for a win in regulation time,
2 for a win by penalty shootout,
1 for a loss by penalty shootout,
0 for a loss in regulation time

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02 Aug 2014 20:12:38
I have posted tonight's team line-up on the teams page.

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Thanks LvG.

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02 Aug 2014 20:08:48
Cant believe wenger has come out and said arsenal could sign 2 more players.
Does this man know nothing

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02 Aug 2014 21:52:37
Must say, I admire the transparency and honesty of Arsene Wenger with regards to Arsenal's transfer policy. Makes a refreshing change from the subtext and general bullsh!t we as United fans are force fed summer after summer.

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02 Aug 2014 19:33:44
Just a thought here, but if we're keen on a tough tackling midfield enforcer who can also defend well I think we oughta take a look at gary meddel from cardiff.That guy is totally underrated, his performance for cardiff in the pl and as defender for chile in the worldcup was awesome. And he is very dependable. if we're talking about people like carvallho and de jong than he definetely deserves a shout.

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Hes.egreat player. Edd001 rated.him very highly ;)
He is set for inter

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02 Aug 2014 18:56:42
When did Vidal become Superman? I'm sure he's a great player but reading this site you'd think the whole future of the club rests on our ability to sign him. LVG will make a huge difference, we still need to rebuild and it may take some time but Vidal is not God. Let's calm down people.

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He would be a great signing but there are other players out there

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Absolutely agree with you AJH.

We missed out on Ronaldinho, David Villa, Benzema, Gascoigne, Hazard and so many other great players but we have still managed to win.

Yes Vidal is a good player but it is not end of the world if we don't get him.

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Absolutely spot on AJH .

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More to do with the fact that he is gettable, a CM and proven world class - nobody else out there we could sign this window like that imo. We have needed a midfielder like Vidal for far too long and if we don't sign him we will end up with more "potential" or gambles like Stootman.

We have missed so many players in recent years and now money is according to Woody "no object" it would be a real kick in our teeth if we don't sign somebody we could get like Vidal. Especially as our rivals are getting stronger by the day. It's more to do with the message it sends.

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Totally agree ajh. I never understood the hype surrounding him. He's good but he's not do or die.
I'm actually quite bored of the whole episode. We've got to be careful not to build him up too much. He's not the saviour but he could be another block in our system and I'm sure lvg will know what he wants.
I think the need for a central defender or two is more urgent. Smalling is injured again, and you can't depend on him.

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I'm not saying Vidal isn't world class! But let's be honest the seria has been in decline for the last 10 years (except inter with mourino), juventus has been walking the league for the last 2/3 years. He didn't set the World Cup on fire for chile (I know he had just come back from injury). I think we need a James McCarthy or medel someone who's going to do the dirty work and break up the play. Why mata and Herrera do there magic further up the pitch

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Nomid

You should read my post from a few days ago. Smallig now evans next, they are both made in China. Jones also has the iq of a goat and will injure himself next or a teammate in training.

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Lol Gcu u need to stop.mentioning china or else I will stop using their products hahah, class as usual.

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02 Aug 2014 23:40:09
It's simply because we've lacked a truely world class central midfielder for ages now, Vidal is probably the best in the world at what he does maybe alongside Yaya Toure and the fact we could actually sign him.

He'd really help when we're playing the best teams in Europe next season.

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AJH

Vidal is not superman but he is the best number 8 out there. For those of us Who have watched him many times I thought he had a poor last 3 months in Serie compared to what I am used to and think he was carrying some sort of an injury. Same in the world cup he did not look right to me.

When he is right he is scary good and will open up things in the wings and down the middle like no other player.

To me he is a better version of Keane and that says a lot.

I think the PL is a different beast and he would make a huge difference to us. Pogba is not bad either :)

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Get both as I said previously. We need a strong squad as injuries will always happen. Vidal is good but he's also not performed well for many months. So if it is due to injury then we have to be careful.

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02 Aug 2014 18:24:17
Anyone made a fantasy league yet either premier league or the sun? Anybody know a site I can stream the game on tonight?

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02 Aug 2014 18:51:15
Google wiziwig for a stream, it's got loads of links on it, as long as you have Adblock on your computer you'll be fine

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You can stream from youtube as well.

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Cheers fellas

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02 Aug 2014 18:05:08
I am not saying we should not sign Vidal and Hummels. They would be my dream signings and I absolutely want them signed.

But is our current squad worse than Liverpool's last season?

They had an injured left back, a centre back who was interested in scoring goals in his own net yet and their star player missed the first 5 games but still were able to challenge for title.

I personally think if we should not just write off our chances next season.

Lets not forget last season we had an inept manager and players weren't really motivated.

If LvG can instill belief in our squad then I think we can challenge and finish in top 4 at the very least.

I am not saying that Vidal and Hummels should not be signed but if they do not sign we should not just write off our chances.

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Mumbai, I agree. People are working themselves into a frenzy over all the rumours but we have a new left back a new midfielder and crucially, a new manager who is cut from a different cloth. I think LVG will buy again but it may not be now. People need to take a chill pill and calm down.

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02 Aug 2014 17:43:51
Sounds like the end of the Vidal saga. I really don't no what's happend here. The player and agent was very keen to push this one on, why have united not bid yet? Maybe the LVG comments about giving players a chance is true,

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I told everyone that Vidal deal ain't going to happen.
Woodwoody and media fooled everyone.

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Relax guys we will sign Vidal 100 percent. If it was that easy then it wouldve happened by now.

It is Juves most important player and if we really want him we will get him the only person that will stop us getting him is Van Gaal.

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Ash, it just had to be you AGAIN didn't it. For Gods sake boy grow up. All this conspiracy theory stuff is crap.(Supposed) fans like you seem to take more enjoyment from knocking the club than actually supporting it. If I was a betting man, I would put money on the fact that you want United to fail in everything they do, just so you can say "I told you so".
Or maybe you are just a scouser?

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Nice to see ash putting a positive spin on everything. are you moyes in disguise?

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03 Aug 2014 12:33:40
Marmite,

The 'end of the Vidal saga' will be the 1st September. Nothing has ended at all.

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02 Aug 2014 17:54:04
With the captaincy up for grabs I was wondering what do you feel is important in a captain and under what merit should it be given?

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Shapster, I think we make too big a deal about the captaincy. Players who influence their team will do so irrespective of whether they are captain or not. I get why people see it as important - look at Keane, Viera, Robson but I think we are getting too hung up on it. I want a team who all care passionately and all support each other.
pe

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IMO, a good captain should -

Set a good example for the rest of the team.

Be able to motivate the team.

Not be afraid to give other players an earful on the pitch.

Be a diplomat and able to stay calm under pressure.

Be able to calm their team-mates down during heated moments.

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He also needs to be high profile enough to be the media face of a club the size of united

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AJH -

Being captain of their club is something that most players aspire to achieve. It's something that should be earned and something that I think can act as a great motivator for the player. More is expected from them and the best captains rise to that challenge.

Conversely; I think being past over as captain for somebody who lacks the qualities to be a good captain and has done nothing or little to earn it could be very de-motivating for a player.

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Red seven, lol, not exactly Roy Keane then.

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Character is revealed in adversity. Then you find out who wilts, and who rises and pushes his teammates on.

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A good captain has to be a communicator, has to be brave and willing to put their bodies on the line for the sake of the team.

Keane wasn't exactly the calmest of captains and was not everyone's cup of tea.

On the pitch a captain needs to stand tall and be verbal. Out of our current players, Evans, Fletcher and Rooney are the stand out candidates although Rooney can disappear in certain games. A player sitting further back the pitch can also see more of what his teammates are doing wrong and inform them which is why defenders or Keepers are usually good choices for the captaincy.

Rvp would not be my choice because he rarely gives other players a verbal bashing. Evans (if he can stay fit) would be my choice.

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02 Aug 2014 17:32:05
Anyone else on here think van gaals latest comments are to turn attention away from last minute touches to potential deals? United have only played 3 games so far and although it pains me to say it, I hope Madrid find us out tonight, as I feel we are still weak in certain areas. Right now we have the potential to do what Liverpool did last year, concede a load but score more. If we seriously want to challenge for that title, a CM and a CB are a must.

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Based on how well RM have done in their previous two games I expect it will be us who 'finds them out'.

Liverpool or Manchester City in the final on Monday worries me a little though.

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02 Aug 2014 18:17:22
So let me get this straight, you want Madrid to do a number on us because you are worried that our coach is being lulled into a false sense of security with regards to the state of our squad during these preseason games? You mustn't rate LvG.

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02 Aug 2014 17:16:19
Juventus have stated that they do not want to sell Vidal. Unless the player himself says he wants to go

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Juventus are full of sh. t. they will sell either Pogba or vidal before the end of the window.

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02 Aug 2014 17:09:41
I think some people are getting a bit down with the new statement from Juventus regarding Vidal I just see it as them saying if he wants to leave he can he just needs to ask us formally so we don't look bad infront of our fans. Nothing has really changed for Utd if Vidal wants to come the balls in his court. For all those who like players to show their commitment to a club this is Vidals moment. c'mon Vidal hand in that request and push it through like Herrera!

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The talk is that he'll be going on tour with Juventus. If that happens I don't see a deal happening.

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02 Aug 2014 17:03:54
Good afternoon people!

Ed002 explained the situation regarding Vidal recently and mentioned that a deal was possible. A few on here and another ed mentioned a decision would be made by today. Am I correct in assuming that the latest comments coming from Juventus mean the decision has been made and the transfer isn't going to happen?

Do u have any significant update Ed002?

Apologies if u see this question as a time waste, and obviously only post if u feel it warrants a response

Kind regards
Steve

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{Ed002's Note - There is nothing of any real consequence to report.}

Thanks as always for your time ed! Hopefully that will help a few on here to relax! Ha

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02 Aug 2014 17:49:41
thanks for the update ed, i'm guessing we might hear more tonight when vidals agent returns to italy after concluding the medel deal? are there any obstacles in the way or have any of the obstacles you suggested (player asking for the move; other team getting involved; time) been removed or overcome?

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{Ed002's Note - I have previously explained the situation.}

03 Aug 2014 10:11:07
Brooksy. My understanding from Ed002's explanation is that Manchester United have made a bid through a 3rd party but are not the only team interested. For a move to happen Vidal has to request the move which will have financial implications. Ed002 was under the impression it would be sorted by today, but obviously things change fast In football and in answer to my original post nothing significant has changed. What I don't understand is why people don't use the search engine, and why people are still under the impression a deal is dead in the water even though Ed has kindly responded!

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02 Aug 2014 15:30:57
If we get Vidal, would it be fair to say our squad would be the best he has ever played with? Honest question, considering his career so far with Leverkusen, Juventus and with Chile. Crossed my mind to look at it from his point of view this morning.

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It would certainly be the best strike-force he'd have played with. Juve probably have a better midfield and their defense is no worse.

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02 Aug 2014 12:56:44
Edd007, what's your opinion mate if RVP was to be made Uniteds captain? A well known journo claimed he wanted out of united last season. As any football fan, I wouldn't want thãt person as the captain representing my club

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{Ed007's Note - I've said before I don't think RVP should be anywhere near the captaincy. If he does get it though it will be because of his relationship with LVG rather than merit it.}

02 Aug 2014 17:45:26
Have we done a poll for who we all think will get it? Would be a good one if not.

I think it's between Evans, Rooney and RVP. Don't think Fletcher will play enough to get it.

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02 Aug 2014 14:54:25
So, sounds like Vidal is going on the pre season tour with Juventus, hopefully that's the end of the saga. Van Gaal must want Strootman?

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Vidal is twice the player that Strootman is. If LVG would rather have Strootman than Vidal - I have to question whether he's allowing his personal feelings to influence what should be a strictly professional decision.

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R7, I agree, Vidal is the best player around in his position. There's no time to be sentimental, especially when Strootman is currently crocked.

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Redseven,

"I have to question blah blah blah. ".
Who the hell are you to make statements like that? Maybe, just maybe, a manager like LvG is better qualified and better placed than you to decide who he wants to play in his team. So.e of the comments on here are getting ridiculous.

How about we all just trust the new manager and trust his decisions. Already some people are questioning him before a ball has even been kicked in a competitive match. Moyes was not the right man last summer, no doubt. But he was on a hiding to nothing before he even started. let's not make the same mistake this year.

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02 Aug 2014 15:41:58
Personal feelings? He rates him as a footballer- a professional. LvG has said he understands his system. Hell, the loss of Strootman caused LvG to to tear up the Dutch Blue print that's how much he values this player as a footballer- nothing to do with personal feelings! In saying that,we can't afford to wait until he is fit,even if that was only until January. But I do find it hilarious how many posters on here think we can just swoop for him in January with not a bother. Roma has had a good season and will be looking to build upon that this year with a serious title challenge. If they are embroiled in a title race you can kiss that idea goodbye.

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Redseven. I imagine LVG has a better idea which player suits his philosophy better than you!

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Juventus leave tomorrow for Indonesia. If Vidal is with them, that does sound discouraging. But not final :)

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Betty -

Who the hell am I to have an opinion? I was under the impression that everybody was allowed one of those.

Incidentally; 9 out of 10 people will tell you that Vidal is a better player than Strootman. Why? Because he just is. Suggesting otherwise would be as ridiculous as somebody suggesting that Welbeck is better than Cavani.

As for all of this talk about LVG's 'philosophy'; how exactly is playing 4-3-3 a philosophy? It's a formation; and one that's been around a lot longer than he has. It's true that he changed his 'philosophy' over the summer as a result of Strootman's injury - but that's down to the limitations of the Dutch squad as much as Strootman's ability. Given that LVG has indicated that we'll be playing with 5 at the back (a formation I'm not aware Strootman has ever played, incidentally) - I have to question just how suited he is for LVG's current 'philosophy' anyway.

There's a reason why Strootman is playing at Roma and not Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Juventus or Chelski. He's a good player - but far from world class. The fact that LVG might be willing to compromise the quality of our team and performance to accommodate him is worrying. The same goes for him making RVP captain.

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Grow up people! Its the 2nd of August not September, there's a month still to go! United have kept their cards close to their chests all summer, who on here see the Herrera deal happening before it was confirmed? Back then Woodward was a God now doesn't know what he's doing! Dear me get a grip and get behind the new manager! Exiting times are ahead whoever comes in or doesn't!

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Personally I prefer a manager to build a TEAM with players that fit where he needs rather than just filling it with 'world class players'. Everybody has an opinion, just some like yours are wrong ;)

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Redarmy - wooden head has never been a god to anyone has he? A clown perhaps and always will be!

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Boca - Coming from somebody who thinks that Carrick is the answer to our midfield issues - I'd be worried if our opinions on anything were aligned! :)

The best players are able to adapt to fit into any team although in Vidal's case he's already far better suited than Strootman.

I think you will struggle to find too many people who think that Strootman would be a better signing than Vidal (Unfortunately most people have eyes, you see). I don't even think LVG would back you up if their personal relationship were to be taken out of the equation.

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Pancho - there were plenty of people on here when our 2 signings were announced that sang his praises, and no doubt if vidal or some other big name was to sign next few weeks he'd be the best thing since sliced bread! People forget all the big names david gill didn't get signed, nothing has really changed. let's wait til the end of the transfer window before we jump to conclusions!

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He would still be a glazer clown!

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02 Aug 2014 14:47:24
Marotta at Romulo's unveiling on Vidal: "He’s never been available on the market. The will of the player is crucial, he never expressed his desire to leave. Juventus is not a selling club. If a player asks to leave, he needs to do it in logical times. Now we are starting a tour and there is only a month before the end of the transfer market window, there aren’t the conditions.” Seems like its the end of the Vidal saga and we should move on

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02 Aug 2014 14:34:49
Marotta (Juve CEO): "Vidal has never asked to leave. Juventus will only sell if he is unhappy."

I think he's making it very clear that the only way Vidal will be sold is if he hands in a transfer request, inevitably forfeiting his 5% loyalty fee. Will Vidal do this? We will have to wait and see, but there's not much time to drag this on.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

The loyalty fee should not be an issue. If the club were serious about signing him they'd simply offer him a larger signing on fee.

Either we aren't serious about signing him or he isn't serious about signing for us.

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R7, it seems Juve need him to come out and say he wants to leave. Perhaps to save face? But I do not expect Vidal to turn his noes up at £2m (approx) so easily regardless of what we are paying him.

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Syd assuming the transfer fee is 47 million pounds, 5% of that would be around 2.5 million pounds.

But we are offering him 200k per week so that's 100k more per week.
So yearly he'll be making 5 million pounds.

So I don't think loyalty bonus is a reason.

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Syd -

I agree that the player coming out and saying that he wants to leave would help Juventus save face - but if that were the only thing preventing a deal from happening - why hasn't he come out and done so?

As I say - if we were serious about signing him we could always offer him a £2m signing on fee if the money was an issue for him.

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Exactly Mumbai - if it was down to that then both parties don't want it enough and we should just forget it.

Maybe LVG would want Vidal to show his desire to join us by handing in a transfer request, or maybe LVG would find his actions immoral if handing in a request - who knows and who cares anymore, it's just one big mess.

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There's two dependencies at the moment, one is financial and one is there is another club that has offered him a deal (as well as ourselves). I'm guessing the other club may be PSG, I am also guessing that the financial dependency is to do with his loyalty bonus.

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Yes Beast.

I think the sane reaction would be to wait for a few more days.

LvG is a winner and will not like the start the season with an unbalanced squad.

I'm sure we will sign players and if we are not able to sign Vidal/Hummels i'm sure we've at least tried for those players but they couldn't come due to some or the other reason(At least that's what i'd like to believe)

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02 Aug 2014 13:54:49
As it stands, no in's and no out's at any club what do you think the positions will be at the end of the next season

For me it will be :

1. Chelsea
2. City
3. Arsenal
4. United/Liverpool

The top 3 have a much better and all round squad than United and even though they have CL to deal with I think there's more quality in those teams than us at the moment.

Liverpool have lost their most important player and signed a lot of players. They will need time to bed in those players and also have 6 CL games to play (I'm pretty sure they won't play more than 6 games). Similarly United will need time to adapt to the new managers philosophy and get into the rhythm.

Thoughts?

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If we don't sign anymore players we will finish fifth. We're spread too thin at the back.

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Redseven

Agree. I now honestly think we're done spending for the summer, which is pathetic. We'll sell Nani, Hernandez, Anderson and Fellaini which will pretty much wipe out the majority of what we have spent.

With no more signings, 5th for us. I can see us beating ALL of the lesser teams, home and away, unlike last season. But whenever we come up against a top team, we'll be soundly beaten due to simply not being good enough at the back or CM. yet again.

If we make a couple of legit signings, we'll be top 3 or 4.

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Agree with R7
2 more signings we could be pushing for 3rd OR even 2nd.

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With two more signings who we all know are linked we could win the league

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Good post, Mumbai Boy, realistic.As good as Arsenal's summer has been so far, they still haven't signed a defensive midfielder. I will be hopeful and say City and Chelsea favorites for 1/2, and United, Arsenal, Liverpool to battle for 3/4. As of now .

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Arsenal may soon have W.Carvalho which then changes the game for them.

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I agree totally red sky

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02 Aug 2014 18:48:57
red sky -

I think at the very least we will be signing a CB. Based on what Ed002 has said I'd guess that Hummels is our first choice. The consistency of the Vermaelen rumours and Wenger admitting that they're open to him leaving makes me think he's second choice.

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02 Aug 2014 12:17:10
Moyes was bashed left right and center for coming out and saying that this was an aging squad which needed a rebuild. The reason given was that "it knocked the confidence of the players" after the manager going out in public and admitting that. The stories ran for weeks in the press. So now, when LVG doesn't do that and says that "MAYBE (Key word that), we don't need any more players" and deflects that question, answers it smartly, the same people who blamed Moyes are throwing hissy fits about how Van Gaal hasn't got a clue?

Some people are never happy. The word fickle comes to mind.

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I couldn't agree more, it amazes me how some people haven't got a clue how manager's should address the media. Journalists hate this kind of thing from SAF, Jose & LvG, but loved Moyes' clueless rants as they could print damaging headlines for days with just one of Moyes' silly quotes. So far everything that LvG has been very smart, whether he is naturally smart at this or he has been intensely advised I don't know, but everything he has said has stopped the media in their tracks. Well impressed so far.

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Well said refaith most people are blinded to realize that this season we have signed the most important signing for the last 27 years or so

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The word fickle means to change frequently. If people are never happy - surely that would make them the opposite of fickle?

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Redfaith
do you really think the players confidence is that fragile?
That they don't know that areas of the squad needs added to.
Or that A club like united will look to improve every year.
do people think the players will care that the manager might say to the press I would like to add to the squad .


i take what anyone says to the press with a pinch of salt imo so will the players who will also be far more ITK that anyone on the site .
apart from syd

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This is why Arry is loved - but he is a dying bread for a reason.

The modern game not only requires a great manager of football but a manager of PR. It's like how politics is no longer about the skills of living up to things, its all about sounding good and looking good. THICKLE.

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@jred

I don't think it has anything to do with confidence. I only cited the reasons given for people moaning last time around with Moyes.

Its just an answer from Van Gaal to deflect a question which was along the lines of "are you getting worried about lack of new signings", that is all really.

I don't think its even worth debating about. It means nothing what he says in a press conference. He is just trying to avoid a media storm, and sensational headlines, which he has done.

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Jred, no club wants bad press. In every press conference a club will have an advisor. The club will also know the list of questions being asked beforehand in many cases. The relevant club will want to make sure the club comes off in a positive way. Journalists are predators in the sense that they will wait for a manager to say something that they can jump on. With LvG saying that he may not buy anymore players as he is happy with the players, many journalists' questions will have been nipped in the bud, it also gives them no way of criticising the current playing staff and it prevents questions on transfers. SAF did it all the time and that's the correct way to do it. Moyes struggled with this kind of thing and it led to a season of bad press. Players were targeted individually by the media and it was negative press for the entire season, clubs do not want this.

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02 Aug 2014 13:53:01
If the manager shows doubt about his squad to the media, what does that look like to prospective (incoming) players?

Even if he doesn't believe it Van Gaal is too smart to let the media know he doubts his own squad. He is not David Moyes and he will never outwardly admit any kind of weakness.

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I think van Gaal is giving a lot of contradictory statements. In the last week: our squad is broken, we need defenders and, now, we might be alright if we don't sign anyone. I don't think this is a case of saving the players' modesty or being happy with the players we have. Van Gaal isn't a fool, he knows that we need to sign players and he has said it in public a few times. But, for a man who came to the club boasting about honesty, his flip flopping in the media is getting a bit tiresome.

We are all aware that the club is making efforts to sign players, so there's no reason for the manager to be pretending that he's happy with the squad. Instead of making ricidulous statements, he'd be better off just not commenting on transfers at all.

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"i take what anyone says to the press with a pinch of salt imo so will the players who will also be far more ITK that anyone on the site .
apart from syd

jred"

Will all the players know for sure that we are trying hard to sign Vidal & Hummels? That we are actually in deep discussions to sign them? I am not so sure. Ferdinand said many times that the players were never privy to what the club wanted to do in regards to transfers and much of what he heard was from the media itself. Whatever I know is simply down to the info I receive from the editor, if you don't believe him then that's up to you, but I do believe him. I know as much as anyone else does on this page who reads what the editor has to say.

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Redfaith, exactly. Why do people struggle with this?

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Redfaith
No i'm not worried i'm confident lvg will add to the squad.
But I also don't buy into the players would lose confidence if he was to talk about adding to the squad, its rubbish imo.
It was also rubbish when people claimed the players lost confidence when moyes said it . The players would be fully aware what the squad does and doesn't need and will be media savvy enough to pay much attention to what's in the press.
I would also think what a manager says to the press is very different to what he says to the players.
Or maybe they all curl up in a ball crying if they read in the papers that united are linked to a new player.
By the way this isn't aimed at you

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The press conferences are an aspect of Van Gaal's overall demeanour. He's basically doing exactly what he said he was going to do: giving the players an opportunity to prove themselves.

He has plenty of talent at his disposal: de Gea, Jones, Evans, Smalling, Shaw, Herrera, Rafael, Valencia, Welbeck, Mata, Rooney, Van Persie, Janusaj and even Young and Fletcher are all capable of playing at the top level if properly organized and confident. Could it be improved upon? Yes, of course it could. So, if we get a Vidal or a Hummels, fantastic, but if not, I am confident that next this season these players will go out every week and play like Manchester United players are supposed to play. With or without new signings we will score at least 10 more goals and let 10 fewer in, and we will be competing for a Champions League berth.

I also believe that playing in this new more technical formation we will see fewer injuries to our defenders, and that having a more consistent line up will further enhance our results.

Sorry to be so positive folks!

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02 Aug 2014 15:18:07
You know you're likely to be burnt at the stake as a witch, for that sort of realistic, common sense, Peashooter :)

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Danny, by saying the squad he inherited is broken, he means there's no balance. Too many players for certain positions IE number 10's & strikers. Also he cannot avoid the question. He's asked it and answers accordingly. He doesn't just sit there blurting out stuff. In regards to defenders he said: "We are doing well but we are looking for defenders, because a lot of defenders have gone, " Van Gaal said. "We have to replace them but I like also like Michael Keane and Tyler Blackett." So admits the club are looking for defenders, but would be happy with Tyler & Keane if he has to be. Today he said: "We still have a month to go [before the transfer window shuts] and we are winning. Maybe we don't need more players." There's no contradiction.

Of course he doesn't mean it, if MU do not get him his players he will be furious. Like any manager would be.

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Why will he be furious Syd?

If you can figure out his code, then I'm pretty sure agents and club officials know his code, so they will be pacifying the situation. Why is he saying this if the fans see through it, the club see through it, players see through it and agents see through it.

We all see through it, but what do we see? Nobody has a Scooby doo what is happening and what all this double speak means.

I'm confused about how confused I am.

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Beast, he is deflecting the media. The media see through it too, but they cannot write stories about what they think LvG feels. They can only write stories based on what he says, which is very little in this case.

The fact he says he's happy with the squad, whilst the club are working very hard on at least three signings says it all. There's no code, he's simply deflecting the media and doing it pretty well.

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So the media won't write any more stories about us trying to sign players.
Is this a joke .
Everybody knows we are trying to improve the squad what lvg says will make no difference to any one . The media the players the fans, no one

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If you cannot grasp media deflection then let's leave it at that.

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02 Aug 2014 11:32:49
So, maybe we don't need any more players? Damn, i'm sure I've heard this somewhere before?

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Don't worry, that is just to keep the press guessing. LVG knows what we need.

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02 Aug 2014 11:32:24
So, LvG is now being reported as saying he would not be disappointed if we made no further signings this window. Sounds a bit too similar to the last few hopeless summer transfer windows to me!

Glazers are just raising a huge chunk of money by selling another 8 million shares, but I doubt that any of that will get into the transfer kitty, which sounds as if it might be being put back into the office safe until January.

I hope that I am wrong and that we are still chasing Vidal, Hummels, Cuadrado, Vermaelen etc., but I am not going to hold my breath.

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We are still chasing Vidal & Hummels, don't worry :)

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With Vidal's dodgy knee you would have thought we'd have been able to catch him by now.

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I hope you are right, Sydney!

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I think he's being serious.

He'll put all his eggs in the 'January Strootman' basket but we won't get him due to him being tentative about leaving and Woodward penny-pinching.

I think the only possible addition is Vermaelen if he gets fit. which is scary.

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Mike, all we can go by is what we are being told. MU are pushing for both Vidal & Hummels, if it happens it happens, if it doesn't then it doesn't. Many things can go wrong in a transfer, especially transfers as large scale as these two.

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02 Aug 2014 10:40:20
Hi Eds. Read a report saying Cavani is happy at PSG. If this is true and he's staying put, what happens with Di Maria's move? I understand that if Cavani is not moved on PSG will not be able to sign anyone to comply with FFP regulations. Is there a chance that United might still sign ADM?

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{Ed002's Note - Try the European pages.}

02 Aug 2014 10:02:46
"We still have a month to go (before the transfer window shuts) and we are winning. Maybe we don't need other players, " the United manager told a press conference at the Michigan Stadium.

He did say we need defenders so what
does this all mean?

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What do you expect him to say?

"Hopefully we won't be embarrassed by a far superior team tomorrow night. I've got the squad I've got, but by the end of the window I'll have moved a load of this rubbish on and brought in some half decent players. Woodward says I can buy anyone, so I expect nothing less than Ronaldo and Messi lining up in my team come September"

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He's doing what any good manager would do. By saying we need better players he would be feeding the media with what they want and the media would hang the players out to dry. We will be signing more players. Even if our main targets collapse, we will have back-ups this summer. It is crucial that we improve the squad more, the Glazers know this.

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So the players don't know we need to improve the squad?
And the media aren't aware either .
And lvg is trying to keep it a secret .
I think we need a cb and a cm but shhh don't let anyone know

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If LVG thinks he can win the league without making further signings.
Good luck!
He clearly doesn't know how strong Chelsea, man c, arsenal n Liverpool is.
Ask moyes what happened last year.
I can gurantee you if we don't sign, we won't make it top 4.
Woodwoody is full of s**t aswell.
Please everyone forget about Vidal and Hummels, It won't happen.
There is no point dreaming in
theatre of dreams.
It's more like theatre of nightmares nowadays.
LGV goes he needed 4weeks to assess the squad, even blind man can tell in minute our current squad won't win the league.
There's 1month left but there won't be any good players left to buy.
LGV Good luck and hope you regret what you said in May.
By the way woodwoody rushed to urgent vacation.

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Jred, everyone at the club knows we need a CB and another CM, hence the reason that we are trying to sign a CB and another CM, but LvG or any good manager for that matter will not feed the media with reasons to attack the players. This is simple stuff, I thought even you might understand how it works. Obviously not!

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Ash, I think you need to chill out, you sound like a flake and it's quite embarrassing to read. Relax, MU are trying to sign players and we will be signing players.

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Welcome back Ash, thanks for brightening my day with your sunny outlook.

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Ash tag doom monger,

I don't usually like to single people out unless it is just light hearted banter. But for you I must make an exception.

You are the most negative, over reactive poster on here. Why don't you, just for once, get behind the manager, the club, and the team that you "claim" to support.
f you don't wan to do that, then that is up to you. But constantly bleating and whinging about all things United to not portray you in a good light as a United fan.
The club, and Ed Woodward have shown quite significantly well that they are prepared to back the manager in the transfer market. If we don't get Vidal or Hummels for example, that will be shame. But it won't be for lack of trying, and there are no "conspiracies" of "smoke screens" involved.

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Listening to comments from clubs is a waste of time. Us fans are pawns in a game to save or make more money. LVG's latest comments are an infantile attempt to give us some negotiating power, "don't sell us Vidal & Hummels then, we don't really need them as we have Cleverly & Blackett". Juve & Dortmund will be playing hard ball and because Woody can't keep his cheque book capabilities in his pants we are being buggered every time, like we were with Fellaini, Shaw, Mata & Herrera - we need to be using FFP excuse like everyone else does so we can get players cheaper or just shut the hell up and get things done.

Big waste of time listening to anything now from clubs or agents, all likely to lie servicing the needs of their clients or shareholders.

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People still take what managers say in press conferences as truth? I mean, for how many years have you been watching football people?

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Exactly Red Faith. The only reason clubs are still doing press conferences is because it's part of TV deals and it allows for promotion of certain things. I bet given the choice they would ignore them because it allows a glimpse through the door, the thing is now they know this they use 50 different doors so you never know what the hell is true or false. Its so self serving it makes me sick.

For a dedicated un-connected fan there is no way of us knowing what is really going on. The problems start when we start believing some things and not others based on our pre-disposition to want things to happen.

Moyes was awful on camera and I bet his dismissal was partly down to his goofs and not being savvy enough - obviously the results weren't good enough but he didn't seem capable at manipulating the system which was the final nail. I hate the system.

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Are the players confidence really that fragile?
If lvg was to say he would like a cb really be that big a deal?
For example " we will play 3 at the back and I only have 3 first tean cb so I could do with an other "
It would hardly make the front pages would it .
No matter what the manager says people will twist it to there own view

syd
classless as usual

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02 Aug 2014 13:00:47
I think we have a new candidate for the leader of the chicken licken brigade.

Step forward, Ash, and take a bow.

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I'd rather lack class than intelligence. Or both in your case :)

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@jred

I think its got more to do with avoiding a media storm due to a comment in a press conference and avoiding dressing room tension and friction between manager and players.

Either way, I think its best to ignore such comments, they mean very little.

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You would think after 27 years of Sir Alex and his sometimes nonsensical press conferences you would think we would be able to spot a manager who manipulates the press to his own gain, apparently not.

I am sure that some "fans" on here just want a platform to bitch and moan about anything. It seems that winning football matches and trophies is an afterthought nowadays and the only important thing to the "fans" is signing the next big flavour of the month.

We all know the squad is lacking in certain areas and even though the only people who have any real insight on here(the eds) are telling us REPEATEDLY that we are working on sorting these areas out some people still want to bash and whine about this and that.
I think we have already made the most important signing we will this summer in LVG and the fella seems to know what he is doing so let's give him and the players we already have a chance ffs.

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Lol
I will be clueless next.
There are lot of people post on the site expressing a lot of different views most are respectful with the exception of yourself.
I wouldn't mind so much but you are rarely if ever right

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Yes I am wrong Jred, LvG wasn't trying to deflect the press. He is genuinely happy with the players he's got and MU are going behind his back trying to sign the likes of Hummels, Blind, Vermaelen & Vidal :)

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Redfaith
I would agree

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Syd

Wheres this evidence that we're trying to sign a CM? If the Vidal rumours are just that, rumours, we don't seem to be in any rush to target a different CM. I can't even think of a CM we've been legitimately linked with.

Hummels and Vermaelen are common knowledge, we haven't been properly linked to any CM which is weird.

I also can't think of any apart from Vidal! Maybe Blind but he's 'decent' at best and we already have 'decent' and have for years.

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Syd you need to flick that chip off your shoulder dude, its weighing you down.

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Jred, if you agree with Redfaith then you agree with me. What Redfaith has said is exactly what I said. Just goes to prove that you like coming on here just to nitpick at my posts. Pathetic!

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RS, the editor has confirmed that MU are using a third party to try and agree a deal for Vidal.

Herbie? What do you mean? I don't post on here specifically to troll another person like Jred does.

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Syd
Then don't bite, let it flow over your head.
Anyway FOOTBALL.
:-)

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Fair play Herbie :)

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Syd
Not at all, its been said get that chip of your shoulder, why you feel the need to pretend you know what's going on at united or present your opinion as fact is beyond me .
For the record it was you who replied to my post.
like I have said many times there is no point talking about what the manager says as people will only believe what they want to and will twist it to there own argumemt.
and as I said in my OP the one YOU felt the need to reply to I don't think players will lose confidence due to the manager saying he would like to buy players, which is a point that has been argued over previous days.

as for a troll you are getting caught up in your own self importance as I have said many times I take you with a pinch of salt.
You seem to upset a few syd I can't imagine why

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I know as much as everyone else on here. Whatever the editor has told us.

I never said anything in my OP about players losing confidence. It's all in your head.

"He's doing what any good manager would do. By saying we need better players he would be feeding the media with what they want and the media would hang the players out to dry. We will be signing more players. Even if our main targets collapse, we will have back-ups this summer. It is crucial that we improve the squad more, the Glazers know this."

Like I said, it's all in you head. It's media deflection. It's what all good manager do. It's obviously lost on some people.

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 Syd
I said in my OP the one YOU felt the need to reply to I don't think players will lose confidence due to the manager saying he would like to buy players, which is a point that has been argued over previous days.

Look back over the last few days.
You seem to have the ability to upset a few I can't imagine why .

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02 Aug 2014 09:41:41
Man Utd team formation

http://www.manchesterunitedrumours.co.uk/formations/HERBIE.php

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02 Aug 2014 08:45:12
If only one of Vidal or Hummels was possible which would you prefer and who would you want to see signed in place of the other one?

For me I would pick Vidal everyday of the week and twice on weekends. Hummels is a fantastic centre back but I do have a slight concern with his lack of pace, the premier league is the quickest in the world and as the old adage goes there is not subsitute for pace. Also I feel there are other options for CB but Vidal is the only midfielder bar maybe Yaya who can do what he does, anyone else would be either a huge step down or a compromise on all round game. Where as a defence is built around being a solid unit and you can exchange ability with good reading of the game and organisation and the result can be the same.

As such if Hummels wasn't available i'd like to see us go for Inigo Martinez who I think would be excellent on the left of Jones and Evans, leaving us with Keane, Smalling and Blackett as back up.

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You said Vidal any day of the week and weekends.

Ill pick him even in summer holidays but we also need a top centre back or else forget about beating the top 4 teams.

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I would say Vidal is more important, simply because there is no one else available that can do what he can do. I think there are CB's out there that can do a job until a better one comes available.

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Definitely Vidal.

We talk about the need for CB's which I agree with as we need to improve, but we have to remember Carrick can fill in plus we have no fixture congestion so the chances of our CB's all being out at the same time and us playing a top team that same week would be slim this season.

We can also adjust to 4-4-2 for the occasional game if our luck is bad.

Midfield is vital as it means we can dominate games rather than squander possession like last season.

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Vidal. I still believe most games are won or lost in midfield. Dominating midfield eases the pressure on the defenders, and creates more chances for the attackers. A dominant center mid makes everyone better.

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02 Aug 2014 08:33:01
Interesting to hear that LvG is seriously considering Evans as captain. As a youngster he showed real leadership qualities. But I think that it was very hard for him to step into the first team with Rio Vidic and Evra around him and for him to lead them with his lack of experiance. But with them gone and him "currently" being the most experianced defender I think his leadership skills can blossom.

That being said I would still expect RvP to be captain with maybe Evans as vice captain until RvP leaves.

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02 Aug 2014 10:11:40
Shappy, you'll not be surprised to hear that I agree completely that Jonny would make a good captain.

I think he's by far the most intelligent of our current defenders, in his reading of the game, the best passer, the most comfortable on the ball, the most unruffled under pressure, the most experienced, and the most voluble when it comes to organising the defence.

Obviously he had to play second fiddle to Vidic and Rio for several years, but I think playing with those two has been a great education for him.

I know it's only Northern Ireland, but even with them, he's been the natural leader on the pitch, trying to encourage and cajole better performances out of those around him, guys, with it has to be said, a lot less natural talent than him. You will not see a prouder man when he pulls on the green shirt.

I'd give it to him without any hesitation whatsoever, and before anyone (Syd), accuses me of bias, the most important thing is the success of Man Utd, and I wouldn't be suggesting him for the job if I thought it would be in any way detrimental to our chances of success.

It looks like LVG rates him, even moving him into midfield to see how he could cope there - he's a bit like Rio in that regard, in that it's a position many of us thought Rio could move into because of his footballing brain and his passing ability.

Of course, the big proviso is him staying fit - if he can, being a popular member of the squad, I think he would excel, and his appointment as captain might also avoid any potential catfights between Wayne and Robin.

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Carrick possibly? Less chance now he's injured

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I think it's almost certain that Van Persie will get it, but I'd want Rooney as vice if that was the case.

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StevieK, you make some good points, but for me he would be 3rd/4th on the list. Behind Van Persie, Rooney & maybe even Fletcher.

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02 Aug 2014 10:58:10
Rooney. vice. too many . jokes. brain overload.

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Evans is starting to get a bad press on here, but 2 years ago he was our best defender. Last year he was injured a lot so I'm looking forward to seeing him fit and healthy and stepping up to be a senior player

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02 Aug 2014 11:47:58
Never been convinced, Syd, about having forwards as captain. Too selfish by nature - it's been all about them scoring goals since they were in kids' teams.

Plus, if they're any good, they shouldn't be spending too much time with their back to goal, being able to see what's going on.

Defenders grow up organizing things around and ahead of them - just think leadership and captaincy comes more naturally to defenders, and midfielders to an extent.

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Rooney is the club's poster boy. Commercially he's a workhorse, and on the pitch he's got enough talent. He stopped the stupid stuff he used to do as a youngster and has the most number of apps for us in the current team. Will be England captain too. For some reason I've never really liked RvP. He's supremely talented but he's got a temper worse than Rooney's, and I don't think he is a very bright individual, not that Roo is. Or maybe its because he walked out of Arsenal leaving them high and dry, had a good season then chose to take a mid season holiday to Holland to cuddle with van Gaal. Either way I'd have Rooney, Evans and Fletch ahead of RvP for captain

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StevieK, I understand and agree with that, but nowadays the captain's job is more about delivering info from the manager to the players, more of a speaker in the dressing room. So it makes sense to have the best player who can do this doing it. Seems Van Persie already has the relationship with Van Persie at International level and seems he isn't a shy character in the dressing room, then it makes more sense to keep it going. He certainly has no issues with giving the captaincy to a striker, so I cannot see why it would be a problem now. Also with us having an interest in Vermaelen and/or Hummels, like Fletcher, Evans will not be a guaranteed starter. A guaranteed starter will always get the captaincy. I think it's nailed on to be Van Persie, but because everyone thinks it will be Van Persie, you couldn't rule out LvG shocking us all and picking someone else. I think there will be a few captains before the season kicks off.

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02 Aug 2014 12:58:01
Totally agree, Syd, that it will more than likely be RVP. Everything points to that.

Just think Evans, and glad to see that LVG apparently thinks so as well, deserves to be at least considered a candidate for the job.

I think his footballing intelligence, his reading of the game, his passing ability and his ability to play with either foot (I know he's predominantly left-footed), means that even with a top, new signing, he'll still be starting more often than not, ahead of Jones probably, and Smalling certainly.

Like AJH says somewhere else, up until last years injuries, he held our defence together for a period of time and was considered by most knowledgeable fans, as one of our most consistent players.

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StevieK, good points about Evans. I like him as a player for the reasons you mentioned, as he is a ball playing center back, but more importantly, LVG likes him.

I also agree about CBs or CMs being the best leaders on the pitch. Forwards should just stick to finding space and knowing where the keeper is.

Perhaps the captaincy will improve his game as well as he grows in confidence.

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StevieK, if you look at my 343 teams, I always have Evans playing left CB. Even though we are linked to Vermaelen who plays there, I would prefer Evans. I think we will only sign Vermaelen if we fail to sign Hummels, and Vermaelen will play central, Jones right, Evans left. That's why I am badgering on about Vidal & Hummels, Hummels, Jones & Evans would be a great three. Especially with the likes of Vidal & Herrera ahead of them.

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02 Aug 2014 08:09:32
Shahram you mentioned we are going tonhave some financial implications this year.

Are you referring to the kit deal, I've seen reports saying if we miss out on another of champions league we are going to be getting 51 mill a year instead of 75 mil.

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02 Aug 2014 07:12:13
So lvg says we might not need anyone. I know he kind of has to say that but if we don't sign at least one centre back and a mid field player I'd be extremely annoyed given that everyone can see our flaws.

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Predictable. LVG has not had much time so obviously needed to assess his squad before making any moves. He is trying to back his players and give them confidence.
He has a new midfielder and cover at left back. We have lost 2 central defenders so a signing in this area would be understandable.

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02 Aug 2014 09:21:38
He'll be saying that to keep the persons at the top of the club happy as long as they will be ringing in cash and they want to avoid investing it in new players, and prefer to give the players we have some more kind of marketable value so they can use them to generate more cash from fans. It's a viscous cycle and to be honest a big slap in the face to me as a fan of this club if you ask me

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02 Aug 2014 10:15:49
JF, so LVG seems to you like the kind of guy who puts a clubs's owners financial interests ahead of his own interest in creating a quality team? To be honest I don't think you could have misread his character any more than you have done, if they wanted a puppet they wouldn't have chosen LVG.

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JF, have you heard any of his comments? He has already been critical of the focus on commercial interests. Not sure where you get your ideas from.

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02 Aug 2014 06:35:30
Hopefully the starting 11

http://www.manchesterunitedrumours.co.uk/formations/Parkie100.php

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02 Aug 2014 06:21:01
http://www.manchesterunitedrumours.co.uk/formations/dean1210.php

this is the dream:)
not that far off tbh

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02 Aug 2014 06:16:08
Van Gaal : "I have said that I want to see the
players I have and give them an honest chance.
We have still a month to go and maybe we
don't need other players."

Jesus! really

Seems like no matter which manager we bring in they ignore our weak spots. Even if we bring Mancini or mourinho (who actually buys player than create one), they will stop buying. There is something at old Trafford maybe .


but anyway, as far as I know 4 signings are for sure

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Yeah, either LvG is ignoring our weak points, or he is experienced enough to know how to deal with incessant transfer rumours for the good of the club.

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02 Aug 2014 10:14:23
Our main weak spots were CM and LB.

He's sorted out LB, and has made a big start in sorting out the CM position.

Hardly blind.

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02 Aug 2014 01:58:18
So LVG has said that he wouldn't be disappointed if there were no more additions to the squad.

Hopefully that doesn't mean there won't be any more additions.

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02 Aug 2014 07:04:13
What do you think?

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Id be disappointed if we didn't sign any new players, I think most of us would be. But then again what is a manager supposed to say. Last season Moyes stated we needed 5 or 6 world class players and look how that turned out.

It is most likely LVG giving some of his players confidence and assurances about their future but it does seem to happen around this time every season. So fingers crossed its not the end of our summer signings

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02 Aug 2014 01:31:23
According to Bild, United are set to seal a deal for Vidal for 60 million euros. Unfortunately, they seem to piggybacking a report from "Gazzeta dello sport" I don't know how reputable they are. But, I do find that often the publications with sport in their name tend to be full of BS. An affliction that transcends borders.

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01 Aug 2014 23:05:27
The Glazers are seriously considering selling Manchester United FC

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01 Aug 2014 22:46:32
Spurs closing in on Musacchio.

IIRC, he's a very good CB?
They've also just signed Eric Dier, a CB isn't he?

Could a move for Vertonghen be on the cards? isn't he a lefty?

Sorry for all the questions, i'm not that knowledgeable about players from other leagues. Vertonghen, IMO, is a better option than Vermaelen.

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Didn't know they'd signed Dier, quality player, I wouldn't say they're replacements really, they're very short in the cb area

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He can also play in midfield and from watching him since he at spurs and previously at Ajax he seems very good. At 27 he would also bring a bit more experience to the defense.

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02 Aug 2014 01:36:29
JaMax, have you not been listening to LvG at all, experience has nothing to do with age ;)

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