Manchester United Banter Archive September 05 2013

 

Use our rumours form to send us manchester united transfer rumours.


05 Sep 2013 23:04:13
Again hypocrisy GDS2 you have just stated that you can't make a prediction 3 games in to the season yet you state that you fancy finishing 25 points ahead of us come the end of the season! that's a prediction mate! I certainly am not daft enough to think that we are going to win the league, but if you look over both our last 19 games you will see that in fact we have collected 1 more point than you and we have only conceded 3 goals in our last ten games! Add to that sakho and ilori and you should realise that we have an excellent base to work from now! We also have suarez to come in to the fold and sturridge just can not stop scoring mate! You will not finish 25-30 points infront of us, if you do I will be the first over here to say you were right!
ian the red

----
Ian,

Can you see the difference between these two sentences?

1. I think united will finish 25 points ahead of Liverpool.

2. You won't finish 25 points ahead of us and you won't win the league.

One of them is me stating my opinion, the other is you stating your opinion as if it is a fact. There is more chance based on the last few seasons that we will finish 25 points ahead of you, you said it's not possible if you go 8 points ahead of us, whereas I said that actually and mathematically it is possible and likely as we have a better squad than you.

I am pretty confident you had no idea who sakho and ilori were until Sunday, and now they are suddenly going to help you improve.

Good little analysis with the last 10 games, 4 of which were after we had already won the league and weren't bothering at the end of last season, and still you only got 1 more point than us, not sure exactly what point you were trying to make there but it wasn't a very good one.

In all fairness I like the banter, you are talking some sense which is more than tel and puzzled and lfc have ever done on here and you clearly love Liverpool, but you wouldn't be here if you didn't win on Sunday, you would be on your own page moaning about signing two unknown players when you need quality enforcements.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

GDS2 just let me tell you mate I follow football all the time, apart from my son and my fiance I live it and I breath it so I can tell you now that I did know ilori and sakho prior to signing them as I have watched ilori in the nextgen tournament at youth level for sporting lisbon, very relaxed on the ball, confident, plays in to feet, brings the ball out, like agger really! and have seen sakho also, strong in the air, tough in the tackle, but can also play and is a threat in the oppositions box! I know my stuff mate! Now I replied to a very arrogant comment made by sydney who said that you will finish 25-30 points above us in the league! I know mathematically its possible you can do it but I just don't see it! Say if van persie were to become injured, Where do the goals come from? He already cuts a frustrated figure as the service into him isn't there! Wellbeck just isn't a 20-30 goals a season man and rooney is out for a few weeks with a gash to his head, there is a doubt as to whether he wants to be at united also and he is your most creative player!

Agree0 Disagree0

Ok ill say it, Liverpool will finish 25 points behind us again, shako is known as the beast in france and 4 years ago was talked as the best up and comer, well 4 years on he ain't improved and psg were looking for a club silly enough to spend over 12m on him, congratulations u are that club.
Many pundits and coaches of la liga couldn't believe aspas went for nearly 10m, 10m for a player who is 28, only had 1 season of top flight football, and by all accounts was valued at nomore than 3m, llori is mistake prone ala Titus Bramble.
Sturridge will drop u in a second if he's form continues, which I dnt think it will.
Coutiniho looks a very good player I must say, I bet he can't wait to get to barca next season!
Hd bye :-)

Agree0 Disagree0

Actually Chris, most pundits and coaches were surprised Aspas didn't go to the confederations cup.

Agree0 Disagree0

Were they kiwi? Hmmm. Never heard that tbh, I think u will find they wernt mate

Agree0 Disagree0

On the 1st of February Vicente Del Bosque said this of Michu: ""We recognise his worth and his goals in the Premier League, but we couldn't find a space for him at the moment. The same thing happened with Iago Aspas. "

So he was very very tempted to put Aspas in the Spain squad. The same as Michu, but he went with experience in the form of Torres. So I highly doubt 'most pundits and coaches of la liga couldn't believe aspas went for nearly 10m' as you said. The national coach had him on the fringes of the Spanish national side, which is not easy to get into.

Also Aspas is 26, not 28.

Agree0 Disagree0

Lip service kiwi! sorry aspas is 26, so he's in his 'prime' lol.
Get over it man! u over paid for a player that most think isn't good enuff for liverpool and was only worth 2m tops

Agree0 Disagree0

Your wrong chris. You say 'lip service', but why even mention Aspas if he didn't believe he was close to getting into the squad? You don't hear Didier Deschamps come out and say David N'gog was unlucky not to get into the national team do you?

You've been proven to be making stuff up, nothing to back up your claim that Aspas wasn't well thought of in Spain, and getting his age completely wrong.

Also if we want to talk about overpaying for a player, how about we discuss the 27.5 million pounds spent on Fellaini?

Agree0 Disagree0

Not to mention a huge sum of cash spent (wasted) on Juan Veron lol

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 21:17:01
big -hair fellaini-
plus-side, will score a few goals, good with his head, gets stuck-in, good with the high balls, flicking it on to the forwards.
downside- very slow, makes very rash tackles, so expect your team to be down to 10 men, a couple of times this season, plus 12-14 yellow cards, might slow your game down a bit when on quick counter-attacking moves,
so not a great player at all, but a descent midfielder .
ps, if moyes puts too much workload on players like rvp in training, don't be supprised by an needless injury, moyes needs to change from old-school methods to new-school, like our own bright manager mr rodgers.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Rodgers will be sacked come June.

Agree0 Disagree0

I believe Mr Rodgers was lower than United are now this time last year

Agree0 Disagree0

No way syd, I think you will get better odds on davy-boy getting the boot, we will see if he can make the step up at utd.

Agree0 Disagree0

Come on syd that's unfair, july at least.

Agree0 Disagree0

Your owners have said they expect top 4 this season, full of confidence in Brent?

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 23:10:37
haha, stop being so funny.
BR took over a team that finished 8th, an improved them drastically. Moysey is the start of the end for the "champions"

Agree0 Disagree0

Lfc, is it true Sturridge is injured because he couldn't handle the pressure off carrying Liverpool anymore? Oh and on Brendan Rodgers he was sacked as reading manager, but sure Martinez is overrated as a manger but Rodgers in still the SECOND best manager in meryseyside.

Agree0 Disagree0

The real Malak
BR improved you so drastically that you finished 7th; an improvement of one place and behind Everton.
A real beacon

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 23:51:07
caolan-2, time will tell just how good our manager is, o and sturridge got injured doing extra duties, showing dan wellback how to put the ball on target with his left and right feet.

Agree0 Disagree0

The 'champions' in inverted commas why, as if people are calling us champions but we are not?

We won the premier league last season, 20 times now, and we are the champions, so no inverted commas needed.

Agree0 Disagree0

GDS2 you seem to be reasonable and enjoy a bit of banter. Why do you never negatively comment on Sydneys posts? He is a very well known wind up artist on our site. Some of his comments on this page are just plain stupid! Doesn't it embarras you a bit?

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 20:48:24
While responding to some posts further down the page, it got me thinking about possible formations to get the best of our players.

Perhaps our greatest strength is we have a deverstating pair of centre forwards with RVP and Rooney and I'd prefer to see them playing together as a striking partnership.

However, I'm not such a fan of 4 4 2 so it got me thinking of 4 1 3 2.

Does anyone know if any top teams line up like this, whether it can be an effective system and do we have the players to make it work?

Feel free to get as technical as you like!

Cheers.

Are there any other ways we could play these two up front in central positions?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

05 Sep 2013 21:06:57
Nani got five years, well he was definitely guilty of hitting that first man

There are some strange happenings at the moment, as expected the cover up has begun with "sources" indicating it was always intended to be a quiet window and Fellaini the main target, of course not something to confirm when trying to sell season tickets or take new sponsors on board. It does seem like damage limitation, because of course if that was the case we would have bought Fellaini a lot earlier for £4m less. Anyway after choosing Nani instead of Kagawa on the bench, Nani signs a new contract, a new five year one at that. At the same time Zaha is nowhere to be seen. Strange days.

Nani for five more years is a strange decision following other strange ones. I surmise his presence may help if we bought or loaned another Portuguese player in January, Cointreau although with our spending Ronaldo may return when he is 38. Alternatively perhaps someone suggested one of the young players needed a nanny and our CEO obliged. Levity apart the decision to give an incredibly inconsistent player like Nani, who hasn't earned such a contract, five years is frankly baffling.

Still, these are different times and Moyes will stand or fall by decisions such as this

Believable0 Unbelievable0

I do find it strange but then again everything is strange to me at the moment.

It does however give us leverage in case we try to sell him down the line. Anyone know the terms of new deal?

Agree0 Disagree0

Evening Red Man,

I do agree he's been frustratingly inconsistent but at least it protects us from losing him for free next summer. I'll concede that 5 years does sound a long time but we know contracts don't mean much.

TBH none of our winger's have performed well consistently for over 18 months, so I don't begrudge seeing Nani given a chance - he can at least beat a man and put the opposition on the back foot. His decision making is what let's him down so he will have to get focussed in that department and improve. Who knows how niggling injuries and uncertainty over his future have affected him in the last 2 seasons, he did look class before then. Now with the confidence of a new manager backing him and a long term contract he might kick on to somewhere near what we know he's capable of.

BTW I'm not getting carried away here at all, truth is if we had world class winger's I'd say he doesn't deserve a chance but that's not the case, sadly! I'm just trying to look at it rationally.

I do, however, feel Moyes will look to improve this area next summer unless things drastically improve; so Nani, Valencia and Young have 1 full season to impress him (not us) because I can see at least 1 of these 3 leaving at that stage, 2 if Zaha shows promise.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 20:02:26
Felliani and Toure will be interesting to see in the match against City Toure is the better allrounder but Felliani has better bullldozer skills

Believable0 Unbelievable0

I know I'll get slaggtered for this, I accept it. But for what we need I'd honestly rather have Fellaini. He'll shock people this season.

Agree0 Disagree0

Fellaini is a very decent player of that there is no doubt. He will add a physicality to our team with height both in defensive and offensive situations. He makes us more dangerous at set pieces but also when our wingers break we have the option of a high cross as well as a low one which has been what we have been more restricted to in the past. Can he control a game at a higher level than Everton, pass the ball accurately short and long but for me another question is his physicality a shortfall against tricky European teams who will use it and fall over at the lightest touch?
We will find out but I was not against him and can see a good contribution but it is what we didn't add alongside that adds huge frustration plus wasting £4m extra. He is here and is committed so he gets my support

I like his story about 1999 and something that I haven't seen much about, I understand he has been living in South Manchester so settling in will be far easier

Agree0 Disagree0

United we stand.

Thanks for that bud, needed a good chuckle.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 19:57:55
I think Nani singing a new contract was just to drive his price up and have a season under Moyes

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Unlikely, I think Moyes believes he will get the best out of him.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 19:56:46
So, as Evra is here for a while, perhaps we should try a new formation. Most teams have 2 wing backs or 2 wide players, how about 1 of each? let's play a 4 4 2 with RVP and Rooney up front (or Rooney as a No 10), the usual back 4, and a middle 4 - Fellaini, Carrick and Kagawa centrally with Nani (!) on the left. after can provide width on the right with Carrick covering his forward runs and it also strengthens us through the middle. It also accommodates Kagawa in a central creative role.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

I really think Nani's decline started when his position on the right was usurped by Valencia.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 19:40:53
Lets hope we will see the Nani of 2011 this season and not the inconsistent one ever since. Part of the issue with Nani was not getting on with SAF. They had a very turbulent relationship like Rooney did. Fingers crossed we can see a better Rooney and Nani this season. I guess the formation will look a lot like this:

__Welb____Van Persie____Nani
___________Rooney
______Carrick_____Fellaini
Evra_____Vidic___Jones_____Rafa
____________DDG

Cannot see Ferdinand playing every game and IMO Jones must play. {Ed004's Note - I think Kagawa has to start for Welbeck. We may play a similar way to Everton. Nani offering a direct approach like Mirallas and Kagawa playing like Piennar coming inside with Evra providing the width}

Believable0 Unbelievable0

I also think Kagawa should be ahead of Welbeck and possibly Evans ahead of Jones. Jones and Vidic both go to the ball too often, may leave holes.

Agree0 Disagree0

I think Kagawa needs to be played centrally, I must be sounding like a broken record today haha! I've never thought Rooney has the first touch or vision to play as a CAM, maybe as a secondary striker but no deeper than that. he likes being in front of goal and his frustration shows when he isn't. We've all seen how this can affect his performance, especially in the later stages of a game.

Agree0 Disagree0

Nani can't even take a corner. For a Utd winger that's unacceptable. That over hit free kick in the last few minutes at Anfield summed up why he should be moved on.

I agree with your 4 2 1 3 line up except I'd swap Rooney for Nani and Bring Kagawa in behind the front three.

Hopefully we've put Nani on a long contract with a view to getting more money for him next summer. Apparently 5 clubs put in offers for him so we know the demand is there. Time for other clubs supporters to feel the pain when the ball keeps hitting the 1st man.

Agree0 Disagree0

I think that having one direct wide man and then a wider inside player like Kagawa in a 4-2-3-1 style is one of the best tactical ways to play. The way the spain u21s used it was fantastic and I hope we do something similar.

Agree0 Disagree0

Agreed. I'd like to see Nani starting on the right as he's a more flexible player than Valencia who has been poor for quite a while. Like Ed004, I'd like to see Kagawa starting most games, but he's not a true wide player and Welbeck's work rate and movement does a lot for the team. Hopefully he'll get a chance playing in his best position behind the striker, even if it might be at the expense of Rooney, who I feel could play anywhere in the front 3.

Agree0 Disagree0

I posted this hours ago, but it went on the teams page. I agree Ed 100% with the tactics, I would like to see Kagawa play, but there will be times where Welbeck is preferred due to strength.

Agree0 Disagree0

Ed004 agree 100%. Welbeck is poor as a winger unless you are looking for defensive cover.

Agree0 Disagree0

Ed that is exactly what I have been thinking. However I see Nani, Welbeck, Kagawa and Young rotating based on form and fitness.

The way he had Baines and Pienaar down the left makes me think he could do the same with almost any of our 'wide' men except Toni.

I also see Zaha playing more on the right if this is the plan. atEverton Moyes tended to let his RM have more freedom to stay forward, and this would suit Zahas style and inexperience.

Agree0 Disagree0

Andrew,

Giggs hasn't been able to take a corner for 20 years and he hasn't done too badly!

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 19:33:33
"Despite having the largest commercial income in the Premier League, the high interest payments required under the Glazers’ leveraged buyout has meant that Manchester United only pay the third-highest wages (behind City and Chelsea). Under the new spending constraint rules in place in the Premier League, United, like the other top clubs, start from a fixed position and are now only able to increase their wages by £4m a season. Crucially, the club can exceed the £4m limit if they write increased commercial deals. Maximising commercial income will therefore continue to be the key area of focus for the legions of staff at Old Trafford."

just read this. is this correct because if true it has quite some interesting ramifications going forward.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

MU will maximise income via commercial deals regardless of the FFPR. As of last Friday MU reached the date where they can now negotiate with other kit suppliers. The club have been negotiating with Nike since February. No doubt the club will stick with Nike and it will be a big one. That said, what's the point unless we get the targets that the manager wants?

Agree0 Disagree0

Sydney

What's the point? Well the word dividend hasn't been used on here for a while has it.

Agree0 Disagree0

Dividends will be taken sooner or later Red Man, you can bet your bottom dollar. I will be pleasantly surprised if I'm wrong.

Agree0 Disagree0

Sydney

Would the dividends be higher or lower if we had bought the standard of player we should have done?

Agree0 Disagree0

If that is truly the rule now. That means you either have to sell players to open up salary room for new signing (i.e. the NBA has salary caps) given any decent signing will cost higher than 4 million in wages and also taking into account existing player contracts, which in many cases all have an escalating salary basis.

As you said teams are going to be looking to do a lot of commercial deals to allow for increased wages for players and new signings.

All in all 4 million sounds very low given the wage bill of close to 200 million for teams like city. That means next year they can only increase their wage bill by 2% and will have no room to add any new players unless they can generate some additional commercial income and get some wages off their books.

Eds comments please, is my interpretation of this correct? {Ed044's Note - You have to sell players to open up places in the squads and the rules are more complex than you seem to think mate.}

Agree0 Disagree0

Red Man, I don't see dividends being taken yet, so it wouldn't have had any bearing.

Dividends will be taken in the future for sure, but it won't be until the cash flow increases.

Agree0 Disagree0

Sydney

I didn't think you would answer that directly

Agree0 Disagree0

This summer's spend has no relevance to future dividends. The Glazers will not raid savings (cash reserves) for dividends. They will wait for the cash flow to increase and then take a set amount every year. I imagine and it's just a guess, I think they will use part of the dividends for their personal life and part to pay down debt. Either that or they will get the debt paid off ASAP and then start taking dividends. {Ed044's Note - You need to check with Ed02 Sydney! but why would the owners take Dividends to payback part of the debt?}

Agree0 Disagree0

Ed044, you are right it doesn't make sense, what I mean is the surplus cash left over after transfer spends, half will go towards the debt (buying back of bonds) and the other half taken out in dividends. In 2016/17 I would expect the Glazers to refinance the other half of the bonds at a lower interest rate. Earlier this year they refinanced one half of the bonds and the rates dropped from 8.375% to just 2.8% dropping the interest amount from £31m a year to £21m a year. So in theory the interest amount in the future will be around £10m a year. That is some difference from 2009 when it was £68.8m a year.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 18:48:25
I for one am happy with fellaini he's what we've needed for years I remember last season everton vs city and fellaini bossed toure all afternoon. Toure tried using his strength to knock fellaini off the ball but just bounced off of fellaini.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

05 Sep 2013 18:29:25
Loving all the Nani 'is great on his day' comments. I was great in my day too, unfortunately this was a solitary wet Wednesday in 1984. I would love him to be great but I don't see why he will suddenly become so having been infuriating for so long. We shall see

Believable0 Unbelievable0

I don't see where all this Nani loving has come from? Is it the lack of player brought in is giving people blind faith? He's the most frustrating player I have ever seen in my life, yes he loves the club, but so do I. We all know what is best for the club and i'd much rather see Zaha/Januzaj pushed into the squad than a soon to be 27 year old Nani

Agree0 Disagree0

It is called blinded and fickle fans. I am waiting for someone to hail him as the creates winger in world football and I am sure Moyes will bring the best out of him, because fergie sure couldn't:)

Now we have 3 wingers who all like to play on the right. Joking aside if he gets anywhere near his 2010 form I will be delighted.

Agree0 Disagree0

He had 1 moment on sunday a good shot but then frustrated as usual by forgetting how to cross a ball

Agree0 Disagree0

Mate tbh I think people are just clutching at any news atm that ain't bad lol

Agree0 Disagree0

I can't remember when his day was. Did he ever have one or has it just become folk law that somewhere in the depths of the mists of time Nani once had a day (apparently)?

Wonder if he'll ever have another one?

Agree0 Disagree0

IMO it's because we lack quality in this position. However inconsistent I still think he deserves his chances with Valencia and Young his main competition, both struggle to provide any penetration. We know Nani can at least beat a man and make things happen. It's not ideal but I think he deserves a chance given our main options.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 17:59:22
Now Mondays events have had a chance to calm down. I'm actually really pleased with the Fellaini signing. He's a good solid midfielder. But the best thing seems his absolute desire to play for united. Hope he shuts yaya out in a couple of weeks and becomes a great player for us. {Ed004's Note - I will be the first to admit on Monday I was very annoyed like most. Everyone knows I didn't want Fellaini though I will support him here and if its true he turned down 4 million to sign him then that's the type of player we want here. The biggest positive I'm taking from this window is that Moyes tried to sign a midfielder and left back. So as long as we get Herrera or someone like that along with Coentrao or Baines then I will be happy with these two windows. Though the following summer is when we need to sign a world class marquee signing such as Ronaldo, draxler, Reus etc}

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Ed 04, out of the 3, only draxler is realistic as the other two will stay at their respective clubs for at least 2 more years and Draxler has a release clause of 70 million euros, a lil too much for a kid, imo united wasted the window looking for marquee players. Hindsight hardly ever helps but imo they should have been looking at good players with potential to be great, like herrera, for the right price of course

@gd
true, Fellaini could have arrived at a better time than monday, we all were annoyed by the events that took place . He will have a strong presence in our midfield, something that was lacking for a long time, plus as someone pointed out, he can also be pushed further forward when we need a goal or two in the 2nd half of games.

Agree0 Disagree0

Hopefully he will add a lot when defending and attacking set pieces too.

Agree0 Disagree0

Completely agree Ed. If we do purchase anyone in Jan, I think that will be the plan to go for a Ronaldo or Reus in the summer, either would be awesome. I think we will probs go for Barkley as well.

Agree0 Disagree0

Marquee signing? We'll be lucky to get a bloody gazebo if Ed Woodentop is still in charge of transfers in January

Agree0 Disagree0

Lol :)

Agree0 Disagree0

Smalling for Evans rather than Jones?

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 17:31:22
Couldn't post onto the Teams page Eds, so perhaps you can chuck this onto the Banter page! I really think, now that we have a solid midfield presence in Fellaini we should be going for 3 at the front in some games, fullbacks giving us the width. as we know they can.

Watched a couple of Mardid games a few weeks back and Ancelotti had set up with a sort 4-3-3 system, but in play you could see it was more of a 4-2-1-3. it was very quick and fluid, with the CAM (Isco) sitting just ahead of a midfield two (Khedira and Modric in Madrid's case) and breaking out to launch counter attacks, spraying the ball to the wide forwards or passing directly straight to the center forward. It was great to watch, and actually reminded me of a few years back when Scholes would be that counter attacking player.

For me, Kagawa needs to be in this role. he doesn't have the pace of Isco. but he's no slouch and his vision for a pass is probably better. Him sitting just ahead of Fellaini and Carrick could be great to watch. and as well as that. Fellaini could also break with power and pace with Kagawa. It also means we can utilize 4 players that IMO need to be played. Carrick, Kagawa, RvP and Rooney.

I would love to see this line up on a weekly basis.

----------DDG--------
Rafael-Vidic-Evans-Evra
-----Carrick-Fellaini----
--------Kagawa-------
Rooney---RvP---Nani

I think that's our best 11 to be honest. if Nani can get his form back. The formation works for rotation as well. RvP out to the right, Hernandez central, Welbeck to the left and Rooney deeper for example. There's Zaha of course who I think will be used as a real game changer in the second half on occasions. he slots into that formation well on the left or right. It can also be switched to a slightly wider 4-2-3-1 with relative ease if the full backs are under pressure.

And yes I know. this isn't Fifa or whatever. but I really like the look of that team! Thoughts fellas?! {Ed004's Note - I like the suggestion however I think Rooney needs to play centrally as he doesn't have the pace for the wings, also Nani plays better on the right so I'd play Nani on the right, Kagawa out left letting him cut in and Evra can provide the width and hopefully Coentrao from January onwards and Rooney were Kagawa is. Other than that only player change would be smalling for Evans later in the season}

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Andy!

Nani won't get his form back playing on the left. To get the best out of Nani he simply HAS to play on the right. Sure he can roam and cut inside but the right side is where we've seen the best of him.

TK-Red

Agree0 Disagree0

Ed004. Do you not think Kagawa is much better suited in a more central role? I wouldn't exactly see either of the players on each side of RvP as wingers, of course we won't be seeing Rooney bombing up and down the wings! I would see them as more of a fluid front 3, with the defensive duties falling to the CAM to break up counters and the DM/CM shielding the back four.

TK Red. I think Nani is only better on the right in a 4-4-2 system. give him the freedom of interchanging with other attackers in the final third and he'll see the best of him I believe. I remember Nani playing very well on the left of a front 3 against AIK, and certainly the posts on here suggested that most were very disappointed he had to be taken off injured. {Ed004's Note - I suppose it is irrelevant we're each of them would play as it would be an interchanging front 4}

Agree0 Disagree0

Nani right, rooney upfront with Rvp(with one dropping turn by turn) and kagawa more of a left-centralish playmaker, with carrick and fellaini box to box would be awesome :)

Agree0 Disagree0

I agree, that formation is the one I'm hoping to see. A front 4 of Rooney, Kagawa, Nani, and RVP would provide a lot of flexibility and interchange, allowing Kagawa and Rooney to drift between playmaking and outside forward roles.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 09:32:14
Hi Eds, first time poster. Was just wondering to know what would be your ideal formation would be for big games? My personal opinion is that we must utilise the skills of Rooney, Kagawa and Nani behind RVP. If we then then play Carrick and Fellaini behind these quicker, more dynamic players, we surely would cause teams a lot of match up headaches as we have a solid base to attack from. The back four pick themselves as does DDG. {Ed004's Note - Mine would be the exact same 4231 with Nani on the right and Kagawa on the left

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Ed004

I think that line up is defensively not great. I think it works well if we had a really good left back and some pace in our cd and midfielders.

We struggle with teams running at us due to the lack of pace in our midfield and CB's hence the frequent use of Welbeck and Valencia on the wings to provide defensive cover.

Juve plays sets up that way at the moment but they have Pogba and Vidal in the middle.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 16:06:57
Well guys, I will admit at times I hate Nani for some of the things he does, I'm sure everyone feels the same but on his day we all know he is unplayable he can do special things! Remember 2010-11 season when Rooney was off form he stepped up! He scored goals and created them! He is direct something we haven't had in a long time and I think the new contract will inspire him to recapture his form from 2010-11 season and It will be like a new signing.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Nani's ability has never been in question. He certainly has the flair and is arguably our most skillful player. However, it has always been his application.
Nani needs to work hard on the pitch when he gets his chance as no team can afford luxury players anymore.
We need to start pressing teams higher up the pitch and Nani needs to play his part in that. If he does this and shows true desire the fans will back him, his confidence will improve and his attacking talent may well shine through again.
I certainly hope they do, and yes it is a horrible overuse of a phrase, but he would be like a new signing.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 16:00:35
We should have Nani on the left and Zaha on the right and have a "frustration off". Who would win? Nani or a raw Zaha ;)

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Not fair to group Zaha with nani mate

Agree0 Disagree0

Genuinely think raw Zaha would. he just seems so much more eager! I think they'll rotate on the right/left whenever we play a 4-3-3!

Agree0 Disagree0

Nani is the finished article, Zaha is still very raw. That's the only reason I have grouped them together Chris.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 15:57:54
Bebe will go on loan again this season to a portuguese side. so we won't be getting 10+goals and 15+ assists from him this season.
Jokes apart! :)
Also Nani has signed 5 year contract, which will keep him with the club till 2018 so he might feature in a lot of games this season

Believable0 Unbelievable0

05 Sep 2013 15:55:51
"It's great working with the new manager David Moyes, " Van Persie is quoted as saying in De Telegraaf.

"He has his own style and methods and I like these."

Believable0 Unbelievable0

All these BS rumours about him being unhappy at this transition. It's so easy to sense that the media have just pulled it out their a55 to make stories.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 15:42:45
Lots of over reaction about where we will finish this season. We drew against chelsea and lost at anfield tough games. We have gained the same number of points from those 3 fixtures as last season and we did very good last season. I think we will finish top 3 I don't know who else will be up there with us but a lot of you are biging up city and chelsea. Chelsea are not stronger than last season and look dodgy at the back if a team can get at them but mourinho will keep them very competitive. City on the other hand have been poor hull if they had a decent striker could have beat city quite easily and for me the Cardiff game is a sign of things to come pellegrini style I don't think will work in the epl. And apart from negredo there new signsings have looked very average. I honestly think there will be surprises in the title race a spurs arsenal or liverpool performing a lot better than expected to be honest it won't be till late december till you see how things are shaping up. I think we will do well in cl and fa cup maybe win one of them.You probably think I'm optimistic well I am pessimists. So try and hold fire with all the moyes criticism till December at least
Browred

Believable0 Unbelievable0

05 Sep 2013 15:41:45
Some may not agree, but I'm happy Nani has signed a new five year contract. I think on his day he is still our best winger by some way, but he strikes me as the kind of guy who needs confidence and needs to feel valued by the manager. Moyes giving him a five year deal suggests he is. For me his ability has never been in question, so hopefully he can kick on and show it on a more
regular, consistent basis now that his future is settled.

Hopefulluy Rooney will get the head down til November/December time and he too will get a new deal to guarantee the rest of his best years will be at United.

Onwards and upwards.

Come on United!

Believable0 Unbelievable0

05 Sep 2013 14:27:36
ED what is the rule for championship sides for loaning in players?

Can Januzaj still go on loan? {Ed044's Note - Yes, soon.}

Believable0 Unbelievable0

10th September it opens I believe then closes on the 28th November.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 15:21:05
So the window has closed and everyone has something to take away. I too was really disappointed, but I really believe we are stronger in the middle. So we didn't sign any so called world class players, but I strongly believe that we can push on with what we have. So what if some teams signed 4 or 5 top players? Fact is only 11 can be played at a time. Cardiff showed that to city recently. The important thing is for moyes to get the boys to gel as a team. Know each other's game. Get the tactics right. We have good players and awesome young talent. I hope DM start playing Kagawa soon and the next time he thinks about playing young, play Zaha. He definately cannot do worse. Infact, I think he is currently the best of the widemen we have and just needs his chance.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

With the right selection, we have the best team in the league, and a team that can compete in Europe, IMO. A lot depends on how we evolve over the coming months, and what type of philosophy Moyes' will try and install in the players'.

I personally think Fellaini is one of the best all round CM there is. He ticks so many box's; and anyone who has seen more than a few fleeting clips of the guy will know he can also play football. He is very technically gifted. He also has a phenomenal engine, and will be able to get up and down the pitch – contributing to all phases of play.

His performance against us last season was one of the best individual performances I have ever seen in a football match. He was unplayable. If he can give us that sort of impact on a regular basis – added to the quality we already have, we will be more than alright this season.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 14:35:53
can anyone tell me why kagawa hasn't even played yet? or zaha one of the best players on pre-season?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

05 Sep 2013 15:27:26
Nani signs new deal.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

5 years which I found interesting, to be honest he is our best winger when playing well but that's the problem he is so inconsistent. Hopefully with game time and under Moyes in a new system we may see his spark again. A front 4 in good form of Nani, Rooney, Kagawa behind RVP would be insane.

Agree0 Disagree0

Wasn't it the Juve president who said a week or so ago, that Nani was signing a new contract? They must have moved for him - only to be told he is staying with us.

I still think Nani - on his day - is up there with the best of him. I for one am pleased he is staying long term. I have a feeling we might now see the best of him, as the manager as shown true faith by rewarding him with a 5 year deal.

Agree0 Disagree0

Lets not forget he had that nasal operation which I think will have an effect on his perform over 90 minutes.

Agree0 Disagree0

Oz, was his nose affecting his vision at corners? :)

Agree0 Disagree0

Sydney, did you not say last week he is going on a free to Juventus come this summer :)

Agree0 Disagree0

Shahram, I did, after hearing Juve held talks and then said they expect him to sign a new deal at MU I expected they had told him to do a Llorente

Agree0 Disagree0

Andy

All our CL home games are must wins as the away legs can turn into tricky affairs and we have never done well away in Spain or Germany and Shaktar is no easy team either.

I think we might see a very different line up for Palace with quite a few being saved for the Leverkusen game.

They will be no pushover and finished 3rd in the BL. It would be interesting to see how Lars bender performs against us.

Agree0 Disagree0

This posted under the wrong subject.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 14:49:07
So looking ahead for the next few weeks, Palace followed tree days later by Leverkusen and both are at home. I can see both Fellaini and Zaha making appearances, I think Zaha may even start. and frankly I hope he does! I assume Rooney will be fit by then so I also expect him to start. Kagawa needs game time so I hope he makes an appearance too, Palace would be the perfect opportunity to get him back into playing.

Leverkusen is a must win game for Moyes IMO, and by that I mean he needs to win well. Levekusen are a decent side but lack any prolific finishers, hopefully we can see some fast counter attacks develop. I'm Thinking a 4-3-3 with Nani and maybe Anderson in the line up.

They're big games for Moyes. attention is all on him now that the window is shut, we need to see a real statement of intent from him that he can put his own mark on this great club.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

05 Sep 2013 14:33:07
Sydney i'm a lpool fan and not so much deluded as u seem to be in the fact that yes we had a good start and lpool r happy, i'm sure we will have our ups and downs and I expect that you will finish above us in the league as most people would say so.i refer to u being deluded in the fact that on an earlier post u say man c and Chelsea do not look any better than last year and that you 3 teams are miles ahead, I beg to differ Chelsea and man c look miles ahead now to the rest of us, lpool r improving and doing well and have a decent enough team and in time who knows, but you had an average team last year and do this year it was fergie that won u the league last season as much as it pains me to say it he was invaluable to you and its this season you will see that it was his management that won u the title u will be a good 10 to 15 pts off winning it, Chelsea, man c top 2 then I really do believe spurs, asenal, lpool, man u up for next 2 places, depending on how we do against each other will be a major factor as think overall we will take majority of points off the other teams in pl, i'm sure u won't agree and that's fine, but i'm just saying u r not as good as you think u r your manager was that good but moyes isn't, even his own fans said that before he went to u tactically he isn't great and doesn't know how to change things in a game to better his team and he will buy fellaini type players instead of ozil who was waiting for u to come in but moyes didn't want him wtf, that says it all a quality playmaker world class and moyes wants a big lump of a man who has the finesse of a rhino that is what moyes will bring to your club, and as much as you are all backing him because fergie said so we shall see if you doing so in may and I will take great pleasure in re posting this in may if not before.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Like I was saying to my mate the other day we might struggle in a head to head games against the likes of City and Chelsea but throughout the season we always do a better, more professional job of grinding out a win against the smaller teams. Getting them 3 points week in week out is the important part no matter who you're playing. That's why we won last season. The other big teams such as Chelsea, City, Arsenal, Spurs and even Liverpool struggled with the mentality in some smaller games thinking it'll be easy and gave away points. We managed to win the league thanks to the mentality of the players throughout the season its not all just about individual players' skill.

Agree0 Disagree0

I just see a blob of words.

Agree0 Disagree0

1. Manchester United
2. Chelsea
3. Manchester City
4. Arsenal
5. Spurs
6. Liverpool/Everton
7. Everton/Liverpool.

25-30 points difference come May.

Agree0 Disagree0

Oz, I can't wait until Liverpool fans find out there are certain clauses installed into Sturridge and Coutinho's contracts.

Agree0 Disagree0

City and chelsea look miles ahead? please tell me how u came to this assumption?

Agree0 Disagree0

What clauses Syd?

Agree0 Disagree0

Chris,

Don't be daft, they don't have feel arguments they are just top of the league so think they should mouth off.

It's funny, whenever Liverpool beat us or have a decent few games we see them posting on here, then as soon as the inevitable happens they all disappear and don't post anymore.

Like I said earlier I love deluded Liverpool fan time it's one of my favourite things about football knowing how disappointed they will be after they build themselves up to everyone.

Agree0 Disagree0

Well syd

over the last 19 league games, that's half a seasonwe have 1 more point that you

so where do you get the idea that over the reaimnder of this season we ll be 25-30 points behind you

Agree0 Disagree0

A banter site lads and to be honest alba hasn't gone on a rant and has in my opinion talked a lot of sense wether we like it or not

Agree0 Disagree0

Ahh Sydney the Soothsayer. Apparently, there was no chance of Suarez staying, Sturridge was a poor striker and Cleverly is better than Lucas. Now you're predicting Man United to win the league? The only clauses in Sturridge and Coutinhos contracts are tasty bonuses to score against you lot. You're no mystic meg, Sydney, and surely you saw that loss at Anfield a mile off?

Agree0 Disagree0

Alba I agree pal city and Chelsea are way above everyone this season. I think it will be a city or Chelsea first or second then a 4 horse race between utd, Liverpool, spurs and arsenal for 3rd and 4th. And does anyone else miss the good old days of Liverpool utd and arsenal scrapping it out before these billionaires decided to play real life fantasy football? I've had a sour taste in my mouth ever since abramovich bought Chelsea. The likes of ours (utd) and liverpools and arsenals ability to be at that level was done by that clubs success and with fantastic club history's built up over time. Not just boom 100 million new team win the league. To me it makes a mockery of the games tradition!

Agree0 Disagree0

06 Sep 2013 01:22:59
Clauses? Lol. You couldn't make it up even if you tried. Hilarious, or you mean the clauses we all know about? Inter & Chelsea get more money when they perform. There are no clauses Mr. "Pants on fire"
just like Ed02 pointed out. Make up nonsense to make your self feel better is absolutely hilarious! Haha, 30 points? Now 25? Give it 3 weeks it will be 20? Lol

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 12:28:21
Quite the hypocrite syd, united have won titles through scraping 1-0 wins mate, the number of times you lot scored in stoppage time is just a joke! Whether or not we have won three games 1-0 the only time we really hung on was at villa! We could have had 5 or 6 against stoke and were never really under threat against united! We contained you quite easily really! And that came from your own gary neville! The thing is, even your own are beginning to doubt you and united now, along with the expert pundits also. You are no where near the side that you once were, and with moyes who has never tasted a trophey, well your struggling! You won't win the league this year!

ian the red

-----------

Oh I do love it when Liverpool fans get ridiculously deluded. If anybody on here hasn't got a nice little bet on with a Liverpool fan about where they will finish this season they have messed up. There is lots of money to be won I assure you.

The number of times we scored in stoppage time is not 'a joke', it's the brilliance of our players never to give up until the very last minute. If a game is 0-0 and the ref adds on 5 minutes you play for them 5 minutes, both teams have the same amount of time to win, it is not a joke, but you thinking it is a joke is hilarious.

How many trophies has Brendan Rogers won mate?

I love that 'even out own are doubting us', it means that when we win the league everybody will be even happier, what a fantastic opportunity we have now.

The only time they held on was at Villa, but they saved a last minute penalty against Stoke lol, so that game couldn't have nearly been 1-1?

Thanks for cheering me up Ian, enjoy the next few weeks.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

I like the fact Liverpool are top after three games. It will be a bigger fall for them when they finish 6th/7th and we are champions of England for the 21st time.

Agree0 Disagree0

Deluded or not let us have are little bit of fun, has Disney pointed out yous will win the title an we will finish 6th or 7th .

Agree0 Disagree0

Sriker 9, is good u know u would always finish behind us, and u can have your little fun now.But it won't be long before u start battling swansea for 8

Agree0 Disagree0

Your hypocrisy knows no bounds does it lads? GDS2 you openly state that your ability to win games in stoppage time is down to the brilliance of your players never to give in, right? Then you say that we are lucky to have saved a penalty in the last minute against stoke, yet that wasnt down to the brilliance of mignolet? No? Now when you read that, it wreaks of hypocrisy! Fact of the matter is, sydney clearly stated that you lot will win the league with a manager that has never won a pot, note how I never stated that we would win the league, and then has the astonishing arrogance to state that you will finish 25-30 points ahead of us by the end of the season! Now, should we both win our next matches and you lose to city and we beat palace in the games after, that would put us 8 points infront of you, quite a lot of points to over turn wouldn't you say and finish 25-30 points infront of us! Sydney is blinkered, I've read through some of the posts on here and fans have begun to realise that themselves!

Agree0 Disagree0

Lol, looks like Sydney has a fan club. TBF to Syd his predictions on how far ahead of LFC we end up are usually bang on. The fact you guys are on here giving it the big one after 3 games says it all really.

Agree0 Disagree0

Disney av seen your predictions the last few years on this site can't see it happening this time .

My reason and 1 and only reason your manager is not fergie any more, not saying yous are finished over night but with out sir you can never be the same club .

Striker 9

Agree0 Disagree0

Ian,

You think saving a penalty and the team playing until the end and not giving in are the same thing then ok, everybody knows penalties are a lottery, you are claiming brilliant of your goalkeeper because he guessed the right way on a poor penalty, brilliant.

You are making the very big mistake of thinking 3 games into a 38 game season is long enough to make a prediction. I remember a time they never even used to print a league table until more games had gone, it's meaningless. And yes, even if we were 8 points behind I would fancy us to finish 25 above you, that's 8 defeats more, over 38 games I think that is 100% possible. Last season we were level with 38 games left and finished 30 above you and we gave up with 4 games left. So it's pretty easy to see us doing it this season isn't it?

You lot keep talking, it's nice to see some Liverpool fans with smiles on their face, it's brilliant when they lose them.

Agree0 Disagree0

Yes yes

look at the points accrued over the last 19 league games

no one has accrued more than liverpool

i mnot deluded enough tothink we will stay there

but we made smart summer signings
our biggest area of concern was the defense
we signed a top keeper, 3 cbs and a left back

rodgers is doing well

Agree0 Disagree0

Again hypocrisy GDS2 you have just stated that you can't make a prediction 3 games in to the season yet you state that you fancy finishing 25 points ahead of us come the end of the season! that's a prediction mate! I certainly am not daft enough to think that we are going to win the league, but if you look over both our last 19 games you will see that in fact we have collected 1 more point than you and we have only conceded 3 goals in our last ten games! Add to that sakho and ilori and you should realise that we have an excellent base to work from now! We also have suarez to come in to the fold and sturridge just can not stop scoring mate! You will not finish 25-30 points infront of us, if you do I will be the first over here to say you were right!

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 10:57:21
Let's just hope United have learned from their mistakes and already looking to sort their deals now for the opening of the next window.
Over 25 years I don't think I have seen such antics and can only feel how bad the club has been portrayed recently. It takes a lifetime to build a good reputation and seconds to ruin it.
I don't blame moyes but our chief executive for this so truly hope he is looking to make an amens and come january we got contreao and 2/3 outstanding talent in the team.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

I think the issue is magnified these days because sly sports news report every little thing and people believe everything they say.

I was sceptical on deadline day when Ballague was the only one who said United were meeting Herrera's release clause and Sly were reporting it as if it was 100% fact. They are an absolute joke and I see people on twitter saying 'I am not believing that until Sly report it', as if they are the best source for sports news (which is what they tell you).

If we didn't have that channel on deadline day we would have announced the signing of Fellaini and that would have been that. Instead we get our hopes up about players all day long because they tell us we are bidding and make loads of money on their betting site.

I always say it like this, if Paddy Power gave you a tip on a horse, would you back it?

Agree0 Disagree0

I agree with the increase media exposure it doesn't help but things could of been handled a lot better not to mention there was multiple sources reporting it.

Agree0 Disagree0

Wasn't disagreeing with you at all, we were a joke, was just saying I think it gets magnified but then I went off on one about Sly!

Agree0 Disagree0

Ah no problem, I wasn't trying to come across argumentative mate and agree with your points. You have your own views and I respect that.
/hug

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 10:40:12
Where do we play Phil Jones? I think he is one of our best players far too good to just be a squad player. So with no injuries would you play him and where?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

CB all day long for me

Agree0 Disagree0

Phil Jones' biggest downfall is his ability to play anywhere, I can see him getting chucked around the squad and never fulfilling his potential as a world class centre half

Agree0 Disagree0

I would play him in place of Ferdinand. he is definitely not a fullback and it will do nothing only ruin his confidence and do damage in the long run (even though I think he did ok in the few matches so far)

Rafael is nearly back fit so that's great news I think we really missed him he offers so much going forward.

On a side note its great to RvP coming out denying stories about him and DM not getting on in fact he had nothing but praise him.

Agree0 Disagree0

Central defence. that's where his future is

Agree0 Disagree0

Centre back

Vidic----Jones

Agree0 Disagree0

He's definitely a CB in my book. Hope he gets game time there to develop.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 10:06:51
i know everyone is entitled to their opinion, but there are some gloomy people on here JESUS!

Anybody would think we're going to be fighting relegation.

I had told myself that we probably won't win the league for a season or two, but that's down to new management and new playing style not weakness of squad.

If this is the support Moyes can expect from us now god help him.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

I don't understand why people are content to say we won't win the league. We are man united and should expect to win it every year. Just because we change manager you think that's a reason not to? Maybe we got the wrong manager then! Also our team is still the same as last season if not better with felliani and look how easy that turned out to be.

So please no excuses aim to win the league or go support Liverpool.

Agree0 Disagree0

We will win the league.

Agree0 Disagree0

BBG,

Sorry mate but your last line is very hypocritical, real fans will support United through they hard times as well as the good times. We all want us to win the league but we also understand the difficulties behind a transition after having the same manager for 26 years.

There will be a culture change and in any walk of life that will affect everything related to it.

If you don't understand how difficult it is to change managers after 26 years and remain as successful maybe you are the one who should go and support Liverpool.

I think United will do absolutely fine this season, a bad result against Liverpool has happened many times under Fergie and we actually had quite a lot of possession. We lost 4-1 at home against them 3 years ago and I didn't see anyone saying Fergie out!

Agree0 Disagree0

Gds2 mate I think you missed the point. Firstly I can remember supporting this time with Alan brazil/ frank Stapleton in the team etc so I'm well aware of success and unseccessful times its the way life goes but just because we change a manager you think the mentality of the team will change. We have a team of winners there, a lot of them born and breed with fergie so its no excuse to give up or expect anything less. Ofcourse we can't win it every year but it doesn' t mean we are not capabilty of doing so.

I meant Liverpool since they seem to think they are real title contenters now after their win, not due to their history.

/hug

Agree0 Disagree0

BBG I think you can clearly see I said it has nothing to do with the strength of the squad! but I think the fans need to give moyes AND the squad time to get used to each other. of course I want us to win the league but i'm a realist and don't think it will be possible this season. that's not to say i'm not supporting my team and going to watch thm most weeks and I will celebrate just as hard as anyone on here if we do win it, but for you to suggest I should go support liverpool because I think it may take a season then you my friend are a person

Agree0 Disagree0

Your entitled to your own views and thoughts and fully respect this but While I could easily disagree with your reply there I don't want to offend you as it wasn't the point of my post.
/ hug

Agree0 Disagree0

Ok fair dues, we are all here for the same reason and tht is to support our beloved united regardless of opinions, thts all tht matters really

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 10:03:02
Still a bit gutted about Mondays events but I must admit the more I think about the Fellaini signing the more confidence I have in the team.
I think he will be a really good signing for us.
If he is played as a holding midfielder it will finally allow Carrick more freedom to pick that pass to the forwards.
If we can get Rooney fit fireing on all cylinders and play him behind RVP that will be another big plus for us.
I think the defence pretty much picks it's self but the midfield and forward formation is something that Moyes is going to have to work on.
Does he play his standard 4-4-2 or does he look at playing 4-2-3-1 so he can somehow accomadate Kagawa.
Kagawa now needs a proper run of games so he can build both his confidence and fitness up.
Fellaini and Carrick as the two deep midfielders, with a three prong attack. Maybe Rooney Kagawa and either Valencia/Zaha or Nani with RVP up top.
I really can't see Moyes and Woodward making the same mistakes in January. If Moyes still wants to strenghen in January then he needs to be 100% transparant with what players he wants, get the list to Woodward so he can start the negotiations early.
We can't afford another window like the last one.
Any thoughts?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

I'd go with a kag, rooney, zaha as attacking midfield myself but I have a feeling rooney has been promised to be up top alongside RVP

Agree0 Disagree0

Agree with you Simmo, I'm much more confident with Fellaini in the team he is a dominant player. I think the 4-2-3-1 should be used, like you said Fellaini and Carrick as the defensive mids, Rooney behind RvP, Kagawa on the left and either Toni/Nani/Welbeck/Zaha on the right. Would like to see a partnership of Vidic and Jones at the back become solid too.

Agree0 Disagree0

Fluid front three of RVP, Rooney and Wellbeck with kagawa just behind.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 09:33:00
Fellaini:

Will we win the PL title this season?i really hope so.I will do everything I can to make it happen

I will never forget sitting at home watching '99 Cl final all those years ago, I made my mind up then that united were my tea.

I was Captivated, and it has been a dream ever since that I might one day pull on the jersey and call myself a UNITED player.

I have counted myself a manutd fan all these years so when the call came I didn't have to thing twice.

Time was ticking, when the form was put in front, I signed straightaway. I have never signed my name so fast in all my life.

I sacrificed some money, but that didn't matter. All that counted was getting the deal done and realising my dream.

This guy is an absolute gem of a person. Love his attitude.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Now that is the type of player United need if only there were more with his attitude

Agree0 Disagree0

Is it true that we paid 23.5m (his buyout) and he came up with the rest himself? {Ed044's Note - No mate.}

Agree0 Disagree0

Watching his interview the other day he seems like a great character and i'm sure he'll fit in straight away. Glad we signed him, especially in time to face City too! Toure won't find it too easy muscling through our midfield now.

Agree0 Disagree0

So, hold on.
Fellaini's buy-out clause was circa £23m, but Utd bought him for £27.5m a couple of weeks after.
And Fellaini was supposed to have given up his 'loyalty' wedge?
Aye, that'll be right then.

Agree0 Disagree0

He seems like a top guy and the more I've thought about it, the more i'm happy that we signed him, think he's going to do a great job for us

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 08:32:30
Dont know why many people are saying fellaini is a poor signing.
First of all, for once, we've improved the area which needed drastic improvement. We needed someone that can play dirty and I for one am happy that we got fellaini.

Didnt a lot of people beg for fergie to buy fellaini when he terrorised us last season?
Whats happened since then?

Of course were still short on the wings and maybe a lb
But I welcome fellaini and wish him the best of luck.
I can see him being a huge success

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Read somewhere the other day (can't remember where) that if it had been Fergie that signed Fellaini everybody would of said what a great signing! just what we need! can't help but feel this is very true.

Agree0 Disagree0

Fergie probably wouldn't have signed him, but someone better?

Agree0 Disagree0

Gooner,

Fergie hasn't bought a midfielder since Anderson despite the fact we were in desperate need of a midfielder for 3-4 years.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 07:43:54
If we don't get top 4 it will be the end of our reign at the top end of football

I really hope this won't be the case.
im worried he is starting Ashley young over the likes of kagawa and Nani

Can anyone tell me when our debt is meant to be gone and how will it affect the ffp please {Ed044's Note - 2017 and it doesn't affect FFP.}

Believable0 Unbelievable0

We will win the league.

Agree0 Disagree0

Honestly, if Moyes can get 6th spot more often than not with a team like Everton then what about a much bigger team full of highly gifted players? He's only going to get better as the season goes on as well as he learns every single players strengths and weaknesses. Kagawa hasn't been match fit lately, whereas Young has been. Nani has only just come back from an injury and still got game time straight away against Liverpool. Not much to worry about mate!

Agree0 Disagree0

I think other teams have improved more than we have. We didn't play all that well last season but the others were worse. Our midfield is not up with the best and we'll struggle against Chelsea, Arsenal, Man City and perhaps others.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 07:18:35
Syd! (Reply to earlier thread)

You cannot say that we only go to a certain amount on a player when that has been proven wrong by the Fellaini deal.

We paid 4 mil over what he was defo available for and what clearly we DIDN'T think was classed as value early in the market. Yet we end up passing that amount by the 4m.

By that exact same extention on the Fellaini amount we would have paid the amount needed for Baines or mat Herrera's clause straight away or extended to 35+ for Fab.

And where on earth are you getting the Fellaini price we wanted to pay was 23m? Are you seriously saying you think we held out for a saving of 0.5 m on his release clause to end up paying 4 more? We clearly thought we would save a couple of million and everyone and their dog knew the 28m double bid was a joke.

If we valued Baines at 12 and Fellaini at 23 then our bid of 28 is a digrace to ourselves, Everton and the players involved. This type of penny pinching for a club who are after the best with no budget proves exactly the point redman is saying, there is a glass ceiling and our new CEO is in bed with the guys setting this limit and they are not in touch with modern day football and the way it works.

SAF was always stuck in his old ways, the dealing with Pogba in the old fshioned way showed that and he was all too willing to try and keep spending to a minimum but with a new man and new era we needed a new outlook and we all knew that except for the people with the bank details.

I guarantee without doubt that if a big personality manager had come in that was a winner they would have told them what is needed not just asked for safety blanket buys.

Lets be honest Baines is but are Fellaini and Herrera really the best?

No!

Believable0 Unbelievable0

"Lets be honest Baines is but are Fellaini and Herrera really the best? NO!"

Kind of missing the point Jono mate. These are the players Moyes wants. The Glazers or Ed Woodward doesn't decide who to buy. David Moyes wanted Baines and Fellaini for obvious reasons and he wanted Herrera as an alternative to Cesc who had no intention of leaving Barcelona no matter how much his agent flirted with our club.

Agree0 Disagree0

I doubt if Moyes really had options of the 'best' (his words as to who we were after) that Fellaini and Herrera are in the discussions. Everyone has their favourites of course and Moyes is more than entitled to say those were the targets but I doubt they were 1st 2nd maybe not even 3rd choices Herrera especially.

So the point still stands. From 23.5m available to paying 4m more to get the player Moyes wanted why wasn't the same added to our original Baines bid to get him? Or to Herrera to match the clause quicker? Is it because we are indeed restricted in money to spend and all the stories coming from Moyes are utter sh*te and just continual covering of the limits we are working too?

for us to bid 28m for two of them and value Baines at 12 then we have moved from 16 to 27.5m to get Fellaini makes no sense in your theory of we won't budge our value for a player as we clearly have and by a big amount.

This also ties in with redman's theory as having a ceiling on spending. We are bidding on three players on our terms (massvely below what will take to get them) then when dealing with the prices to get them we only extend the spending for one. Funnily the one that can cover multiple jobs in the managers eyes.

So if the manager was told no to the prices quoted for all three he then had to choose which one to go back in for and he picked Fellaini.

Why? Is it because the limits are on spending to the tune of the manager CAN'T get the men he wants, never mind the best? If so that is very very worrying.

If there was really no budget and he wanted them at 23.5m we could have extended Baines 12m by 4 and had them both for about 40m a far more realistic valuation yet 28m is what we go with? So p*ss Everton off and look completely stupid in the process.

Or we don't have the money at all and the limit was to not go over a set amount and any 2 together was past it hence why we only get one and end up paying through the teeth for that one.

Agree0 Disagree0

Moyes clearly wanted Baines, Fellaini & Cesc. Cesc was never going to happen even after a £34m bid so the interest shifted to Herrera. MU valued Herrera at £25.6m (€30m) which is a fair amount, MU valued Baines at £12m which according to Red Man should be the limit (his words). MU wouldn't budge on either of them as they do not want to pay over the odds for players, which ties in with what 002 has been telling us for years. We did pay over the odds for Fellaini, but perhaps he was the one Moyes believed was a player we couldn't do without this season? I don't know. But just because the club agreed to overpay for Fellaini doesn't mean they will overpay on every player. The club are clearly strict, but I hoped they would make an exception this summer for a creative midfielder. The £30m ceiling is utter nonsense. As we know transfer fees are just part of the total costs od a transfer.

Agree0 Disagree0

I am not saying there is a 30m ceiling but there is definitely a limit!

If the manager says he wants Herrera and we bid as high as 25.6m (what we have also bid for Cesc previously) then for a player younger and with more sell on value from a business sense than Cesc why would they have said no to extending that and the Baines bids but not Fellaini?

If Moyes thought Fellaini was really one we couldn't do without then we would have snapped him up straight away for a garanteed 23.5m not end up paying 4m more.

The clubs stance on both not extending for Baines / Cesc / Herrera but do for Fellaini stinks of limits on the manager.

He has asked for specific players inc Cesc and who in their right mind would sell a wanted player like Cesc for 34m when Real were trying to off load Ozil and he went for 42.5? Cesc would be nearer 45-50 then to prize him away. To get Cesc would have had to be silly money as he was never going to put in a request yet we try to appease fans by stretching out shocking 25-34m bids for 6 weeks then move on to another target with a couple of days remaining.

It reeks of cover up mate. You don't say you want the best and have no limits then not buy because those players cost 5m more. If Moyes wants Baines its only finances that have stopped it not a sporting decision.

To me it seems like Moyes put pressure on the money men to get those players specifically by not mentioning many other targets. He left it late while the build up of fan pressure would push them into action but underestimated their tightness with the coin. He then couldn't even turn to loans, yes loans to cover clear areas our manager seen as problems because our money men wouldn't pay up for his original targets. For the sake of what? 10m extra to get 2 players and make everyone feel 100x better about the sittuation.

The fact is there is clearly a limit to what can be paid out or there would be 3 new signings not a scrambled 1 and all this talk of no limits and going for the best was BS.

Agree0 Disagree0

Jono, that was my only disagreement with Red Man, he said there's a £30m ceiling and to me that makes little sense when we bid more than that on Khedira, Cesc & Moura last summer.

There will not be a limit on what we'd pay for a player per se. The club will do their own valuation on a player and the selling club will say what they want and a compromise would happen. This is how all self sufficient clubs do their business.

MU offered £25.6m for Herrera and Bilbao wanted £30.5m. MU wanted to enter negotiations to compromise on a fee, but Bilbao said £30.5m or nothing. So you would feel that they could have met in the middle somewhere had Bilbao agreed to a compromise. Perhaps £27.5m ;)

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 02:50:35
So we bought RVP and won the league last year but he is stiil here so why not assume we bought him this year.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

What? .

Agree0 Disagree0

Hes saying last year we won the league and many put it down ro RVP, wots the difference this year

Agree0 Disagree0

Positive thinking

Agree0 Disagree0

Oh I see, well let's hope he doesn't blady get injured then ;)

Agree0 Disagree0

I understand 100%, lots of fans of other teams said we were a one man team, we still have that one man so why wouldn't we win it now.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 01:46:18
ha Patrice telling Rio that Andersons like a baby and how he has to bring him burgers at 1oclock in the morning on tour utterly hilarious.
ThSpartanred

Believable0 Unbelievable0

05 Sep 2013 00:47:19
Anyone got any news on when Rafael is likely to be available again?

Also, just wondering what people's thoughts are on Valencia filling in at rb until Raffa is back? I thought he did quite a good job when coming on against Liverpool. Although to be fair he was not tested much defensively.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Should be ok for palace, but realistically city mite be when he starts

Agree0 Disagree0

Starts training this week and will be ready for City for sure and might see him get a run out in the palace game for about 20 minutes. God knows we need him as jones seems lost once he gets past the halfway line:)

Agree0 Disagree0

Valencia makes a better stand in RB than either Jones or Smalling. Purely because he's strong and fast. He played there quite a lot the season before last I think so he's used to it.

Agree0 Disagree0

I'd rather play Fabio in that position to be honest. Disappointed he isn't being given a chance

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 00:23:09
I took a look at the balance sheet on line and, guess what, I didn't understand it! To me it looked like we just owed a lot of money, and that our current assets were far smaller than our current liabilities. So I have to believe the money is simply not there, and that's the reason for all this mess.

Players have become just investments businessmen leverage to generate income either through merchandise sales, or hopefully, from creating success on the field, leading to extra marginal income from additional gates and appearances in high level competition. That is the side that the United Board, which the Glazers control, seem to have forgotten. They have been spoiled by the amazing ability of Sir Alex to turn journeymen players into great and loyal assets through teamwork and dedication. I fear however those days are over. Swelled by the burgeoning coffers from TV and sponsorship deals they seem to have forgotten, they will still have to deliver the product.

The value of the club is based on its income/cash flow generating potential. Failure to reach the Champions League may knock 250-500m off the value of the club, which comes straight off the Glazers NAV. The reduction in income will further reduce the ability to get in top players. Failure to invest in top quality players (our production machinery), will eventually result in poorer performances on the pitch. Complaining about "value" won't change reality - it's a free market, willing buyer willing seller.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

Mate, if you don't understand it maybe try and understand it and then come back, because the rest of your post is pretty pointless after that line.

Agree0 Disagree0

05 Sep 2013 00:12:51
Let every1 keep writing us off, that's fine by me, I welcome it, we are a club built on foundations of great success and are renowned for coming back from adversity.
I love my club and still get the same feelings as I did when I was 6 going to my first game. That feeling has never faded one zip!whether its Mark Robbins pulling on the shirt, Bryan Robson or Ronaldo!
Do I like what seemingly 'bad' position they are in, in terms of the Glazers and transfers? No! But I tell u wot there ain't another fan in the premiership that wouldn't wish there club to be on par with us historically or now or in the future!
Lets not forget that
ONE LOVE, ONE UNITED!
LUHG GGMU

Believable0 Unbelievable0