Manchester United Banter Archive June 06 2013

 

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06 Jun 2013 23:54:00
I've said this a couple of Times before but I'm really not sure strootman and Carrick would make a good cm partnership
Jred

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I think they would make a good combination. Their abilities imo do compliment each others.

Why don't you think they would work together?

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Coz ones class and the others not good enough
Dylan

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I think for one there would be a definite lack of pace but also I think if United bought him he would be restricted to where he plays.
I think he would be played deep alongside Carrick and you would actually end up with 2 similar types of players and I think for a good combination you need variations.
I know he can play further forward or box to box but I don't think he his good enough to do that for team like United imo.
Jred {Ed004's Note - But remember Carrick is what 32 or 33 now and I reckon we need to start looking at replacing him over the next few seasons. Who better than the Holland captain who is imo is near enough as good as Carrick and will offer more physical force and leadership in midfield}

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Ed I've sussed it your is agent!
Dylan {Ed004's Note - And I've sussed it out to, somehow Strootman heart of offended you deeply to the point you will refuse to give him any credit at all}

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Ed 004

I disagree a bit here. He is certainly not anywhere near as good as Carrick! I Agree we most certainly need him now, given the options we have got. His pace may be a problem while playing along side Carrick, though his tireless workrate may offset some of the handicap. I know they are different players, but Thiago for me first up!

Deeps.

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Dylan you strike me as the sort of person who will hate the signing then think after about 2 weeks, what a signing! We're you against signing RVP?

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Anyone judging Strootman on last nights performance are doing him an injustice. He ain't the fastest player on the pitch anytime but last night he did seem slower than normal. Someone suggested his fitness was an issue, normally he is just the opposite a full 90 min + non stop player, perhaps as Shappy suggested he was feeling jaded from a long season.
The first half last night was played at a frantic tempo and only once was he stripped for pace. tackled and passed well was again once caught and dispossessed in that half.
He did seem to tire, unlike him, but still played and passed well in the second half even getting a snap shot on target from just outside the box.

From, for him, a below par performance, not bad and the way he conducted the rest of his team his right barn is worth, the reported, 17m :).

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Im not sure they woudl compliment each other as they seem very similar players from what I have seen. I have never been Carricks biggest fan to be honest even though he does a lot of unnoticed work with his positioning and reading of the game. There is no doubt he had a very good season for us last year though. Personally I haven't yet been convinced by Strootman and I think he would do a decent job and perhaps brign some leadership to our midfield. At the risk of sounding contreversial, do we really want a Carrick type player replacing Carrick though over the next couple of seasons?
Invisible STuey

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07 Jun 2013 11:01:47
And the champions of Europe are? Bayern Munich. And their midfield pairing are Schweinstieger and Martinez, who are very similar players. So I don't get this idea that two similar players can't work together. If you had two limited passing players, or two players who ignore their defensive responsibilty then I could understand it. But both Carrick and Strootman are hard working defensively consious players who are great passers and good at marking space. What abilities are they lacking to work? They are great defensivly and creatively. I fail to see what they are lacking, or why they couldn't work properly.

If we are going to play 4231 then the bulk of the creativity comes from the players playing in the three, the midfield two are more about keeping a solid base and recycling the ball and dictating play from deep. Carrick and Strootman are a perfect combination for this system. With Kagawa and possibly Thiago playing in the three then we have lots of clever creation in their plus with players like Valencia, Young, Welbeck and Zaha we have players who can run in behind and stretch teams. So we would have everything we need. {Ed004's Note - And I reckon a 3 that includes Di Maria, Rooney, Kagawa or even Alcantara as well would be full of creativity. And then you still have proper out and out wingers in Zaha, Young and Valencia}

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Schwin and Martinez really aren't that similar that's quite a basic view in my opinion
they look similar but if you look at the positions they take up and there actual role in the team tactics there is far more to it.
We will see how strootman does next year if we sign him.
But for me it's another case off bigging a player up simply because we have been linked with him.
I'm not saying he is a bad player but I feel he is not the right player to bridge the gap in Europe.
In short I don't think a Carrick/strootman is a good enough cm for the very best in Europe, I think if it wasn't for the fact ed had said we are in for him he wouldn't be on any ones shopping list.
And I'm not going down the road of making up daft arguments as why it may or may not work I went through that last year when I argued cleverly wasn't the man either.
Funnily enough with the same people
Jred

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Schwsienstieger Martinez and Carrick yes
I would not put Strootman in that category.
Please stop convincing yourself he won't be coming
Dylan

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07 Jun 2013 13:26:06
@Jred

He would be on my shopping list, because there aren't any players who play in the same position who would be available.

I agree with you about Schweinsteiger and Martinez playing different roles. Martinez hardly ventures forward while Schweisteiger supports the attacks and goes forward.

I also agree that signing only Strootman and a carrick strootman partnership will take us to the next level in europe. What I believe will happen is we will sign Strootman AND Thiago. And in a couple of years' time Strootman, Thiago and Kagawa in front of them would be a good midfield three.

REDFAITH

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06 Jun 2013 23:49:39
What's everyone's thoughts on the new home kit? I like it! Glad they didn't change the badge too because there was also images circling of a new badge. Hope the away kit isn't the one being seen online at the moment, that ones not too good!
Trickee

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07 Jun 2013 00:00:28
The new kit is very good imo. Some think it lacks imagination. But I think it's a clean and classic looking kit, and I like the collar as it stirs up memories in my mind of a certain great player and the magic he graced us with.

I'm looking forward to seeing RvP and the other create some magic of their own in it.

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06 Jun 2013 23:47:44
Reports that after a second operation Fletcher should be fit and ready for pre season training
Jred

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God I hope not

Alex Fergusons Condom

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Fantastic news hope he comes back
Dylan

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It's good that he can try and get back playing, and more importantly that his health is improving, but I'm very sceptical about whether he will ever be able to reach the level of fitness required at the top level.

TK-Red

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I'd love to see him make a come back, but I don't think we can expect much from him. I wish him the best and I hope he proves me wrong. But I doubt he will unfortunately.

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This is great news, a great player and Proffesional whom has the club at heart. Even if he wouldn't be challenging for a first team spot it's nice to be able to make up the numbers in midfield where we are lacking

19JackC94

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I kind of agree with Shappy. If we can get a Fletcher that comes back and plays 15+ games a season he could be very valuable to our squad.
Invisible STuey

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If I'm honest the football side is nothing compared to his health I would be more than happy if he gets better even if he doesn't play again

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06 Jun 2013 21:59:24
It's looking like our summer signings will be
Strootman, thiago, Garay, not sure if there going to improve us too much. We need bale or Ronaldo, do Maria looks set for psg.
Marm

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All three would greatly improve the team. Strootman is a player we've been in need of for the past few seasons.

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06 Jun 2013 23:57:38
By signing Strootman Thiago and Garay we would then be able to play a high pressing game due to the pace and passing ability of Garay would enable us to keep a high defensive line, the work rate and passing of Strootman would enable us to control the midfield, and then the ball retention and imagination of Thiago would enable us to control the play create opening against any opposition. We have players who can score as shown by us outscoring everyone last year, we also have players who can penetrate teams and get in behind them. So they would be great signings for us. {Ed004's Note - I agree 100%. And people worried about Strootman's lack of pace the fact that we will hopefully be playing a high line will result in not having to worry about his lack of pace as it will be very rare for players to have the space to run in to in order to out run him. Also he isn't that slow and is brilliant defensively. Anyone watching him tonight will have noticed how he is always instructing players to pick up and passing his midfield man on as well as always talking to his players surely people should realise that we have been missing that something shocking at times}

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Completely agree ed, he is the commander in the middle of the park we have been missing since Keane left. He talks his team through a game, and through a combination of his reading of the game, his communication and his physical bossing of player he can control a game. He will only get better at this with time and surrounded by better players. He looked tired today, but he normally covers more grounf then he did today. {Ed004's Note - It does annoy me how players are judged over one game and then during that game those people do not seem to notice what they actually offer to a team. Everyone that has slated him tonight has excluded the fact he was captaining a very young Dutch side with very little experience in it}

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Ed would you be talking about one poster in particular? lol. {Ed004's Note - No... There have been a few posters the past while and over the previous years that refuse to acknowledge a specific players attributes}

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Ed

We have not played a high line in yonkers. Our style with wingers makes it quite difficult to do that. Evra will get caught out all day and vidic does not have the pace and teams will figure out how to get behind us with simple diagonal runs.

Shahram {Ed004's Note - Im hoping with Moyes that we will see a change in tactics}

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07 Jun 2013 07:16:30
I might av bin over the top with the post, and ed I'm a big fan of strootman but he hasn't signed yet, thiago is 50/50 I think he will stay, am just a bit worried what rival clubs will do

Marm

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Going back to the original post I would say "why" is it lookign like they will be our signings? We are only in to the first week of June and the last fwe summers it seems there is always one transfer muppet rumours of excitement like Pastore /Moura/ Ronadhino/ Sanchez /Sneider (Thiago this year) and then a handful of other names linked as about to be signed which changes every fortnight. I expect if you went back 3/4 weeks two of the three names would be different. let's wait and see, for example though he has not yet signed how many people would have said "Valera" will be our first signing.
Invisible STuey

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We sign Thiago and I will be a very happy man, however can't see barca letting him go and if they do a lot of other clubs will come in for him so fingers crossed.

Shahram

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06 Jun 2013 21:58:38
Well that was some good football, having watched both under 21 games today I can safely say I will be stunned if one of the teams i've watched tonight doesn't win it. Spain Holland and Germany have shown us up with out even playing us. Englands full first team can't play as well as these countries under 21's.

I was very impressed with Thiago, i've known him to be a great little player for a couple of years now. But he is showing that he is ready to step up and play a major role for a top team. He is being wasted at Barca and to be honest can possibly count himself unlucky to be behind Cesc in the pecking order. I'd really push the boat out to get this lad. As we can pick him up for such a reasonable price then we can afford to be less stingy with the wages. If he leaves Barca we need to make sure its to play for us.

The Germany vs Holland game was the one I was waiting for though. I was interested to see Strootman vs Rode as these are the two players I felt would be great for our midfield. Strootman bossed the first half, and was very good in the second. But he lacked much support in the second half. Rode was soild but unspectacular. I think he has a bright future ahead of him but he's a year or two behind Strootman in being ready for a top side. I expect Bayern will loan him out next season like they did with Kroos. Then get a great player back in a years time.

Another player who really caught my eye was Marco Van Ginkel, i've seen him play a few times and he's always impressed me. He looks to be a quicker more attack minded version of Strootman. Full of energy and running with some clever incisive passing. I think he maybe a year away from being good enough for a top side too like Rode. But certainly one to keep an eye on. {Ed004's Note - Your fella Maher or Mayer or something like that impressed me. I think he was number 10 for Holland and he is only 18 or something?}

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Everyone else including ed4 were saying strootman wasnt that great at all shappy. makes me wonder if you watch half the games you say you do {Ed004's Note - I thought he was fantastic first half and was the reason that Germany dominated at the start. However, he seemed to tire and he tried hard defensively second half but he was playing with a team of youngsters who I think panicked when Germany scored and I think it shook them though you could see Strootman continually talking and shouting at players and telling them to calm it down. There were very positive signs from him from just tonight to show he has huge potential}

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07 Jun 2013 00:11:49
I think Strootman had a great game and displayed the leadership skills that would make him fantastic in our midfield. Maher was also fantastic. The lad is talented, no doubt about that. Atm he is beeing used in attacking midfield, but I think his future lies in the deep lying playmaker position. He has a great passing range along with a lot of quality on the ball. His dribling skills are amazing. Ajax are looking at him asreplacement for Christian Eriksen and I think he'll go on to be an even better player.


As for Thiago, he's a world class talent. Barcelona are persons for not giving him more game time and giving him a way out.

Mick {Ed004's Note - After the players we have been recently linked with and only going by the ones that Ed 2 has stated there has been direct interest in I would be thrilled with Garay, Baines, Strootman, Alcantara and Di Maria. I really think we could have the making of a fantastic team there. Garay will enable us to play a high line which means we can press teams high up the pitch and in more dangerous areas. By signing Strootman and Alcantara you are forming a very solid midfield pairing who will be able to dominate the majority of midfields for years to come but for the next season or so Carrick/Jones will play with them in a midfield 3 vs the big teams and then with hopefully Moyes training routines we will have a fully fit Wayne Rooney and RVP being supplied by Strootman, Alcantara, Di Maria and Kagawa from the central positions and then the supply from Baines and Rafael out wide which is normally brilliant and we would be a real force to reckon with. Also the formation would be 4-2-3-1 but the number 10 (Rooney) will not have to drop as deep to defend and can interchange with RVP so he can play as a striker during games which is what he wants. Really hoping we get those players and then next summer look at replacing Rooney with Ronaldo or Bale lol}

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Fair enough no name we're all entitled to an opinion.

But to really know what a player bring to a team you need to watch them off the ball as well. I'll admit this is very tough when watching them on screen as the camera follows the ball.

Strootman was very vocal tonight and talked the team through the game. In the first half he had the midfield running rings around the Germans. Gently plucking thr strings while also totally snuffing out any danger before it had a chance to become something.

But at half time the Germans changed it and flooded the midfield which made it much harder for Strootman, you need to realise the rest of the dutch squad are quite young. Maher just turned 19 and Van Ginkel not long 20. And both play for teams that don't tradionally play at the top in Holland. They are very inexperianced. And it showed.

Strootman did his best to stem the tide and without him there is no way Holland would have come away with all three points, in fact they would have likely lost. So Being the key player who has held the team together and dragged a probable losing game into a win sounds like great player to me. And make no mistake he was the differance.

But because he doesn't do the fancy stuff or play at the cutting edge of the team his qualities and effect on the team gets marginalised by a lot of fans.

Also you seem to mention everyone elses opinion but your own. So what was your opinion of him tonight based on what you saw? {Ed004's Note - I agree with everything that was said there. Also the Dutch didn't seem to hold a high line and there tended to be a lot of space behind Strootman and that's why Holtby had a good game imo}

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I haven't seen the game tonight so I can't say much but I would take in to account that the main reason he is playing in the u21 is to be vocal and instruct players.
Doing that at teams like United, Munich etc is very different
Jred {Ed004's Note - But he does it in the Holland full national team were he is captain and he is done it for the PSV first team?}

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Ed I take it your a fan, OJ's lawyer couldn't of done a better job of defending him.
I'm not sure he's quick enough or that he will make a good partnership with Carrick.
I also think that being Dutch captain and a wc coming up he will be expecting to start and for me he's not the answer to our CM issues.
good player got potential but he wouldn't be my first, second or third choice to partner Carrick next year.
( I'm not going through a list of players again)
That's just my opinion tho, I can see what some like him
Jred

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I really like the look of Maher from the small amounts I have seen and agree with the poster saying long term he may play further back. I would love to see Thiago at OT, but if it doesn't happen Maher is certainly a very good alternative long term though I don't think he is ready yet in a similar way to Scholes who started further forward as a youngster. And with the likes of Januzaj, Daehli all at the club I would be surprised to see any interest from us personally. One player nobody has mentioend that impressed me was Rudy (?) for Germany last night, reminded me very much of Khedirea when he was in the U21 side with Ozil a few years ago, box to box and technically good too, I think the commentators said he was at Schalke (?), looks like another promising German midfielder. Considering all the players missing from the German side though they lost have to say I was very impressed with the depth of talent on the pitch for U21, pretty much the opposite of the England side who also have many very good plaeyrs missing, the ones in as replacements hardly impressed at all though!
Invisible STuey {Ed002's Note - Back in the day Liverpool, Leicester, West Ham and Augsburg enquired about Adam Maher. More recently Manchester City, Hamburg and Arsenal have made their interest clear but the player has said he will not move unless he can be assured of playing in the first team and would rather stay where he is for a couple of years to develop. Regardless, Ajax plan to buy Maher in the summer as a replacement for Eriksen.}

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06 Jun 2013 21:46:45
hope we don't bid on strootman very poor tonite. we have a lot better players in powel and cleverly. maybe we should look at isco he was class for spain, looked very good on ball and always wanted it. just the type we need.

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07 Jun 2013 00:20:23
Powell and Cleverley are differant kinds of midfielders to Strootman. His game is about controlling the game and covering defensively. Cleverley and Powell should be playing up near the final third, Strootman should be playing in the middle third occasionally entering the first or final third as and when its needed.

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Does Carrick not do that or is he being sold
Dylan {Ed004's Note - He does but obviously he can not do it on his own as far too many times this year our midfield has been dominated}

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When teams have had good spells against us the majority of fans blame the midfield when in fact collectively the whole team switch off passes go astray they stop closing down and teams take advantage however we won the league by 10 points so what problems do City Chealsea Arsenal Spurs etc have
I'm interested to know?
Dylan {Ed004's Note - That lack consistency and their squad has not been as strong as ours. The league imo was lost by City when Yaya had to go away for the African cup of nations and Kompany + Aguero got injured. There are two leaders of the team gone (Yaya and Kompany) and that makes a massive difference just like bringing in a natural leader into midfield will help us. Also Chelsea have had a massive amount of games and this was always going to be a year of transition and I reckon SAF played a HUGE part in getting this squad to win the premiership}

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As the Ed said Carrick needs help, you can't expect him to go against opposition midfields and be out numbered either 2-1 or 3-1 and come out on top. Plus Carrick is 30/31 now and can't go on forever.

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Ed your bang on about our rivals but don't underestimate the quality of what Moyes as inherited and will only get better with 1 or 2 top and I mean top signing plus the very talented Zaha
Dylan

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Did you watch the game then Dylan? What was your personal impression of Strootman's performance? I'd be interested to know.

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I watched him and my gut feeling is he won't improve us if he's the best available in that position then my advice to the Glazers would be keep old of your money and wait for a top midfielder to come along.
In a nutshell
No pace
Stamina (faded towards end)?
Would not command the respect from his team at OT hence not the leader every one makes him out to be.
Given a choice I'd take a gamble on McCarthy at Wigan before this fellow (a poor mans Edgar David's)!
You forget it's taken Carrick 5years to win most people on this site over and he's always been twice the player.
Next season Cleverley Anderson with an injury free pre /early season and Giggs will support Carrick however a top player will be signed but he won't be Dutch
Dylan

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06 Jun 2013 21:46:18
Strootman

I watched the second half tonight particularly to see Strootman for the first time

I was expecting more to be honest given the build up from most on here. However I watched a mobile German team dominate in midfield and particularly noted the movement and pace of Holtby.

My impression of Strootman was that he was a little leggy, slow on the turn and had a lack of pace particularly on recovery when someone got past him. An incident on 64 mins would have worried me as he was turned like an amateur and looked very slow recovering. I will watch him again but he was not the dominant player I expected given the hype and I thought he would stand out more than that. If he is going to be in our central midfield then we need more mobility than he demonstrated in that half and as I said a week or so ago, if he is our main midfield purchase it is asking a lot for him to step up to the level needed especially with his inexperience. The lack of pace and ability to recover could be an issue in our league if we play the same way as previously. He looked slower than Carrick at first glance.

I will watch Strootman again but there looked to be a question over his mobility at first sight

Red Man {Ed004's Note - He looked very tired tonight I'm not sure maybe it is because it has been a long season but in the Everdise he seemed to get back quicker the games I watched him in. Maybe the sitting deep and bursting forward every now and again role would suit him better? Kind of like Martinez for Bayern as he has the passing range to start play from deep but tonight he was expected to defend and be on the shoulder of the last man which is a very tiring job. Though he does seem to be switched on defensively imo}

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I have said that about 20 times. I realize we all want some signings but his pace is a concern and against guys like hazzard and ramirez they will leave him for dead once they turn him.

Shahram {Ed004's Note - Would that be an issue if we played a higher line as the pitch would be far more compact limiting the space they have to run in to and then we have his physical force as well as his technical force to dominate the midfield?}

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It may be an issue at times, but Strootman isn't the last line of defence against these lads. When they get past him (and that won't be often as he reads the games so well) they will still have a defence to beat plus an amazing goalkeeper. There are only two better players for the role he plays imo, and they are Witsel and Vidal. Vidal is totally unavailable and Witsel would cost and arm and a leg.

With them out of the question then Strootman becomes the best available option. Unless you'd rather have Fellaini.

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No I would rather have Maher and just because he was tonights flavor but have asked eds before if we are interested in him as he is the type of player that would be great in our link up play and faster and more skillful. Carrick to me is a very similar player to strootman but better and yes I do realize they are different players. I would also take Cabaye and Dembele over him.

Anyways I have said that all season long and let's hope that I am wrong if he ends up with us.

Shahram

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Ed

We have all been talking about the German pressing game of Bayern and Dortmund as the way forward, can Strootman deliver that or will we stagnate in the middle. He didn't look as mobile as Martinez Gundingen or Schweinsteiger. Thiago or Gundingen look more mobile and Fabregas.

I need to see him again but I am not sure at first viewing

Red Man {Ed004's Note - Javi Martinez isn't the most mobile of players I think Strootman would be perfect for the pressing game}

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Maher does look a very promising player Shahram but I would hardly say I would rather have him than Strootman as totally different. I would rather have Thiago than Maher but I would love to have either of them to be honest. Is funny all th ejudging of Strootman over one game. I think it jsut shows how so many have said about us signing him haven't even seen him play before last night. Only about 4th time I have seen him and only once was it for PSV rather than Holland. I think a lot of people been underwhelmed as probabyl expecting a totally different kind of player. He does look a leader and he does look to have a good all round game. I think some of the different Eds comments have mentioned "yes people forget though he was the captain leading a very young Dutch side", isn't this telling in itself as he really isn't that young for a player of potential.
Invisible Stuey {Ed002's Note - Back in the day Liverpool, Leicester, West Ham and Augsburg enquired about Adam Maher. More recently Manchester City, Hamburg and Arsenal have made their interest clear but the player has said he will not move unless he can be assured of playing in the first team and would rather stay where he is for a couple of years to develop. Regardless, Ajax plan to buy Maher in the summer as a replacement for Eriksen.}

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07 Jun 2013 11:56:43
@ Red Man

We will be signing Strootman AND Thiago, not just Strootman imo.

Martinez isn't the most mobile player by any means and hardly ventures forward.

REDFAITH

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Stuey

I have watched him a lot in the past year. He plays for a PSV team that scores a lot of goals and pretty much always going forward and really only had Ajax as a rival.

I was unsure all along and have made my views quite clear but what reality surprised me was the Title decider late in the season with Ajax and Erickson is by far the better player and just went by him all day. I guess in big games big players show up and he did nothing for me.

I am not being negative as Shappy says but just an opinion. I think Maher has twice the potential and can play 20 games for us today.


Shahram

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06 Jun 2013 21:38:50
Thought Strootman played well first 30 mins then faded and looked tired think he needs to work on his fitness with him constantly tracking back and forward all the time, but I must say I was impressed with Thiago, had a bit of Paul Scholes about him picking them passes and the vision to see players could become a 'great' if he signs.

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06 Jun 2013 21:28:34
Eds, have man united actually made contact about thiago or is it just paper talk? Thanks {Ed004's Note - Contact has been made}

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06 Jun 2013 21:24:06
Watching the Dutch v Germany under 21's really impressed by Kevin Strootman. Strong and perceptive in defence, works hard and is a genuine box to box midfielder. He really would strengthen our team and, perhaps be a potential club captain at some stage in the future. Let's make sure we sign him.

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06 Jun 2013 21:10:55
Eds, who do you think man united's big signing will be? {Ed004's Note - Strootman! The man is massive though Garay is very tall as well}

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Hahaa nice on eds
RED DEVILS

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Ed, what's your source on Strootman, I've heard a lot of rumours linking him with Arsenal. {Ed004's Note - Ed 2}

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Does ed2 have a source high up in the united hierarchy or just some ITK? Sorry if I'm pecking, just like to know how credible sources are haha. Thanks for your help. {Ed004's Note - He has his sources not necessarily at united though}

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06 Jun 2013 20:56:01
how do people know that strootman and garay are practically signed? or people just believing what they hear? I just don't want everyone to be dissapointed if none happen and we sign people who we have never heard of

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Can we not have an age group page for stuff like this?

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Definately the latter. Strootman again for me for U21 this evening looked good but he is 22/23 i'm still to convinced in the few times seen him (mostly International games to be fair) that he is anything but a "good" player. Garay I think is a good defender, and though personally I don't rate Evans very highly I DO Jones and Smalling so I just don't understand the need for him personally

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06 Jun 2013 20:53:41
I swear he hasn't sold his house in manchester either?

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Neither has John Smith but that doesn't mean he is signing for United.

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Jon Smith actually lives in Bolton
Invisible STuey

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06 Jun 2013 20:38:46
I know a lot of you have been excited for some while now, well, I havent, cause its too early, but. after watching the Spain U21 match, and now just have watched the Netherland U21, I could help think what good signings Strootman (good game in the first) and Thiago would be. A modern game players in the Keane and Scholes mould, if I may say.

Exciting!

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Thiago was brilliant, Strootman seems slow ( I know he ain't lightning) I mean slower than usual, wonder if he has a knock. Strootman also usually plays like those Duracel bunnies non-stop but he's strolling a lot tonight.

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06 Jun 2013 22:07:19
He's had a hard season. Remember most of these players aren't first team players in their sides every week. Strootman has been a key player for a top dutch side and has played nearly every game for them both in the league and in europe. And quite often he has played with Van Bommel which has ment he has had to do the running of two players.

Also maybe he feels the under 21's are abit below his standard now, which to be fair he would be right if he thought that as he has captained the full national side. But the thing I liked most is even with him playing this game at a slower pace he still bossed it and shouted and marshalled his team. Which is good as it shows he uses his head rather than his legs to control games which means he shouldn't have a problem when he gets older and loses some pace.

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Of the two Thiago for sure, not because of the hype and name and flair factor, but with us having Carrick off the back of a good season I think we are in more urgent need of a creative technical central midfielder (would still love to see Anderson step up but it has been a long time coming from a very promising start). I can see the sense in signing Strootman as a back up and to learn from Carrick and fight for his place over the next couple of years but my gut reaction is I just think there is something better out there myself for that role, looks a good player but personally I don't see a potentially great one which I certainly do in Thiago, hope i'm wrong if we sign him of course
Invisible STuey

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Strootman did look slow and Mistimed a few tackles, he made simple passes. Nothing that's going to get me off my seat. He looked average. I hope he's not our main midfield signing as he won't live with yaya, Mata, Silva etc.
He almost looked to be doing the same job as carrick. So why do we need another carrick? We need presence in our midfield, we also need athleticism in there.
To be perfectly honest, I was disappointed with him. {Ed004's Note - We need presence in midfield yet you just ignore some of the crunching tackles Strootman made. I don't get why some people are writing Strootman off so quickly. He dominated a German team in the first half and then second half when the youngsters around him started getting nervous you could still see him shouting instructions etc}

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Shappy when he gets older and loses his pace
Butch Wilkins is quicker!
Dylan

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Ed your treading water
Dylan

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Dylan mate for some reason you have decided to hate him and not give him a chance. You've totally overlooked all the good things he did in the game to pick up the odd one or two faults he made.

Do you think that Dutch team would have beaten one of the competition favourites without the leadership of Strootman?

He controlled the game int the first half and gave them the platform to score two goals from. Then in the second half when Germany flooded the midfield he held them together and stopped the Germans running riot over them which gave them the chance to win it, which they did. Without him on the pitch tonigh Germany would have won by at least two goals, but Germany lost 3-2, so without scoring himself though the base he built and the direction he gave his team he probably turned a 2-0 loss into a 3-2 victory and you still can't give him any credit.

Like I said you've decided to dislike him and you made that decision long ago.

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I don't dislike him I/we support a major football club who aim to challenge on all fronts every season for us to improve and stay in touch with Bayern and Barca etc then we have to be after players who will put us up there
He wouldn't improve none of the top sides who we are competing with
Modric Thiago etc would
Strootman would be a gamble for Everton if Fellaini leaves at best
Dylan

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06 Jun 2013 20:00:32
£45 million pounds for both Fernandinho and Navas, just shows how papers like to inflate figures to sell more!

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Fernandinho £30million and Navas was £23million if I am not mistaken.

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A website are now saying 15 million for Navas, I thought it was 23 mil aswell but that's the latest figure thrown around.

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Fernandinho is around the £30-£35m mark, and Navas is £21m, so about £51-£56m in total, but I can see one of Nasri and Silva leaving and them signing Isco and a striker to replace Tevez/Dzeko.

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Haha Ed like the way you sneakily edited the name of the website to website. Fair play {Ed004's Note - I didn't edit the name out I don't even know what the website was there is a filter in place to do that.}

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I can see Nasri going but I would be very surprised to see Silva leaving. Regardless of the prices Toure alongside Fernandhino with Navas, Silva and maybe one more (Isco?) behind Aguero sounds very strong to me
Invisible STuey

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06 Jun 2013 19:58:47
just been watchin the official video of the new kit launch on the united website. interesting that 3 players don't appear to be their even though the rest of the squad are. no ashley young although that is most probably down to injury. the other two are nani and valencia, now am I reading too much into this or could these be players who'll be shown the door?

vinny

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Valencia has no number now the man who owns the number is coming home to do said number justice once again. maybe I'm off the mark

CAIN

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06 Jun 2013 19:48:12
honest opinions please a fully fit and focused anderson (i. e. his first season), or kevin strootman?

vinny {Ed004's Note - Probably Strootman but Anderson had a tonne of potential}

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Both. It is a squad game. Anderson will make the grade with the right motivation.

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Had loods of potential HAD

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Strootman as he is the sort of player we need right now but Anderson had a massive amount of potential. He is turning into another Freddy Adu.

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Anderson has had his chance! Strootman for me

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Strootman technically very good which you would expect Physically sound and looks very much in control in this match.
Would he improve us and have the same impact that RVP had last season?
Have we in the next 12 months in Janzaj not got a player who can play in that position and as that bit more about him.
Alcantara Modric sneidjer 2/3years ago at another level to Strootman
Dylan {Ed004's Note - I disagree if you have watch Januzaj at all and I have this season he played as a false number 9 for the reserves whereas Strootman is currently bossing the German midfield (Who are one of the favourites for the tournament and who include Bayern's new midfield signing I think?) plays a lot deeper than Januzaj. In fact Alcantara is far more likely to block Januzaj}

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Janujaz as played in that role for 2 reasons there's been a shortage of natural forwards at that age group due to Will Keanes injury and he is very anywhere from in front of a four he's pure class but needs time
Strootmans gone missing I'd have Cleverley and a fit Anderson all day save the £17m and put it towards areal gem something he isn't
Dylan {Ed004's Note - The whole Dutch team has gone missing and Strootman hasn't been too badly this second half he is without doubt a leader on the pitch something we have been missing and he tracks ever runner or makes sure they are dealt with he has been very good in this game for me. Strootman plays a lot deeper than Januzaj who plays behind the striker or as the striker}

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Agree again with you Ed004. I was saying to Dylan on another post about Strootman and Januzj lol

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Ed we have in Carrick one if not the best at that job so why buy an inferior player to him
Sir Alex in the last few windows as been heavily linked with
Sneidjer
Modric and now Thiago none are box to box players
I don't know where this box to box idea comes from
Roy Keane like Robson controlled the tempo and lead from midfield pure class
If Strootman made me feel he had that capability then I'd be convinced unfortunately he's nowhere near I'm sorry to piss you all off but what I've seen tonight forget it!
Moura last year in the opening 15 min of his first appearance in the Olympics looked top notch and went on to prove why Sir Alex was willing to pay over £30m
Dylan {Ed004's Note - So all it takes is 15 good minutes for you then did you not watch the vs 15 mins tonight were Strootman played a fantastic pass, nearly had an assist after a surging run forward (when was the last time other than Anderson at player drove at the oppositions defence for us like Yaya does?) and was unlucky not to get an assist then straight down the other end and levels some fella in the tackle}

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06 Jun 2013 21:50:21
Dylan you've just proved how little you know in comparing strootman to januzaj. Totally different positions.

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06 Jun 2013 22:13:51
Anderson should play as an AM, where as Strootman is a DM/box to box midfielder. that's like asking Scholes or Keane? Both have an important role. I think if Anderson can get fit and over his injuries and is then played in his best position of LAM rather than as a CM then he could be an important player for us. But at the same time a fully respect and understand the view that he has been given plenty of chances. So I couldn't complain if he was moved on. But Strootman or someone like him is key to us being able to compete with the best next season.

As for young Dylan, mate your getting yourself in a right muddle. First you write Strootman off having never seen him play on the basis of him being 23 and no other top clubs (or rather teams you consider to be top clubs) are interested in him.

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06 Jun 2013 22:23:58
Damn phone. Lol.

As I was saying, you write Strootman off having never seen him play. And now you don't even seem to know where our own players play.

Powell may well develop into a deeper role but the deepest he'll go is as the most advanced midfielder. He started out as a striker in the no. 9 mould but due to his vision and passing ability has dropped back into the no. 10 role. He may drop back further but imo that will be to his detriment, his longer passing isn't as good, so he needs to be in the final third where his vision, great short range passing and shooting ability are best suited. He should play as one of the three between the midfield and the striker in a 4231 formation.

This is the same for Januzaj, although he can do better in the wider positions in the three due to him being quicker than Powell. But neither would be blocked by Strootman as he plays in the midfield two of the 4231 formation. He sits deeper and controls the play from there. He is a totally different type of player to both Powell and Januzaj. He would be more of a problem to Petrucci and Tunnicliffe, but as neither are likely to make it that shouldn't be a problem. Ben Pearson would be the academy player most likely to make it as a midfielder for us and thus challenge Strootman for his place. But he is several years away from being ready to stake a claim.

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Fit and focused Anderson, playing to the potential he showed in his first 18 months at the club I would have over virtually any midfield target we have been linked with. the thing is I said the same thing last year when everybody was getting excited about Dembele and Witsel. I feel slightly sorry for him with the niggling injuries and lack of a run of games he has put together over the last three years but at the same time maybe it is time to move on. I am guessign her but isn't Strootman 22/23 and Anderson 23/24 so there is hardly a big age difference. Strootman seems to me very much an all round midfielder but nothign special in any department from what I have seen. I would agree with the Ed though that his leadership, especially in midfield is something we have lacked for a while
Invisible STuey

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No name you clearly aren't reading my post Januzaj is only playing in the positions currently to help with his develelopment
Physically he's not ready to play in the middle but in 12/18 months he will be awesome
Dylan

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I spot class quicker than most!
Ed you seem to be the main instigator of this campaign to sign the new Robbo!
I feel Dembele showed whilst at Fulham and certainly in the game this season at OT the week before he signed for Spurs that he's far ahead of your Dutch mate
Why did Sir Alex not go for him?
Ill tell you why because he's got faith in Anderson and is signing a player who will stop own grown or youth purchased players coming through and that's what ManUtd do unless a top top player comes available
Dylan {Ed004's Note - Your biggest flaw in that statement is that Ferguson is no longer the manager and Moyes will not accept players who do not keep themselves in shape}

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Shappy Powell and Janzaj won't have Strootman to compete with
Van kraan Dutch sports journo spoke on a radio station tonight
Strootman needs an excellent tournament to convince EPL clubs he's worth a chance but he feels he would need to step a couple of notches do you see he could step it up?
I dont
My knowledge of young players positions doesn't need to be questioned in an attempt to avoid my point!
He just ain't coming!
Dylan

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Anderson is the better player imo that means nothing if he is always injured
Jred

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Please stop picking up on stupid points I know who our new boss is but our targets where identified long ago and guess what with Moyes probably
Please answer my question Dembele?
Dylan {Ed004's Note - I rate Dembele highly and I do not know why he was not signed. Maybe Ferguson thought having Scholes, Fletcher, Carrick, Cleverley, Giggs and Anderson was enough. I think Ferguson always though Anderson would make it here but obviously that is unlikely now imo. So this summer we now have Scholes, Fletcher and Anderson all potentially leaving and Giggs is another year older so obviously he is stepping up his pursuit to sign a midfielder.}

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07 Jun 2013 00:04:37
dylan your an person januzaj was signed as an attacking midfielder cum winger. Not at a centre mid at all. And he is not ever going to play centre midfield. Have you even seen the lad? He'd get flattened playing centre mid. His future is attacking midfield. Playing as a false nine is to help his development but how would playing that role have any help to him playing centre midfield? You just have a downer on strootman for some reason. And we didn't sign dembele as fergie obviously didn't consider he was good enough.

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Beg to differ he will not end up wide maybe off a striker but he can control the tempo/pace of a game and that's why I feel he will end up central
He's a lot of physical development to go through yet but he will be a future star barring injury and attitude
Dylan

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Don't you see though Dylan. Your whole point is he won't be coming due to him blocking young players in our youth set up yet there are no youth for him to block as the lads you've said he would block play in total different positions to him.

For all intents and purposes you may have well said we shouldn't sign him as he'd block Amos and Henriquez (ones a goalkeeper and the other a striker in case you don't know).

Your whole arguement was flawed based on you limited knowledge of our youth players.

Strootman may or may not sign for us, but if he does he certainly wouldn't block Powell or Januzaj.

On a side note, you seriously have a thing against Strootman, a player who you have limited knowledge of and seem unwilling to give a fair assessment too. What is your beef with him? Did he steal your girlfriend? or is he dating your mum?

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Silly point Dylan, in a 4231 Strootman would play in the 2 whilst Januzaj would play in the 3 so there is no connection between them. We all get you don't like Strootman but there's no need to go making false comparisons.

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Shappy I have said that he is technically gifted which we'd expect and as a physical presence and looks the part and that is where he impresses people.
However he does not belong in the Master of midfield position and that is the point I've been making.
I don't see him becoming a ManUtd legend and to have an impact he needs to be special now if your of the opinion that he falls into that category that's fine but to me Scotty Parker Jordan Henderson Gareth Barry and so on are as effective and I would never wish to see a ManUtd manager buy any of them
I will use Ashley young and Valencia as an example their effective but their no Ronaldo!
This midfield player or players needs to have a massive impact on us just like RVP did in his position and Strootman in my observation won't give us this
Unfortunately that type of player is in short supply and that is probably another debate!
Modric Yaya that level of player otherwise play Jones in there and be patient until we capture or unearth a midfield. Gem.
Dylan

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06 Jun 2013 19:32:11
Kevin Strootman is captain for holland u21 on a website. Get watching

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06 Jun 2013 19:30:34
Strootman playing for U21 on SS2 tonight, worth checking out.
Lethal

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06 Jun 2013 19:26:04
Well looks like varela has signed.

TRUMORS

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06 Jun 2013 19:08:02
Watching Spain vs Russia under 21s and Thiago looks amazing, best player on the pitch. He looks better than Isco. If we can land this guy he will be something special for sure.

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06 Jun 2013 18:57:16
Anyone else watching the U21s game between spain and russia. I know its always been said Scholes is irreplaceable but Thaigo is the closest thing I've seen to him, absolutely breath taking, and is playing deep!

I'd love to see him in a two man mf with strootman because he's better used as cm rather than an cam.
As he's been earmarked as xavi's replacement. For 18million euros he would be a steal. Cleverly got nothing on him.

Sulei

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He is a very good player and hope we get him. I would rather have him than strootman.

Shahram {Ed004's Note - Well currently Strootman has been brilliant for Netherlands. Unlucky not to have 1 assist and has had a few crunching tackles as well as being very vocal on the pitch. Very impressed so far}

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Strootman and Thiago if both are signed could be immense in a 2 man midfield together or a 3 man with Carrick. They compliment each others playing style so much. Both could become world class easily. {Ed004's Note - I agree currently having this discussion with the other Ed's}

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Two different players Shahram, they would compliment each other brilliantly.
Both for around £30mil would be great business. Plus are team needs a player like strootman more than we need thiago.

Sulei

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Ed004 - Both are so calm on the ball and are good without it as well but you can see the different stand out qualities in both of them. Thiago is a deep lying playmaker and Strootman is the box 2 box player who is the jack of all trades. {Ed004's Note - Exactly so hopefully we get both}

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Thiago a deep lying midfielder?
He's a magician in the last third and quality in possession all over the park
Dylan

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Sharham

"I would rather have him than strootman"

You do realise they are 2 totally different types of player? I'd like both TBF.

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06 Jun 2013 18:55:47
Watching Spain U21's and Alcantara looks like he will develop into a very very good player. I doubt we'll get him but for the £15m he is 100% worth getting in my eyes. Not the finished article by any means but I think he will be in the next few years and would be a great Scholes replacement.

Brendan81

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Thiago should be our top target he looks so elegent on the ball "Spainish Scholes"
the way he move the ball around is great. He would be perfect next to Carrick with Strootman doing the hard work the Kagawa free to link up with him! I think I just creamed my pants {Ed004's Note - And Di Maria as well. All them supporting RVP would be phenomenal and you still have Rooney, Cleverley, Welbeck, Young, Hernandez, Jones, Januzaj for cover}

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Ed004. I looks to good to be true mate but its all possible :). If that happened we would be up there with Bayern and Barca {Ed004's Note - I agree unfortunately}

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06 Jun 2013 18:52:12
Do we have any interest in strootman anyone?

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Most people on here do but Manchester United are more interested in doing a deal with Barca and thiago.
Strootman would prevent both Powell& januzi development and progress
Dylan

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Nonsense.

Sydney!

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Dylan. Strootman is a box to box player he will have no affect on Powell who is a attacking mid and Januzj who is a winger/attacking midfielder progress. Please check player profile before you put anything in writing mate

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DmR. 17 both Powell and Januzaj are playing in different positions for development reasons and in time both will play more central
Scholes don't forget played youth level as a forward
Strootman will not wear the red of United aged 23/4 if he was a19/20 year old then he'd be worth a gamble
Dylan

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Januzaj will play as a false 9/10 role like Kagawa, Powell could well play CM but I believe he will play futher up the field.

Dylan I will post a message with your name on it when we sign Strootman, this guy has an engine and is both good in attack and defence.

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Dylan, we have lost Fletcher, Scholes and Anderson will be sold. Are you seriously suggesting Strootman is not needed? We need midfield reinforcements and Strootman is a fine player who is on the verge of becoming special. NOW is the time to buy. Strootman will not block Januzaj or Powell. To be fair we need more than just Strootman. Thiago and Strootman would be sufficient.

Sydney!

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Are you sure that Anderson will be sold if so that's some massive change around with Scholes and Fletcher how much money do you believe we have to spend because the players your talking about would cost loads not inc Zahas fee
You don't like being reminded of this but Giggs signed a year extension and in some premier league games last season had an impact what's his role this season Jones played that role in the big games ahead of Cleverley who will be much better this campaign so unless Strootman is the new Keane or Robbo I'd stay away from clogging up the squad otherwise we will end up with Liverpools problem in that dept.
Dylan

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DmR. 17 Darren Gibson had a good engine Phil Neville too obviously it's not enough.
Ps you won't be sending me a message and I won't be saying I told you so
Dylan {Ed004's Note - But they weren't half as good on the ball as Strootman and didn't have his leadership qualities?}

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I haven't seen much of them but rather than Thiago if he was signed blocking Januzag and Powells development, isn't it tmore likely to be Rooney and Kagawa doing that? And Sydney I kind of agree regarding Fletcher and Anderson if they both don't play, I see Thiago as the best possible Scholes replacement we can sign. Strootman looks good and a leader but is he good enough to get into the starting eleven do people think as 22/23 £17m odd is a lot to pay for a back up when there may well be better out there that appear over the next season or so? i'm no expert on him as mainly only seen him in international matches, i'm not against signing Strootman but wouldn't say i'm overwhelmed or excited about it either
Invisible STuey

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Ed Gibson as shown whilst at Everton what he's capable of and to say his passing and leadership is not upto Strootmans is a sad reflection
Dylan {Ed004's Note - How have you come up with that conclusion? You have stated on more than one occasion you had never seen Strootman play? How do you know how good a passer he is?}

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Read earlier post he's technically sound but no better or effective than Gibson or P Neville and is that the type of player you believe will push us on!
Dylan

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06 Jun 2013 18:49:42
reading between the lines Jose has said he can't wait to work with Hazard my guess is he will be telling anyone who will listen that Hazard is the best player in the world and he also had a swipe at Ronnie saying he is a know it all that does not take tactical advice well it gets me thinking is he trying mind games knowing Ronnie is coming home? and I really can't see Ronaldo at Chelsea what ever happens after the latest from Jose

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06 Jun 2013 18:49:32
Gav

I'm guessing BN means BrowN Nose. Not my view mate, just guessing as you were agreeing with the Ed.

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I should be ashamed of myself, lol. If that's true the guy who said it (yet didn't have the balls to leave a name) is, in Ed002's words a pure Glifnard! :)

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06 Jun 2013 18:22:28
Welcome

Guillermo Varela

This lad is a good quality strong and fast right back!

Seen him only a couple of times for Penarol but always thought we didn't look at south american leagues enough to think he would be signed

Im sure with abit of positional coaching and so on he will be highly valued at mufc

really happy with this signing

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06 Jun 2013 18:17:46
Any scouts at the Spain U21 game? Isco, Munian & Thiago are playing.

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06 Jun 2013 18:08:36
men states moyes should go all out to get ronny I think the deal is already done. and fergie masterminded it

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I have a feeling that's why gill was in Spain whenever fergie retired, to tell Ronnie nothing had changed!

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Why didn't he just call him?

Andrew b

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Just another case of United's classy personal touch Andrew, I hope. I think we would all love to see Ronaldo come home.

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Personal touches like that are important, was it bale that turned us down because Rednapp travelled to Southampton to chat with him and his parents?

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06 Jun 2013 17:52:54
Reading about this fat git Rooney here. Ironic that the goal that has reinvigorated his hype and given him the confidence to talk about being the target man came to him on the left wing and the 'brilliant solo effort' went in of a deflection. Amazing how 1 goal can turn the media around. I really hope that he pisses off. !

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You won't be saying that when he bangs in 30 goals next season

Andrew b

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Piss off to Chelsea and win them the league you mean? He's a united player, so let's get behind him.
How come you're not crtisizing nani, Anderson, young valencia.? They were totally useless last season and let's not forget, Rooney scored 16 important goals for us playing out of position. How many did these four have between them? And you can add welbeck to that as well.

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06 Jun 2013 17:40:49
Can one of the Ed's please clarify how many years does ronaldo have left on his contract. I've heard some people say its 1 year and others 2 years. Also do you know of any club who have formally approached real madrid about the availability of ronaldo. {Ed004's Note - PSG and 2}

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06 Jun 2013 17:38:01
Can any eds confirm if there is any scouts at the u21 championships?

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06 Jun 2013 17:18:19
I am going to put my neck out and try to predict our summer transfer? (My opinion)

Ins:
Guillermo Varela £1.8m
Strootman £15m
Garay £18m
Thiago £17m

Outs:
Scholes (Retired)
Nani £15m
Anderson £6m
Macheda/Bebe £2m

Personally I would love Ronaldo back and would perfer Rooney to be sold (2 Transfer request is a double slap)

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I agree but also think we'll sign Baines and let Evra go back to France.

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Yea if Evra goes it has to be Baines as long as its under 15m due to his age

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06 Jun 2013 16:57:56
Strootman, Garay, Thiago, Varela, Baines and Ronaldo!

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Round about 140 m
and sales of rooney - 30m
nani - 15m
anderson - 7m

total of 90m
imo glazers won't be willing to pay that much
we can remove thiago from this list then it can be possible because we already have kagawa

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Thiago plays as a deep laying playmaker, Kagawa plays as a advance playmaker. Two totally different players

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06 Jun 2013 16:49:38
Afternoon Edds. Just a quick question if you have a few minutes :)

Any news on our Ins/Outs?

Thanks {Ed002's Note - None.}

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06 Jun 2013 16:41:26
We should have a laugh at us all. We are so fickle and argumentative.

As soon as anybody posts that Ronaldo is coming to United we get an explosion of reasons explaining why he's not!

And guess what! Somebody posts why CR7 can't come back and yep, you guessed. Blah blah blah. What would all that optic-fibre do without CR7?

So, I think there's a 50/50 chance that he might not possibly not consider coming back. Thoughts.

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I'm just glad we've all finally agreed that Rooney needs to stay ;)

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Gav

I am not too sure though ;). The "fat/useless" brigade is out in numbers.

Deeps.

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06 Jun 2013 16:15:23
Apparently we are set to sign Guillermo Varela from Penarol as competition for Rafael.1mp deal likely to be enough.

EDs/Guys is he ready to play in the PL? {Ed002's Note - I wouldn't think there is any chance of seeing him in the EPL for a couple of years.}

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06 Jun 2013 15:46:48
Hello ed 002. And all regular posters. The sudden situation change at chelsea have made mata available. Now does this change anything? Last term lewandowski was certain and surprise availabily of rvp has stopped it. So no one can say sudden availability does not change minds.
It does when a top player is become available. Anf every1 will be agree that mata is a top top player.

Rodio17 {Ed002's Note - I would not hold your breath about Mata being at Old Trafford next season.}

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I really hope it happens. I can't see it happening tbh.

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You people need to stop believing foreign newspapers

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Should stop believing newspapers altogether.
DHK

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06 Jun 2013 15:45:08
Not a regular poster but what are people opinion on baines? I perdonally think he has a good left peg but still don't think he is better than ashley cole or evra would rather try and put together an eye watering deal for shaw to try and turn his head from chelsea

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Well I would keep Evra for another season and try to sign Shaw, probably loan him back to Southampton for year as well. However if Evra leaves, I would try to sign Baines as a short term replacement as well as Shaw as a long term replacement.

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06 Jun 2013 15:06:33
Eds, ferguson and gill mentioned that there is going to be a big summer signing. Who do you think it will be? Thanks {Ed004's Note - I think it may have been Lewandowski I don't think we will have one}

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06 Jun 2013 14:35:54
Question for ed's and syd.

With all of this talk about new players coming in, can you see anyone from the reserves/youth being given a first team chance this year?
If so, who? {Ed004's Note - Powell and Januzaj. Possibly Michael Keane and that's it IMO I'd like to see Vermjl get a few games}

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05 Jun 2013 17:31:43
Ed002, if I recall correctly you said that you live in Monaco. In that case I would like to ask for your opinion about the possibility of Monaco overtaking PSG as ligue 1 champions next season. In my opinion, even though I don't rate Ranieri as manager, I think the fact that he bought Moutinho, Rodriguez and Falcao is a smart move since they know eaxch other's game and would gel easier than PSG's mega stars did.

And some posters on here were critisizing the likes of Falcao and Rodriguez for moving to Monaco. I don't think that most posters on here can see that ligue 1 is on the rise atm with 2 teams capable of challenging in Europe in the next 2-3 seasons, and Monacco is a team that will be considered one of the big guns of European football in the near future. Also a fact that can't be forgot is that Monaco is the french equivalent of hollywood. Imo there is no better place to live in Europe considering not only the climate but the beauty of the city itself.

And Shappy, I also wanted to ask you why you think us guetting Valera is likely. With Fabio coming back from his loan, and Vermijl showing a lot of potential this season, I don't think we need cover for Rafael ( I also rate Valencia as a good alternative for the right back poaition). I agree with you that Jones and Smalling are not good alternatives for the right back position.

In another matter how would you guys feel with Rooney going to Arsenal ( highly unlikely but stranger things have happened ) and us guetting Fabregas. This way we d get our Paul Scholes replacement, while also giving both Kagawa and Chicharito more chances to show their worth.

A summer of Fabregas, Di Maria, Strootman and Baines coming in while Evra, Nani, Rooney, Anderson and hopefully Young leaving. If the later happens, I would like to see a young winger bought ( Ajax's Fischer and Dinamo's Halilovic seem like fantastic talents).

Mick {Ed002's Note - I have lived in Monaco on and off for 20 odd years and whilst we do still have a home there we are are not living there right now. They may well win the league next season. There are a number of issues to overcome with the FFF forst. Monaco cannot be equated to Hollywood in any way or form at all. They have around about nothing in common.}

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06 Jun 2013 14:51:05
Thats a massive shame. A clueless friend of mine said so, and I was guetting quite homesick and since I can't go back to the us atm.

Mick

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06 Jun 2013 16:57:54
I think Varela is a strong possibility due to the fact we have no natural right backs other than Rafael. The club always have one eye on the future and Varela would beba good and cheap purchase with this in mind. Valencia Jones and Smalling can all do a job at right back but they all lack the correct positioning due to the fact that it isn't a usual position for them. They either sit too deep and stray infield as is the case with Jones and Smalling or Valencia plays too high up the pitch and doesn't track his runner properly due to lack of full defensive awearness.

Vermijl is an interesting one, personally I feel he is deserving of a chance, but that doesn't mean those within the walls of Old Trafford think he is good enough.

We've also looked at Elliot Kebbie who is a young english right back playing in Spain, so it appears that a young Right back may be on the menu.

Varela having had a trial and really impressing the coaching staff looks the more likely option imo.

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06 Jun 2013 18:36:35
I also ment to say I strongly believe Fabio will be sold, every time he gets a run of a few games and he gets injuried. I don't think his body can withstand the rough nature of the english game. Its a shame as he is a very talented lad.

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06 Jun 2013 13:46:18
I don't get this strootman is slow so he's a risky signing business. Carrick is hardly usain bolt but he was still our best player last season.

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People are deluded, they think by slow it means snorlax.

People need to know footballers can still run quite quick and strootmans acceleration is very good, similar to yaya toure

TRUMORS

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Person

Coombesy!

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I shall liken this to a rugby player who would you rather have run at you, a quick light winger or a slow but very strong and powerful second row? The answer is the winger. Strootman isn't the fastest but he's powerful and will get up and down the pitch and be a great player for us!

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06 Jun 2013 13:21:11
This Rooney hating is rather ridiculous now. I agree he isn't the player he was of the past, he's overweight, lost his pace, lost his confidence, yet I still want him on the team sheet and when he's not and we draw or lose, I sit there and can't help but think Rooney might have done something in that game.
He is a match winner and to lose him for as little as some of the figures being quoted is ridiculous. I will stick by him as long as he has that shirt on, if he leaves I wish him all the best and will look out for him, but anything under £40 million is a joke, consider what City are paying for the two latest signings!
Let me ask a question to all the Rooney haters, When Ronaldo got Rooney sent off in the 2006 World Cup, how many of you stuck up for him and was calling for Ronaldo to be sold?

aaallj5

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Did you forget?
Most of the hate he is getting is because he has handed in a SECOND transfer request

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06 Jun 2013 13:39:41
Simple question. Where do you play him? He isn't good enough for central midfield. He hasn't got enough pace for the wings. Kagawa's better suited to the hole as he has a better short passing game. Robin is a better striker. So where do you play him? That was the issue last season and why he got played all over the pitch. To try and fit him in and find him a role. There's nothing to suggest this season will be any different. So where do you play him?

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If he's overweight, lost his pace and lost his confidence yet you still want him in the team.

I am overweight, have no pace and my confidence is quite low (haven't hit rock bottom yet :) ) should I be in the team? should I be getting the guts of 250k a week?

My problem with Rooney is I don't can't fanthom how a professinoal sportsman can come into the new season so unfit - putting on a few lb's over the summer is understandable - you can't back to training and by the first few games you should be in peak condition but rooney was far from peak condition.

Rooney is now 27, he should be hitting his peak instead he is on the decline, United have a decision to make - should they cash on him now or hope he regains the form to which we all loved him for - I for one hope he works hard and gets back to his form as he is unreal on-form.

Most people's problem is that everytime he's not happy, he wants to leave - you don't get many chances at United with that sort of carry on, so he is lucky enough to still be a united player imo - Under moyes he might be rejuvenated but we'll have to wait and see.

As for Ronaldo getting rooney sent off in 2006 - what has this got to do with United?

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Well said mate

Ross

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06 Jun 2013 13:48:13
My issue with him isn't so much his ability as he is still a top player, but his attitude. He has lost that spark that motivated him, that drove him and imo he needs a change.

He doesn't seem interested in football at any level as was shown with his poor showings for England in the friendlies, regardless of any goal he scored he was not up for it. And he hasn't been up for any game this season. He's just going through the motions.

Add to that the total lack of respect he has shown the club, the players and Sir Alex and that I think is why most have a problem with him. He is the highest paid player at the club and he can't be bothered to do his job and totally disrespects the club and all at the club.

I remember seeing Gazza fall out of love with football, and it looks like Rooney has also. Its a very slippery slop from here on. He will still have some great games but they will be fewer and farer between, we will ba able to rely on him less and less. Maybe letting him go now is best for us and best for Rooney.

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To the second poster in this thread.
How the hell can you say Kagawa is better than Rooney in the hole?
He's just had his worst season at United and played less games than he has in previous seasons for United yet his stats stand head and shoulders above Kagawa's who in my opinion hasn't proven a thing yet.
It just beggers belief that statement it really does.
Do people forget how many goals this kid scored for us season in season out. Always above 20goals and has twice got into the thirties.
I can't believe the sh*t what people are putting on here about him being over rated, over the hill, past it, not good enough it's absolutely pathetic.
No matter how you look at it Wayne Rooney is still our best player along with RVP, apart from that our squad is average at best and yet here you all are saying get rid of him.
Let me ask you this, what if we did sell Rooney and nobody came in to replace him.
Be carefull what you ask for because if Rooney get's sold to another Premiership Club all you haters on here may be eating your words big time.

Simmo

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Simmo

Yes Kagawa has had a bad season, its his first season in the prem, being played out of posistion and not getting a run of games plus being injured for 2months is impossible to have a good season. But Kagawa has proven himself in the german league with fantastic stats at dortmund. Kagawa is a better no. 10 than rooney as his stats at dortmund show this. And before you say that's the Bundeliga, this years champions league finalists are from where?

Sulei

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Most players coming to the epl don't achieve little and take time to settle, evra didn't set the epl on fire, nor vidic, so to expect it from kagawa.
when ever kagawa plays in the hole or comes inside he created chances, threading through balls ideal for the likes of chicarito and rvp, to me at least it seemed that rooney lost possession more times than the created, and where in previous years he would bust a gut to get it back, this year there were times it appeared like he just couldn't be bothered to.
kagawa is the future for us there and with rooney only seeming to get worse I honestly feel we would be better (as a team) selling him and getting a decent winger
i only hope that if he stays he gets his s*** together and avoids the fags and booze over the summer (last time he had the euro's to keep him fit/ busy, I hate to see the damage he does with a whole summer off!)

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06 Jun 2013 13:05:48
So Monaco have signed Mountino and Rodriguez for £60 million. Why do players do that?
I know the life of a footballer is very short, but why search for money, let money find you! Personally, if I was a footballer I think my legacy would become before my bank account and that's just not me saying that cause i'm sat in uni right now.
Both those players had the pick of any major club in Europe, yet they will now be at Monaco, who have no European competition, a totally new squad and a strong possibility of not having European competiton the following year.
At least its a lovely place to live, If only Manchester was like that!

aaallj5

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06 Jun 2013 13:48:30
it depends what other offers they had. Madrid, barca and munich wasn't after them. If it was a choice between russia or monaco then bonjour!

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For people like falcao and valdes whom did have the choice of numerous clubs then they are obvious not bothered about legacy and just want to get rich quick, for the likes of evra whom doesn't have many years left and would be moving back to an old club and receiving a payday then you can fully understand.

With Rodriguez and moutinho it's different. We all know how Porto are with selling players and will try rob anyone with the amounts they ask for. Most likely the only people prepared to pay would have been teams in Russia where they'd spend there money on fur coats or mega rich teams such as Monaco which is one of the nicest places to live, know what is choose ;)

19JackC94

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Monaco will be in Europe in a year. The city is beautiful. The glamour, parties, yachts, its a millionaire's paradise. I would have done the exact same thing in their place.

Sick of players getting criticized for no reason. Going to a club like Liverpool with history and traditions and acting like Suarez is far worse.

REDFAITH

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Why would a top player used to playing in front of50-60,000 fans every home game join a club who, s average gate is 5, 300, only 1 thing money and then location
johndenton {Ed002's Note - And the project they are selling.}

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Ed002 do you think that with ffp and the ligque 1 clubs obecting to the different tax systems in france and monaco could cause the project to go tits up?
johndenton {Ed002's Note - No, the situation with Monaco and the FFF is nothing to do with FFP. Monaco have threatened to join the Italian league system if a solution cannot be agreed with the FFF - but I suspect it will all drag on for a while.}

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06 Jun 2013 13:02:52
Steve and no name.
Much better idea, send Wazza and Ando to fat camp all summer, tell Nani he will only be paid if he shows up, get a time machine for Vidic and Ferdinand and set it back 5 years, mature the twins by 3 years, send DDG to WWE training camp, give Phil Jones a face transplant, Kagawa a size transplant, Valencia a DVD of himself when he was number 25 not 7 and go with a van to Madrid, put Ronaldo, Ozil and Di maria in it and use Modric as the get away driver, then we should be set.

1redarmy

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Why not Iniesta, Messi instead of Ozil and Di maria, Xavi driving the spaceship to OT

If United have that team then imagine Messi and ronaldo each score 80 per season iniesta and xavi 10 per season, Van persie from bench score 30.

I think we can feel Kagawa's full ability in that team.

Midfield_maestro

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06 Jun 2013 12:47:56
If you think Rooney is overrated and should be sold, then you need to give your head a serious wobble (Including EDs). Rooney is the most complete player we have had for the last 10 years. Might have lost a yard of pace, but his touch is there and the range of passing/goals is phenomenal. Not to mention his defensive abilities. All In all for me Rooney is irreplaceable. Should be doing everything in our power to keep the lad. And maybe he will stay now Fergi has gone.

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Hasn't Rooney score the most goals in the premier league since 2005?

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Agreed. Fergie played him in all sorts of positions and he did very well in most of them. He's not a midfielder, he's not a left or right winger, he's a striker.
Hopefully Moyes will convince him to stay, if he goes to Chelsea, I would give them the league now.
I'm not even sure he handed in a proper transfer request. This was fergie's last deed before retirement to irritate the Rooney camp, as fergie never forgets anything.
Only problem, fergie irritated Stam, McGrath, Strachan, Pogba, Beckham, Ruud VN, Yorke and many others, who went on to do very well for other clubs, so I'm not sure his methods were always right.
Lets hope Rooney stays and gives us his all, because he is better than anyone we are being linked with at the moment (apart from CR7 of course).

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Not to sure on that stat. But remember at one point in the season were he scored/assisted 24 in 24 games.

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06 Jun 2013 12:00:52
Hey guys,

a couple of years ago we had a prediction game where everybody would list their signings and I would keep track of them to see who was right come September 1st.

well, let's do it again :).

I'll look after the predictions.

all I ask is that you have a registered account, as per the eds can join, posters of rival and our own fans although it is simply United predictions - no ifs buts or maybes.

your predictions based on what you think will happen.

also do not base a signing on someone leaving, if you think that player will leave then just go with it if you don't think the player will leave then don't add the signing.

so, here are my predictions;
Garay, Strootman, Thiago, Baines, Fellaini.

The Moon.

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Strootman, Sanchez, Garay & Fellaini.

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I'm going Garay, Strootman, Ronaldo (have a feeling)

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Garay, Strootman, Thiago, Di Maria, Baines replacing Evra

1redarmy

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In
Baines, Strootman, Garay, Ronaldo

Out
Evra, Nani, Anderson

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Strootman - after under 21's
Baines
Modric

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Strootman Thiago Ronaldo Clayton Barkley

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The moon, here are mine
Strootman, Baines, Garay
Though I would like Ronaldo, Modric Strootman and Hummels.
Nomidfield

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Varela (the right back)
Strootman
Thiago
Di Maria/Gaitan

Shot Stopper

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Ins- Strootman, Thiago, Gaitan, Varela, Garay, Baines (hopefully).

Outs - Nani, Anderson, Evra

REDFAITH

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Garay, Strootman, Thiago, Ronaldo

No harm in being optimistic :)

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Jeez 1redarmy,

Evra has been good over the years but we don't need all those players to replace him! ;)

HB

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06 Jun 2013 13:52:07
In - Varela, Baines, Garay, Strootman, Zaha. Out - Evra, Nani, Anderson, Macheda, Bebe. I think Rooney will end up staying and we may sign one more midfielder. MrE

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Modric won't join!

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Very funny HB :)

1redarmy

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Strootman, Varela, Baines

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Ins:
Strootman,
Garay,
Varela,
Thiago,
Zaha (cheating I know considering he's already signed,
Possibly Di Maria/Gaitan,

Outs:
Nani,
Bebe,
Macheda,
Anderson

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Strootman, baines, ronaldo

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Ins: Strootman, Garay, Thiago, Varela, Baines and Ronaldo.

Outs: Nani, Anderson, Evra, Bebe, Macheda and Vidic (Reports say he could be part if the Ronaldo deal)

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Varela, Zaha, Strootman, Garay and Erik Lamela

WF Red Devil

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Strootman, Varela, Baines, Thiago, Di Maria.

I'd be happy with that.

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Vinnie Jones, Robert Huth and Carlos Tevez.

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Garay, Strootman, Thiago and Baines!

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Baines, Strootman, Modric, Sanchez.

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06 Jun 2013 17:28:11
Strootman, Varela, Fabregas, Di Maria, Lewandowski.

Mick

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Strootman, Garay, Varela and Gaitan.

And disappointment from me. ;-)

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Joey Barton, Luis Suarez and Titus bramble.

what?

Andrew b {Ed004's Note - I'm hoping Varela, Garay, Baines, Strootman, Alcantara and Di Maria, outs then Evra, Scholes, Anderson, Fletcher, Nani, Macheda + other fringe players}

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05 Jun 2013 22:16:18
Eds have utd ever shown interest in el sharaawy? {Ed004's Note - No}

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Strootman, baines, ronaldo

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This should have been after the post before, ill try again

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05 Jun 2013 22:00:21
Ed any truth in the rumour going round that arsenal have came in for strootman?
Cheers
Dc {Ed004's Note - Dont think so}

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06 Jun 2013 11:27:42
I have been 2 many site but never found any fans like here who dislike (may be underrate) Rooney so much.
Man Utd is not a club like Real Madrid, Chelsea or City who sucks the best qualities of a player, plays him until then and don't give a monkey after the player loses his quality.
Well, first Rooney is still World Class and except fans from here I have never found a single fan (even from other clubs) who consider him useless.
I trust him and I know he will stay and prove all you doubters wrong.

I don't understand how you people still love Ronaldo but hate Rooney. He has been used as card deck by shuffling him to many undesired positions and yet he tries 2 give his best. He was our main man when every player left us and now just because we have RVP all guys want to get rid of him. that's heart breaking.
And about the wages thing, I bet we earn more than his wages by his accessories sells. I alone have maybe 12-13 jerseys of him.

His perfomance is better than what all you think.

http://www.eplindex.com/28614/wayne-rooney-premier-leagues-stats-comparison.html

People here may not like my view but i'm happy that i'm not among the fans who forget someone's contribution and sacrifice just because of a new player.

Aakroz

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I think someone has forgotten he is fat, has lost his pace and first touch and has asked for a transfer twice even if the 2nd wasnt 'official'. He has been good for us but is definitely on the decline even if people are deluded by a hugely deflected goal against Brazil and still think he is world class.

Brendan81

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Rooney isn't useless or world-class. He is somewhere in between.

Sydney!

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Aakroz, couldn't agree more, the guy is only 27 and people are saying he's past his best etc. That is ridiculous statement. Yes, he has lost a bit of pace, but pace isn't everything, we only need to look at Giggs to realize that experience is all important as well.
Some are saying that he's had a terrible season, well take a look at the stats and the way he's been utilized and you will realize that this might not all be his fault.
Of course he needs to control his weight. Hopefully Moyes can do that.
People should be careful hat they wish for, Rooney can be world class and we have seen that at United. There is no reason why he can't be one of the best around.
Lets give Moyes a chance before totally writing him off.
NoMidfield

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06 Jun 2013 13:32:28
I hate the term world class, its so over used. Rooney has had one world class tournament for england and one maybe two world class seasons for United. He is a very good player when fit and interested. But world class no. I think if we can get a good fee and replace him it'll improve the team. If he is willing to get back into shape then he has a future. But I do come down on the its better to sell him side of the fence. Yes he's served us well. But we are Manchester United not Rooney United and i've seen a lot of big names come and go. We'll do what's best for the club. MrE

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Am still on the fence with this whole debate but I do agree with a lot of NoMidfield's post there.

Unless we sign someone of the calibre of Lewandowski or Fabregas there is no way we should sell Wayne IMO. It would only make us weaker.

The people who concentrate solely on his weight and 'decline' (fair points in honesty) tend to forget his goalscoring rate, level of experience, determination and adaptability. If we got shot of Wayne we would need 1 or 2 accomplished replacements and until they are in place he should stay I reckon.

HB

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Putting aside the 2 transfer requests, the superb seasons' he has had with us in the past, the unhealthy lifestyle options he continually chooses - essentially all the good and bad things he's done in the past. It still remains a clear fact to all who watch him, that he's physically in decline. Manchester United have been fortunate to have Rooney in the squad/team at a time in his career when he was at his peak. But unfortunately his body is now working against him.

He's still a very good player, there's no question about that, and can/could still do a very good job for United for the next 2-3 seasons. However, recent transfer request was the final nail in the coffin for most (myself included). In my eyes, he's a shadow of his former self, and if we're going to sell, now's the right time to do it.

Great player, done great things for the club which should be appreciated, however the key is not to be swayed purely on the name.

To offer some perspective, if there became an opportunity for United to swap Rooney with either; Mata, Hazard, Aguero, Silva, Bale, Suarez, Kompany, Wiltshire, Yaya Toure, Vertonghen, Oscar, Lukaku, etc. I personally would probably take the deal.

WF Red Devil

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07 Jun 2013 13:08:26
@Nomidfield

Giggs had good pace well into his thirties. I can remember him running past players in 2007 when we won the title back from Chelsea. He has much more skill on the ball to beat a man than Rooney.

He is a fitness freak and has taken care of his body.

Rooney is a player who heavily relied on his pace and power, a bit like Bale. He keeps trying to go past players, lacks the pace, loses the ball and gets frustrated. His experience counts for very little if he gets frustrated in the game, giggs has a much cooler head on his shoulders. Rooney's first touch has been off since 2010.

It makes much more sense to sell Rooney right now.

REDFAITH

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06 Jun 2013 11:11:15
This would be THE MOST unlikely happening, but everyone seems to write their own for a little bit of laugh so here's mine:

Rooney loses 2 stones, fitter than he was 5 years ago, wins his place back at FW
Nani takes meditation course and drops his trauma, practice and improve team work and consistency, wins his left wing position
Ando works out with Roon and loses 4 stones, fitter than he was ever, pulls himself up at the role in between play maker to CAM, work along the line with Kagawa

Would cost none for us this Summer, we will win out in the next season against chelski and CT, but then again we'd be just missing out summer transfer so what would you prefer, eh?

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You missed out Vidic to grow six inches taller!
Steve

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Every chance with Rooney. Anderson is a lost cause.
Vidic does not need to grow, he's awesome anyway.
NoMidfield

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06 Jun 2013 10:38:54
Guys didn't moyes want Strootman at Everton too? So this should mean imo we will sign him as the interest is there as the ed has confirmed so with SAF leaving moyes surely will know all about the player and want him too?

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06 Jun 2013 10:32:58
I can't help but get the feeling this is going to be one of the less predictable summer transfer markets in a while. Every player seems to have about 5+ different teams after them with all of the money being thrashed about at the moment.

City have already been active and it seems that we have behind the scenes too, we just seem to be waiting for Moyes to be formally in charge. Mourinho will be unpredictable as always and it is hard to judge who he will sign/ sell.

I think we will end up with 4 players coming in, though I am not sure who will be going out. I would like to see Garay, Strootman, Di Maria and Thiago be that 4. From there I think we will have that little bit more quality in all areas and will only sign another player if Ronaldo, Bale or Lewandowski become readily available to us. I don't think we need Lewandowski though. I wouldn't say no to Baines either if Evra does go.

Now just as a bit of banter I want to know the following things from all of you:

1. What are you're thoughts about Garay?
2. Which players do you think need to go?
3. Which club do you fear most?
4. Who should be our CB pairing next season?
5. Would you be happy with the 4 I think will sign?

1redarmy {Ed004's Note - I think he is a very good defender who will help us play a better style of football as he far better on the ball then any of our other defenders. I reckon Nani, Anderson and Evra. I would sell Rooney but don't think we will but he has to be replaced with real qualitŷ ie a world class player! Chelsea and City and Bayern in Europe. Garay/Smalling and Vidic. Yes but want one more in A lB to replace Evra}

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Pretty much agree with Ed004's response word for word.

Great minds think alike ;)

HB

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Ow just as a bit of banter I want to know the following things from all of you:

1. What are you're thoughts about Garay? Over rated.
2. Which players do you think need to go?Nani, Anderson, Young, Kiko
3. Which club do you fear most?Chelsea and City. In Europe, the list is too long.
4. Who should be our CB pairing next season? Whoever is fit, they all seem to be injury prone. Vidic and Jones.
5. Would you be happy with the 4 I think will sign? Di Maria is another Nani in the making. We need Modric, Ronaldo, Strootman, Baines if we are serious about retaining the league.
Nomidfield

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HB you should change your name to BN

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"HB you should change your name to BN"

Sorry you may have to explain this one to me, having a slow 5 mins!

HB

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06 Jun 2013 10:02:36
A couple of months back Fergie and even David Gill had made a statement that there won't be any major retooling this summer. As the squad is good and improving. Only one or two players can be signed.
Now, have the plans for summer changed or remain the same after arrival of David Moyes.

IMO Utd have always been firm on what they have made clear to all? what do you think People (Ed)?

Ajinkya_Red Devil 4ever {Ed004's Note - I would expect more than 2 first team signings this summer especially if we sign a cb and cm in Garay and Strootman as the wings will be addressed IMO and hopefully reports of Monaco after Evra are true}

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If we have learnt anything it is to completely disregard everything the club says about transfers.

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06 Jun 2013 10:02:17
"Kevin Strootman edging closer to United". this has been said for the past week!

Is he walking it to Manchester or something!

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They said he was a bit slow, but this takes the biscuit!

HB

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LOL!

looking forward to watching him play tonight in the u21 euros. I think maybe because of his participation in this tournament, the deal may be completed after this. he will probably sign and then go on a holiday.

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He can walk on water remember.

shahram

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Well Jesus may save but RVP and co will knock in the rebounds

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Looks like he's not first choice otherwise why let him impress the rest of Europe if he stars in finals.
Obviously Thiago is No. 1 target
Dylan

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"Obviously Thiago is No. 1 target"

Not that obvious to me, at all! I'll take your word for it, or not as the case may be.

HB

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Dylan, MU have been monitoring Strootman for well over a year now. He is not instead of Thiago, he would be as well as Thiago IMO.

Why not have a look at Strootman on Youtube and see what he is capable of, then factor-in that he has captained Holland's senior side and is HIGHLY regarded in Holland.

Sydney!

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I find it astonishing that someone can criticize a player and be against signing him without having watched him at all. Strootman is a good player. He has nothing in common with Thiago. Its not a question of either or here, we want both. Carrick, Cleverley, Strootman, Thiago, Kagawa, Jones is a good pool of defenders to select from.

I have high expectations from Kagawa and especially Jones next season. I think Moyes will develop Jones just like he did Fellaini.

REDFAITH

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Sydney have a look at Anderson on you tube he's played for Brazil and won titles.
It's very difficult to judge off you tube however I'm looking forward to having my words rammed down my throat after this tournament!
Dylan

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I meant midfielders. Need to take a break.

REDFAITH

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06 Jun 2013 08:03:22
In all seriousness I think we shiuod be worried about City's new signing Navas. I've heard some incredible things about him. Like that he can turn water into wine, and that he can walk on water, and once he even returned from the dead. This doesn't sound like the kind of player we should mess with. Lol.

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Apparently his crosses are nailed on aswell

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Haha well done Shappy

1redarmy

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In my re exam the other day I almost said he signed for city :/ daydreaming!

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06 Jun 2013 02:42:28
Ok, a little bit of a rant, but I've gotten mostly positive feedback on my previous ones, and I finally have a few minutes to get out some thoughts. Just my opinions, I am eager to hear your feedback.

This transfer window was always going to be an interesting one with SAF retiring, but it's also unique because we have quality and depth all over the squad. This isn't a time of enormous transition (despite the managerial change) as we only need to add 2-3 players at most. I could pick thru the rumours, but I thought I'd go thru the positions to help organize my thoughts, again, sorry for the length.

GK: DDG is one player I have been a huge supporter of since day 1 (i admit my mistakes too) and its absurd that 2-3 mistakes over 2 seasons is enough to gain a reputation as a shaky keeper when Reina makes that many mistake a month. I think it was due to the first two coming in the first couple of matches last season. But he's been a top-5 shot stopper since day 1, and now that he's far more commanding in the box he is without a doubt the best keeper in the PL and soon to be the best keeper in the world (with Neuer). I hope he stays til he's 40. I will admit I was wrong with Lindegard, I thought he was a solid backup who could start for most teams, but he's been terrible when given a chance in recent months, and if we were to get any offer for him i'd be fine letting him leave as we have a couple of youth players who could easily handle backup and cup duty.

RB: Rafael has developed into a world class RB, despite what the Brazillian natl team thinks. He's always been a menace in attack and now he's improved his positioning, timing and aerial abilities to become a complete player. Another who could be world class for a decade for us. Both Jones and Smalling (as well as Valencia in a pinch) can fill in as backup, but Rafael has seemingly moved past his injury problems and is an automatic starter for every match.

LB: I was Evra's biggest detractor in recent years, furious at his lack of defensive awareness and effort. Furthermore he seemed to lose a step when supporting the attack. I was wrong. He's back to his best, with solid defending and great attacking play. I would never have dreamed of selling him now, which is why I think Baines would have been a terrible buy at his age, but if Monaco are going to offer 15-20 mil for Evra, I think you have to take the money and get the slightly younger Baines and maybe a little profit. Buttner is a more than adequate backup, an absolute force going forward and tons of energy in defense. If he can learn the nuances of defending, like Rafael has in recent years, he could turn into a fantastic LB for the future.

CB: This is where the real confusion comes in for me. We are supposedly buying Garay for 15-17mil. While he is a very good CB, we already have five very good CBs in Rio, Vidic, Evans (proved me wrong, I wanted him gone two years ago, now he's quality), Jones (future starter for club and country at cb) and Smalling. Ignoring the additional youth prospects, I just don't see where Garay fits. He's not automatically an improvement on who we have, and even when Rio retires in a year or two we still have four capable CBs and Garay isn't that young. This move makes no sense to me and is money that should be spent elsewhere.

CM: I will group all of these positions together as our system is likely to change to one that focuses less on wingers and more on central interplay and interchanging. Carrick is the rock, so he's got his spot. I am in the minority, but I still think Anderson could finally up his game and he's shown flashes of abilities in attacking that our other CMs dont. Cleverley is a potential option, and a great backup, but I worry about his inability to improve the last couple of seasons and take that next step to an elite level. Fletcher is a legend, a man who was underappreciated, and I wish him health and a quick recovery, but I'm doubtful he's going to be a major contributor for United anytime soon. Giggs is still useful in situations, but this will almost certainly be his last season and I'm not considering him in building a team for the future. Powell hasn't gotten enough chances to show whether he's ready to help the first team, and Tunnicliffe is getting to the age where he has to take another step up to get into the first team. Strootman seems to be a likely purchase, and could be a good one, providing more thrust than Carrick, getting into the box, but also will help control the midfield against top teams. Rumors of Thiago, Fabregas, etc seem unlikely to me and if we are going to already have Carrick and Strootman, I don't want to play with three cms, leaving only three attacking threats.

Attackers: i'm putting wingers and strikers together as really there's little distinction anymore, especially with the styles we've played recently. RVP is up front, done and dusted. As for Rooney, I am still not only adamantly against selling him, I am still struggling to believe that there are actually this many United fans who want him sold. Let's take a breath here. Rooney has been played out of position for over two years now, stuck on the LW or deep in midfield, neither is his best option as he's not the fastest player on the wing, or the best in close control passing and possession in cm. The only reason he was decent was bc he's so talented that he could play anywhere on the pitch and do a job. Did he have a bad run of form at the end of the season, sure, but he's always been a hot and cold player. Many critics are upset that he requested a transfer for the second time. To be clear, I agreed with him the first time he asked for one, as he was demanding the same financial commitment that all of us were at the time. He spoke up for the fans who knew the club had to show more in the transfer market. The second time, we have learned, wasn't even a transfer request. From what I've read Rooney, during his bad spell of form approached SAF to talk about it. Acknowledging that he wasn't performing, Rooney simply was honest in saying that while willing to help the team he wanted to play his actual position, which would get him back to form, and that if he was to continue to have these unknowns about his role, perhaps it would be better for him to move somewhere else. Seems like he's as aware of his problems as all of us have been, but simply asked the question, didn't demand a move. I have no problem with either of the off the field dramas, and as for on the pitch for a player who had a "terrible" season he sure had more than a few moments of magic and contributed enormously in ways that often didn't appear on the scoresheet. It looks like Moyes wants to keep him, and I hope he does. Welbeck has turned into a very good all around player with enormous potential, but I do worry about a player who had such trouble converting chances. He has athleticism, skill and a decent footballing brain, but for some reason he just gets unlucky when shooting. Hopefully that improves. Chicharito has seemingly found a role as a substitute in big matches and a starter in small matches, scoring his predatory goals whenever needed. His problem was always that while an elite finisher, he was a below average footballer in the other aspects of the game. He has indeed improved this season, in possession, passing, and interplay with teammates, but he still needs to improve quite a bit to become a true world class striker. Moving to the wings, welcome to zaha, I hope the hype is worth it. The mediocre three of Nani/Young/Valencia could all go in my opinion, but if we are to keep one i'd stick with Valencia. Less talent than Nani, but was our POTY last season and does a great defensive job on the right. Young is never going to be good enough and should be sold/exchanged. Nani has the talent of Ronaldo and the brain of a rock. Shame. If we can get 12 don't sell, if we can get 15-20, sell him immediately. Shinji kagawa is going to be a fantastic player for us, and this season he should break out. This leads me to a formation issue. Both Rooney and Kagawa are at their best centrally behind a lone striker. Can it work with these two split behind RVP without sacrificing too much width in attack? It would be ideal, and possible if Rafael and Evra/Baines can continue to provide attacking width. With a holding two of Carrick/Strootman, and width form the fullbacks, I would hope we can make one of those "big signings" SAF and Co mentioned, which would have to be either Ronaldo or Bale. Both would fit into an attacking four with RVP, Rooney and kagawa perfectly, and would allow these four versatile players to constantly exchange and move, causing havoc on defenses. kagawa and rooney can drop deep to connect with the defense or cms. The one thing we do not need is a pure striker. Considering we're likely to play an exotic formation without two lead strikers, I never saw how Lewandowski, Falcao, etc were needs with RVP, Rooney, Chicharito, Welbeck, etc.

So to wrap up, United are in great shape, should not overreact and do something stupid by selling rooney, sholdn't spend money in places where its not needed, buy for quality not quantity and do everything possible to sign one of ronaldo/bale to complete a 4-2-3-1 that would have opposing defenders wearing diapers during the match.

AGAIN, just my opinion. Feel free to comment.

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An excellent post there, I agree with 90% of it. Evra is the not up to much ( defensively) imo, Anderson is never a 90 mins player,
Strootman is not the quickest of players which would be a concern to me

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Agree on the view on the wingers and some of the other positions.

Rooney has not been played out of position for 2 years and only this past year in some games so stop making excuses for him. Amazing how a deflected shot suddenly has people talking about him as if he is Messi.

Whilst every one talks about Smalling being the next big thing he is very average when it comes to passing the ball and bringing the ball out. He is a lot more like the old traditional cb and remains to be seen how he fits in with the modern game as most teams like ball playing cb who can pass. The other issue with him is he is constantly injured and that is always a concern. I also never understood the Garay stuff but the reality is that our best two defenders are still Vidic and Rio and that is a concern given their age and there must be a reason the club wants garay if it happens.

On Evra let's agree to disagree, he is so average it is not worth the discussion and no one will offer anything close to what you are talking about as he is at best a 5 to 6 million buy for another club. The only good thing about him is his durability.


Shahram

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06 Jun 2013 01:44:37
I think for this year United will have a very long list of transfer targets. Previous if we missed our first choice, we didn't buy a second or third choice player in that position, but rather a young player. Unfortunately I think this hurt the quality of the squad so I would expect Moyes to have several targets in each position.

LB: Baines, Coentrao, Shaw.
CB: Hummels, Garay, Zouma.
CM: Modric, Thiago, Strootman, Gundogan, Marchisio, Vidal, Fabregas.
LM and RM: Di Maria, Sanchez, Reus, Ronaldo, Bale, Lamela.
CF: Lewndowski, Benteke, Lukaku (Chelsea Situation?).

Now I know most of these are very unlikely but I think these are just some of the players that the club may consider. A good summer for me would be:

LB: Shaw
CB: Garay
CM: Strootman
LM: Di Maria
RM: Sanchez

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06 Jun 2013 00:24:39
Reading about this fat Rooney here. Ironic that the goal that has reinvigorated his hype from the media and given him the confidence to talk about being the target man (he's not as good as RVP and needs to cop on) came to him on the left wing and the 'brilliant solo effort' went in off a deflection. Amazing how 1 goal can turn the media around

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It wasn't just the goal though, it was the opposition he was playing agianst! This wasn't Andorra or San Marino, but Brazil, albeit a friendly. Yet they still wanted to impress for the home crowd. For most of the match he was the only player in the Brazil half, not an easy role to play. Add to that an assist and you have yourself a pretty adequate performance, against a difficult team.

aaallj5

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06 Jun 2013 00:21:47
Seems we might actually be trying to bring CR7 back. An Italian reporter who has a lot of inside transfer gossip said:

"Manchester United, Manchester City, PSG and Monaco have all contacted Cristiano Ronaldo, for spanish AS. Rumoured some would double wages!"

He also reckons Real Madrid will announce Carlo Ancelotti as their new manager in 48hrs.

MS

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05 Jun 2013 23:31:08
City spending big money is old news - but this one confuses me a little. They are both good signings - but for the reported E70m or so that they have spent they could have picked up Rodriguez and Moutinho.

I understand that money doesn't matter to them - but surely the players they're bringing in should? I rate Navas (and from what I have seen of Fernandinho he is also a good player) - but neither are world class (nor, given their age, do they have the potential to be).

I see them going in for Cavani as well (or if he moves elsewhere - El Sharaawy - who is being marginalised at Milan) - and that will add another £50m or so onto their spending.

If I was a city fan I'd much rather have made the signings Monaco have - given that the spend will probably end up being about the same.

redseven

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El Sharaawy is being marginalised at Milan?

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Marginalised is perhaps a strong word - but Milan have certainly altered their style of play to ensure that everything goes through Balotelli rather than El Shaarawy (as it had done in the early parts of the season).

Since Balotelli moved to Milan - El Shaarawy has failed to score in the 12 Serie A games he has appeared in (adding just 1 assist). Prior to that he'd managed 16 goals in 25 appearances (and 3 assists).

Ironically; I think El Shaarawy is the better of the two - but having spent a lot of money to capture one of their biggest rivals' former players - I can kind of see why Balo takes preference at the moment. Whether El Shaarawy is happy to play second fiddle to a player who causes constant controversy next season though - I look forward to seeing.

redseven

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05 Jun 2013 23:18:58
As far as I can make out Emmanuel Frimpong is set to be released by Arsenal at the turn of the month.

When he first broke into the Arsenal first team Wenger spoke about him in the same vain as Wiltshere - even suggesting that he had as much potential and would have come through at the same time as Wiltshere were it not for an injury the previous season.

He's picked up a few injuries since and has failed to perform at a consistent level - but has - at times - looked like a pretty good player.

My question to everybody is - at 21 years old - would he be a decent signing bearing in mind he would come for free and command very little on the wage front?

redseven {Ed004's Note - I don't think so. Also my apologies for the post you replied to earlier it should never have gone up and was not meant to offend anyone}

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06 Jun 2013 08:05:45
Hell no, we don't want flipflop here.

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Hahahha at flipflop.
Made my day


Singh

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Ed004-

No need to apologise. The post in question was not overtly offensive - nor do I think it was the original poster's intention to offend. On that basis I can't really hold anything against him and certainly don't blame the Eds for allowing a post intended as banter to be posted to the banter page.

redseven

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