United need Hernandez
He’s been on the periphery of the squad for the last couple of seasons but while his form has slipped, his work rate could never be questioned. Chicharito seems to possess the same sort of strikers’ insecurity as Fernando Torres. When things don’t go well doubt creeps into his game and his touch and decision making suffers. He desperately needed a night like Tuesday for his confidence. The quality and desire is there – now we may see the renewed belief required to get him back in the team.
Micheal Carrick needs to play in midfield
It’s pretty much a case of needs must for Manchester United in defence at the moment. In the absence of Vida, Smalling and Jones, Carrick has stepped into central defence without complaint. But defending is learned over a lifetime and both the player and fans will hope that he doesn’t have to play there too much more this season.
Few pushovers left in Europe
Despite shocking defending from Manchester United, Braga nevertheless showed real class to forge a two goal lead early on. Their passing and all round technical ability was commendable. They would give anyone a game and they were unlucky to leave Old Trafford empty handed. We used to regularly see pushovers in the early stages of The Champions League but the gap between the best and worst teams in the competition is narrowing dramatically.
Rooney and RVP can be the perfect team mates
Every time they play together the understanding gets better. They haven’t played as an orthodox strike partnership too often but they are always looking for eachother and realise that they are the superstars of the side. Some lovely touches between the pair last night and both seem as good at assisting as scoring. RVP adds another dimension to Manchester United, the Premier League’s top scorers.
Tom Cleverley will make the grade
He is improving game by game and if he can stay injury free this is a player who will be a first team regular at Manchester United for the next 10 years. At 23 he has vision, crisp and nippy passing ability, great delivery and an energy sorely lacking in Manchester United’s midfield over the last few years. His style of play isn’t dissimilar to the midfielders of Barcelona.
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