Manchester United legend Gary Neville picked his old team’s performance to bits on Sunday after another really poor attacking display left them licking their wounds after their first defeat of the season.
The former United right back highlighted obvious areas of weakness. He suggested that a goalkeeper must be signed if David de Gea leaves. We could not agree more.
But, perhaps a more contentious problem is up front. Wayne Rooney had possibly his worst game of the season and that lead the ex-Manchester United star to say:
“If [Javier] Hernandez leaves, they’ve got one striker. I’m not classing Fellaini as a striker. They’ve got one striker in Wayne Rooney.
“From Manchester United’s point of view, they have to resolve the centre-forward and the goalkeeper [situation] in the next two days.
“But I’d be absolutely staggered if there wasn’t a striker brought in. It has to happen.”
We agree that Manchester United definitely need to add a forward.
But, if they only sign one player, we would be much more keen for them to go for an adaptable attacker who can play on either flank, rather than a specialist number 9.
Rooney’s form currently reminds us of his worst season in 2011, which was remembered only for his superb scissor kick against Manchester City.
But the lad is 29 and world class. If he does come back to the boil, as we fully expect, then Manchester United will probably have a top number 9 sitting on the bench. What’s the point of that?
Much better to buy a player who is equally good out wide and can offer better service than Rooney is currently enjoying to help him back to top form.
Manchester United fans: is a striker or a winger the best bet?
Stretford Ender
Aug 31, 2015 at 10:59 am
Whatever Van Gaal and Woodward are up to, if anything at all, they are desperately in need of another striker.
LVG can talk all he likes that United don’t need someone but with Chicharito moving out, Wilson too inexperienced to hold the line and Rooney, God forbid he gets injured or suspended, who will play the striker’s role… Sir Alex?
United to my mind have become an absolute joke with their transfer dealings this Summer. Yes they have made some good signings with Darmian being the outstanding one BUT a quality central defender and a top striker ARE STILL NEEDED and if United do not sign either then I suggest United will have yet another trophyless season. Exit the Champion’s League early and probably not even make the Europa League!
This will not please the Glazers nor the United faithful who no doubt will be calling for Van Gaal’s head… and rightfully so!