RADIO
Manchester United really caught a break when Liverpool imploded on themselves, following the biting incident, the subsequent sale of Luis Suarez, and all that followed. They potentially faced years in the wilderness outside of the Champions League. Instead they are now back in the top four, despite the common acceptance of having one of their worst performing teams in recent memory.
Kudos to Louis Van Gaal for getting the job done, and for creating the opportunities to improve the squad this year. Now he is under pressure to step it up another level, and look to compete for the EPL. He still has much to do.
Editor’s Note: be sure to check out all of our articles, and read more about English Premier League (EPL, BPL) fantasy analysis and European football news.
The long running saga of David De Gea will continue right up to deadline day, but we think he will stay one more season and that could be key critical to their season. United still looks vulnerable defensively, and whilst Morgan Schneiderlin and Bastian Schweinsteiger will solidify the midfield, suggestions that Daley Blind might be asked to play at centre half only go to illustrate the concerns.
The big bonus for United, is the decision to play Wayne Rooney in his natural position as the lead striker. Rooney lead the goal scoring last season with just 14 goals, a figure unacceptable for United. Last time Rooney was given the striker's role he delivered 35 goals, and you can certainly expect him to beat his own target of 20 goals this season.
Memphis Depay has arrived at Old Trafford, and he is of course a player that Van Gaal knows well. But it can often take players a season to adjust to the pace and the competitiveness of the EPL. Don't be surprised if there are more arrivals however in this area of the field, and the name of Zlatan Ibrahimovic is one that has been mentioned. If he arrives it could really be a game changer.
Prediction: United can challenge for the EPL, but 3rd place will be as far as they can go in 2015/16.
Players to watch: David De Gea (Goalkeeper), Morgan Schneiderlin (Midfield), Wayne Rooney (Striker)
Football Chat Room
Share Your Thoughts
[iflychat_embed id="c-60" hide_user_list="yes" hide_popup_chat="no" height="400px"]
