A Champions League exit was unthinkable for Manchester United, but the unthinkable became a reality on Wednesday after losing 2-1 at Basel. United went into the game needing only a draw to assure progress but flopped as they missed a couple of glorious chances and lapsed at the back at crucial stages.
Sir Alex Ferguson described the exit and a entry to the Europa Cup as a punishment but on Friday softened his stance saying he was looking to win the sliverware. And why not? A trophy is a trophy and a run the Europa could help United's momentum in the chase of another Premier League title.
Where do United go from here? Is a question asked by many and has different answers from most. Many believe a central midfielder is needed, someone that can take the game from the scruff of the neck and dictate it at his own will. The problem would be finding that player, not many are that quality and even fewer are available.
Here are some of the key points, that United need to do, in my opinion, to help chase arch rivals City:
1. Captain Namanja Vidic is out injured and Rio Ferdinand is prone to get injured. United need to settle a back four. Though Ive never been convinced by Patrice Evra's ability as a defender he will have to show experience at left back. Smalling should be employed as a centre half, in his best position, as soon as one of the Da Silva Twins are back.
2. The centre midfield needs to be sorted out. Tom Cleverly is a fantastic player and is a must when fit. Problem with him this season has been him keeping himself fit. The likes of Carrick, Fletcher and Jones can play around him. United won't buy big in Midfield in January. Why would a top class player like Bastian Schweinsteiger leave Bayern Munich when they have a decent chance of winning the Champions League. The other name touted is Inters Wesley Sneijder, but honestly speaking he ain't made for United.
3. Play Rooney upfront along with Javier Hernandez. United's way is attack and traditionally they have always played two up top and that is the way forward. Hernandez, once fit, will be key to put home the chances created by Rooney, Young and Nani.
4. Where is Phil Jones's best position. There is no doubt the lad is a great footballing talent. comfortable on the ball, passing, heading, tackling and now even goals; Jones has it all. He was signed as a centre-back but has looked assured at centre midfield. Some say Jack Rodwell would be a good signing, but for me Jones is twice the player Rodwell is. Sir Alex needs to decide where Jones would be best suited to and where is future lies. Just imagine him not settling in a position and becoming the new Phil Neville or John O Shea, though his a far too good a footballer to become a jack of all trades.
Sir Alex has some decisions to take, but the exit from the Champions League will make it easier for him in the January transfer window. He can add a young player or two and wait to spend big in the summer when the money and the right players would be available.
Once Cleverly gets fit, if he and Jones can occupy the centre midfield and Ferdinand can stay in some form and fitness, the current squad is good enough to challenge for the League. The return to fitness of some of the players mentioned is the key, and if United get lucky with injuries they will surely push City for both the Europa and the big one.
GeoSuper