Fergie's Babes.

Alan Hansen’s deluded comment on “You’ll never win anything with kids,” may come round to haunt the ex-Liverpool turned BBC pundit again as it appears, in a time of over-priced players, Fergie is doing it again. The 3-0 win against Tottenham could be the start of what’s to come, fielding a side of the average age of just 23, Ferguson is clearly going down the youthful route, regenerating his side with the loss of such figureheads that stood before the current crop.

 

Going back to the time of “over-priced players,” this is no cheap investment Ferguson is making. A mixture of local talent and foreign imports has a slight ring to the previous side, with Cantona being the focal point in a side that will go down in history as one of the best ever. This time around, English players like Rooney and Ferdinand will have to lead the line (that’s if Ferdinand will get in the side.)

Now, why do I say that? The youngsters coming through are just that good. An example was set last Monday with future England Captain Phil Jones shining in a four man “second-string” defence. Costing £16.5 million, that initial fee for a 19 year old wonderkid may seem strong but in fact, it’s a bargain. The Champions League quarter-finalists were kept quiet with Jones’ intelligent play, anticipating the next move and wearing his heart on his sleeve, throwing himself into every tackle.

Another part of the back four was Chris Smalling, playing Non-League football just three seasons ago, Fulham spotted the youngster and without them, he wouldn’t be where he is today. A centre back by trade, Ferguson has seen the potential and shifted him to the right back role where he is the equivalent of our own little Daniel Alves. His centre back instincts may lead him to future error but his attacking style, alongside his pace is a dangerous threat for any team. The 21 year old may be the answer for the loss of Gary Neville, a strength of Smalling is his nerve. Playing many big games at a young age hasn’t flustered him, reacting with calm and precision to all situations and at times, been the best player on the pitch. Another example of the Tottenham game was his ability to do something not many have, keep Gareth Bale quiet.

In his own right, Gareth Bale is one of the top wingers in Europe. After providing so much dangers for top full backs around Europe last season, his direct approach and crossing ability causes havoc, something Manchester United themselves have admired. The modern-day Ryan Giggs was as silent as any other, Smalling marked him out of the game, not allowing him to push up the pitch as well as whipping in them crosses to test our new keeper, David de Gea.

I’ve talked about David in several blogs before so I’ll keep this one short. At only 20 years old, the massive investment in David is apparent, his potential is endless but the current media flock are already on his case with the slowness of adapting to the English game. For me, his qualities shone the weaknesses against Tottenham. His distribution and tactical awareness was undoubtedly fantastic, but, it didn’t stop the negativity to come out once more. It’s obvious his aerial abilities are flawed; catching is a weak point but can be resolves, just like the other “weaknesses” the week before.

Why do I say that? He resolved two major issues against Tottenham. Firstly, his concentration. Keeping a clean sheet, throughout periods of the game where the United side faced pressure as well as dealing with shots from range, something he hadn’t dealt with prior. Even though his catching weren’t good from an aerial position, he held onto everything well, even with the onrushing Jermaine Defoe, who left his mark on De Gea late on.

Still, with the prior fantastic performances, many are still after one more player. The central midfield is lacking one final piece to the jigsaw. With Cleverley and Anderson seeming the main two, they both a bit similar. With Anderson being left-footed, I’d keep him in the side as he adds that variety. Cleverley is young and his performances have already gained him an England squad call-up but, with the calibre of player we need (Modric, Sneijder etc) maybe it’s time to go splash some more cash, and go show Barca what United are made of.

Moving onto the forward areas of the squad, one youngster shone above all the others. Danny Welbeck had a terrific second half performance, scoring one and making another, showing he’s developed from a boy to a man. A problem with Welbeck in the past was he never stayed on his feet, as he’s now stronger, his runs are more purposeful and full of energy, and his finishing isn’t too bad either.

Another key youngster will be last season’s signing of the season, Javier Hernandez. Called Chicharito by many, the qualities he poses as a striker are phenomenal. His pace is lightning, always on the shoulder of the last defender, the quick burst of speed is a defenders worst nightmare, as well as that, his finishing in front of goal is one of the best in the league, this was clearly evident when he totalled 20 goals last term. His composure in front of goal will be a key reason why he’ll play the big games, despite that; he looked out of his depth against Barcelona, like many others in last year’s squad.

As well as these youngsters, its evident players like Wayne Rooney and Nemanja Vidic will need to step up and nurture to upcoming talent. The mixture of youth as well as experience is an ingredient for success, something Ferguson breeds into his players. He’s build many sides in his time but now he faces his toughest challenge as a manager. The riches of City and the overall competitive nature of the league is different to what it once was, the current squad will have to learn quick but with the backing they have, this could lead to a new, successful era at Manchester United.

Thanks for reading,

Footylad.