Please, let’s get back to winning games 1-0! Or is that simply not the United way?
Quite simply, Sir Alex’s men have to stop conceding so many goals. The Reds have let in nine in the opening six league games – that’s almost a third of the number of goals conceded in the whole of last season.
Two seasons ago, United produced 14 consecutive clean sheets – a record for the Barclays Premier League – by not conceding a goal between early November and late February. It was a remarkable run that contributed hugely to winning the title.
Keeping the opposition out is the area United really need to concentrate on. Scoring goals doesn’t seem to be much of an issue, so if we shut the door at the back then things will be just fine.
The problem is, dogged 1-0 victories just doesn’t really fit United’s character. I watched City beat Chelsea on Saturday and I have to admit I was bored to tears – I really wouldn’t want to see that sort of thing at Old Trafford.
The Reds have had two 2-2 draws and a 3-3 draw this season – all of those games have been pulsating, incredible rollercoaster rides. That’s why United is always the hottest ticket in town. Football has to be entertaining and you’re virtually guaranteed that with the Reds - long may it continue.
United showed great character to come from behind twice to ensure a point at the Reebok. A draw in those circumstances is a decent result but after throwing away wins at Fulham and Everton then you have to say it was a frustrating day.
The Reds now face a very tough week – needing to get something from a severe Champions League test in Spain following the stalemate with Rangers.
Many people thought our opponents Valencia would collapse after selling the two Davids, Villa and Silva. But this morning they sit proudly on top of La Liga with Real Madrid and Barcelona trailing in their wake.
The Mestalla is one of the most intimidating of venues – steep sided with the fans right on top of the players. It will be a cauldron on Wednesday for a match that has the ingredients to be a classic. I’m lucky enough to be traveling with the team to Spain – you can follow me by tuning into MUTV over the next two days.
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