Manchester United – The games and goals that made (or broke) the men

Article by Mark Harbottle

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A subtle sigh of relief rolls across Manchester and parts of the world that runs red as the 2013/14 season comes to a stuttering close. United’s squad along with their interim manager Ryan Giggs stumble across the line forfeiting any European football next year. Fans will be avoiding any sports coverage until the World Cup, preventing any opportunity of seeing Citeh, our bitter rivals, lifting the Premier League trophy. This season has been a howler. But who made a name for themselves - good or bad – and who can hold their heads high this season.

Wayne Rooney – United vs. Chelsea – 26/08/2013

Yes, that game. The one after that offer. Given different circumstances Wazza would have been in a blue shirt for his first away game for Chelsea. He had a point to prove; he could still be classed as one of the worlds’ greats, and he needed to be loved by our fans again. Rooney covered every inch of turf during that drab 0-0 draw. I still remember that tackle at the corner flag, and clearing the ball up the pitch to a rapturous applause from the home fans. Rooney proved he loves us, and we still love him back.

Ryan Giggs – United vs. Olympiakos (2nd leg) – 19/03/2014

In a game where nothing but a three goal advantage would be required after being outclassed and out of our depth in the previous leg, welcome Giggsy to the stage. An air of experience and calmness flowed across the pitch and one assist followed by a stunning lofted pass to create the second showed that Giggs doesn’t play games, he makes them. He will forever be irreplaceable, and the chance to manage our club for only four games is a right, not an opportunity.

Juan Mata (and Shinji Kagawa) – Newcastle vs. United – 05/04/2014

No Rooney? No RvP? Away to Newcastle? A string of shocking results? This match had 0-0 or 1-0 written all over it. Our puppet-masters in the form of Mata and Kagawa simply clicked that day. The passing was crisp, the movement inspired and creativity perfect. This match showed us the true colours of these players when given the spotlight. Despite a few games where these two have been ineffective, they proved their value for many years to come. They will both be part of a wonderful team next season.

Tom Cleverley – Arsenal vs. United – 12/2/2014

This was a game where a draw would do nothing for either side. When both teams were chasing European football, it was also a game where Tom Cleverley covered more ground than any other player on the pitch, but was simply useless. I am not denying that he is a gifted youngster with great potential, but when it’s time to stand up and be counted, we would have been better in the stand cheering us on. Cleverley would be outstanding at a Wigan, or a Newcastle, but in a changing team touted with oncoming superstars, I fear he will be one of the first names crossed off the squad list.

Chris Smalling and Phil Jones – United vs. Sunderland – 22/1/2014

Classic second generation young English defenders. Pretty solid game, held their own, good experience in the Capital One Cup. Absolute shocker in the penalty shoot-out. The headlines write themselves. The more game time these lads get the better, and we’ve all seen enough to suggest they’ve got long term careers at the club.

Adnan Januzaj – United vs. Sunderland – 5/10/2013

The stage was set for Christiano Ronaldo take two. It’s about time a proper quality player came through the ranks and set the world on fire with beautiful, effective football (sorry Pogba, we’ve forgotten you exist). Two goals on his debut put Januzaj on the global map, and an open cheque from PSG wasn’t even enough to tempt him away from the city he calls home. Januzaj will be a truly magnificent footballer, and he’s been nothing short of a highlight of the campaign this season.

David de Gea – every game – 2013/14

Player of the year, multiple ‘saves of the season’ and the most improved player since signing for Manchester United in June 2011. Our number 1 has been the most consistent throughout the season, and highlights include his worldie against Suarez / Liverpool, and the impossible fingertip save against Ronaldo / Real Madrid. One quality defender is the final piece in the puzzle (assuming Luke Shaw is on the M62 heading north at the time of writing) to Manchester United conceding the fewest goals next season.

One final thought: David Moyes – Liverpool…Manchester City…Everton….all the top four / five teams all season…and Olympiakos away – 25/2/2014

Perhaps if Everton away was the nail in the coffin, then results against our key rivals were all reasons why our ex-Manager, previous prodigy and swept aside saviour was never going to cut it at the top flight. It was a good idea, but a nightmare in practise. If this season is one to be forgotten, then we cannot do so without lessons learnt. An experienced senior figure is required to turn this colossal ship around, and I have absolute faith that 2014/15 we will be challenging again.

Were there any other players or games you felt were significant? I hope you can add your thoughts, or follow me @harbottle_mark

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