They just love to pay silly money for players. Spurs got the player for 10 million pounds and now we're interested. JW5 should have been our chief scout and it would have saved the club a bundle. Bunch of idiots!!
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Manchester United 2014-2015
- Thread starter yinyang
- Start date
They just love to pay silly money for players. Spurs got the player for 10 million pounds and now we're interested. JW5 should have been our chief scout and it would have saved the club a bundle. Bunch of idiots!!
If we don't get our act together for remaining few matches (for CL), all this bravado comes to naught.
Starting with this weekend's away to Crystal Palace, or we are done for. A MU faithful's expectation of 1st X1
4-3-3: Man Utd Starting XI vs Palace – Di Maria starts
May 5, 2015 / Jordan Street
Manchester United’s barron spell has been hard to watch over the past few weeks, with Louis van Gaal doing too much tinkering that outwitted himself from time-to-time, leaving Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Radamel Falcao all playing in behind Marouane Fellaini…
However United never give up, and Louis van Gaal has to pick his team back up and re-raise those spirits before a key away trip to Crystal Palace this coming Saturday.
Team selection will be huge, and I fully expect Van Gaal to change one or two things for this one. Unfortunately, Wayne Rooney will probably have to continue in midfield due to the injuries that are still persisting.
Hopefully we could see Phil Jones return though, as Paddy McNair’s inexperience has certainly been exposed in recent weeks.
I’d also like to see a bit more pace available on the counter attack, with Angel di Maria coming back into the side in the place of Juan Mata.
Manchester United: The transfers Van Gaal must make to transform Reds into champions
· 20:00, 5 May 2015
· By Samuel Luck Hurst
Man Utd could be set for a busier summer than their 2014 spending spree, and here is where Van Gaal needs to strengthen.
Manchester United require, at the very least, a right-back, a centre-back, a central midfielder and a winger this summer. Wayne Rooney, given his potency in the 2009-10 and 2011-12, should be given the benefit of a season up front in the 4-3-3 system before a proven striker is bought in 2016.
Antonio Valencia is seldom culpable for the concession of goals however, as he proved at Everton, he is a stop-gap right-back. Nathaniel Clyne boasts defensive nous, Premier League experience, is only 24, capable of improving in attack and becoming United's long-term right-back.
Chris Smalling appears to have secured Van Gaal's trust at centre-back and United must supplement him with a more cultivated defender.
Mats Hummels and Aymeric Laporte are both expert defensive distributors but if United are to compete for the title Hummels' experience outranks Athletic Bilbao defender Laporte, who turns 21 later this month.
Kevin Strootman would almost certainly have become a United player this summer but his knee surgery has intensified United's reliance on Michael Carrick. Carrick, though overrated, has possibly been United's best performer over the last three-and-a-half years and the 4-3-3 system hinges on him. Sami Khedira, available on a free this summer, or Bastian Schweinsteiger, out of contract at Bayern Munich next year, are two stellar alternatives.
Ilkay Gundogan has excelled in a deeper midfield role but could also enhance United's slickness beside Ander Herrera.
Van Gaal switched Schweinsteiger to a defensive midfielder during his time at Bayern
The caveat is although Dortmund would be consoled by losing two players to a club not named Bayern Munich, Hummels and Gundogan as a duo might not be attainable this summer.
With United prepared to loan out Adnan Januzaj next season, Van Gaal is hopeful Angel di Maria will stay.
The United manager is not as defensive of Di Maria as Sir Alex Ferguson was of United's first Argentine, Juan Sebastian Veron, and should he leave behind the supposed gloom of Manchester for La Ville Lumière - as Di Maria desired last year - United would be excused to sign two attacking forwards.
Ashley Young is one of the most improved players at the club but is not consistent enough. Until now, United only appear willing to sign Memphis Depay or Gareth Bale, yet that could change if Di Maria flees.
Bale spent six seasons in the Premier League and, unlike, Di Maria, would probably transform United into a title-challenging side. He is a proven matchwinner and tore up the 2012-13 season so spectacularly Tottenham amassed their highest points total in the Premier League era.
How United could line up in 2015-16
http://i4.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/incoming/article9183425.ece/ALTERNATES/s615
Sell van pussy. Get that young Spanish striker from Newcastle, he is gem, Perez. If anything hatch for future Real Madrid contact. Otherwise audaciously get Harry Kane. We need speed, partner Perez with Wilson. Rooney provide experience. Falcao if he stays provide backup or mix the strike force. Central defender is a must - hummels over gundragon. I am not convinced abt him. Get De jong. Get bale n Clyde if available n you r good
The trouble with managers is that they get too fixated on systems and possession. It doesn't translate into winning football. You have to mix it up and transition play is just as important. United is accustomed to the proverbial park the bus strategy on home soil but they manage to get around it time and again. There isn't enough emphasis on set plays and this is one card that will get you out of jail.
There's no cover for Carrick. IMHO, that is the position that will determine our fate next season. They will need that shield when they play tougher opposition. Forget Blind, he's not effective.
Yep, RVP is a spent force. He may score this weekend though. They need a RB,CD,DM,CM and a strikers to replace RVP or Falcao or both.
They should continue to play Mata on the right midfield, Di Maria on the left with Young as right back.Revert to 4-4-2 as you really need goals. Rooney to play just behind RVP upfront. Carrick to shield and this will probably win the match.
It's ON :p
[h=1]Memphis Depay: Manchester United sign Dutch forward[/h]
Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Dutch forward Memphis Depay from PSV Eindhoven.
The fee is in the region of £25-30m with the deal believed to be until 2019, with the option of another year.
Subject to the 21-year-old passing his medical next week, he will join United once the transfer window opens in June.
Depay, who has scored 21 goals as PSV won this season's Dutch title , tweeted: "Time to set my goals again on winning trophies with Manchester United."
He added: "I always say; dream, believe, achieve. I was dreaming and believing of becoming the champions of the Eredivisie with PSV and we achieved it.
"I'm extremely grateful towards PSV and all the fans for believing in me."
Depay, who played under United manager Louis van Gaal during his time as Netherlands boss, had attracted interest from a number of clubs across Europe, with Paris St-Germain and Liverpool reportedly keen to sign him.
Tottenham reportedly had a bid for the player turned down last year.
He has spent his entire career to date with PSV, for whom he has scored 42 goals in 104 appearances.
"We are very proud of this upcoming transfer, which came in a huge momentum," PSV's sporting director Marcel Brands told the Dutch club's official website.
"Memphis has gone through all the teams of the PSV youth academy and has played an important part in the national title this year.
"He's a wonderful exponent of our training and will make a nice transition to a magnificent club in a beautiful competition.
"We obviously lose a fantastic player, which is of great value to the team. But PSV grants him this wonderful step."
Depay played at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil as the Netherlands finished third before Van Gaal quit as head coach to take over at Manchester United.
He made his international debut on 15 October 2013, coming on in the last minute of the Netherlands' 2-0 World Cup qualifying win in Turkey.
[h=1]Memphis Depay: Manchester United sign Dutch forward[/h]
Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Dutch forward Memphis Depay from PSV Eindhoven.
The fee is in the region of £25-30m with the deal believed to be until 2019, with the option of another year.
Subject to the 21-year-old passing his medical next week, he will join United once the transfer window opens in June.
Depay, who has scored 21 goals as PSV won this season's Dutch title , tweeted: "Time to set my goals again on winning trophies with Manchester United."
He added: "I always say; dream, believe, achieve. I was dreaming and believing of becoming the champions of the Eredivisie with PSV and we achieved it.
| [h=2]Former Wigan defender Arjan De Zeeuw[/h] |
|---|
| "We all know Depay was one of the players who stood out at the World Cup when Van Gaal was in charge of the Dutch national team. People regard him as a little bit arrogant, a little bit cocky, but I think he is a very good player, a very promising player, a very strong, very quick player and he's got some skill. People expect him to be the best player on the pitch every week, so you have to have a bit of self-belief to achieve that. I think he'll do well for Manchester United." |
"I'm extremely grateful towards PSV and all the fans for believing in me."
Depay, who played under United manager Louis van Gaal during his time as Netherlands boss, had attracted interest from a number of clubs across Europe, with Paris St-Germain and Liverpool reportedly keen to sign him.
Tottenham reportedly had a bid for the player turned down last year.
He has spent his entire career to date with PSV, for whom he has scored 42 goals in 104 appearances.
| [h=2]Memphis Depay league career stats[/h] | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season | Appearances | Starts | Minutes played | Goals scored | Minutes per goal | Assists |
| 2011-12 | 8 | 130 | 3 | 43.33 | 1 | |
| 2012-13 | 20 | 2 | 492 | 2 | 246 | 3 |
| 2013-14 | 32 | 32 | 2703 | 12 | 225.25 | 7 |
| 2014-15 | 28 | 28 | 2394 | 21 | 114 | 4 |
"We are very proud of this upcoming transfer, which came in a huge momentum," PSV's sporting director Marcel Brands told the Dutch club's official website.
"Memphis has gone through all the teams of the PSV youth academy and has played an important part in the national title this year.
"He's a wonderful exponent of our training and will make a nice transition to a magnificent club in a beautiful competition.
"We obviously lose a fantastic player, which is of great value to the team. But PSV grants him this wonderful step."
Depay played at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil as the Netherlands finished third before Van Gaal quit as head coach to take over at Manchester United.
He made his international debut on 15 October 2013, coming on in the last minute of the Netherlands' 2-0 World Cup qualifying win in Turkey.
Memphis Depay: Who is Man Utd's new £30m forward?
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/32627853
Manchester United are acquiring the most prolific young forward Europe currently has to offer this summer.
With a goal tally that matches his age, 21-year-old Memphis Depay is the youngest player to have scored more than 15 goals in the continent's top 10 leagues this season.
The Red Devils are also snapping up one of the most sought-after attacking talents in the world, with senior figures at Paris St-Germain and Liverpool reported to be disappointed that the Netherlands international will be at Old Trafford next season.
But what exactly are United getting for their reported £30m outlay to Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven? And where is he likely to fit in to Louis van Gaal's starting XI? Who is Memphis Depay?
Depay left hometown club Moordrecht for Sparta Rotterdam in 2003 at the age of nine and then joined PSV three years later. It was a move that was vital to his development, according to Dutch journalist Thijs Slegers, who covers PSV for Voetbal International magazine.
"Memphis was hanging round the streets of some of Rotterdam's bad areas with people who were a bad influence on him," Slegers told BBC Sport. "So when PSV came for him he realised that even at 12 he had to break away from these people.
"Life in Eindhoven is a lot more sedate than Rotterdam - Memphis came from the wild west in comparison."
Frank Rutten:
Frank Rutten was a huge influence on Depay in his formative years at PSV Eindhoven
Depay has a colourful back story and plays with the name Memphis on his shirt having dropped his surname as a result of a strained relationship with his Ghanaian father, who separated from his Dutch mother when he was four.
Slegers says Depay's "off-the-pitch antics" when growing up - prompted by a "tough" upbringing - had to be curbed by PSV.
He made his debut aged 17 in a Dutch Cup match in 2011 having been straightened out, partially at least, by then PSV assistant Fred Rutten.
"Rutten knew how to press the right buttons and told Memphis to stop to doing strange things, grow up and focus on football. He was a key figure," says Slegers. "He was hanging around with some rap artists and he was in music videos and stuff. People the club thought he should not be with."
Once described as "very angry" by a life coach PSV provided to him as a youngster, Depay is big into body art and has the words "dream chaser" tattooed across his chest.
Such lofty aspirations came to the fore when news of his move to United broke on Thursday and he tweeted: "I always say; Dream, Believe, Achieve. I was dreaming and believing of becoming the champions of the Eredivisie with PSV and we achieved it. Now it's time to set my goals again on winning trophies with Manchester United."
Depay is not short of confidence, according to Slegers, who has watched his development at close quarters and got to know the player. "Memphis is also a very individual person. He recruited his own financial advisers when he was young because he was spending money on silly things, and his own nutritionist as well," he adds.
"In some ways he's still a kid and an idiot but if you are look at what he's done, making those steps into the big world, that is a really professional thing."
Why are Manchester United signing him?
Simply put, because he's quick, he's strong, he's skilful and he scores goals.
A record of 38 goals in 88 league appearances for PSV may not stack up that impressively against the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but when you consider that 21 of those have come in 28 games this season his promise becomes apparent.
Slegers says his contribution has been a major factor in PSV winning their first Eredivisie title since 2008, and believes he has all the attributes to be a success in England.
"He has a lot of qualities suited to the Premier League," Slegers said. "He is fast, he is strong, and so he can win the sprint duels with almost anyone. Mentally he is strong.
"His technique is OK, not impressive but OK. Sometimes in the last phase he lacks a little bit with his decision making."
Siegers is also impressed on the international stage. Last summer, he scored two goals for the Netherlands at the World Cup finals in Brazil, despite not being first choice for the side that reached the semi-finals. Slegers says: "Memphis is full of self-confidence and self-belief. His background has shaped who he is - he plays with no fear, no hang ups."
But, the journalist warns, he is not quite the finished product. "Memphis needs to develop a lot things in his play. I think he's ready for the Premier League, maybe I don't think he's ready for Manchester United yet," Slegers adds.
"But he will be a success at that level. It will depend on chances he gets in that first season with United."
Where does he fit in to Louis van Gaal's side?
Depay's record this season is even more impressive when you consider that he has not even been PSV's main striker this season.
He has largely operated on the left side of a front three, with Luuk de Jong taking the central spot.
Van Gaal has utilised a number of formations at United this season, but his favoured set-up is 4-3-3, which should suit Depay's instinct to cut inside from the left in pursuit of shooting opportunities.
Memphis Depay worked with Manchester United boss Louis Van Gaal at the World Cup with the Netherlands
"He can play left, right or in the centre. He's versatile but his best position is left outside, cutting inside to the right side," Slegers says. "His left foot isn't that impressive, and he shoots all the time which is irritating for some people - there is no one in the Eredivisie who shoots at goal more than Memphis. Maybe with not the greatest conversion, but he still scores goals."
He may thrive on Van Gaal's no-nonsense approach to training as well.
Slegers recalls: "Last year Memphis gave an interview with me during a tough time for PSV and I said 'what's the problem here?'
"He said 'our coach needs to be tougher with us' which caused a few problems when the coach read it. Van Gaal is tough and that's what Memphis needs at the moment. "Van Gaal is always looking for players to model into his own insight. What he sees in Memphis is a player that wants to learn from him and Memphis likes the way Van Gaal works."
What has been said about Depay?
Southampton boss and former Dutch international Ronald Koeman: "He has had a great season. He still has to develop himself. It will be tough for him because the Premier League is tough in a physical and mental way. "It's a big step for him. But he's a great talent, a fast player and a very good signing for Manchester United."
Dutch former Wigan and Portsmouth defender Arjan de Zeeuw: "It's a massive step, but I think he'll do well. People regard him as a little bit arrogant, a little bit cocky, but I think he is a very good player, a very promising player, a very strong, very quick player and he's got some skill.
"He's been the player of the season really in Holland. He stood out for PSV, he's been the main guy who got them the championship this year - without him they would have struggled."
PSV Eindhoven sporting director Marcel Brands: "Memphis has gone through all the teams of the PSV youth academy and has played an important part in the national title this year. "He's a wonderful exponent of our training and will make a nice transition to a magnificent club in a beautiful competition."
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/32627853
Manchester United are acquiring the most prolific young forward Europe currently has to offer this summer.
With a goal tally that matches his age, 21-year-old Memphis Depay is the youngest player to have scored more than 15 goals in the continent's top 10 leagues this season.
The Red Devils are also snapping up one of the most sought-after attacking talents in the world, with senior figures at Paris St-Germain and Liverpool reported to be disappointed that the Netherlands international will be at Old Trafford next season.
But what exactly are United getting for their reported £30m outlay to Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven? And where is he likely to fit in to Louis van Gaal's starting XI? Who is Memphis Depay?
Depay left hometown club Moordrecht for Sparta Rotterdam in 2003 at the age of nine and then joined PSV three years later. It was a move that was vital to his development, according to Dutch journalist Thijs Slegers, who covers PSV for Voetbal International magazine.
"Memphis was hanging round the streets of some of Rotterdam's bad areas with people who were a bad influence on him," Slegers told BBC Sport. "So when PSV came for him he realised that even at 12 he had to break away from these people.
"Life in Eindhoven is a lot more sedate than Rotterdam - Memphis came from the wild west in comparison."
Frank Rutten:
Frank Rutten was a huge influence on Depay in his formative years at PSV Eindhoven
Depay has a colourful back story and plays with the name Memphis on his shirt having dropped his surname as a result of a strained relationship with his Ghanaian father, who separated from his Dutch mother when he was four.
Slegers says Depay's "off-the-pitch antics" when growing up - prompted by a "tough" upbringing - had to be curbed by PSV.
He made his debut aged 17 in a Dutch Cup match in 2011 having been straightened out, partially at least, by then PSV assistant Fred Rutten.
"Rutten knew how to press the right buttons and told Memphis to stop to doing strange things, grow up and focus on football. He was a key figure," says Slegers. "He was hanging around with some rap artists and he was in music videos and stuff. People the club thought he should not be with."
Once described as "very angry" by a life coach PSV provided to him as a youngster, Depay is big into body art and has the words "dream chaser" tattooed across his chest.
Such lofty aspirations came to the fore when news of his move to United broke on Thursday and he tweeted: "I always say; Dream, Believe, Achieve. I was dreaming and believing of becoming the champions of the Eredivisie with PSV and we achieved it. Now it's time to set my goals again on winning trophies with Manchester United."
Depay is not short of confidence, according to Slegers, who has watched his development at close quarters and got to know the player. "Memphis is also a very individual person. He recruited his own financial advisers when he was young because he was spending money on silly things, and his own nutritionist as well," he adds.
"In some ways he's still a kid and an idiot but if you are look at what he's done, making those steps into the big world, that is a really professional thing."
Why are Manchester United signing him?
Simply put, because he's quick, he's strong, he's skilful and he scores goals.
A record of 38 goals in 88 league appearances for PSV may not stack up that impressively against the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but when you consider that 21 of those have come in 28 games this season his promise becomes apparent.
Slegers says his contribution has been a major factor in PSV winning their first Eredivisie title since 2008, and believes he has all the attributes to be a success in England.
"He has a lot of qualities suited to the Premier League," Slegers said. "He is fast, he is strong, and so he can win the sprint duels with almost anyone. Mentally he is strong.
"His technique is OK, not impressive but OK. Sometimes in the last phase he lacks a little bit with his decision making."
Siegers is also impressed on the international stage. Last summer, he scored two goals for the Netherlands at the World Cup finals in Brazil, despite not being first choice for the side that reached the semi-finals. Slegers says: "Memphis is full of self-confidence and self-belief. His background has shaped who he is - he plays with no fear, no hang ups."
But, the journalist warns, he is not quite the finished product. "Memphis needs to develop a lot things in his play. I think he's ready for the Premier League, maybe I don't think he's ready for Manchester United yet," Slegers adds.
"But he will be a success at that level. It will depend on chances he gets in that first season with United."
Where does he fit in to Louis van Gaal's side?
Depay's record this season is even more impressive when you consider that he has not even been PSV's main striker this season.
He has largely operated on the left side of a front three, with Luuk de Jong taking the central spot.
Van Gaal has utilised a number of formations at United this season, but his favoured set-up is 4-3-3, which should suit Depay's instinct to cut inside from the left in pursuit of shooting opportunities.
Memphis Depay worked with Manchester United boss Louis Van Gaal at the World Cup with the Netherlands
"He can play left, right or in the centre. He's versatile but his best position is left outside, cutting inside to the right side," Slegers says. "His left foot isn't that impressive, and he shoots all the time which is irritating for some people - there is no one in the Eredivisie who shoots at goal more than Memphis. Maybe with not the greatest conversion, but he still scores goals."
He may thrive on Van Gaal's no-nonsense approach to training as well.
Slegers recalls: "Last year Memphis gave an interview with me during a tough time for PSV and I said 'what's the problem here?'
"He said 'our coach needs to be tougher with us' which caused a few problems when the coach read it. Van Gaal is tough and that's what Memphis needs at the moment. "Van Gaal is always looking for players to model into his own insight. What he sees in Memphis is a player that wants to learn from him and Memphis likes the way Van Gaal works."
What has been said about Depay?
Southampton boss and former Dutch international Ronald Koeman: "He has had a great season. He still has to develop himself. It will be tough for him because the Premier League is tough in a physical and mental way. "It's a big step for him. But he's a great talent, a fast player and a very good signing for Manchester United."
Dutch former Wigan and Portsmouth defender Arjan de Zeeuw: "It's a massive step, but I think he'll do well. People regard him as a little bit arrogant, a little bit cocky, but I think he is a very good player, a very promising player, a very strong, very quick player and he's got some skill.
"He's been the player of the season really in Holland. He stood out for PSV, he's been the main guy who got them the championship this year - without him they would have struggled."
PSV Eindhoven sporting director Marcel Brands: "Memphis has gone through all the teams of the PSV youth academy and has played an important part in the national title this year. "He's a wonderful exponent of our training and will make a nice transition to a magnificent club in a beautiful competition."
The Pie is unlikely to be the next big thing for the red devils. He brings with him youth, tenacity and the arrogance much like Cantona and Ronaldo. He can only improve with time on his side. His physical approach and attributes will help him in the premier league unlike his national team mate Blind.
Not a big fan of Depay but he could just turn out to be what United needs right now. Depay and Wilson are likely the future partnership in the frontline.
IMHO, the next big thing after Paul Pogba is already in the junior squad. I reckon that with proper guidance, he will flourish at Old Trafford. His name is Timothy Fosu Mensah.
Not a big fan of Depay but he could just turn out to be what United needs right now. Depay and Wilson are likely the future partnership in the frontline.
IMHO, the next big thing after Paul Pogba is already in the junior squad. I reckon that with proper guidance, he will flourish at Old Trafford. His name is Timothy Fosu Mensah.
[video=youtube;-oKCMRqvlrs]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oKCMRqvlrs[/video]
TIMOTHY FOSU-MENSAH
http://www.manutd.com/en/Players-And-Staff/The-Academy/Timothy-Fosu-Mensah.aspx
Birthdate: 02 Jan 1998
Birthplace: Amsterdam
Position: Defender
Joined United: 02 Sep 2014
PLAYER
A powerful and versatile defender with plenty of speed and athleticism to accompany natural ability on the ball.
The centre-back caught United's attention during the AEGON Future Cup when representing Ajax and completed a move during the summer transfer window of 2014.
A Netherlands Under-16 international, the youngster will be expected to progress within the Reds' Academy and will look to force his way into Paul McGuinness' Under-18 squad.
More on him making waves in OT
http://www.manchestereveningnews.co...mensah-making-waves-manchester-united-9054854
ESPN's recap of (fortunate?) vital win away to CP :p. 6 points for CL (playoffs) secure with better goal diff vs Pool?
Marouane Fellaini earns improved Manchester United a vital win
ESPN FC's Steve Nicol recaps Manchester United's victory over Crystal Palace.
LONDON -- Three points on Manchester United's 2-1 win vs. Crystal Palace in the Premier League.
1. Vital win for Man United
This was an important victory for Manchester United, following three consecutive defeats that amounted to their worst run of the campaign. Marouane Fellaini's header, which came after Julian Speroni missed Ashley Young's cross, sealed the three points.
The gap between Louis van Gaal's side and fifth-placed Liverpool had narrowed to just four points and, with their remaining fixtures against Arsenal, still fighting at the top of the table, and Hull, scrapping at the bottom, United needed to make the most of this opportunity against a mid-table side whose season is effectively over.
Fourth would represent around "par" for Van Gaal in his debut campaign at Old Trafford; maybe even a slight disappointment. It always seemed unlikely United would launch a true title charge but anything outside the Champions League places would have been unacceptable and arguably a sackable offence
You wonder how good United could have been without their early-season injury problems, or if Angel Di Maria had continued his good early-season form and if Radamel Falcao had properly settled.
It's worth remembering, too, that United were able to focus on the league this season, without the pressures of European football, and the extra strains of the Champions League will test their squad in 2015-16.
The injury issues remain troubling -- Luke Shaw and Wayne Rooney were both forced to depart here -- but United are on the right track and, while Van Gaal's record isn't spectacular, he's provided a cohesive philosophy, given his players belief and has the ambition to push on next season.
2. United's midfield and attack functioning well
This was a routine, unspectacular victory but there were various signs that Van Gaal's methods have now been installed definitively. Recent results haven't been promising, and last weekend's second-half tactics in the 1-0 defeat to West Brom were puzzling, but there was little sign of panic at Selhurst Park -- it was back to Plan A.
With Robin van Persie ill, Rooney returned to his best position as centre-forward, and was regularly involved in build-up play during the first half before he was injured.
Van Persie has lost that ability -- his transformation from a deep-lying No. 10 into a prolific No. 9 means he now thrives only in the penalty box -- but Rooney's experience in midfield this season has improved his all-round game and he peeled away from the Palace centre-backs intelligently.
In deeper positions, Van Gaal has simply found the right balance. Young provides the tricky wing play from the left, Juan Mata the creativity from the right. Fellaini's physicality is useful from a left-of-centre midfield role, while Ander Herrera offers energy alongside him.
Meanwhile, Daley Blind, playing in the role often filled by Michael Carrick, dropped deep between the centre-backs to start passing moves and keep the possession tempo high.
United were a little fortunate to go ahead, when Mata converted a penalty after Scott Dann was adjudged to have handled Young's cross, and their winner was incredibly basic, as Young hanging a cross up for Fellaini to head in.
But the overall shape and approach play was promising and should improve next season when Van Gaal brings in new players -- Memphis Depay is only the first of several key names likely to join.
One attacker unlikely to play for United next season is Radamel Falcao. The Colombian was introduced at half-time after Rooney picked up a knock, and was again underwhelming. The enthusiasm was there, but the explosive pace and confident first touch of old was sorely lacking.
While Rooney had brought others into play smoothly, Falcao struggled and his overall play was tentative; when crosses came in, he nervously checked the goalkeeper's positioning and, when United had the ball in midfield he started runs too early, meaning he was often offside.
Unfortunately, Falcao's spell at Manchester United won't be remembered fondly. Along with the likes of George Weah, Andrei Shevchenko and Davor Suker, he's a world-class striker who simply arrived in England a little too late.
3. Palace unfortunate to lose
Alan Pardew started with a classic underdog strategy: his side defended deep, attacked quickly through wingers Wilfried Zaha and Yannick Bolasie, and depended upon set pieces for clear-cut chances.
Captain Mile Jedinak headed narrowly over from a right-wing Joe Ledley cross and Palace had a clever routine prepared for a free kick towards the end of the first half, which didn't quite come off.
Pardew's key selection was using a third central midfielder and a 4-5-1 formation, rather than a second striker and a 4-4-2. The idea was simple: Manchester United were also using three central midfielders and Pardew wanted to match the opposition in the centre, with James McArthur at the top of the midfield triangle pressuring Blind.
It meant, however, that the game was effectively being played to United's rules. Palace are at their most effective when they're even more direct, often upsetting opponents with somewhat old-school, basic football.Thus, Glenn Murray was isolated up front.
Sure enough, 1-0 down at half-time, Pardew changed his formation. Central midfielder Ledley was sacrificed, McArthur moved deeper and Jason Puncheon -- surprisingly omitted from the start -- came on. He played on the left, meaning Bolasie played alongside Murray. Palace now had two up-front and four outright attackers.
The effect was obvious immediately. A couple of minutes into the second half, Bolasie twisted and turned before crossing, leading to a decent penalty shout. Then, left-back Pape Souare ventured forward down the left, before playing a low cross that Murray turned into the side-netting.
Jason Puncheon's free kick levelled for Crystal Palace but the hosts could not hold on to a point.
The crowd were fired up and the pressure continued to build. Puncheon went to ground dramatically inside the box, prompting calls for referee Michael Oliver to "even it up" and award a second penalty. He refused but, moments later, a long Speroni thump allowed Murray to win a free kick from Smalling on the edge of the box, which Puncheon curled home exquisitely.
The Eagles had their tails up, and could have gone ahead. McArthur dribbled through the United defence before poking the ball agonisingly wide, before Murray found himself through on goal, and was foiled by a fine David De Gea save, underlining why he was named the Premier League's best goalkeeper of the season. Damien Delaney also slashed a bouncing ball hopelessly wide.
Ultimately, Palace paid the price. As has happened frequently this season, United won the game primarily because their finishing and goalkeeping was superior to the opposition.
Michael Cox is the editor of Zonal Marking and a contributor to ESPN FC. Follow him on Twitter @Zonal_Marking.
Marouane Fellaini earns improved Manchester United a vital win
ESPN FC's Steve Nicol recaps Manchester United's victory over Crystal Palace.
LONDON -- Three points on Manchester United's 2-1 win vs. Crystal Palace in the Premier League.
1. Vital win for Man United
This was an important victory for Manchester United, following three consecutive defeats that amounted to their worst run of the campaign. Marouane Fellaini's header, which came after Julian Speroni missed Ashley Young's cross, sealed the three points.
The gap between Louis van Gaal's side and fifth-placed Liverpool had narrowed to just four points and, with their remaining fixtures against Arsenal, still fighting at the top of the table, and Hull, scrapping at the bottom, United needed to make the most of this opportunity against a mid-table side whose season is effectively over.
Fourth would represent around "par" for Van Gaal in his debut campaign at Old Trafford; maybe even a slight disappointment. It always seemed unlikely United would launch a true title charge but anything outside the Champions League places would have been unacceptable and arguably a sackable offence
You wonder how good United could have been without their early-season injury problems, or if Angel Di Maria had continued his good early-season form and if Radamel Falcao had properly settled.
It's worth remembering, too, that United were able to focus on the league this season, without the pressures of European football, and the extra strains of the Champions League will test their squad in 2015-16.
The injury issues remain troubling -- Luke Shaw and Wayne Rooney were both forced to depart here -- but United are on the right track and, while Van Gaal's record isn't spectacular, he's provided a cohesive philosophy, given his players belief and has the ambition to push on next season.
2. United's midfield and attack functioning well
This was a routine, unspectacular victory but there were various signs that Van Gaal's methods have now been installed definitively. Recent results haven't been promising, and last weekend's second-half tactics in the 1-0 defeat to West Brom were puzzling, but there was little sign of panic at Selhurst Park -- it was back to Plan A.
With Robin van Persie ill, Rooney returned to his best position as centre-forward, and was regularly involved in build-up play during the first half before he was injured.
Van Persie has lost that ability -- his transformation from a deep-lying No. 10 into a prolific No. 9 means he now thrives only in the penalty box -- but Rooney's experience in midfield this season has improved his all-round game and he peeled away from the Palace centre-backs intelligently.
In deeper positions, Van Gaal has simply found the right balance. Young provides the tricky wing play from the left, Juan Mata the creativity from the right. Fellaini's physicality is useful from a left-of-centre midfield role, while Ander Herrera offers energy alongside him.
Meanwhile, Daley Blind, playing in the role often filled by Michael Carrick, dropped deep between the centre-backs to start passing moves and keep the possession tempo high.
United were a little fortunate to go ahead, when Mata converted a penalty after Scott Dann was adjudged to have handled Young's cross, and their winner was incredibly basic, as Young hanging a cross up for Fellaini to head in.
But the overall shape and approach play was promising and should improve next season when Van Gaal brings in new players -- Memphis Depay is only the first of several key names likely to join.
One attacker unlikely to play for United next season is Radamel Falcao. The Colombian was introduced at half-time after Rooney picked up a knock, and was again underwhelming. The enthusiasm was there, but the explosive pace and confident first touch of old was sorely lacking.
While Rooney had brought others into play smoothly, Falcao struggled and his overall play was tentative; when crosses came in, he nervously checked the goalkeeper's positioning and, when United had the ball in midfield he started runs too early, meaning he was often offside.
Unfortunately, Falcao's spell at Manchester United won't be remembered fondly. Along with the likes of George Weah, Andrei Shevchenko and Davor Suker, he's a world-class striker who simply arrived in England a little too late.
3. Palace unfortunate to lose
Alan Pardew started with a classic underdog strategy: his side defended deep, attacked quickly through wingers Wilfried Zaha and Yannick Bolasie, and depended upon set pieces for clear-cut chances.
Captain Mile Jedinak headed narrowly over from a right-wing Joe Ledley cross and Palace had a clever routine prepared for a free kick towards the end of the first half, which didn't quite come off.
Pardew's key selection was using a third central midfielder and a 4-5-1 formation, rather than a second striker and a 4-4-2. The idea was simple: Manchester United were also using three central midfielders and Pardew wanted to match the opposition in the centre, with James McArthur at the top of the midfield triangle pressuring Blind.
It meant, however, that the game was effectively being played to United's rules. Palace are at their most effective when they're even more direct, often upsetting opponents with somewhat old-school, basic football.Thus, Glenn Murray was isolated up front.
Sure enough, 1-0 down at half-time, Pardew changed his formation. Central midfielder Ledley was sacrificed, McArthur moved deeper and Jason Puncheon -- surprisingly omitted from the start -- came on. He played on the left, meaning Bolasie played alongside Murray. Palace now had two up-front and four outright attackers.
The effect was obvious immediately. A couple of minutes into the second half, Bolasie twisted and turned before crossing, leading to a decent penalty shout. Then, left-back Pape Souare ventured forward down the left, before playing a low cross that Murray turned into the side-netting.
Jason Puncheon's free kick levelled for Crystal Palace but the hosts could not hold on to a point.
The crowd were fired up and the pressure continued to build. Puncheon went to ground dramatically inside the box, prompting calls for referee Michael Oliver to "even it up" and award a second penalty. He refused but, moments later, a long Speroni thump allowed Murray to win a free kick from Smalling on the edge of the box, which Puncheon curled home exquisitely.
The Eagles had their tails up, and could have gone ahead. McArthur dribbled through the United defence before poking the ball agonisingly wide, before Murray found himself through on goal, and was foiled by a fine David De Gea save, underlining why he was named the Premier League's best goalkeeper of the season. Damien Delaney also slashed a bouncing ball hopelessly wide.
Ultimately, Palace paid the price. As has happened frequently this season, United won the game primarily because their finishing and goalkeeping was superior to the opposition.
Michael Cox is the editor of Zonal Marking and a contributor to ESPN FC. Follow him on Twitter @Zonal_Marking.
Manchester United top of Premier League table for bringing in youngsters
While Manchester United give youth a chance, the average age at which current players joined the first team squad at Manchester City is a Premier League-high 26.64.
In contrast, United’s current squad came into the first-team fold – either through their academy or as transfer signings – at an average age of 22.90.
...........................................
Average age players included in first-team squad
Premier League
1. Man Utd – 22.90
2. Liverpool – 23.07
3. Arsenal – 23.12
4. Newcastle – 23.33
5. Southampton – 23.48
6. Chelsea - 23.98
7. Everton - 24.12
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11661/9846360/manchester-united-top-of-premier-league-table-for-bringing-in-youngsters
While Manchester United give youth a chance, the average age at which current players joined the first team squad at Manchester City is a Premier League-high 26.64.
In contrast, United’s current squad came into the first-team fold – either through their academy or as transfer signings – at an average age of 22.90.
...........................................
Average age players included in first-team squad
Premier League
1. Man Utd – 22.90
2. Liverpool – 23.07
3. Arsenal – 23.12
4. Newcastle – 23.33
5. Southampton – 23.48
6. Chelsea - 23.98
7. Everton - 24.12
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11661/9846360/manchester-united-top-of-premier-league-table-for-bringing-in-youngsters
Who could Manchester United face in the Champions League play-offs?
12:57, 11 May 2015 By Rob Dawson http://www.manchestereveningnews.co...news/who-could-manchester-united-face-9232140
Man Utd look to be heading for a fourth-place finish in the Premier League and that means facing a Champions League play-off in August.
Liverpool's draw at Stamford Bridge on Sunday all but confirmed Manchester United's place in the top four.
Louis van Gaal's side can still finish as high as second if they win their final two games against Arsenal and Hull and other results go their way.
Finishing second or third would earn an automatic place in next season's Champions League group stages. Finishing fourth will mean facing a two-legged play-off in August.
They would enter the competition at the final play-off stage, which is split between the 'champions' route - for teams who have won their national title - and 'league' route, for those who haven't.
United would be joined in league route by the fourth-placed teams from La Liga and the Bundesliga, the third-placed teams from Italy and Portugal and the five league route winners from the third qualifying round.
Click through the gallery to see how United fans rated the players at Palace.
That could include the third-placed team from France, plus the runners-up from Russia, Holland, Ukraine, Belgium, Turkey, Greece, Switzerland, Austria and Czech Republic.
The play-offs can throw up some daunting fixtures.
In the 2013 play-off round, Lyon played Real Sociedad and PSV Eindhoven faced Milan. In 2014, Lille were drawn with Porto and Napoli with Athletic Bilbao.
United's UEFA coefficient of 10 is likely to mean they are the highest-ranked team in the play-offs and will be seeded for the draw, due to take place in Nyon on August 7.
Most of Europe's top leagues are yet to reach a conclusion, but the identity of the team who could lie in wait for United and Van Gaal is becoming clearer.
United's seeding should mean they avoid Spain's play-off entrant, likely to be either Valencia or Sevilla, and probably Napoli, Bayer Leverkusen and Shahktar Donetsk should they qualify.
But there is still a chance they could meet the likes of Roma, Lazio, Monaco, CSKA Moscow or Besiktas.
The contenders
Spain
Fourth-place qualifies for final play-off round
Valencia (currently fourth, UEFA coefficient 13)
Sevilla (currently fifth, UEFA coefficient 24)
Germany
Fourth-place qualifies for final play-off round
Bayer Leverkusen (currently fourth, UEFA coefficient 16)
Italy
Third-place qualifies for final play-off round
Roma (currently second, UEFA coefficient 46)
Lazio (currently third, UEFA coefficient 39)
Napoli (currently fourth, UEFA coefficient 21)
Portugal
Third-place qualifies for final play-off round
Sporting Lisbon (third, UEFA coefficient 33)
Holland
Second place qualifies for third play-off round
Ajax (second, UEFA coefficient 26)
France
Third-place qualifies for third play-off round
Lyon (currently second, UEFA coefficient 25)
Monaco (currently third, UEFA coefficient 68)
Marseille (currently fourth, UEFA coefficient 35)
Russia
Second-place qualifies for third qualifying round
FK Krasnodar (currently second, UEFA coefficient 125)
CSKA Moscow (currently third, UEFA coefficient 34)
Ukraine
Second-place qualifies for third qualifying round
Shakhtar Donetsk (currently second, UEFA coefficient 18)
Dnipro (currently third, UEFA coefficient 40)
Turkey
Second-place qualifies for third qualifying round
Galatasaray (currently first, UEFA coefficient 37)
Fenerbahce (currently second, UEFA coefficient 75)
Besiktas (currently third, UEFA coefficient 58)
The draw for the play-off round is due to take place on August 7.
The first legs will be played on August 18 and 19 August with the second legs will be played on August 25 and 26 August.
Teams from England, Spain, Portugal, Germany and Italy will enter at this stage to be joined by five winners from the third qualifying round league route.
12:57, 11 May 2015 By Rob Dawson http://www.manchestereveningnews.co...news/who-could-manchester-united-face-9232140
Man Utd look to be heading for a fourth-place finish in the Premier League and that means facing a Champions League play-off in August.
Liverpool's draw at Stamford Bridge on Sunday all but confirmed Manchester United's place in the top four.
Louis van Gaal's side can still finish as high as second if they win their final two games against Arsenal and Hull and other results go their way.
Finishing second or third would earn an automatic place in next season's Champions League group stages. Finishing fourth will mean facing a two-legged play-off in August.
They would enter the competition at the final play-off stage, which is split between the 'champions' route - for teams who have won their national title - and 'league' route, for those who haven't.
United would be joined in league route by the fourth-placed teams from La Liga and the Bundesliga, the third-placed teams from Italy and Portugal and the five league route winners from the third qualifying round.
Click through the gallery to see how United fans rated the players at Palace.
That could include the third-placed team from France, plus the runners-up from Russia, Holland, Ukraine, Belgium, Turkey, Greece, Switzerland, Austria and Czech Republic.
The play-offs can throw up some daunting fixtures.
In the 2013 play-off round, Lyon played Real Sociedad and PSV Eindhoven faced Milan. In 2014, Lille were drawn with Porto and Napoli with Athletic Bilbao.
United's UEFA coefficient of 10 is likely to mean they are the highest-ranked team in the play-offs and will be seeded for the draw, due to take place in Nyon on August 7.
Most of Europe's top leagues are yet to reach a conclusion, but the identity of the team who could lie in wait for United and Van Gaal is becoming clearer.
United's seeding should mean they avoid Spain's play-off entrant, likely to be either Valencia or Sevilla, and probably Napoli, Bayer Leverkusen and Shahktar Donetsk should they qualify.
But there is still a chance they could meet the likes of Roma, Lazio, Monaco, CSKA Moscow or Besiktas.
The contenders
Spain
Fourth-place qualifies for final play-off round
Valencia (currently fourth, UEFA coefficient 13)
Sevilla (currently fifth, UEFA coefficient 24)
Germany
Fourth-place qualifies for final play-off round
Bayer Leverkusen (currently fourth, UEFA coefficient 16)
Italy
Third-place qualifies for final play-off round
Roma (currently second, UEFA coefficient 46)
Lazio (currently third, UEFA coefficient 39)
Napoli (currently fourth, UEFA coefficient 21)
Portugal
Third-place qualifies for final play-off round
Sporting Lisbon (third, UEFA coefficient 33)
Holland
Second place qualifies for third play-off round
Ajax (second, UEFA coefficient 26)
France
Third-place qualifies for third play-off round
Lyon (currently second, UEFA coefficient 25)
Monaco (currently third, UEFA coefficient 68)
Marseille (currently fourth, UEFA coefficient 35)
Russia
Second-place qualifies for third qualifying round
FK Krasnodar (currently second, UEFA coefficient 125)
CSKA Moscow (currently third, UEFA coefficient 34)
Ukraine
Second-place qualifies for third qualifying round
Shakhtar Donetsk (currently second, UEFA coefficient 18)
Dnipro (currently third, UEFA coefficient 40)
Turkey
Second-place qualifies for third qualifying round
Galatasaray (currently first, UEFA coefficient 37)
Fenerbahce (currently second, UEFA coefficient 75)
Besiktas (currently third, UEFA coefficient 58)
The draw for the play-off round is due to take place on August 7.
The first legs will be played on August 18 and 19 August with the second legs will be played on August 25 and 26 August.
Teams from England, Spain, Portugal, Germany and Italy will enter at this stage to be joined by five winners from the third qualifying round league route.
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