Who is the future Manchester United Captain?

The Manchester United captaincy is something that throughout the years has not been a prominent issue as to who the rightful captain should or should not be. With the likes of Roy Keane, Jaap Stam, Ryan Giggs and Rio Ferdinand to name a few, we had true leaders in the side and additionally voices to supplement the managers inspiration and leadership on the pitch.

Now of course, the current captaincy belongs to Wayne Rooney. A large part of me believes that the appointment of Wayne Rooney as captain was done in a non-meritocratic manner and whilst many will argue he has achieved all he can in terms of club trophies I do not believe that he provides the leadership, motivation and drive to warrant being the captain for so long.

Furthermore it is obvious that through watching Manchester United for the last 2-3 years, there is something missing in the team, a spark and a passion within the club seems to have died. Many blamed the manager(s) and then the lack of talent in the side. However now Jose Mourinho is in charge and we have acquired many world class players into the squad I do not think the blame can now solely rest on the 'manager not picking the right team' or 'not having a good enough midfield/attack/defence'. Too many talented world class players have come and left the team in previous years, not to mention the various inconsistent but fantastic results we have frequently achieved against top opposition, even back when David Moyes was manager.

Instead I think the issue comes down more to leadership within the team and a lack of genuine authority, drive and motivation to actually pull on that famous red shirt and want to play for the club. Essentially this stems from the captain to motivate the team on the pitch and to pick the players up from losing positions and increase performance. This season, when Manchester United have conceded first they have lost 4 and drawn 1. Under Sir Alex Ferguson in his title winning season of 2012/13 and by no coincidence the last time we won the title, the team came from behind to win 13 times and this of course had a huge impact on the subsequent successful title winning campaign.

The Captain for that season? Nemanja Vidic.

Although the reason for the last three seasons of well below average performances and a lack of success cannot be all down to the team not being utilized by a true captain, I feel that it is still a large contributing factor as to why we have been so average. If you look at the players in which we have brought over the last few seasons; Angel Di Maria, Paul Pogba, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Morgan Schneiderlin and Bastian Schweinsteiger, all top players and conjunction with mangers such as Jose Mourinho and Louis Van Gaal; even after all his criticism he is still a top coach with a great track record of success. These investments have and are still leaving us drawing blanks in matches, and reasons for defeat and lack of performance must instead be taken away from the manager and individuals and looked at from a different perspective

 Essentially, there are bigger problems internally at the club and by internally I mean in the attitude and desire in the squad. Many players simply do not seem like they want to play for the club. Jose Mourinho has been again criticised for his comments about Luke Shaw and Chris Smalling choosing not to play as they 'were not feeling 100%'. Personally, I am in support of Mourinho in this argument as the mentality should be that you give your absolute all for your team and you should metaphorically, run through walls to win games for your club. Thus, a manager can only do a certain amount of motivating and if you find your self unable to be motivated by someone with the managerial success that Jose Mourinho encompasses, then there is an obvious issue. This is where the captain should stand in and motivate his team. Jose Mourinho is obviously not allowed on the pitch and I feel this is where that extra motivation and quality leadership from a top captain can lead to that extra 10% increase in performance in which we need.

But do we have that fiery, gritty and motivated leader in the squad at the moment? Yes we do.

Ander Herrera is someone that lives and breathes Manchester United. Throughout recent seasons, he has questionably spent the vast majority of his time on the substitutes bench becoming frustrated with spectating dire performances. However instead of moaning on social media and threatening to leave the club like many players have due to lack of appearances, he chooses a different approach in working hard, showing genuine passion for the team and the club whilst also having a dominating voice when he gets on the pitch.

He is always the most energetic player across the midfield, often leading and controlling the space in the middle of the park. He also has a fiery side to him, in which United fans appreciate and he is not afraid to put in his fare share of fierce tackles. Although his character somewhat differs from that of Roy Keane's I do believe he is showing very similar traits to the previous United captain.

In conclusion and although the obvious choices might be; Chris Smalling, David De Gea or Paul Pogba for next united captain, I believe that Ander Herrera offers more and if made captain would provide that leadership, inspiration and motivation on the pitch that would influence the team to work harder for each other and in turn win more points and matches. He has also worked very hard to cement his place in the stating eleven this season under Jose Mourinho and as previously mentioned choose to work hard and fight for his place other than sulk on the bench, which has become a familiar, untasteful attitude at the club. This attitude is one that can then shine throughout the entire squad and would influence the team to genuinely be proud, motivated and feel honoured to wear the badge again and to understand how privileged they are to represent the football club. I feel this would then lead to an increased team spirit and in turn a resurrection of the never say die attitude that for so many years lead the club to success.

Have the club disrespected Martial?

   Anthony Martial is aggravated with the club after he found out that he would wear the number 11 next season, and new signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic will take his number. Thus, he unfollowed the club on Twitter and Instagram and ignited waves of excitement from Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City fan's, deluded enough to think that Martial will leave the club. Changing a players number should never really become a big thing for supporters or for the player themselves. In my opinion players should focus more on playing for what is on the front of the shirt, than what is on the back. Besides, it's not like the club have given Martial number 39, which would signify that Martial may not be a first team player this season, he now has number 11, an iconic United number previously worn by none other than Ryan Giggs.

Martial was formidable last season.

   It is definitely a childish act from Martial, and he shouldn't make such a big deal out of his number being changed surely? One of the reasons why Martial may have or may be starting to make a big deal out of the number change is the recent launch of his own brand focusing on headphones, underwear and football boots, called 'AM9'. Whereas I can kind of understand why he might be a bit annoyed about the inconvenience it causes that he is now number 11 not 9, I am sure Martial can find the pennies to be able to hire another web specialist to redesign his very new brand, and be able to find the money to re produce his new products. Martial was also number 26 for a period of time at his previous club Monaco, and he is also number 11 for the French national team, so surely number 9 cannot mean that much to him? The Young forward may have got the motivation of launching his 'AM9' brand from Cristiano Ronaldo's 'CR7' brand, but in my opinion it is foolish to base a brand on a number that you are wearing, especially when you are a young footballer like Martial who is not culturally known for being number 9 like Ronaldo is number 7. 

Martial recently launched his brand, 'AM9'.

   However, Sir Alex Ferguson famously once said: 'No player is ever bigger than the club'. But giving Ibrahimovic the number nine shirt that was already vacant, may be a sign that these values are starting to become irrelevant. Especially as Sir Alex Ferguson still plays a significant part at the club, you would have thought he would have had his say on giving the number 9 to Ibrahimovic. As good a signing as Ibrahimovic is for United, I think its a bit harsh that a player who previously had no affiliation to United can come and take the shirt number off a player who last season was so fantastic and played crucial part for United. For me, its another example of a situation that has been handled poorly by the club, and communication between senior officials and the player were not good enough, and Martial should have definitely been informed of the number change before the media were allowed to expose it. Ibrahimovic also may have taken Martial's number 9 shirt due to shirt sale reasons. Giving Ibrahimovic a number that is not vacant would have put some customers off buying the Ibrahimovic kit and thus his sales may have slightly dropped.  

   So what happens next? Martial requests a transfer? Moves to Arsenal? Absolutely not. I don't think much should be made of what has happened with this 'Shirt Number Gate'. I think the whole thing will die down and it will be forgotten once he scores goal after goal in his new number 11 shirt next season. Only if Martial does not get the starts that he deserves should it then become an issue. He should be one of the first players on the team sheet come the first game against Bournemouth come August 14th and I believe he will be. I think Martial will play predominantly on the left wing under Mourinho, and the number 11 also suits the position on left winger, as us United fans only know too well.

Premier League: Welcome to Zlatan

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has officially been announced as a Manchester United player. If all Mourinho does is bring Zlatan to United and maybe win a few games of footy, united fans have a reason to be happy. 'I would die for Mourinho', the famous words that Zlatan echoed after his turbulent relationship with now City manager, Pep Guardiola. Zlatan's reunion with Mourinho is nothing short of a dream, but will this dream turn into a nightmare for United? 

It is a perfect situation for United, for years they have lacked a striker with the aura that Zlatan has. Comparisons must be made with Eric Cantona, and Zlatan is also probably as likely to infamously kick out at a fan. Yes he isn't everyone's cup of tea, but one thing no one can dispute about Zlatan is simply; he lives and breathes success. The only place he has not won a league title was in his Malmo FF days in Sweden, oh and they were relegated in that season, so that doesn't really count. It's not a coincidence that he has managed to win titles in all of the top European league's, and although everyone always doubts whether he will achieve in the Premier League, I think he will surprise a few people, and there are more than a few who are already doubting him.

Okay last season he won the league in a division so one sided PSG could have played with 9 men all season and still won it. But people are quick to forget that in his 'worst season' as a player at Barcelona he still scored 16 goals and 7 assists, and also bearing in mind he massively fell out with Guardiola and spent most of that season on the bench. What a Manchester derby we have in store next season. The physicality of the Premier League is often where the doubters start their argument, and I think with some players this definitely affects their potential of success in the premier league. I think the physicality of the league is what drove players like Angel Di Maria away from United, but Zlatan is as physical as anyone, and if anything the only worry is that he will be too physical. Ibrahimovic will handle the premier league, after growing up in one of the toughest neibourhoods in Sweden, being intimidated by tough premier league defenders won't even make Zlatan wince.

Rashford and Martial will be the first players in the current squad to benefit from the arrival of Ibrahimovic. The swede has done it all, he's won golden boots, keys to Paris, and even scored a 35 yard overhead kick against England. The experience that comes with Zlatan is going to be vital in furthering the careers of Rashford and Martial, already very capable players, but having Zlatan in and around the squad their overall forward game will naturally improve. I would have even been in favour of offering Zlatan a coaching role if he wasn't still a very capable striker. He's a one of a kind, different to any other striker on the planet. Rashford will also benefit as he wont be in the limelight as much and he may not have to start every game for United as of next season. This will allow him to naturally develop more and not burn out.

There has to be some focus on the financial advantages of the deal. I don't like the power that money has over modern football but it cannot be ignored. If 500,000 shirts are sold worldwide, which is probably a humble guess, that's probably around £10 Million in profit instantly. There is also the endless merchandising opportunities that accomplice and individual like Zlatan, who is a global icon. To get someone as talented and as proven as Zlatan on a free would be lucrative for any club in world football. The only potential downside to this deal would be that he may cause friction in the squad, especially if Rooney is shunted from the team. Zlatan is a fiery character and if anyone gives him a reason to be confrontational, he will jump at the chance. But with Zlatan's slightly creepy respect and admiration for Mourinho he may be respectful of not causing tension and friction amongst the squad.

It was the worst kept secret of the summer but that still does not take away the excitement of Zlatan's arrival. Fans and pundits alike always question United's ability to attract top players when they aren't in the champions league, but is Zlatan isn't a top player, I don't know who is. 

Can England Win The Euros?

   It's started again, England have got off to a good start at a major international tournament, and suddenly we are back on the bandwagon that is England might just have a chance at silverware this year. After starting brightly at this years European championship, and winning from behind for the first time in a major international tournament against Wales on Thursday, is there a reason to believe again? Or is it simply the same old England who will eventually let us down?

   Selection is obviously important in any football game, but if England are to have any success in this years Euro's, Roy Hogdson must learn from his first half tactical mistakes against Wales. Firstly, Raheem Sterling simply can't be in the starting eleven next time out. He has stumbled through his season at Manchester City and he has taken this poor form into the Euro's and he looks not even a fraction of the player who carried our hopes at the 2014 World Cup. He looks like someone who simply cannot be bothered to play for his country. He may be tired and in need of a rest, but I don't buy professional footballers needing rest when they are only playing twice in a week. I still think he would be an effective substitute to bring on with fifteen or twenty minutes left on the clock, but for me Vardy or Rashford should start in his place. Roy Hogdson also needs to be more expressive in his tactical shape, we have a team blessed with some of the finest attacking players in world football, in Harry Kane, Wayne Rooney and Daniel Sturridge. These players need to be utilised, when you have attacking players as good as ours, play an offensive formation and go for it, our defence is competent enough to be able to not be thrashed, and considering no team in the competition is blowing teams away, it would be a wise move. Take the example of how Barcelona set up tactically with 3 forwards, yes they concede goals but they blow teams away offensively and simply score more goals than the opposition because they have that attacking mindset and utilise the prominent talent. I am not saying Rooney, Kane and Vardy are as good as Messi, Neymar and Suarez, but like in the second half vs Wales, if we played with more forwards and were more attacking minded our chances of getting to the later stages significantly increase.

   Joe Hart's performance has been questionable in both games so far, and I think on times his overconfidence affects his performance.He was way off his line for the Russia equaliser in the opening game, and his positioning when attempting to defend Gareth Bale's opener on Thursday was poor. He should have stopped it. Yes it was travelling fast, but it was 35 yards out and not even directly in an unreachable position in the goal. Now he is a very, very good keeper but he made a fatal mistake in both of the games thus far, and if you are to drop Raheem Sterling, dropping Joe Hart must also be considered.  

   If Roy Hogsdon plays with a more attacking intent, and gets the team selection right, I think this could lead to England scoring more goals, and surprising a few sides on the way. However I don't think England are yet ready to win the competition. Sides like Spain and France are starting to get warmed up, and then of course you can never rule Germany out of any competition. I predicted France to win it before the tournament began, and one of the reasons why is I think they are using their forward players tactically very well. They are another side, like England, who are blessed with a myriad of top attacking talent but are defensively not as strong. It will be interesting to see how far England go, and I will stick my neck out and say I think we will make the Semi finals. There is definitely more hope this tournament than there has been for a number of years, and when the knockouts start, anything can happen, including the possibility of Wayne Rooney, for once scoring more goals in a tournament than red cards.  

   

Louis Van Gaal's reign summarised!

   With an FA Cup win potentially around the corner and the realism of missing out on Champions League qualification by just a point, I think it is time to sum up the reign of Louis Van Gaal. I want to get one thing straight before I get into it, and that is that I do think he needs to leave, purely on the basis of his negative style of football, and the eventual underachievement of this season. I do think some of his criticisms have been slightly harsh. 

   Firstly, people are quick to forget that he has managed to continue one of the main heritages ingrained in the club: giving youth a chance. He has given more debute's than the great Sir Alex Ferguson gave in his last five seasons as manager. The emergence of Marcus Rashford being the highlight, he has been brilliant, essentially Louis Van Gaal gave him that chance. Some media sources and fan groups have said that he was forced to play youngsters such as Rashford, Borthwick-Jackson and Timothy Fosu-Mensah. However I don't think there is any luck about how these fantastic young players have come through, Louis Van Gaal could have gone out and brought experienced players to cover those who have had injuries, but he didn't and he put faith in youth. So I think its crucial that he gets recognition for continuing one of the most important traditions of the club in playing our youth prospects and giving them a chance.  

   Another positive aspect of his reign has to be the signing of Anthony Martial. I think he is the best young player we have signed since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2003. At the time the media and fans alike attacked him for 'wasting all that money'. But being realistic Anthony Martial has not only proven to the world he is going to be one of the best on the planet, but he has also probably doubled his value. At 20 years old, and in his debut season in the Premier League, this player is truly one in a million in football terms. 

   However, I do think that he should go, and I think he will be going after hopefully winning the FA Cup on Saturday. Primarily this is because of his style of play, and his lack of attacking premise. How can we only score 49 goals this season, with Blackpool scoring a superior 59 goals in the 2010/11 season... and being relegated. The system is too defensive and I don't think its effective in the Premier League. Football is largely a results based business and I think Louis Van Gaal has to pay the price. Our club is the biggest club in the world, and we should be challenging for titles every season, and after 2 years to do his job, improvements have been minimal. 

   I can see the argument that he was only 1 point away from top 4 qualification and a potential FA Cup win. It may have been very different if we finished in the top 4 and won the FA Cup, it would have been an improvement on last year, and maybe then there would be an argument for him seeing out his contract. But even if we finished in the top 4 he still needs to go, as I have said the negative style of play and the underachievement's of the team evidence this. 

   The critics have been over the top with Louis Van Gaal though, and I think if he delivers the FA Cup tomorrow he can walk with dignity and he should walk with some respect from Manchester United fans.   

Premier League Review - Grading each team

   It is fair to say that it's been a Premier League season to remember. An incredible first title for Leicester, Man United, Chelsea out of the top 4, and giants Aston Villa and Newcastle relegated. These types of season's come around every 20 years, and we can only hope that next season provides similar entertainment. This post will analyse each team's league performance  and give a grade from A* to F, judged on their overall season. Enjoy it and make sure you comment and have your say!

Arsenal (B-) 

   Having lead the table for the majority of the tough months of December and into early January it looked as if Arsenal may finally once again have a chance to get their hands on the Premier League title. However Leicester were relentless in their pursuit for the title, with Arsenal eventually finishing in a respectable second place, whilst also improving with their results against the 'big four'. However with 4 points fewer than the campaign before, the improvement in placing is somewhat misleading. The need for a world class striker is evident, and the summer transfer window is one that Arsene Wenger will have to get right to keep up with the competition next season. Star Performer: Mesut Ozil.

Aston Villa (F)

   Abysmal. The easiest and truest way to sum up one of the most disappointing season's in Aston Villa's 142 year history. Finishing the season on a shocking 17 points, Villa recorded the third lowest points tally in the history of the Premier League. Their own Roy of the Rovers, Gabriel Agbonlahor got more suspensions that goals, and lacked inspiration up front. They need a good manager to get themselves back to where they belong next season. Star Performer: Jordan Ayew. 

Bournemouth (B)

   The achievement of remaining in the Premier League is one that needs recognition for Bournemouth. A season plagued with injuries to star players, it is surprising that they managed to stay in the division. Fantastic team spirit and a fantastic, young manager in Eddie Howe combined have meant they have cemented their place in the world's best division for another season at least. Memorable victories against Manchester United and Chelsea the forefront of their achievements this season. However, unless they have a better transfer window and more luck with injuries, I could see them struggling to stay in the division next year. Star Performer: Matt Richie.

Chelsea (E+)

   A terrible season for Chelsea, from champions last year to 10th place this year. With probably one of the best squads in the league, they should have at least finished in the top 4. There were signs of a revival when Hiddink arrived after Mourinho was sacked, but poor May form means they miss out on even the Europa League and finish the season just in the top half. At least they weren't relegated. Next year, with the imminent arrival of Antonio Conte, they are sure to be back near the top of the pile come next season. Star Performer: Willian.

Crystal Palace (C-)

   If the Premier League ended on December 30th Crystal Palace would have had an amazing season, and would have finished in 5th place. They started the season brilliantly, but fell away massively. I think the problem for Palace was upfront. Wickham, Adebayor and Chamakh did not perform, scoring just 6 between them. It will be interesting to see how they progress next season, with a great fan base and a fairly good manager in Alan Pardew. Star Performer: Scott Dan.

Everton (D)

   With the squad they have, and with players like Lukaku and Barkely they should have achieved more. Roberto Martinez also has looked a bit lost in motivating his squad this season, and he has failed in his attempt to qualify Everton for a European place. It will be interesting if they keep hold of their star players ahead of what may be a challenging season for them next year. Star Performer: Romelu Lukaku.

Leicester (A*)

   If someone had told you last season that Leicester City, having scraped their way out of a relegation battle would be 2015/16 champions, you would have thought they were deluded beyond belief. With just 3 loses in the entire campaign, a lot of respect and admiration has to go into the way Claudio Ranieri motivated Leicester to go above and beyond their capabilities and win their first Premier League title. Its been one hell of a decade for Leicester fans, after dwindling in the third tier of English football just years ago, to now champions. It will be intriguing to see if they can keep hold of their star players and build on what is a brilliant team.  Star Performer : Jamie Vardy. 

Liverpool (C-) 

   Liverpool's season has been somewhat of a roller-coaster ride. Starting the season with Brendan Rodgers in charge they performed poorly, leading to his eventual dismissal. However with the arrival of Jurgen Klopp in early October, he has revived the spirit and results are slowly but surely picking up. They still lack consistency however with Klopp having his first big transfer window in the summer, he has to get this right and I think Liverpool can be a force next season! Star Performer: Phillipe Coutinho.

Manchester City (D+)
   City started the season in decent form by winning 7 out of their first 9 matches, and topping the table for large periods of the early season. However the announcement of Per Guardiola in the second half of the season massively effected their form, and resulted in City scraping 4th place on goal difference. I think they have the best squad in the league on paper, and I don't think that too many people will argue with this fact. Certainly the best striker in the league in Sergio Aguero and I think the best creative player as well in Kevin De Bruyne, it is remarkable how they have only just managed to finish 4th. However, I do think under Guardiola next year City will be formidable and be fighting to win trophies. Star Performer: Sergio Aguero. 

Manchester United (C-)
   With a somewhat turbulent summer transfer window and subsequently letting go too many players, it was a season where United were plagued with injuries and simply did not score enough goals. Consistently throughout the season, under Louis Van Gaal united's football lacked any real attacking content, and the only positives of the season can be in the form of Martial, Rashford, Smalling and De Gea. Too many players haven't performed to their potential this season, and it looks like the current manager in Louis Van Gaal is lost and somewhat defeated in his job of taking this great club back to the top of English and European football. After not qualifying for the champions league it seems as if a change in management is needed at the club, and to motivate the players to want to play for United, in the attacking, expressive way which the club is known for. Star Performer: Anthony Martial. 

Newcastle United (E)

   Similar to the fate of Aston Villa, relegation should have never been on the cards for Newcastle United, but life in the Championship is something that they must face next season. The appointment of Rafa Benitez was too late and he was unable to guide them to safety. However it seems like he has got them playing good football and the passion seems to be back in the side, evidently in their 5-1 demolishing of near champions Spurs on the last day of the season. I think the main issue for Newcastle this season was the transfer policy of the owner and his lack of investment in players who care for the club, they will need to get that right if they want to be back in the big time next season. Star Performer: Georginio Wignaldum.

Norwich City (D-) 

   I think one must be realistic when analysing Norwich City's season. They were my firm favourites for relegation at the start of the season and they duly prevailed. I don't think they invested enough in the squad and where they did, yet again their signings did not perform, and back to the championship they go. Star Performer: Jonny Howson.

Southampton (B)

   If they had not have started so slowly this season, Southampton would have had an amazing season and would have almost certainly finished in the top 4 of the Premier League. Their 2016 form has been decent and lead them to finish in a very respectable 6th place, and put them in the qualifying stages for the Europa League next season. In Ronald Koeman they have a great manager, and if they can keep hold of his services and build on the current squad they will have an exciting season next year. Star Performer: Saido Mane.

Stoke City (C)

   It has been a pretty average season for Stoke City. Finishing in the same position as last year, albeit with 3 fewer points. However a top half finish will encourage Stoke fans, and their new identity as a more attacking side has seen them now cement their place as a Premier League side, with plenty of potential for the future. Throughout the campaign Stoke have always been a hard side to beat, and stellar victories over Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea the obvious highlights of the season. A poor April and May is puts a slight downer on the season, with only a single win in two months. Star Performer: Marco Arnautovic. 

Sunderland (D+)

   For lengthy parts of the season it very much looked like Sunderland would finally be relegated to the Championship after a few recent great escapes. Dick Advocat started the season poorly and was eventually replaced by Sam Allardyce. When big Sam took over, Sunderland were win less from their first 8 games, but he persevered in his task and eventually led Sunderland to 17th place, and condemning neighbours Newcastle to relegation. Perfect? Sunderland fans must be getting sick of scraping for their Premier League status and will be expecting a better showing next season. Star Performer: Jermain Defoe. 

Swansea City (D)
   It has been a rather average season for Swansea, at which one point saw them potentially facing a battle with relegation. Getting rid of Garry Monk is one thing I thought that the club got wrong. He got unlucky with injuries and I think tactically he was a good manager. After finishing 8th in the previous season, the drop to 12th this campaign will not be one that is welcomed by Swansea fans. I think investment is needed in the squad to get them back into the top half of the table next season. Star Performer: Gylfi Sigurosson. 

Tottenham (A-)
   Overall it has been a great season for Tottenham, only for them to disappointingly finish in 3rd place behind fierce neighbours Arsenal. I think they have played the best and most exciting football in the Premier League this season, and they have also been very strong in defence. If you had offered Spurs fans champions league football at the start of the season, most would have jumped at the chance, and being realistic I think Spurs deserve it. They did let themselves down in the title race and their eventual finish but chasing Leicester eventually took its toll. However the future is massively bright for Tottenham and fell they can build on this success and have a strong run in the league next season. Star Performer: Harry Kane. 

Watford (B+) 
   A very respectable season for Watford, who I initially thought would struggle in the fight not to be relegated. They have made themselves a side who are very difficult to beat, especially at their home ground. I cannot believe they sacked the manager Quique Flores, I thought he did an excellent job this season and I think they will struggle next season and could be relegated. Star Performer: Idion Ighalo. 

West Brom (C-)
   A pretty average season for the baggies with not really much to talk about, slipping one place from their previous years position in the league. Tony Pulis has had to deal with various injury problems and off field problems with star striker, Saido Berahino. They need a good summer transfer window! Star Performer: Darren Fletcher.

West Ham United (A)
   A brilliant season for the hammers, and one that has left them with a lot to build on ahead of their move to the Olympic stadium next year. Eventually finishing in 7th place is a bit misleading. The Hammers have flirted with the idea of champions league football all season, and for a side who finished in the bottom half last season, missing out on the champions league by only 4 points this season must be seen as a success. Star Performer: Dimitri Payet. 

United need Zlatan, and Zlatan needs United

   Zlatan Ibrahimovic has today made it clear that he is leaving PSG this summer, as a free agent. For the life of me I can't figure out why a top club in Europe hasn't already snapped him up for nothing, a player of his quality and his stature rarely becomes available on a free transfer. 

Since joining PSG he has scored an massively impressive 111 in 116(5) appearances (Soccerbase, ESPN). Those statistics are world class and represent just how good a player the Swede is. Many fellow fans and pundits alike play down his ability due to not performing when playing English sides or not being consistent enough, but with statistics like the above its obvious these claims are ambiguous. He is a genius of a footballer, can do anything with a ball and can win a game on his own. He's done it in Spain, Italy, France and Holland, and although he wasn't as prolific in Spain with Barcelona he still managed 21 goals in his 2 year spell. The added factor of not seeing eye to eye with Guardiola would have also impacted on his goal tally. 

(Zlatan has been prolific for PSG this season)

   One argument against him is that he is often aggressive and sometimes see's red when it matters. Notably against Chelsea in the Champions League. But again this is what United need. No one is overly aggressive in the Manchester United team, and as long as his aggression was positively controlled, I think it would again suit the Premier League. The other argument is the age and yes he is 34 and I think if any deal is struck it should only be a one year deal. His goal scoring statistics show that actually he improves with age, hitting the majority of his goal in his 30+ years. 

(Soccer Base, Metro)

   Manchester United desperately need a talisman and someone that is brimming with confidence and does not get phased by pressure. Zlatan is known to be able to cope when under pressure and he has the experience to come to the Premier League and not be phased by the rhythm of the game or the speed of the game. He has that arrogance and swagger that United haven't had since the days of Cantona and Ronaldo, and I think a team does need someone like that, and someone that excites the fans. I just do not see where Man United can lose on this deal. The club needs another striker for sure and all his attributes fit perfectly into what we need. However, with one eye on young striking talents already at the club in Rashford, Wilson and Fletcher, a one year deal for one of the most prolific strikers in Europe makes perfect sense moving forward. 

Zlatan surely would leap at the chance of joining Manchester United? The prospect of being able to finally prove himself in the Premier League. He has been linked with moves to the MLS and possibly back to Italy, but if a club the size of Manchester United comes on for him, surely he will will prefer that for one year and see his career out under the lights of Old Trafford?

The 3 Transfers that can get Man United back to the top!

   For the last 2 seasons the squad has looked desperately lacklustre and looking like it needs 3/4 top quality players to be able to consistently compete with top clubs. I genuinely think  the club has tried hard to sort the issue of the playing staff, we have attracted some world class players such as Falcao, Di Maria and Schweinsteiger but for various reasons they haven't performed to the world class standard we have needed. It is not easy to adapt to the English game, and a lot of very, very good players come to the Premier League and just cant perform. 

   We have also signed some very good players. Ed Woodward has been criticized heavily, and I think its always easy to look at the negative signings he has made, but he signed Martial and kept De Gea for one more year! One thing is for sure, this summer we need an almost perfect transfer window, by getting a world class CB, CM and a CF and not selling too many players. 

   Centre Back is probably the position that we need strengthening most. Since Vidic left United I don't think we have ever looked convincing at the back. Although Smalling has played very well this season, the partnership in defence is very important and I think he needs a world class, and experienced Centre Back alongside him to further improve his own game and stability of the back 4. Leonardo Bonucci is the one that I would do everything to sign this summer. At the heart of Juventus' defence he has lead them to league titles and a champions league final in 5 years. At 29 years of age I think he could bring the experience and a certain aggression that we have missed at the back since Vidic left in 2013. He would cost in the region of £20-25 Million, and he has been linked with a move to the premier league with Chelsea often seen as leading the race for the Italian. But if we got in quick and with the possibility of champions league football, I think we could get him and that would sure up the defence a bit more for next season.

  Centre midfield also still looks like it lacks something. I don't think defensively, as Schneiderlin for me is our out and our defensive midfielder and I think he's good enough. Someone that I have always rated very highly, and who I think could be realistic is Luka Modric. One of the best passers of the ball in Europe, and I think we still lack a creative, forward thinking passer. Also  Real Madrid are a club who always want the galactico or the fashionable signing, and midfield is an area they will be strengthening in the summer, with Pogba or Gundogan potentially being the galactico. With Kroos, Casemiro, James, Isco and Kovacic already at the club playing in the centre of the midfield, they will have to surely let 1 or 2 go. I think one will be Modric and the other Casemiro. Modric has proven himself in Europe's toughest leagues in the Premier League and La Liga and for me is still one of the best, and underrated midfielder's in world football. Again I think he will cost in the region of £20-25 Million, but worth every penny. Still has 2-3 years at his peak and won't need anytime to settle into the league, having already extensively played in it with Spurs. 

   I also think that we need another CF because I to strongly challenge for titles you need 3/4 top, top strikers. In Martial we have that, and I think Rashford shows huge promise, but he cannot yet be called a top player. With Rooney seemingly now playing on a deeper role that leaves us with very little out and out forwards. Antione Griezmann is the striker I would bring to the club. Right now there are very few strikers in Europe that better him. 31 goals and 6 assists for Atletico Madrid this season and often playing as a winger shows he knows where the goal is. Also the versatility of Griezmann is also important. He can play anywhere across the front line and the wings and in the modern game with injuries occurring frequently, versatility is important. His brother, Theo Griezmann also tweeted in April saying "glory, glory man united", this of course should be taken with a pinch of salt, but could the possibility of linking up with fellow Frenchman, Anthony Martial be enough to persuade him? However, he won't be cheap by any means and could cost between £45-55 Million. But in today's transfer market I think we should pay up and secure one of the best forwards in Europe at the moment. 

Crystal Palace PREVIEW!

So after two wins on the bounce you could say that United are in great form, against a Palace side who are really struggling and a win would be a formality? Well you're wrong. This is 2016 Man United, and throughout the entire season we have won two games and then lost the next, two steps forward three steps back! Lets face the facts, we crawled across the finish line against Aston Villa on Saturday, the same Aston Villa who have lost their last 10 Premier League games and currently have the third lowest points total for a Premier League side. But we won and we sit four points behind Arsenal, a side who are wobbling, and a side who I think can be caught!

Let us now look at the positives going into the game tonight. Marcus Rashford seems to be improving even more, and I do believe if he scores more goals between now and the end of the season, we shouldn't bother buying another striker. As for him going to the Euro's, I would not even consider it, with the likes of Kane, Vardy, Rooney and Sturridge ahead of him, I think he would be better having a rest than sitting on a bench in France watching it unfold. The U21's last night secured their third premier league title in four years in classic united fashion, Varela smashed in a injury time winner to seal the title and win the game on the night. So despite Manchester Evening News' scathing criticism of the youth team, it would appear they are very, very wrong!

I would mix it up a little bit tonight, but not too much, I think its imperative we keep the pressure up on Man City and Arsenal. Four points is definitely catchable! I would go with the following line up!

GK - De Gea (Obvious choice.)

RB - Fosu-Mensah (He appears to be massively growing into the team and I think its important that he continues his progress and keeps on playing!)

CB - Smalling (He has become a very reliable and solid defender, second name on the team sheet, every week.)

CB -  Blind (I would have rested Blind, but I think he has been brilliant this season and we have no real, solid other option so he needs to be there.)

LB - Rojo (This should be his final chance, and the chance to show he has it. Recently he has been poor and this is his rehearsal for next season, perform or leave.)

CM - Schneiderlin (This game will be won in midfield, palace have loads of energy there and Schneiderlin can combat this. His performances have improved second half of season.)

CM - Herrera (I am a huge fan of Herrera, and I don't see him playing at the weekend. I would give him the chance tonight. Energy, killer passes, get him in!)

CAM - Mata (I pick Mata for his set pieces, palace foul a lot and Mata is brilliant with set plays, too early for Rooney to start.)

LW - Memphis (Think he needs another start, more confidence, and let him play his football and express himself, Lingard needs a rest)

RW - Martial (Strange that he wasn't starting vs Villa. A must start for me, rotating with Rashford upfront constantly, confusing the defenders.)

CF - Rashford (Truly earns his place, must start, knows where the goal is.)

Subs: Romero, Valencia, Darmian, Fellaini, Lingard, Young, Rooney.

The danger man in the Palace side is Yannick Bolasie. He has that unpredictability about him, plenty of pace, skill and power and Smalling and co in the defence will have to be on guard against him. I also like Cabaye, and I actually would have liked to have seen him in our side, I think he is underrated and has an excellent set piece. 

Prediction 2-0 United (Martial, Memphis)

I am going to be positive in my prediction, the players are getting the results and one loss in 7 is not bad. I think the players will be encouraged to attack more and be more lethal in front of goal, I can't believe we only managed one against Villa. It will be tough but Palace are not in form themselves, winning 3 times in 14 games, they are struggling for goals too. Lets smash them!

West Ham (Review)

We did it, we are through to the Semi-Finals of the F.A Cup. Against all expectation we managed to beat probably one of the best West Ham sides in the last 10 years in their last F.A Cup game at the Boleyn Ground. It was a performance that oozed professionalism and I thought that we wanted it more than them from the very first whistle. We attacked with real intent and looked very dangerous every time we got close to the West Ham box we looked like scoring. I think Herrera in the midfield made a real difference. His attacking intent and attacking movement freed up the space for the forwards and he managed to find Martial and Rashford many times. 

Man of the match for me however was Martial. Although he didn't score on the night, his movement and his ability to beat a man created many chances for us and set up Rashford's brilliant goal. Rashford's reputation again increased over night after his brilliant performance last night, with a lot of pundits and fans alike making the suggestion that he should go to the Euro's with England. I have to be honest, I think its too early for him to be considered for England. Let him play his football, enjoy it and keep the pressure to a minimum, and make sure he develops more and he is on the plane to the 2018 world cup!

When Fellaini was announced in the starting 11 social media reacted in a frenzy, he has been very poor this season, but I thought he was good against West Ham, besides his goal which essentially he knew nothing about. His passing was accurate, and he looked like he was really motivated to win the game, as did the rest of the team. Timothy Fosu-Mensah got another important 90 minutes of football under his belt for the first team, and put in another captivating performance, keeping Dimitri Payet very, very quiet. If he continues to develop I could see him becoming a massive player for the club, I just hope that he doesn't become tempted if Real Madrid or Barcelona came knocking.

Looking ahead to this weekend, we probably have the easiest tie possible in the league, Aston Villa at home. A team that is nearly relegated, and if we win against them on Saturday and others drop points they will be down. In regards to the Semi-Finals of the F.A cup, we play Everton at Wembley on Saturday 23rd April, lets hope we can get to the final where we could potentially be playing either Crystal Palace or Watford in the Final. Lets hope for 3 points at the weekend on Saturday against Villa and keep the red flag flying high!