 |
 |
 |
| Monday, 08 August 2011 10:47 |
“Nani is first choice,” says Man United boss FergusonPortuguese shines in Community Shield Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has heaped praise on Portuguese international Nani, after the winger’s Man of the Match performance in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City on Sunday.
Nani scored twice as United came from 2-0 down at half time to snatch a dramatic late 3-2 victory, with the former Sporting man getting the winner in stoppage time. Both of Nani’s goals were memorable, with the 24-year-old capping off a wonderful team move for the first, before creating the second for himself by winning the ball on the halfway line and racing through to round Joe Hart and win the match. After the game, Ferguson insisted that Nani will begin the season as a first choice in his starting line-up. "Nani had a fantastic season last year," said the United boss. "He made 15 assists and scored eight or nine goals. He was unfortunate that Antonio Valencia came in at a time when we needed a bit of freshness and a boost to the squad. Valencia was fantastic. "Some players take longer to mature than others. Ronaldo was an exception. He was an incredible footballer. He matured immediately, from 18 until he left us. Stage by stage, he got better and better." by Sean Gillen
|
I was really surprised at how poorly some of City's players played. Although they went up 2-0, Yaya had an awful game. Balotelli was non-existant and even Silva couldn't put anything together. Even Dzeko was poor, especially on the first goal, eventhough he scored.
Let me add that Balotelli just isn't going to learn. You can see him react and complain about teamates play, eventhough he wasn't anywhere in position to get the ball.
I know that Man United came out on fire the 2nd half, but their pace was faster than City's in the 1st half as well.
I know that people are pointing to conditioning, but uncertanty, and tactics look to have a part in it.
Kompany is taking the hit for the mix up that led to the winner, but he clearly thought that Clichy was going to get the ball. I know I did when it was in the air.
As for Nani, the first goal was just great. Great passing and movement by the whole team, with a great finish by Nani. What impressed me even more, was at how hard he played. He really went after the ball, where on several occasions, it could have been fouls if timing was misjudged. He really hustled and moved the ball better than last year.
If he is able to keep this up, there will no reason for him to sit.
Nani has proven again that he shouldn't be a bench player and that he has been Man Utd's most consistent winger. Enough said.
Nani's role will continue to grow with Portugal as we move closer to Euro 2012, and I hope he saves some of this form for the upcoming qualifiers this fall.
Forca Nani!