Sir Alex Ferguson making the right transfer call
Without really playing well enough to warrant an unbeaten record which has seen Manchester United top the Premier League going into the New Year, many of us could have been forgiven in thinking that Sir Alex Ferguson will be looking to improve his squad in the January transfer window. But in typically stubborn fashion, the United manager looks set to stick with what he has and what he knows, and who can blame him?
Considering the players United have either injured or out on loan, lavishly spending money and more on players would only upset the balance of a squad which looks like it is ready to finally kick into gear. Admittedly, United’s frustrating form away from home this season has left even the most optimistic of fans calling for a spending spree in January. You could even go as far as saying that it was about time United joined the likes of Man City and Chelsea in spending big on some world-class names. But form is temporary, and Ferguson would know that better than anyone with regards to his own players.
Often criticised for his transfer policies, Ferguson has resisted all temptation in changing his ways. Considering the steps United’s rivals were taking to ensure they were best equipped to challenge for the league, the summer arrivals of Chris Smalling and Javier Hernandez didn’t fill fans with the greatest of confidence. Once again though, the 69-year-old Scot has been proved right as both have blossomed at Old Trafford.
What amazes me even more though is that we continue to believe he has got it wrong, again and again. Despite the fantastic position United find themselves in without hitting anyway near top form, the newspapers are linking the Red Devils with every world-beater under the sun. Pepe Reina is a perfect example. Obviously, Edwin Van Der Sar’s age will automatically lead to speculation on who will be United’s next number one, but would Sir Alex really try and buy a player from his biggest rivals? And how do we know Fergie hasn’t already unearthed the next Peter Schmeichel in Anders Lindegaard? I certainly wouldn’t bet against him becoming another worthy find from the manager.
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The one area where Fergie may be tempted to reinforce is in the wide areas, but even then, United already have options. Antonio Valencia is expected to be fit by the end of February, which will be a huge bonus going into the business end of the season, whilst Ji Sung Park is back from the Asia Cup at the start of next month at the latest. Nani has been at his inconsistent best, Ryan Giggs has taken it upon himself to roll back the years and Gabriel Obertan is more than capable of stepping in when required.
There is nothing to say, with some luck along the way, Manchester United cannot challenge for the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League this season, without spending big bucks. Ferguson may not sign the best or the biggest but he knows what he is doing and already this season we are beginning to see signs of another great team forming at Old Trafford. In the meantime, the papers will continue to link every big player with a move to Manchester, but as long as Sir Alex is in charge, I wouldn’t expect too many world-beaters arriving any time soon.
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