by Dennet Krishnan

Created on: January 09, 2007   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

Glory, Glory Man United!
These are the constant chants, Manchester United fans sing. But for the last 3 odd, years, United's fans seem more than downtrodden. With just 2 trophies and no league titles, united fans are worried. Spoiled by the success tremendous success in the 90's United fans do not realise the transitional phase the club has been undergoing.

Tradition of youth development is paramount in United's success as a football team. As a club who believes in its own; new players have come up the ranks, notably John O'shea, Darren Fletcher and Wes brown. Wayne Rooney and Christiano Ronaldo both stars in the world-cup have been purchased to bolster the team. One cannot come and expect the same immediate success, united has achieve in the 90's. However united's brand of quick and attacking football is still expected and delivered to provide entertainment to its fans.

Hero or villain, Sir Alex Ferguson has been at the helm at United for 20 years. Knighted for his remarkable success, has achieved no less than 19 major honours, including 8 league titles. Almost after every average season Manchester United has had, critics start writing him off. Those that underestimate him always end up with egg on their face.

This current 2006/2007 season might proved to be the toughest test yet. Chelsea under the charismatic manger Jose Mourinho and The Russian Billionaire Roman Abramovich seemingly unbeatable (with its $700 million squad) including additions of Andrei Shevchenko and Michael Ballack. Chelsea wants to tighten it's dominance in English football and conquer Europe's biggest prize.

When comparing both squads, one may argue United may lack the same quality as Chelsea, this cannot be said the same about team spirit and camaraderie. United's greatest strength has always been its heart. With the players hungry for success United cannot in any circumstance be written off.

Christiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney look a tremendous force in United's attack. After leaving the world cup debacle behind, United will look to these two for inspiration and goals. The partnership of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic currently seems to be the best in the premiership. However with the experience of Gary Neville and Gabriel Heinze marshalling the full back positions, the defence collectively is arguably one of the best in Europe today. With so many youth and a couple of new faces in the United setup, Giggs, Scholes, Van Der Sar and Gary Neville brings incredible experience to the team. These players have been there and done it at the highest level of football.

Not forgetting Old Trafford (Theatre of Dreams). Home of Manchester United packs a full 76000 fans each and every match. This (12th man) support brings about extra boost and motivation for the players. Opposition will not get many points here.

Therefore anyone who claims Manchester United has had their day, will be proved wrong once again.

Glory Glory Man United

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