MU's preparation for next season

Star Performer

NANI has accepted the challenge laid down after losing his place to Antonio Valencia and the arrival of Ashley Young.

Put in a spectacular display in the 2-1 victory over Barcelona.


New signings
 
PHIL JONES does not look fazed in the centre of defence while David De Gea showed us his great reactions in goal.

Ashley Young's crosses will give United an extra weapon this season.


Outstanding youngster
 
TOM CLEVERLEY, 21, impressed on loan at Wigan last season and, against Barcelona, he looked the part.
The midfielder released Michael Owen with a great interception and pass for the winner.


Tactics
 
FERGIE felt his team were not up to speed going into last season - confirmed by their poor start.

But they certainly are this time around. There was an intensity about United's play not seen on these tours for some time.


Good enough to win title?
 
UNDOUBTEDLY, but their away form must improve.

They won the title by nine points last season and despite losing Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Edwin van der Sar to retirement, the manager has bought well.


Weaknesses
 
IT remains to be seen if the slightly-built David de Gea is strong enough for the Premier League, although Anders Lindergaard looks a good deputy.

Also Michael Carrick needs a strong partner in the centre of midfield.


Strengths

THAT is undoubtedly in the goalscoring department with five top quality strikers to choose from - Rooney, Hernandez, Berbatov, Owen and Welbeck.

Add to that the supply coming from Nani, Valencia and now Young.


What else is needed?
 
IF they are going to claim the Champions League they need a big signing.

The club continue to pursue Dutch master Wesley Sneijder and his arrival would be a major factor in finally toppling Spanish giants Barcelona.