The Power of a Number.

Has there ever been a number, for which one club holds so much expectation? Following the footsteps of greats? For Manchester United, it’s number 7…

Ask anyone about this shirt number and you will be given a list of names that, in any generation, have seen some of the greatest players to ever grace the field; Best, Robson, Cantona, Beckham, Ronaldo… Let’s be honest those are some impressive names.

 

George Best – arguably the best player to ever wear the number 7 shirt. With pure natural ability, he was able to produce wonderful skill, technique, ability (even on ‘those’ pitches) with such ease that fans loved to watch him, whilst being targeted by the well-known ‘hard men’ of the game. George helped Manchester United win their first European Championship in 1968 and spent 11 seasons at The Red Devils and was extremely popular on and off the pitch.


Eric Cantona – Known as the King, Eric Cantona is another fan’s favourite. Though his Manchester United career was short, he quickly established himself in the famous red shirt and cemented his status as a club legend.  Not only did he have the ability on the field; he also brought with him a fiery personality which oozed arrogance. Reacting during games was a frequent occurrence and Eric’s Kung-Fu kick at Crystal Palace will always be remembered for the wrong reasons.


Beckham – Beckham was part of the ‘Class of 92’ squad which has become famous for producing some of the best youth talent through the academy. Like most youngsters Beckham was loaned out but was quickly recalled after a short but successful spell at Preston. He became known for having phenomenal accuracy and his half-way goal against Wimbledon is still classed as one of the greatest goals in Premier League history.



Ronaldo – Of modern generation, Ronaldo is another player that fans will claim to be the best number 7 ever for Manchester United. Whilst playing for Sporting Lisbon he was quickly identified as being a very talented youngster and was signed to the Reds as a teenager full of ambition. Cristiano knew the significance of being given the number 7 shirt and this only motivated him more. His pure determination and dedication has shaped him into the player he is today. Since moving to Real Madrid he still holds Manchester United very close to his heart and has been greeted back to Old Trafford with the respect he deserves.

 

There have been a number of players to wear this famous United number, some have succeeded, some have not. But the fact that a ‘number’ can hold such prominence, can only be testament to the club that has produced some of the world’s greatest players and to this day, is still revered worldwide. 


 

 

Still more problems?

After the full time whistle it was clear to see that all is still not well at Manchester United. And the thing is, everyone is able to see where the problems lie. 

Another change in defence, another new partnership. Jones alongside Rojo. Is Van Gaal still unsure of who the best partnership is as since the new season started his has used 5 central defenders. Now I know injuries really have caused an issue but considering how active The Reds have been over the summer, is was somewhat a surprise that no new defenders were signed. Yes Shaw is a defender that was brought in this summer but that was before Van Gaal took charge. Was he seeing something that we don't know? 

From the statistics from the West Brom game, Man Utd completely dominated. Possession, corners, shots but the score line confirmed the ongoing issues. For both of the goals conceded, defenders were out of place, they were trying to close down the opposition, but with that was their undoing. Quick intricate passing enables the Baggies to swiftly counter and punish their opposing team. And also to be fair, both goals were very well taken. 

It is clear to see that from midfield, Blind onwards, there is no issues whatsoever. Man Utd have a very dangerous attack. Scoring goals? No problems. I have no hesitation is saying that Falcao will achieve 15+ goals this season. 

In January new arrivals will again be talked about. It's a sure thing. Will they, however, be able to secure that marquee player to provide that stability, even if it's to help the inexperienced settle down. Become more comfortable in their surroundings? There are already rumours of Pique, Hummels, Alvez, buts that's what they are, rumours. 

One thing is for sure though is that Van Gall has to sort the defence out, and he will, but he has to install the fear back into the team so that when teams come up against his side, they panic, crumble, buckle under the pressure when they stand opposite the Devils. Old Trafford will be a fortress again.