United chalked up another home win on Tuesday night against Aston Villa and also equalled a club record of 29 Premier League games unbeaten in the process. We are now into February, a time of year when United generally kick on, and there is a real chance to go an entire season unbeaten.
The fact that United find themselves in this position is a surprise in itself. United have consistently done just about enough to win games this season, nothing more and nothing less. There have been some good performances, Liverpool, Arsenal and Blackburn at home stand out and there have also been some disappointing results, points thrown away against Everton, Fulham and Birmingham. However, United find themselves sitting on top of the Premier League 5 points clear of their closest rivals.
To go the whole season unbeaten would be a massive achievement and it would be fitting to seal our 19th league title in this fashion. It would be all the more impressive considering how tight the league is this year and with so many points being dropped by the big teams.
At this point, going the whole season unbeaten is a distinct possibility. United appear to be slowly gathering momentum. We are entering into the run-in for the title, this squad has vast experience in winning leagues and will not be daunted by the task ahead. Dimitar Berbatov has hit a purple patch, his partnership with Wayne Rooney is blossoming and if Wazza can build on his two goals against Villa last night the Berba/Rooney partnership could blow defences away. We are also very solid at the back with a settled back four marshalled by the inspirational Nemanja Vidic.
When United have found themselves struggling in games this season, the reinforcements on the bench have really come through. Ryan Giggs and Javier Hernandez in particular have come on regularly to make the difference. In my opinion this is the main strength with the squad of 2010/11. There is a strength in depth that was perhaps lacking last season and we have more options on the bench than before with Chicharito’s pace and finishing in particular adding another dimension.
It will however be very difficult for United to remain unbeaten. Chelsea look to be hitting form again and they will no doubt be galvanised by the arrival of Fernando Torres. United must face Ancelotti’s men both home and away before the season is out which is without doubt the biggest test that we will face. There are also trips to both the Emirates and Anfield to come and of course the Manchester Derby on Saturday week.
It seems to be a case of so far so good, but the biggest tests are yet to come. United travel to Stamford Bridge and Anfield in the space of a week at the beginning of March and then play both Chelsea and Arsenal in the space of a week at the end of April. Fergie’s squad will be tested to the limit as Champions League games will hopefully be coming thick and fast at that point too.
24 games in to the season we have got to be happy with how things have gone so far. This team have a chance to do something very special. The target has been set. To equal the achievement of Wenger’s invincibles……..and to finally knock the scousers off their perch!
What do you think? Can United do it?
Submitted by Glory Glory Man utd
