Farewell to United's Flying Dutchman.

In 2012 Robin van Persie left the Gunners to fire Manchester United to their record breaking 20th Premier League title and in doing so cemented his status as a hero among the United fans.

However, all good things must come to an end and after three years at Old Trafford Robin van Persie has agreed to sign for Turkish outfit Fenerbahce in Istanbul.

After eight years at Arsenal in which he only won the FA Cup van Persie was brought to United by Alex Ferguson for a fee of around £23m and immediately made an impact with the United faithful by choosing to wear the number 20 on his shirt explaining that if the Red Devils win the Premier league in his first season it would be their 20th.

His debut didn't exactly go according to plan when he came on to replace Welbeck against Everton, but he couldn't stop the Toffees winning 1-0 at Goodison Park, however, five days later he started his first game for United and managed to score in front of the Old Trafford crowd as United beat Fulham 3-2.

At Arsenal van Persie had regularly been sidelined with injuries, but in his first season at United it was a different story as he went on to make a total of 48 appearances scoring 30 goals a brilliant return by any standards.

The majority of goals that he scored proved pivotal in bringing the Premier League trophy to Old Trafford. They included his first hat-trick against Southampton, a late penalty at Anfield to secure a 2-1 win, a goal against his former club Arsenal celebrated with great aplomb, an injury time free kick away to Man City to give United a 3-2 victory and lastly an absolutely fantastic hat-trick versus Aston Villa to secure the league title. Included in his three goals against Villa was a sublime volley.

Everybody could see that van Persie and his manager enjoyed a very good relationship and it was summed up when the Dutchman struck a penalty away at Stoke after which he immediately rushed over to the touchline where he jumped into the grateful arms of Alex Ferguson.

Van Persie had also built a rapport with the fans who voted him their player of the year for that Championship winning season.

Sadly for United and as it turned out van Persie, Alex Ferguson called it a day while he was at the top and was replaced in the summer of 2013 with David Moyes. Things did get off to a promising start as van Persie scored a double against Wigan in the traditional curtain opener, The Community Shield, and he carried his goal scoring form into the first league match of the season scoring another two against Swansea City on the road.

However, the season turned out to be a disaster for the club with the players clearly not enjoying the style of play under Moyes. Over the season van Persie managed 28 appearances and scored 18 goals.

The one bittersweet match for van Persie was in the Champions League last 16 tie against Greek side Olympiakos at Old Trafford. Needing to overturn a 0-2 deficit van Persie really got amongst the visitors scoring another fantastic hat-trick to give the home side a 3-2 aggregate victory.

The celebrations were hampered by the news that United's goal hero had picked up an injury that would mean he would not only miss the quarter-final against Bayern Munich, but also meant that he would not be available for selection by interim manager Ryan Giggs, who had replaced sacked Moyes, until the season was all but over.

After that dreadful season things started to look up for the Dutch striker, not only had Moyes been replaced by his friend and national team manager Louis van Gaal, but he also had the 2014 World Cup tournament to look forward to in Brazil and what a start to the competition as Holland thrashed holders Spain 5-1 with van Persie scoring twice. The one that had everyone talking was the marvellous diving header from distance which earned him the nickname 'The Flying Dutchman.'

Van Gaal and his team managed to go all the way to the semi-finals and United fans became excited about the upcoming season, especially with the new talent brought into the squad which would include a potent forward line of van Persie, Rooney, Falcao and Di Maria. To say the fans were licking their lips would have been an understatement.

Van Persie was overlooked by van Gaal for the captaincy of United in favour of Rooney at the start of the 2014-15 season, but as the gentleman he is van Persie never moaned and gave his backing to his new captain.

Over the season van Persie managed to make one more appearance than the previous one, but it was his eye for goal that was the problem managing only 10 which all came in the league. To be fair, he did miss a chunk of the season with an ankle injury and at the age of 31 his stamina must have been sapped by a long run and the heat in the World Cup in Brazil.

His commitment to the cause could never be questioned along with the respect from the fans as was shown when he netted the late equaliser against Chelsea. Old Trafford erupted as he put the ball in the net and his shirt throwing celebration was one of relief and joy.

Even though United qualified for the Champions League by finishing fourth it became clear that van Persie wasn't in van Gaal's plans for the future and a move to Fenerbahce was agreed.

Robin van Persie had nothing to prove when he came to United as he was already a proven striker of pure class, however, in his time at the club he continued to surprise with the quality of his finishing especially in his first season.

If only he had joined at a younger age who knows what more he could have achieved as a Red Devil.

Good luck and thanks for the great memories and goals Robin.

Miles Dunton.

Welcome To Manchester, Memphis.

After what has seemed like an age Memphis Depay has finally put pen to paper and signed for Manchester United.

He is one of the hottest if not the hottest young talents in European football, a player that has been sought after by a host of top clubs all over the continent.

He seems to be the type of player ideally suited to the United way. He's young, talented and not short of confidence as he is quick to tell everyone exactly how good he is.

But who is the player that Louis van Gaal agreed to sign before the transfer window even opened in order to beat off the advances of PSG?

Memphis was born on the 13th of February in 1994 in Moordrecht, Netherlands. His father is Ghanaian and his mother is Dutch. His parents separated when he was only four years old so he uses the name Memphis rather than his surname.

At the age of nine Memphis played for Sparta Rotterdam, then came the chance to move to a bigger club three years later in 2006. That club was PSV Eindhoven and he spent time working his way up through their system until he finally made his first team debut in September 2011. It was a Dutch cup match and the opponents were amateurs but all the same he marked his debut by scoring a double.

Memphis had to wait a little while longer to make his league debut which came in February 2012 when PSV beat rivals Feyenoord 3-2 at home.

At the end of the season, Memphis featured in the KNVB Cup final on 8 April 2012 which PSV won 3-0 against Heracles Almelo. Although not on the scoresheet Memphis had done enough to warrant a professional contract which he signed on the 29th of June 2012. It was a long-term contract that would keep him at PSV until 2017.

The following season proved to be his breakthrough season and one in which people took notice of this young Dutch talent. It was also the season that he broke into The Netherlands senior squad making his first full appearance in 2013 which would eventually lead onto the 2014 World Cup Finals in Brazil. Of course, the national team was coached by the future Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal.

In the 2013/14 season, Memphis made his European debut for his club and although PSV didn't end up qualifying for the group stages he had shown Europe a glimpse of his immense talents. For example, in their second group stage match in the Europa League, Memphis scored a stunning goal by curling the ball into the net from outside the area as PSV beat Chornomorets Odesa 2–0.

After a very successful 2014 World Cup, Memphis was linked to a number of clubs, including Manchester United. However, he stayed at PSV and for them thank heavens he did. His goal tally of 22 went a long way to securing the 22nd Dutch Championship for his club.

In was in the last month of the season that both PSV and Manchester United announced that they had reached an agreement with the player to move from Holland to England. The transfer would be official on June 1st. It was then that Louis van Gaal informed everybody the reasons behind pushing through the agreement. Memphis was hot property and someone had to make a move and quickly.

The player enjoyed an emotional farewell in front of his adoring PSV fans as he signed off with one of his trademark long-distance free kicks. A fitting way to end his career at the club.

Once the dust had settled Memphis spoke of his desire to play in the English Premier league and that it was his dream to play at Manchester United. He also cited the huge influence and no doubt the Dutch connection of Louis van Gaal behind his decision.

So what is in store for the United faithful next season? Well, Memphis is a speedy winger who enjoys taking on defenders and is certainly no lightweight, comfortable on the ball with both feet and of course as he has shown he has an eye for the goal, especially with free kicks. He has excelled in recent internationals for Holland including unwittingly scoring a goal with his face against the USA.

At 21 he has a long career ahead of him and I am sure that he will build on his undoubted talent under the guidance of Louis van Gaal and go on to have a bright future at Old Trafford and help the club to get back to winning trophies.

He left Holland as a champion let's hope he ends his first season at United the same way.

Good Luck Memphis.

Miles Dunton.

What next for United?

Once former United player Danny Welbeck latched onto the terrible back pass by Antonio Valencia and slotted it past David de Gea to knock Man United out of the FA Cup I started to wonder what lay ahead for the team this season and beyond.

Now that our last chance of silverware has gone United are now locked in a fight to finish in the all-important top four of the Premier League to gain a place in the lucrative Champions League, failure to do so would mean yet another season out of the European elite competition and even worse United could qualify to play in the dreaded Europa League every Thursday night.

Let's take stock of our current position, out of both cup competitions and fourth in the league and looking ahead to the remaining Premier League fixtures it doesn't fill me with confidence the way we have been playing with Spurs, City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal still to play it would take another unbeaten run to come through all those fixtures unscathed.

At the beginning of the season, the manager banged on about his 'Philosophy' which I'm sure like myself most people and the players are still trying to get their heads around. What exactly was his plan and what formation suits the team better because I really believe he doesn't know himself.

Since August, we have witnessed differing setups including his favoured 3-5-2 but more recently he reverted back to the fans favourite 4-4-2. Neither of which have been played with any confidence by the team and the lack of attacking play, which we have been used to down the years and I'm not only talking about the Fergie era, has lacked any conviction and flair.

The manager doesn't seem to know what his best starting eleven is and has changed the line-up too frequently leaving players to sit on the bench for long periods of time. It started with Januzaj then Herrera and now it's Mata's turn to wonder what they have to do to play regularly.

Januzaj's position I can understand as he is still in the learning curve but Herrera and Mata are experienced players that would walk into other sides, and maybe they will in the summer.

Another point about the manager is the way he comes over in the press conferences. Alex Ferguson was a master of manipulating the press and enjoyed total control in the meetings, even though that riled the journalists he still had their respect. The problem with LvG is that he comes over as a stubborn individual who has a total disrespect for the press and treats their questions as a personal attack on himself.

Louis van Gaal was a very animated figure at the World Cup high fiving Robin van Persie but in the United dugout he is the complete opposite, he honestly looks bored. At Old Trafford, I understand it's a long way to the touchline from his seat but even so!

He has said that his relationship with the assistant manager Ryan Giggs is as good as ever, but I'm not so sure. I would like to hear more from Giggs on how he feels things are going.

Van Gaal has spoken of his distaste of back passing but obviously forgot to relay that message onto his defenders as so often this season we have conceded unnecessary goals or given more work to de Gea by playing the ball around at the back.

Speaking of the defenders they have been woeful this season and even the die hard fans, like myself, must be truly disappointed by the performances of the back line, Evans and Jones have to take the brunt of the blame and Smalling has had his moments of uncertainty.

In Blackett and McNair, we have two defenders for the future but you could see how quickly their confidence fell by playing alongside supposedly more experienced players.

When you see the players and manager in training or enjoying themselves out and about at various functions, including this week's Cheltenham Race Meeting, the team spirit can't be faulted but once they walk onto the pitch that all so important togetherness seems to disappear.

A lot of that is down to the captain but when Rooney was stuck in the midfield he found it hard to increase his own level of play let alone the others. Eventually, van Gaal saw sense and put Rooney back up front where he belongs, imagine how different the season could have been if Rooney had been used as a striker and banging in the goals instead of being wasted in the middle.

The six summer signings that gave all the supporters such optimism haven't really delivered on the promise mainly due to injury and lack of form. The biggest disappointments being the two big name deals Radamel Falcao and Angel di Maria.

Falcao is just not the same player he once was following his knee injury and Di Maria's confidence is at an all time low especially after his red card against Arsenal. It will take all of LvG's experience to dig Di Maria out of his hole.

Ander Herrera had been left out of the side for weeks then enjoyed a return to the starting team putting in some sterling performances and chipping in with the goals. The other signings,  Blind, Rojo and Shaw haven't let the side down too much but have missed crucial games due to various serious injuries.

Ashley Young has come back after his own injury layoff stronger and along with Fellaini has at least improved on last season. Fellaini has at last started to repay the money that Moyes spent on him but again he is another player being used out of position. In the defeat against Arsenal he played up front and the team began banging long balls up field with the hope that he could use his height advantage. That is not the United way and proved we missed the scoring talents of Robin van Persie.

There is no doubt about the player of the season David de Gea. From the very first match he has performed at a level that is way above his team mates and has become a world class keeper and with Real Madrid circling he needs to be tied down to a new contract sooner rather than later as later could be too late. On many occasions, the Spaniard has saved the points for United as the last line of defence. In the run of unbeaten games, it wasn't the goals that gave us the points it was his saves.

Through varying mistakes by the manager and players, we find ourselves once again unsure how the season will finish. Having said that I am a big fan of the manager, if not of some of his decisions, and believe the club can bounce back and will indeed make the last four but not without some more twists and turns before May.

However, come the end of the season I as many others, expect an overhaul of the team. Let's get rid off the players who are quite clearly not up to scratch and get really stuck into the transfer market for quality players with experience starting with the defence. If not, even if we do qualify for the Champions League with the current squad we could be out of it in the group stage.

In summary, in the last two months of the season I would like to see the players really lift their game and get that top four finish at any costs and for the manager to prove that he indeed is the best man for the job.

I'm sure in the end all will be well but it's how we are getting there that hurts.

Miles Dunton.

United lose it at The Liberty.

Swansea City 2 Manchester United 1

There was most definitely not a warm welcome in the valleys for the visit of United to the Liberty Stadium.

Swansea had of course inflicted defeat on Louis van Gaal's team in his first official game in charge at the beginning of the season at Old Trafford. This was a chance for United to gain revenge for that defeat and to consolidate third place in the Premier League. Going into the match the Reds had only suffered one defeat in nineteen matches and were also going well in the FA Cup.

The team selected by the manager to return to England with the three points comprised of: De Gea, McNair, Jones, Rojo, Shaw, Herrera, Blind, Di Maria, Fellaini, Rooney and Van Persie. The subs were: Mata, Falcao, Januzaj, Smalling, Young, Valencia and Valdes.

Van Gaal tinkered again at the back by making two changes from the side which beat Preston 3-1 in the FA Cup on Monday, Paddy McNair replacing Antonio Valencia at right-back and the fit-again Phil Jones came in for Chris Smalling in the centre of defence.

Wayne Rooney started as a striker in the league for the first time since December. Falcao was left on the bench as Robin van Persie was the preferred choice to partner Rooney up front.

As van Gaal had kept the captain in attack there was also a first start since December for Fellaini in midfield.

The first half started with an early foul by Fellaini who was either trying to stamp his authority on the game or just plain clumsy.

Rojo uncharacteristically gave an early ball away from which Routledge tried his luck, but the Argentinian defender righted his wrong by blocking the shot for a corner.

Swansea went close to taking an early lead but Ander Herrera just, and only just, cleared Gomis's header off the line. That was certainly an early let off for United and a warning for the visitors defence.

The stress on the United players started to show as Herrera lost his temper with Paddy McNair as a simple pass to the Irishman went out for a throw-in. It had been a bad start for United, how many times have we seen that this season.

10 minutes into the game there was another corner from Swansea and again poor marking from the visitors which allowed Gomis a free header which he totally wasted by heading over.

After patient passing from United, McNair won a free-kick on the right. Angel Di Maria lashed a ball into the middle which fell to van Persie, but the Dutchman fired so wildly from an acute angle that it went out for a throw-in on the other side of the pitch.

United's marking at the back was woeful, as was shown when Jones was nutmegged on the left then as the ball was crossed nobody was picking up Routledge who could only shoot weakly at goal which David de Gea saved easily.

Fellaini was walking a fine line with his niggling fouls, something that he had to be careful with.

Wayne Rooney started brightly with some fine one touch football around the opposition's box and nearly latched onto a nice ball at the near post from Di Maria.

At the other end, Phil Jones inexplicably gave away a corner, another example of how poor his has performed this season. Too many times this season United's play forward has been halted by passes that have ended up going backwards which has resulted in mistakes at the back.

On 26 minutes Robin van Persie had a good run to the byline and managed a cross which the keeper Fabianski reached before Rooney could get a foot to it, shortly afterward the Dutchman had a run and shot on goal, unfortunately, he sliced high and wide.

United finally started to turn the screw and it paid off in the 27th minute with some fantastic approach play down the left involving Fellaini, Shaw, Di Maria and Rooney that saw the ball fall to Ander Herrera who was lurking unmarked inside the penalty area. The Spaniard struck a right-footed shot into the bottom corner. That was his third goal from his last three starts in the side.

However, the joy didn't last long as Swansea drew level within a couple of minutes as Ki ended a move by flicking the ball past de Gea far too easily in the six yard area. A soft goal to concede so soon after taking the lead, which was down to a total lack of concentration in United's back four.

The majority of United's attacks were coming down the left with Shaw and Di Maria heavily involved in everything. Their endeavours, just before half-time, produced another corner from Rooney, which was played much too close to the keeper again. It should be noted that United have only scored from eleven set pieces all season.

Referee Neil Swarbrick eventually lost his patience with Fellaini, who finally received his yellow card after having conceded four free-kicks.

Half-time and it was all square at 1-1. More purpose was to be expected from the Red Devils in the second half. There were some fleeting glimpses of the old partnership between Rooney and van Persie coming together up front but not enough. However, it was good to see the captain back where he belongs.

At the beginning of the second half, United's first change saw Antonio Valencia replace McNair to add pace and experience to the right back position. Phil Jones began the half by picking up an early caution.

Ki almost grabbed his second from an identical move to Swansea's equaliser, but this time he was thwarted by de Gea. It was good to see Daley Blind lose his temper with Shaw as that's exactly what the defence needed, a kick up the backside. If van Gaal was an animated character he would have surely pulled out all his hair after what he was witnessing at the back.

A flurry of corners from United didn't really trouble the home defence as they easily cleared their lines. As the half settled down United once again enjoyed some nice passing moves across the pitch but lacking any penetration.

After 58 minutes, van Gaal had seen enough and substituted Luke Shaw for Ashley Young. A positive change which nearly paid off immediately with the subs first touch as he laid the ball into the path of Rooney who in turn touched the ball to van Persie whose shot hit the side netting.

You got the feeling that if the Reds could stay strong at the back the game was there for the taking with the speed of Valencia and Young out wide. Young especially was looking lively and putting in some decent crosses from the left.

Rojo headed over a corner when he really should have gone closer with his effort. Then a second corner caused confusion in the box as nobody quite knew where the ball was until the keeper dıved on top of it.

Van Persie came close after some stunning passing in midfield, but he just couldn't connect with his volley with any power.

With 20 minutes left in the match, United were in total control and were pushing for the winner as the away fans kept up their '99 Anthem.

Rooney had a shot blocked resulting in yet another United corner. Everything was going the visitors way, surely it was only a question of time before they found the breakthrough.

Then out of the blue disaster struck as Shelvey found himself unmarked 30 yards out and let fly with a deflected shot that flew past the wrong-footed David de Gea. It's not good to put the blame on a single player when the opposition score, but in this instance I feel I have to as Fellaini gave the ball away in the center circle and made no effort at all to chase down the ball after his mistake.

This is not the first time he has been guilty of this, but at least he didn't fall to the ground clutching his neck this time. After all their promising work, United found themselves chasing the game, not for the first time this season.

United's last change of the match came after 78 minutes when Di Maria, who had looked jaded in the second half, was replaced by Juan Mata.

Ashley Young was booked for what the referee deemed a dangerous challenge after 84 minutes.
Fellaini played the last 10 minutes as an out and out striker as van Persie struggled with an injury and as van Gaal had used up his three substitutes he had to struggle on.

United's fourth caution came after Rojo was booked for a debatable challenge on the keeper from a United free-kick in the last few minutes.

Every ball forward from United in the last ten minutes of the game was aimed long towards the head of Fellaini which would have pleased Big Sam, but today the tactic didn't pay off.

In the end, United had fallen to their first defeat since the home loss to Southampton, but full credit to Swansea, who have now done the double over United this season. The only positive to be taken from the loss is the man of the match performance of Ander Herrera, who once again fully justified the decision to start him. His clearance off the line in the end was futile, but his goal was well taken.

For Manchester United, this was a result which took the wind out of their sails and put more pressure on the challenge of finishing in the top four. Another toothless display from the United forwards who needed to convert the few chances that were created, and rarely did they ever look capable of doing that.

With the new philosophy and system being used by Louis van Gaal gone is the swashbuckling attacking style of old which has been replaced by a dour approach play that is far too predictable. Teams are simply not scared of United in the way they used to be, the fear factor has totally disappeared.

United desperately need a stable back four with players who can actually defend then we might have a chance at competing for the league again.

Next up is the visit to Old Trafford of Sunderland and a chance to put a run of victories together in the push for the Champions League places. It would be a disaster for the club to miss out on the competition for the second year running, but on this performance nothing is guaranteed. It is time for socks and sleeves to be pulled and rolled up collectively by the team.

Thanks for taking the time to read.

Miles Dunton.

Smalling is Man United's Head Boy

Manchester United 3 Burnley 1

Much criticised defender Smalling turned hero against Burnley with two goals to put a shine on another low key display by United.

After the poor showing against West Ham at the weekend, it was a quick return to action for United and a chance to get back on track with the visit of Lancashire rivals Burnley. The first meeting between the two sides ended 0-0 earlier in the season.

Louis van Gaal had an interesting pre-match press conference trying to debunk accusations of a 'long ball' syndrome by providing evidence to the contrary. His well-known stubbornness came to the fore as he got his point over to the watching world. That same stubbornness showed itself again as his team was announced: De Gea, McNair, Jones, Evans, Rojo, Blind, Rooney, Januzaj, Di Maria, van Persie and Falcao.

Once more no place for Herrera in the starting XI, his last start was back on the 2nd of December. Rooney would continue in his midfield role, Januzaj was given yet another start even after some mediocre performances of late and van Persie would be partnered by Falcao a partnership that hasn't exactly had the pulses racing of late.

Subs: Mata, Smalling, Herrera, Valencia, Fellaini, Valdes and Wilson.

The match kicked off in front of the visiting Glazer owners who made a rare outing to watch their team play.

It was Burnley who started well with ex-red Michael Keane heading over at the near post after not being picked up by Jones. At the other end, Paddy McNair had a powerful shot from outside the box which was well saved by keeper Tom Heaton.

Within a few minutes of the match starting Phil Jones had to be replaced by Chris Smalling. This change provided the first breakthrough in the match as in the 5th minute Smalling opened the scoring from a corner with his first touch since coming on as a sub. The corner was lofted into the box and after a little bit of head tennis, involving Falcao, the ball was headed in by Smalling who managed to jump above the rest to get a good contact on the ball. Great start from United.

However in the 11th minute Smalling went from hero to zero as Burnley striker Danny Ings managed to evade his marker Smalling too easily to head in a cross from the right. After his heroics in putting United ahead Smalling reverted to his normal game in allowing Ings to get away from him as he was ball watching.

The goal gave Burnley the confidence to attack and after poor clearances from Evans and Smalling they earned a flurry of corners.

After 20 minutes, it was really poor quality from United clearly they are not learning from their past mistakes and the two center backs are a disaster together. When Rooney was nutmegged that summed up United's night so far.

Blind went down with a knock to his head, which some of our other players needed to knock some sense into them. The Dutchman had to leave the field for a few minutes so the doctors could assess the damage.

On 26 minutes, Di Maria was brought down at full pace on his way to the Burnley box. However, from the free-kick taken by Rooney nothing materialised.

In the first half hour United had been completely outplayed by a Burnley side lying second to the bottom of the league at Old Trafford, something was obviously not right.

Blind came back onto the pitch but after a while it was obvious he could not continue and he was replaced by Herrera in the 37th minute.

How embarrassing it was to hear the away fans cheering every pass their team made.

Then as the half entered the 47th minute it was 2-1 to United totally against the run of play. A short corner between Di Maria and Rooney was eventually crossed to the far post by Di Maria where Chris Smalling was waiting to head in his second of the night. At that moment, he had made up for his mistake for the Burnley goal.

Half time United led 2-1 although it was still a very disappointing performance yet again from the Red Devils who were totally outplayed by the visitors. Lucky to have gone in at half time leading but it couldn't hide the fact that more organisation was needed for the second half. Louis van gaal had his job cut out at half time. The forwards were receiving absolutely no service therefore not a single chance on goal.

The second half got underway with no further changes from United who only had one more substitution to make. Di Maria started brightly on the right managing to get past the defender and get in some crosses. But once again a mistake almost let the visitors back into the game when Smalling and Herrera combined to give Ing a chance on goal which de Gea did well to save then the Burnley striker blasted the rebound over, good chance for the visitors but again United's keeper came to the rescue.

Falcao was so poor that with every 50-50 challenge he was easily barged off the ball showing no conviction at all in his play. Surely it wouldn't be long until he was replaced by either Fellaini or Wilson.

At last Januzaj, who had been relatively quiet, had a positive run and shot which he hit well, but keeper Heaton saved well. On the hour mark, you still got the feeling even leading 2-1 United were in no way guaranteed the three points as Burnley still kept pressing and taking advantage of the home teams uneasiness.

United's first yellow card was given to Rooney on 59 minutes shortly after that Di Maria tumbled in the penalty area after swerving this way and that way but referee Friend didn't see any offence and waved play on.

The pacey Argentinian, Di Maria, was the one player in the United side who at least tried to conjure up something, but even he was guilty of some rather poor finishing.

On 68 minutes, Falcao was the second United player to be booked, which basically was his last contribution as he was replaced by James Wilson in the 73 minute. Falcao left the field with shouts from the visiting fans ringing in his ears of "What a waste of money." To be honest on this ineffective display, there was some truth in that. 4 goals in 18 matches is not up to his impressive standard.

At the time Falcao departed we were still awaiting a shot on or off target from United's two strikers.
Di Maria sent a cross over as United attacked at pace with four on three, but his cross was cleared by defender Trippier for a corner.

Then in the 82 minute Di maria earned reward for his persistence as he went on another of his runs and was brought down in the penalty area. Up stepped Rooney but it was Robin van Persie who was given the responsibility to score United's first spot kick this season with his first shot of the night. The penalty was United's first in the Premier league since last April. Game over.

Wilson was the third player into Field's notebook as he was booked towards the end of the 90 minutes and he would be joined by Di Maria. United went searching for a fourth goal and there was a mad scramble in the Burnley box as both Di Maria and Januzaj had efforts cleared, one of them off the line. There was still time for one last chance for Wilson to score, but his shot found the side netting.

The match ended in a flattering scoreline of 3-1 to United but a win is a win and a valuable three points had been gained. The fact that Burnley won more corners than the home team told a story that it was not as easy as the scoreline indicated.

Evans and Smalling are proof that we should have strengthened the defence in January. I hope we can get through the rest of the season with that pair.

Van Gaal persists with Januzaj even though he has had no impact on games in which he's been involved. He needs to be taken out of the limelight for his own good or his confidence will suffer greatly.

Rooney was the name on everyone's lips this week. The debate on his best position filled the web site pages and United forums debating whether van Gaal should move him to his striker position or persevere with him in midfield.

Statistics don't lie and in a season where the side has struggled for goals, one fact remains true and that is Rooney has only contributed with 8 goals in 22 matches. Of course, this is due to his deeper position in the middle of the park. My opinion is that he is a natural goalscorer and not a midfielder and that's where he should play.

Paul Scholes had the ability to make the switch with ease, but Rooney doesn't have that style of play in his locker. He is a striker and, therefore, his talent is being wasted. Robin van Persie and Falcao are not gelling as a partnership and in the last three months of the season it's goals we need, and quickly. We have Fellaini, Herrera and when fit Carrick who are more than capable of playing in the captain's position, after all that's why the club bought them.

Next up is a visit to another Lancashire side in the 5th round of the FA Cup as United make the short journey to play Preston at Deepdale. If the team has any chance of winning something come May this is it. I predict another tough match but United will progress.

Thanks for taking the time to read my thoughts.

Miles Dunton.

Man United replay joy.

Manchester United 3 Cambridge United 0

After the anti-climax of the transfer deadline day it was back down to business with the visit of Cambridge United in the 4th round FA Cup replay.

Following United's disappointing performance in the first match it was time they stamped their authority on a tie that they should have settled first time around.

For the visitors it was a no lose situation as they expected a financial windfall from their well earned replay. The Cambridge players were certainly enjoying their final as they took 'selfies' from inside Old Trafford before the match.

Louis van Gaal showed his intent by choosing a strong line up made up of De Gea, McNair, Smalling, Evans, Rojo, Blind, Fellaini, Mata, Rooney, Di Maria and Van Persie. Interestingly van Gaal seemed to have chosen his tallest players, excluding Mata, to counter the height advantage in the opposition.

Fellaini would be used up front alongside van Persie but once again there was no starting place for Ander Herrera who was joined on the bench by Valdes, Jones, Falcao, Young, Valencia and Wilson. Herrera's omission once again sparked debates between fans as to why he had been overlooked again.

The kick off was delayed for 20 minutes due to heavy traffic but when it did start it was almost a dream beginning for the lowest ranked team left in the competition. Elliott hit the outside of the post after only 1 minute following an uncharacteristic mistake in midfield by Blind who stumbled while attempting a back pass.

Elliott was winning all the early balls knocked up to him as Cambridge started full of confidence and were clearly enjoying their big night out.

It took United ten minutes to get into their stride and to start to make in roads into the visitors defence mainly via Di Maria from the inside left position and youngster Paddy McNair filling in as wing back on the right. Fellaini, playing in a forward position, utilised his height to great effect when balls were played up front.

United got the breakthrough their play deserved after 25 minutes following good work by McNair who brought the ball out of defence then fed a fine pass to Di Maria out on the left. Di Maria in turn lofted the ball to the far post where Fellaini rose to head the ball back into the penalty area for Mata to pounce and flick the ball home. 1-0 ahead after an excellent move with Fellaini using his height to great effect.

Mata almost grabbed his and United's second but miss hit his shot which then rebounded out to McNair who fancied his chances from outside the box. He connected well with the ball but his shot was well blocked for a corner.

On the half hour mark defender Marcos Rojo claimed his first goal as a United player by heading in a wonderful chip into the box by Robin van Persie after he had collected the ball from Fellaini's attempted shot. The way van Persie dinked the ball onto Rojo's head with the outside of his left boot was sublime.

By this time Fellaini was causing all sorts of problems for the Cambridge defence with his presence inside their box. At 2-0 the tie was virtually over and it became a damage limitation exercise for the away side. However, to their credit they kept going and Donaldson had a shot across goal when he should have done better.

Chris Smalling provided a rare moment of class with a superb through ball for Di Maria but as quick as the Argentinian was the keeper managed to get to the ball before him on the edge of the box. On another break forward Di Maria played a great weighted cross field ball aimed for Rooney who met it on the volley but fired well off target.

Half time and so far so good from United. It was refreshing to see the team using the wide areas when on the attack, something that has been lacking in recent games. Di Maria is so much more effective out on the left, as he proved in the first 45 minutes in this match. Paddy McNair was also putting in a mature performance as the right sided wing back.

At the start of the second half Rojo's debut goal had clearly gone to his head as he ventured forward down the left and attempted two crosses which both ended up way too high and behind the goal. At least he was trying. McNair was making a better go at crossing than Rojo with one nice cross to van Persie who headed wide.

The Dutch striker had a chance again after a lovely ball over the top this time from Mata, but was disappointed with his weak header. After 53 minutes Rooney had a shot well saved by keeper Dunn, as the ball spilled out van Persie just couldn't tidy up the leftovers.

The fans enjoyed seeing the tricks and flicks on show by van Persie and Di Maria, the latter trying hard to score direct from every corner he took. You got the feeling as though it was not going to be van Persie's night and so did van Gaal who replaced him with James Wilson on 66 minutes. The striker headed straight down the tunnel, maybe he had a prior arrangement that he was desperate to get to.

Two minutes later Di Maria had a powerful effort pushed over the bar by the keeper for a corner. If it wasn't for Dunn in the visitors goal the score would have been a lot higher. That was the last action for Di Maria as in the 70th minute he was replaced by Ander Herrera. The midfielder got his chance to impress the manager, who for some reason doesn't seem that enamoured by the Spaniard.

United's third and final goal came in the 73 minute through James Wilson with a fine left footed strike from just outside the box. A well taken goal from a player who is growing in confidence with every game. It was a shame RvP wasn't there to see it.

Another youngster who was having the match of his career playing down the right was Paddy McNair. He continually delivered some fine balls into the danger area especially to Rooney who unfortunately couldn't take full advantage.

The last change of the night for United was the substitution of Rojo for Ashley Young who came on to make his 100th appearance for the Red Devils after being out injured.There was still time in the match for Smalling to make a customary mistake and give the ball away in a dangerous area, which thankfully led to nothing.

The visiting Cambridge supporters kept on singing until the end and nearly got their reward as the visitors had the last effort at the death.

The match ended with a 3-0 win for the home side who in the end were too organised and purposeful and fully deserved their win with quality performances from most of the players against opposition that would not lie down. They will now face Preston in the 5th round at Deepdale.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish Darren Fletcher all the best for his future after leaving United to join WBA after almost twenty years on United's books. A true gentleman of the game and one of the most generous personalities in football. On the same day Anderson returned to his native Brazil and Fergie's last signing Zaha rejoined Crystal Palace. The only player in was on loan defender Andy Kellett from Bolton.

Before United face West Ham over the weekend it will be a time for reflection on Friday the 6th as it will be the 57th anniversary of the Munich air disaster in which our club, country and football lost the majority of a team that was on the brink of European glory, a team made up of young men who were doing something that they fully enjoyed, playing football. There can be no bigger incentive for the present team to qualify for a competition that half a century ago the pioneers gave their lives for.

The Flowers of Manchester. Never forgotten.

Roger Byrne, Mark Jones, Eddie Colman, Tommy Taylor, Liam Whelan, David Pegg, Geoff Bent and Duncan Edwards.

Thanks for reading my thoughts.

Miles Dunton.