Quote:
Originally Posted by My Name is Keith
Tough one that because there hasn't been many if any stand out performances which I think is the point you want to make. But our all round general performances have been much improved over a sustained period within each match. We've moved the ball more quickly, we've shown more attacking intent, created a zillion more chances and have been stronger in defence. That's before we mention man management and of Rooney in particular.
We played well against arsenal I thought - completely nullified them but could only draw.
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So struggled in the big games and no really standout performances otherwise either?
In all seriousness I agree in the Rooney point. One of the two major squad/structural things I think Mourinho has done (getting Pogba the other) is to take the team away from Rooney. Before Bunks and Believe spark me out, that doesn't mean he has to leave the club or cannot start any more games, but his role had to be reduced. Right up until Wembley last May, it was Rooney's team.
We know from listening to Wazza that he fully intended that his last three years of contract would see him fall back into a midfield position. He was practically forcing that on the manager last year. Mourinho killing that stone dead with his pre-season declarations that this was out of the question, and his subsequent gradual reduction of Rooney's participation, has been extremely well done.
I got the sense there was a little early check for Carrick, too. Very much taking down the old guard and making Zlat and Pogba the new big personalities. He's managed those situations expertly. Now when you think of the leaders of the side, they're Mou's boys.