Manchester United’s defensive problems were exposed once again in the 3-2 win against Braga in the Champions League. Here is an alternative back four to the one that played, made up of injured and rested players.
Phil Jones
Phil Jones is arguably the most versatile defender that Manchester United have at their disposal. Jones can play in any position across the back four as well as defensively in the midfield. He is a much more disciplined alternative to Rafael who was caught out for both of Braga’s goals in the Champions League tie. Jones also has more of a physical presence which United have clearly been lacking so far this season. He is reliable and gives everything regardless of where he plays, he is also capable of some fantastic forward runs.
Nemanja Vidic
United had to cope for a large part of last season without their captain and it’s more of the same at the moment. Vidic is the leader, the aggressive defender, the defender who likes to take control and ensure that his defence isn’t dominated. Vidic will be key in helping the United defence to stay close together when he returns. He will also be key in making sure that United don’t drop too deep as a side which was the case for Braga’s first goal when David De Gea had no time to react to the header.
Chris Smalling
Chris Smalling as another of the younger players at the club who has an enormous amount of talent. His best attribute is his pace which allows him to compete against the quickest strikers in the Premier League and Europe. Like Vidic and Rio Ferdinand, he is also quite tall which is important for a centre back looking to dominate a striker. Smalling can also switch and play out at right back and he has made one or two appearances at left back so his versatility is also a key asset.
Patrice Evra
Patrice Evra is one of the most experienced players at the club and that experience was missing in the match against Braga. Evra has been at fault a lot this season due to his lack of pace when getting back into the defensive line. However, when he is in position he is one of the most difficult defenders to get the better of. It is an odds on certainty that he will return to the back four for the Premier League clash against Chelsea because he will be vital in ensuring the back four stays tight and close to the midfield so there isn’t a lot of space for Chelsea to exploit.
You can also throw Rio Ferdinand into the mix who is at his best when he’s playing next to Vidic in the centre back position. Ferdinand will always get picked over Smalling or Jones because of his experience.
Who do you think should be in Manchester United’s best defense?
image: © nasmac
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