The transfer window closed with a fizzle rather than a bang for United after many thought a midfielder would be brought in. Now that is out of the way the only thing that is left is naming our squad of 25 for the season ahead.
Although not as exciting as the ifs and maybes of the transfer window, by 5pm we will have the answer to a different sort of question and possibly one far more interesting than who we could be signing.
It’s been nearly 2 months since we first learned that Owen Hargreaves had suffered a relapse regarding the tendinitis in his knees and would not be joining the rest of the team on tour in the States. Since disappearing during the 1-1 draw with Chelsea in September 2009, Hargreaves has played just 46 minutes (45 in a reserve game against Burnley and a 60 second cameo against Sunderland) leading many to write him off. As a player who initially looked a bargain many feel he hasn’t quite repaid the £17m we paid to secure his services despite the role he played in the team’s double success in 08.
There are a section that feel he can and will return and the fact we didn’t sign a midfielder during this window is an indicator that he may be back sooner than we think but Sir Alex himself has confessed he doesn’t know when exactly Hargreaves will be back although this could be more smoke and mirrors from one of the game’s sharpest minds.
Hargreaves’ contract expires in the summer and if he has any hopes of getting an extension he will need to be included in the 25 man squad. If not he may be reduced to reserve and Carling Cup games between now and January (assuming he is actually fit to play before January!)
Including Hargreaves wouldn’t mean another player misses out as there is enough space but contrary to some belief, Sir Alex isn’t a man for false sentiment and if Owen isn’t anywhere near fitness I don’t expect Fergie to stroke his ego by including.
Lets hope that Sir Alex does actually have an ace up his sleeve in the form of a fit Hargreaves otherwise that 60 second appearance against Sunderland could have been the last time the curly haired one appears in a United kit, or worse on a football field full stop.
we still good enough win our title back, sir alex knew what we needed and went out and got it in 3 very promising kids, we alright for the season and ready to chase trophies to the end…ppl whining are pathetic and selfish, we didnt need ppl like flopzil os vdv, you fans wanted them, united have the perfect blend of youth and talent to challenge and win a major honour.
Correction, Believe. 4 very promising kids. We also signed Marnick Vermijl from Standard Liege.
Will still be pissed off if Hargreaves isn’t in the 25-man squad though, Fergie knows damn well we need another midfielder, and even more so if Hargo isn’t involved.