David Moyes has praised Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic, claiming that he is deserving of as much praise as strikers Wayne Rooney and Robin Van Persie.
Vidic’s history of injuries proved a major concern and with Rio Ferdinand getting older, United were understandably linked with a number of defenders in the summer.
A cruciate ligament injury in December 2011 saw Vidic miss the rest of the 2011/2012 season and whilst he returned last term (looking like during his return to training he’d forgotten the protein shakes!), he spent large spells of the campaign on the sideline after undergoing further knee surgery last September.
United managed Vidic, selective in their use of the club captain, and it was felt that he had turned the corner but this summer he missed United’s pre season tour with sciatica.
The problem proved to be a minor one and the Serbian has returned to full fitness, starting every game for United this season and United have benefitted from his presence alongside Rio Ferdinand.
With his injury history and age a concern, some have questioned United’s intention to offer the 31 year old a new deal but Moyes feels that his level of performance this season merits an extension to his current deal:
“It is something I have not discussed with the chief executive yet but Vida’s form at the moment would suggest he is well worthy of that.
“Probably his injuries have been the reason why you might have to look at it, so the big thing is to see how he goes.
“But his form has been very good. We just need to hope he gets through and doesn’t pick up any more injuries.
“A lot of attention has been taken by the form of Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie but defensively, we have done really well and Vida has been excellent.
“I have worked with some really good central defenders. But I have got to say, in the short time I have been here, Vida has been as good as there is.”
Vidic has been at Old Trafford for 7 years now, and with no lingering worries in regards to his fitness a new deal seem likely.
Despite time on the sidelines, United’s captain has shown he is still amongst the finest defenders in Europe and the team seems more assured with him in it.
Vidic has being neat since the new season began, he has been impressing and pressing. His injuries last season have blessed him with high pleasant form this term, please, he deserves a new sweet contract #OT.