Sunderland vs Man Utd: 5 Changes Moyes Must Make After Appalling West Brom Defeat

5. Stop Criticising The Players

Personally, I have been reasonably supportive of the new managers start, he showed admirable strength in the Rooney Saga, he showed ambition (albeit misguided) in the transfer window and he showed bravery by appointing his own staff members against popular opinion. His media handling abilities however, leave something to be desired. Problems within the club should be dealt with within the club. Saying that Manchester United lack world class players, whilst evident, is completely the wrong approach. Criticising the players effort, a la Mourinho, is acceptable, but questioning the players actual abilities is an amateurish and unforgivable move. Commentating on the ability of the squad is not the same as commentating on a poor performance or a lack of effort. It is something that will not change, Moyes has to believe in these players otherwise he risks undermining their own confidence. Wingers and attacking players are creatures of confidence, as seen by Nani's fear of Ronaldo's shadow and Valencia rejecting the number 7 shirt for another season, Moyes comments will not instill the necessary confidence that is in order to make these players flourish. Moyes, by being so negative is undermining his position as the boss of Manchester United. As the manager, his job is to absorb criticism, allowing his players to play without the worries of press negativity. Moyes needs to show strength in this role, he needs to be positive. A positive attitude will draw the criticism towards him and away from the players.