4. Defensive Frailties
It has been well documented over the past few seasons that Manchester United have had problems with their defence causing them to often leak goals at crucial times. One incident that immediately springs to mind was the
6-1 home defeat to local rivals Manchester City in 2011. Although this was an anomaly it still highlights the frailties that have frequently been exposed by opposing teams. The problems they have faced are in no small part down to injuries meaning rotation was frequent. Vidic has had a turbulent few seasons and found himself in and out of the squad with various niggles and knocks. Ferdinand has had similar issues, meaning youngsters such as Rafael often had to play week in week out. Although they are good players, defenders such as Rafael and Smalling are in my opinion not good enough to play for the title holders each week. However, being thrust in at the deep end they have gained experience and now look much more ready to compete at the top level of world football. Added to this, Vidic has had a solid pre season and looks as though he finally has control over his injuries. The Swansea defence, led by their captain Ashley Williams, once again looks solid. They have strengthened their lines with signings such as young centre back,
Jordi Amat, from Espanyol. They will leak goals as only a modestly financed club could, however Williams is an excellent captain and man-manager and I would expect him to control the defence well. The question still remains, however, can any Premier League defence stop and on-form Robin van Persie?