Anthony Smith

A proper reality check. Let’s all feel sorry for the footballers not playing but earning £200k a week.

United have had months of conversations over a new contract, planned with Kobbie in the midfield for summer, let Collyer leave on loan, bought 3 forwards, have only 4 midfielders with one that is 33 and in the final year. With a view to Kobbie replacing Bruno in the long term, knowing Bruno could or likely will leave after next season. If the situation with Kobbie has changed with United considering to sell after just 2 games, with 5 days left in the window, that would represent catastrophic levels of reaction and poor planning. I haven't seen that level of disarray this summer, so I just don't believe it will. Would be massively pissed if it were to happen, but again would represent a VERY big departure from the way they've dealt with the squad/window this summer, and I doubt it.

@botwpablo @johnaokane I think we both agree none of it is ideal at the moment, and things need to start getting better quickly, otherwise Ruben is going to be under some intense pressure over the next few weeks. Let’s hope for a decent signing or two this week 🤞

@antsmithsol @johnaokane I agree with both of those observations.

@botwpablo @johnaokane This is why we are desperate for a beast in the middle of the park, because we currently don’t have one. Casemiro’s legs have gone. Ugarte not good enough.

@antsmithsol @johnaokane The system which is so rigid that Fulham knew had to play against it after 15 mins (with a few tweaks!) - a system which threw up 2 defenders to try and score a winner with 5 minutes to go.

@botwpablo @johnaokane Yes. The rigidity of it means some players just won’t fit in; which possibly includes Mainoo. We’re a midfielder down from the old system, so you can’t get away with the luxury of 2 attack minded players as it leaves us exposed, hence why I keep saying we need legs in there.

@botwpablo @johnaokane Correct - but we’re now playing a different system where you need legs (which he doesn’t have). I don’t dispute Mainoo is an excellent player. I also don’t dispute he would flourish elsewhere. But in THIS system, he needs to play alongside an athlete who does have legs.

@antsmithsol @johnaokane I disagree. Mainoo didn't play next to an athlete when we won the FA Cup or in most matches in which he shone.

@botwpablo @johnaokane No issue with that observation. I tend to agree. But my point is with the assumption that Mainoo should be / deserves to be playing. The only way Mainoo fits into this system is alongside an athlete in the middle, hence the links to Baleba. If not, he’s about as useful as Bruno.

@antsmithsol @johnaokane Bruno is a square peg in a round hole, Anthony. Ask yourself why Bruno is being played out of position and stays on the pitch regardless of how poor he plays.

@johnaokane And for what it’s worth, I agree with you on Bruno. I don’t like him in the deeper role. If there’s £100m on the table, I’d be happy to cash in this summer.

@johnaokane I think you’re over exaggerating. It isn’t an insult. It’s about keeping players on their toes and making clear there is competition in a season where we play once a week. If you’re good enough (which he is), you’re old enough to be told what the position is.

@CantonaManc Out of interest, apart from the first 5 minutes, what positives are you taking?

Some positives to take, but disappointing overall. Those subs flatlined us, Ugarte is a tempo killer.

Re: Šeško The deal isn’t over the line just yet, but if Šeško does end up at Manchester United, credit has to go to the club for their strategy. It’s a clear reminder of the pulling power and global appeal that still comes with the Manchester United name. As someone who played for Boro- Newcastle’s local rival- I have to say Newcastle also have a lot going for them: a world-class manager, a brilliant stadium with a great atmosphere, and Champions League football. There’s plenty to admire there too. But if Šeško chooses United, it speaks volumes. - History still matters. - United have tracked him for years. - And regardless of league position, wearing that crest still means something- it’s one of the biggest clubs in world football.

Can tell the season ticket deadline is looming 😏

Manchester is Red, always has been, always will be. 🇾🇪🇾🇪🇾🇪

@mikechad86 @bard4lfc He’s lying mate, I don’t want him gone 🤣

Richardson Lissack was instructed to act for the first defendant who had been charged with Conspiracy to Defraud, along with 8 other defendants, following a 5-year investigation. #RichardsonLissack

Most iconic moment of the year🤣🤣🤣

The Glazers/This club have never wanted a sporting director as the sport comes second to their dividends and profits, no wonder its gone tits up the minute we appoint one!! Its ALL about money and profits under them cunts, and old lanky Jim isnt coming across much better 🖕🏻🇾🇪

Shit show of a club 😤

Just call him the Mauled Fraud