Anderson stepping up to the plate for Manchester United
In the absence of Paul Scholes, someone from the Manchester United midfield had to step up to the plate and Andersen did so in the last couple of games, before last night's game against Valencia in the Champions League. Anderson had only scored one goal
for his side but last night, he got the goal that ensured United qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League as group winners.
The Brazilian midfielder has been blowing hot and cold in the Red of United but his crucial goal for United last night has earned him heaps of praise from all corners. It was a crucial equalizer that ensured his side will be seeded for the draw next Friday.
Although, his goal was nothing special but it was enough to earn his side a place in the last 16, but more than the goal it was his performance from the middle of the park that ran the show for United.
When Manchester United bought Andersen a few years back, he was touted to be the next Scholes but so far he had failed to live up to the expectations but in recent games, he has been showing that he has what it takes to become the lynchpin of United midfield.
Andersen started last night in a 4-man midfield alongside Park, Nani and Carrick and it was the manner in which he carried himself in the game that has earned him the praise of his manager and peers.
His first involvement in the game was a one-two with Wanye Rooney at the edge of the box that the Brazilian failed to convert when he shot straight at the keeper but his commanding performance from the middle of the park saw him getting on the end of sweeping
move that saw Park Ji Sung’s shot parried off by the goal keeper only in the path of the Brazilian to slot home.
Manchester United have missed a midfield commander and with Paul Scholes suffering a setback in training before the game, it was up to Carrick and Andersen to carry the mantle and they both did so with masterful ease last night.
Carrick was responsible for giving the ball away that resulted in the first goal of the night and it was the first time that United’s defence had been breached in the competition but United refused to die down and got back level in the game late in the second
half.
With the equalizer, United have made sure that they will avoid Real Madrid and Barcelona in the next round but they can still be pitted against the holders Inter Milan, who finished second in group A behind Tottenham.
But, United will hold no fear as they have a midfield that is playing at its best and with Wayne Rooney also coming back to his best; it may take some stopping United in this year’s competition.
Manchester United are now through to the last 16 and its all credit to their dogged defending and some disciplined play from their midfielder that has seen them concede just one goal in this year’s competition.
Next up for United is a home game against Arsenal in the English Premier League and with Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand doubts with injuries, the onus will again be on youngsters to carry the burden of creative play on their shoulders.
Nani and Andersen will again have to step up to the plate if they are to reclaim the top spot in the league, which they can with a win over Arsenal on Monday.
United are currently just one point behind leaders Arsenal but have a game in hand.
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