Manchester United's John O Shea hopes for injury free season
Manchester United had a rare difficult season in the Premier League as they were without many of their first-team defenders. The side is known as one of the best medically fit squads in England but they had a rare injury plagued season last year. Many of
the United’s first-team defenders were out injured during what was termed as a “Dark December” and United struggled to win.
The Red Devils lost two matches out of their six, when they lost 1-0 to Aston Villa at home while a devastating 3-0 debacle at Craven Cottage. Midfielders Fletcher and Carrick had to play as make shift defenders as Vidic, Ferdinand and O Shea were injured.
Had those losses not occurred, United may well have been the Premier League Champions, as they finished second to Chelsea, with only a single point separating both sides.
Sir Alex Ferguson had a lot of headaches regarding his defence-line as seven of his defenders faced injuries and therefore were unavailable for selection. Even Jonny Evans, Rafael, Wes Brown and Fabio had troubles with their fitness, which may have been
one of the major reasons behind United’s seven losses.
Manchester United were also without their veteran goal keeper, Edwin Van Der Sar and thus had to settle for a second or third choice keeper. Only Patrice Evra played a full season as well as the most minutes for United.
Owing to this helplessness, Sir Alex had to deploy Carrick and Fletcher at the back. They both did a commendable effort although they were inexperienced in that position.
John O Shea commented, saying that Red Devils hope to avoid injuries in the upcoming season as this was the first time that so many defenders got injured at the same time.
The 29-year-old praised his team’s ability to still end up second and just one point behind the champions. "But, we still got so close to retaining the title - only a few lapses of concentration let us down in the end. Now, we are all hungry to succeed again."
John O Shea is one of the many home grown players of Manchester United. Having already played over 350 matches for his side, he aims to end up like Scholes, Giggs and Neville, who all enjoyed long careers at the club.
O Shea is a talented performer who has the ability to play almost anywhere. He also played as a striker in the 2007/08 season and thus has become one of the few players who have played in every position for United.
He has so far scored 15 goals for his side, which have been a great contribution. His goals have come at some crucial times and therefore, he has been a main stay in the Red Devils' success.
John can also play as a centre back and full back apart from playing as a defensive midfielder. He has good aerial ability, which enables him to defend in the air, as well as, have a shot at the goal, using his head.
All this has earned him a starting XI spot at United. United currently aim for a record 19th Premier League title as they are tied on 18 titles each with Liverpool.
The careers of long serving players such as Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville are coming to an end, while manager Sir Alex Ferguson is also closing on his retirement. So, 2010/11 season would be a crucial one for Red Devils, who aim to lift the Premier
League Cup one more time.
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