It isn’t a coincidence that Manchester United look solid at the back when Nemenja Vidic is fully fit.
Following his injury against Basle in December of 2011 which ruled him out for the rest of that campaign, many wondered if he would return as the same player.
Had he lost a yard of pace? According to an Arsenal fan I know, Vidic looks “small and skinny” in comparison to the beast we once knew.
Rumours had even circulated that he would be sold for big bucks to a Russian side…. I don’t think Sir Alex would want to risk another Jaap Stam type mistake all over again.
The performance against Everton at Old Trafford yesterday proved his is still the best in the business.
Losing Nemanja Vidic last season was on a even par with losing Roy Keane back in the 97/98 campaign. Not only do you lose a great footballer, but you lose the rock of the team and the guy who rallies the troops.
We can all appreciate Manchester United is a club full of captains, leaders and experienced professionals – but Vidic, like Keane, Cantona and Robson, leads from the front line.
He is not all about barking orders – but more that his performances inspire others to give everything to the cause.
Everton are a very good football team and up until yesterday had only lost three games in the Premier League.
Following a victory over United in August and a well fought 4-4 draw last April, they fancied their chances in a physical battle.
United expected a tough game and matched Everton man for man in every area across the park.
Phil Jones done an outstanding job on the usually dangerous Marouane Fellaini.
Tom Cleverley and Ryan Giggs controlled the midfield which at times was a pleasure to watch both ends of the experience scale work in tandem.
Wayne Rooney did not manage to maintain his fine goal scoring form – but he did put in an exceptional performance against his old side.
For me, Nemanja Vidic was the outstanding player once again and demonstrated how vital a player he remains to this Manchester United side.
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