Five Things We Learned From The Marseille Game

There is a lack of belief in Berbatov

Many will have been surprised at the lack of inclusion of Dimitar Berbatov, with Hernandez being the preferred option to partner Rooney, and Berbatov having to be content with a place on the substitute bench. This has been happening quite often of late, and may signify that when an attacking set up is required, or a greater sense of urgency is brought into the game, that the confidence in Berbatov to deliver when it matters is somewhat lacking.

It would be foolish to question the logic behind the decision as it clearly paid off, with Hernandez scoring both goals and ultimately leaving him surplus to requirements on the night, particularly when one considers the fact that his scoring record is less than stellar in the Champion’s League and is currently going through a scoring drought. But one also must consider the fact that players like Berbatov are at their best riding a wave of confidence and belief, and the consequences of being left out at crucial times like this remain to be seen.

Darren Fletcher was missed

I am aware that Scholes and Giggs provided quality performances that once again defied the twilight years of their careers, providing moments of real quality in producing United’s attacking threat with various showcases of skill and mastery. However, I felt that the absence of Darren Fletcher meant a commanding presence of a defensive minded midfielder would also have helped to break up play and halt Marseille in their tracks and prevent them taking control of the midfield. This is the sort of game that Fletcher often relishes and would definitely have been of benefit to the team. Admittedly, Michael Carrick was of use in the middle of the park, but once again appeared to be anonymous for large spells of the game, without providing real impact. The more industrious and workmanlike Fletcher would have provided some energy and helped to bolster the back line further.

United showed glimpses of the “Magic” they were apparently missing

Before the game, Deschamps had stated he felt United had lost some of the “magic” they once had and that their attacking play was lacking these days. In truth, on the evidence of this season, it was probably a fair assessment, because although United have been getting results and performing when it matters, they have not exactly set the world alight with the attacking flair we are used to either. To complain when the side is winning would be ludicrous of course, as the result is what is of prime importance in the push for success and honours. However, it was also pleasing to see real danger posed up front.

The partnership of Rooney and Hernandez complimented each other extremely well and the threat down the wing from both Nani, and later on, Valencia helped bring an incisive edge to a United attack that always looked to create chances. For all his troubles this season, Rooney displayed some superb play, particularly in setting up the opening goal. I should also point out how pleasing it was to see Valencia defy expectations again after returning from injury, coming on to a strong reception from the United faithful, he always looked to get forward down the right and played a part in playing through Giggs to set up the second goal.

So overall, a good showing from United on the night. An effective United attack was enough to subside the ever present threat from a decent Marseille side, ultimately being able to see out the tense last moments that had all fans on the edge of their seat. On to the quarter finals.

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