5 Things We Learned About Manchester United During Gameweek 6

Manchester United's Wayne Rooney wipes his head during their English Premier League soccer match against Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium in Bolton, northern England, September 26, 2010. REUTERS/Brian Snyder (BRITAIN - Tags: SPORT SOCCER) NO ONLINE/INTERNET USAGE WITHOUT A LICENCE FROM THE FOOTBALL DATA CO LTD. FOR LICENCE ENQUIRIES PLEASE TELEPHONE ++44 (0)

As the Premier League wraps up its 6th Gameweek, the league table begins to take a familiar yet still somewhat open shape. Manchester United failed to take advantage of the losses suffered by Chelsea and Arsenal when they made the short journey to Bolton and came away with only a point. As disappointing as the draw was for supporters, United were still able to jump ahead of Arsenal and into second place. As United still search for the attacking cohesion that won them three Premier League titles in a row, here are a few key observations for United fans to keep in mind after the draw and after the first six weeks of the season.

0 Lost in 8 in all competitions (9 if you count the Community Shield)- At times United look as if theyre struggling with their oh-so-familiar early season form. But really, how bad are things? As occurrences on the pitch could easily be better, United are undefeated in all competitions this season. A few mental lapses avoided and United could easily be top of the league. While rivals Chelsea have now lost two in a row and with Arsenal dropping their first home match since January, United remain unbeaten while only 3 points behind the leaders. Maybe not Premier League favorites just yet, but until someone figures out h! ow to be at them, theyll remain not far from the top.

Wayne Rooneys dip in form may take more time to sort out. Hes obviously out of sorts. No real spark, no creativity. When was the last time Rooney was pulled in the 61st minute of a match based on his form? The off the field distractions have obviously gotten the better of the England international whos netted once in six matches, a penalty. Rooneys always been a form player, when hes clicking, hes one of the best in the world, but when hes off his game, it usually takes him a handful of games to regain his best form. Rooneys a long way from his form of last season, but with time and patience, hell recover it. Dimitar Berbatovs fine run of games has been an early season savior for United.

Its looking more and more like Johnny Evans isnt a Manchester United-quality defender. For two or three weeks in a row now, and with Rio Ferdinand still struggling with fitness, Johnny Evans has been caught out in central defense which has nearly led to an opposition goal and caused United problems. While hes progressed miles in the last few years, Evans is currently experiencing a difficult run of form as he and Nemanja Vidic attempt to settle into a central defensive partnership. Usually close to a 5 or 6 out of 10 in the loathed or loved player ratings, Evans, an athletically gifted defender, must continue to focus his energies on his concentration.

Manchester United can still win the league and silverware this year. No one imagined United would be top of the league with a 100% record heading into October. As at times good and mediocre as United has been this season, theyll likely get better. With the impending return of Michael Carrick, Owen Hargreaves and Anderson into the first team soon, United will have more cover for the aging Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs two players who were largely ineffective Sunday v Bolton. A completed product United have yet to become.

Nani is coming good this sea! son and will continue to improve, impress. Nani scored a brilliant goal to bring United level in the first half when he picked up the ball at the halfway line, got the better of four Bolton defenders, and slotted home past Jussi Jaaskelainen. His continued improvement in form over the last few years hasnt placed him in the realm of the one he replaced, but has at least showed immense improvement and growing potential. Nani is proving hes becoming a very good attacking player and that he can be counted on. Hes contributed with goals, assists, and has even shown his abilities to track back and defend (see under his defensive performance v Leighton Baines v Everton).

Some will say it was two huge points dropped away to Bolton on Sunday while I wouldnt necessarily disagree. But the point earned when those in front of United gained 0 could end up counting for a lot.

Related posts:

  • Manchester United 1-0 Manchester City Matchday Observations and Late Drama
  • Bolton-Manchester United: Player Ratings
  • Arsenal and Man United Match Revealed a Big Difference Between Both Sides



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