5 Players Who Can Help Manchester United Retain The Premier League Title

Fear not United fans. Despite all the upheaval at Old Trafford in the summer, with the departure of the master Sir Alex Ferguson and the arrival of the apprentice David Moyes, Manchester United still possess the capabilities to add title number 21 to their list of Premier League accolades. True, United have not been firing on all cylinders in the league and have struggled against teams like West Bromwich Albion, Southampton, and Stoke City, but there have been signs in recent weeks that the tide is beginning to turn. The victory against league leaders Arsenal, although through a somewhat fortuitous goal, was very significant. Had United lost, they would have found themselves 11 points behind with four defeats in 11 matches and practically out of the title race before December. With the Red Devils managing to avoid such a situation, here are 5 reasons why United can reach the summit once more come May:

1)      David De Gea

The Spanish shot-stopper has been in scintillating form this season and has been the key to many of United’s successes so far. Gone are the glaring howlers which dogged the Spaniard during his first season and cast some doubt over his future at Old Trafford. De Gea’s displays have earned him rave reviews and if he could maintain this form and keep injury-free then he could become as influential as Peter Schmeichel.

2)      Phil Jones

The former Blackburn Rovers stalwart is proving to be Mr Versatile in his role as a central defender and midfielder. He is developing into a very assured defender and is being touted as a possible future England captain.

3)      Wayne Rooney

It is amazing to think that Rooney was on the verge of exiting United yet again during the summer, but the England international has put all that aside to put in some of his most impressive displays to date. Rooney has practically dragged United over the finish line this season and has been scoring and assisting for fun. If he can keep this level of hunger and desire then this could be Rooney’s most prolific season ever.

4)      Adnan Januzaj

The Belgian superstar burst onto the scene with a blockbusting brace against Sunderland and has not looked back since. Januzaj has continued to grow in confidence and the level of his performances has shown a maturity far beyond his years, culminating in a deserved Player of the Month award for October. If Januzaj can continue to torment defences throughout the season he could well be on his way to becoming the next Ronaldo.

5)      Shinji Kagawa

Largely underutilised last season under Ferguson, the Japanese speed merchant has finally broken into the first team ranks and is now establishing himself as a regular in David Moyes teamsheet.  Kagawa’s pace and clever positioning is pivotal to United’s attack. This contributes to the creation of the majority of goalscoring opportunities, with Kagawa drawing defenders out and leaving space for Rooney and Van Persie to exploit.