A Look Into The Future Part 1

I won't dwell too much on the obvious. That's the loss to Liverpool, for the less well informed of you. A pretty amazing spectacle (which I did actually enjoy watching) as you were never exactly sure what was going to come next. However, I'm not going to try making excuses; mainly because there are few and far between. We weren't good enough on the day. End of.

The next club match for United is in the final 16 of the Carling Cup, away to Barnsley on Tuesday evening. Of late, the fortunes of the team in this competition have been fairly tidy, winning two of the last four competitions. And there is much hope for retaining the trophy this season, too, with possibly the most promising set of youngsters the club has ever had pushing for places in the starting XI for games like these, plus the backdrop of first teamers that is inevitable when you have a sizeable set of capable players.

I am going to outline so called players here (three by three) and impress on you my verdict on their prospects for the future by means of percentage (the higher the %, the greater their chance).

19. DANNY WELBECK - Verdict - 75%

Already carries lots on his shoulders for an 18-year-old, and already features for the England U21's. Early signs are very promising. He is unusually tall for a striker and this obviously has its pros and cons. One being a constant aerial threat against the oppostion and also he can easily turn on some pace when and where necessary. Unfortunately, his first touch often leaves a lot to be desired; it means the ball can't be played into feet as United often like to do under Ferguson and attack set-up can be compromised. Still, a great finisher as proved against Wolves in R3.

20. FABIO DA SILVA - Verdict - 70%

A quick, snappy, no nonsense defender who isn't afraid to get forward. Prone to rugby tackles a la Vidic/Carragher on occasion when caught a long way out of position (quite often). Hasn't had too much in the way of first team experience so far and decision making is often a bit iffy. From the Neville school of tackling (stick a leg in and hope for the best). I think he's got a good chance, provided he listens to the manager, and learns how to track back.

21. RAFAEL DA SILVA - Verdict - 80%

Much like his brother, Rafael is blessed with astounding pace and close control. Thankfully, he is also a pretty decent crosser (playing in a team with the likes of Nani and Park: this helps greatly), setting up many goals in his stint in the first team last year. I think he is probably a better 'defender' than Fabio as he can balance the transition between attack and defence more efficiently. He linked up extremely well with Ronaldo last year, playing right back (favoured position), which proves he can mix it with the very best, however he can and has played anywhere across the backline. My hopes are high for him, a little moreso than Fabio's.