Friday, January 4, 2013

Manchester United 2012/2013 Player Ratings (Forward)




Robin Van Persie – The chant “He scores when he wants” rings out across Old Trafford every time Van Persie is on the pitch. The former Arsenal man has quickly become a cult figure in Manchester. He has single-handedly won games for United and is largely responsible for their rejuvenation this season. As long as he avoids a serious injury, look for his great run to continue. Rating – 9.6

Wayne Rooney – It has been a curious season for the United number 10. He struggled mightily out of the gate as he clearly wasn’t fit and has been facing an uphill battle ever since. The positives are that he has settle in nicely playing off of a main striker and goals/assists are beginning to come. I don’t expect him to return to the top of the scoring charts as his transition from being the featured striker appears permanent. With all of the talk focusing on external replacements to be the next Paul Scholes, I believe Rooney could one day fill that void. His passing, vision, and work rate are superb and should continue to improve. Rating – 7.2

Javier Hernandez – Admittedly, the little Mexican is among one of my favourite players. He is a tireless worker that moves excellently without the ball, and his enthusiasm for the game is evident. Not an automatic pick this season given the depth up front, but when called upon Hernandez has produced. His predatory instincts are top notch and he is a born finisher. Look for him to permanently supplant Danny Welbeck in the pecking order going forward (or at least until Welbeck regains his form). Rating – 8.4

Danny Welbeck – Despite his success on the international scene, Welbeck hasn’t replicated that form at United. Physically, he is the most talented of all United’s forwards however his finishing has been consistently poor. If Welbeck continues to disappoint, expect Sir Alex to leave him off the team sheet in big games. Rating – 6.0

Nick Powell – He hasn’t been on the pitch enough to make any drastic proclamations, but from his play it looks as though Sir Alex did another great piece of business. Fearlessness that defies his age (and experience), I think this youngster will be a pivotal player in the next couple of seasons.

Federico Macheda – Remember when he exploded onto the scene against Aston Villa? That now seems like eons ago. Macheda has never seemed to fully fit into Sir Alex’s plans and it looks as though he could be sold come summer time.

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