PRESS BOX VIEW – THE GUARDIAN

From The Guardian:

‘If Ferguson is looking for an explanation behind United's dishevelled performance, he might begin with the fact there was only one Mancunian (Paul Scholes) in a side that barely seemed to comprehend the importance of this fixture in the pubs, playgrounds and workplaces across the city. Another contributory factor might be the presence of two players who speak barely a word of English. Then there was the absence of Roy Keane, a habitual excuse when things go wrong and one that now has United's fans rolling their eyes. How many more times must they witness the tradition of a vapid display when their captain has been rested?

When Keane arrived at Old Trafford 12 years ago he was taken aback by the presence of so many "imposing characters, seasoned professionals, strong men". Ferguson has tried to retain that win-at-all-costs mentality by recruiting the likes of Alan Smith, Gabriel Heinze and Wayne Rooney but, while these are sturdy competitors, they are not blessed with the talent of motivating others around them.

United used to be famed for their resilience, their durability and, above all, their late goals but not any more. On Saturday all they mustered throughout three minutes of stoppage time was a corner that Kieran Richardson kicked straight out for a goal-kick - this from a player who has hopes of representing England at next year's World Cup.

Rooney apart, the greatest endeavours generally came from those in blue.’