The season is only 3 games old and already, we are desperately waiting to see the next United game whilst we have to wait for the latest round of International matches to take place. However, until we get to see United take on Wigan on Saturday afternoon, we have been able to see an abundance of United players in action for their respected countries.
Despite United’s inury problems, we still managed to have 12 players jetting off around around the world to play their part in both friendly games and World Cup 2014 qualifiers, including 3 players in the England Squad. Tom Cleverley was widely praised by the media, team mates and fans after his performance in Englands 5-0 victory v Moldova on Friday, however was less impressive in yesterday’s 1-1 draw v Ukraine and was subsituted just after the hour mark. He was replaced by another United player, Danny Welbeck, who made an instant impact. England had more purpose going forward and after 84 minutes, he was brought down in the box, but the referee failed to give a penalty. However 3 minutes later, it was Welbecks strike that struck a Ukrainian arm, and the referee gave a penalty at the second time of asking, which was converted by Chelsea’s Frank Lampard. Michael Carrick also made a 45 minute appearance as a second half substitute for England in the 5-0 victory in Moldova as he replaced Steven Gerrard at half time.
Centre back Jonny Evans also made a couple of appearances over the last few days, as he took his spot in the heart of the Northern Irish defence in the 2-0 defeat against Russia, as well as the 1-1 draw with Luxembourg where he even bagged himself an assist for Shiels’ 14th minute opener.
The most impressive performance by a United player came from youngster Robbie Brady for the Republic of Ireland, who starred in his teams 4-1 victory against Oman at Craven Cottage, a game in which he scored 1 and assisted another. He is hoping to break into the United side this season but he may be sent on a further loan deal similar to the one at Hull City last year.
Also on loan at Hull City last year was young Norwegian striker, Joshua King, who like Brady, is still awaiting his first senior Manchester United appearance. He was able to feature in both of Norways games, firstly in a 2-0 defeat to Iceland and then in a 2-1 victory over Slovenia, coming off the bench in both games.
Our new goal machine, Robin van Persie, carried on for the Netherlands where he left off for United v Southampton, scoring a lovely headed goal in the 2-0 victory over Turkey. However, its not all good news, he picked up a knock in the Netherlands second game of the International break, and as a precaution, he was replaced at half time in the away game against Hungary. Lets hope he makes a speedy recovery.
Speaking of injuries, our Japanese Ninja Shinji Kagawa, also picked up a knock in the game against U.A.E and he remained on the bench for the game against Iraq.
Elsewhere, Nani played a part in Portugals away game v Luxembourg, being replaced in the 81st minute. He was also replaced in the 77th minute in Portugals game v Azerbaijan.
Patrice Evra completed 90 minutes in both games for France. He was involved in the 1-0 away win against Finland, as well as the 3-1 home victory over Belarus.
Further afield, Uniteds new number 7, Antonio Valencia appeared for Ecuador in his sides 1-1 draw against Uruguay, however despite making it into the 90th minute, he didn’t manage to see out the match as he picked up his 2nd yellow card getting himself sent off. It does however mean he will miss the next game so wont have to treck all the way to South America for the next round of games next month.
And finally, Javier Hernandez, secured all 3 points for Mexico as he scored the only goal in the 1-0 victory at home to Costa Rica.
Lets hope the players all return to Manchester feeling fresh and feeling good for the game against Wigan, when I am sure we are all excited for the return of the Barclays Premier League once again
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