In what could certainly be viewed as a night of out with the old and in with the new at Old Trafford, Tom Wilson marked his debut with two goals for Manchester United in a 3-1 win over Hull City. Becoming the first United player since Wayne Rooney, against Fenerbahçe in 2005, to mark his first team debut with multiple goals, Wilson stole at least a bit of the spot light on Nemanja Vidic's final home match for the club.
With Louis Van Gaal expected to take over the managerial duties next season, it could also have been Ryan Giggs' last appearance, as player at least, in front of the Old Trafford faithful.
Bringing himself on as a sub in the 62nd minute, Giggs had a free kick that was well saved by Eldin Jakupovic, deep into injury time, that prevented him from becoming the only player to score in every season since the Premier League's inception in 1992.
Giggs, who sparkled after coming on, drew an apology from keeper Jakupovic after saving his goal bound effort.
Giggs, who played in a miraculously fit again Robin Van Persie for the third goal, had this to say after the match:
"You've seen the future tonight and that's what this club's about. Keep supporting us and the good times will come back soon."
In this wretched season for United, one of the few bright spots has been the emergence of young winger Adnan Januzaj who turned in another great performance tonight. With Wilson's goal scoring debut, and a full first team appearance for Welsh winger Tom Lawrence, the club could perhaps supplement some of the promised transfer funds this summer with some new home grown talent. Bringing players through the ranks has traditionally been one of Manchester United's strengths and as the squad goes through a much needed overhaul this summer it'll be interesting to see if the likes of Wilson are given more opportunities next term.
As for the departing Nemanja Vidic, upon leaving the pitch he took a moment to address the supporters.
"Physically I will leave but my heart will always be at this club. I've spent so many years here," Vidic said.
"I've worked with so many great people and will always watch and care about United."
One of the true great defenders of Premiership era, the tough as nails Serbian captured five Premier League titles, three League Cups, one Champions League Winners medal and a FIFA World Club Cup.
0 comments :
Post a Comment