Keane's career at Old Trafford has came to a dramatic end. Not on the pitch, not in front of the fans, but after a shocking "mutual consent" decision. Much to the disappointment of many United fans, like me. So, can The Red Devils survive without their influential captain?
They have been without their great leader for most of the season because of a troubling injuries, but he suddenly pooped out on MUTV and is paying the ultimate price for the televsion condemation of his fellow players at Old Trafford. He should have seen what Fergie did to Becks, and Stam. Fergie may be old, but he's always the same old Fergie. Keane's Irish temper will never undermine Ferguson's Scottish reign at Old Trafford. Nevertheless, United has just lost one great legnedary player- and one of the best midfielder of the game.
Smith tries too hard to play like Keane, with the same determination and spirit, putting fury into tackles, but ultimately the young one will never surpass Keano in terms of techincal abilities. It is Keane's ability to read the game, organise the defence, and make the crucial tackles that has allowed the Red Devils to run riot for so many seasons. Alan Smith can't do it- the attacker will bring the ball behind him, and his slow reaction will make him to have to trek back far to tackle, and put the stress on his defence. That's why Smith can never protect the back four like what Keane has done for Manchester United for the past seasons.
Fergie is also running low on his defence. His defenders Heinze and Neville are out, and O'Shea isn't the best. The two centre-backs are also diasterous, especially Rio. Fergie has to do something about Ferdinand- he'll knock the team out eventually with his match standards.
Bringing Ballack won't do it,it isn't about bringing in new players, it's about making the current crop play to their best. Like in the Charlton match. Keane's departure is a fact, and already history. It's now up to Ruud and Co. to show that the Devils will always make hell for their opponents, with or without Keane.
It's about reviving the great footballing spirt of the 90s.
