MANCHESTER:
Sir Alex Ferguson was relieved to welcome a fit Robin van Persie back to Manchester ahead of today’s clash against Wigan at Old Trafford.
The Dutch forward, who has started the season in impressive goal-scoring form for United, came off at half-time of Holland’s 4-1 victory over Turkey with a thigh injury. Former United goal-keeper Peter Schmeichel was also impressed by the start the Dutchman has made to his United career.
“The very important thing is van Persie absolutely chose us,” said Schmeichel. “He wanted to come to us. It wasn’t a question of us paying more than Manchester City or any other club. He has been perfect for what we needed to do. We have brought the right player in.”
Thanks to van Persie, United have scored six goals in their last two league games, but their goal-difference only remains at plus one. United’s Brazilian midfielder Anderson, however, believes that van Persie and fellow pre-season signing Shinji Kagawa, the Japan midfielder, will make a significant difference.
“Kagawa and van Persie have a lot of quality,” said Anderson. “They make it easier for the rest of the team when they have so much talent.”
Wenger undecided about including Diaby
Meanwhile, Arsene Wenger admits he will wait until the last minute before deciding whether to risk France midfielder Abou Diaby against Southampton today.
Wenger revealed the hip injury Diaby suffered during France’s victory over Finland last week is not serious, but he is unsure whether to start him this weekend. He believes that Diaby could play against Southampton, but may not risk him ahead of the Champions League opener against Montpellier three days later at Stade de la Mosson.
“He has a very minor problem and needs to be assessed,” said Wenger. “We won’t take a gamble on him.”
Poland’s Wojciech Szczesny is expected to return in goal, while winger Theo Walcott will need a late fitness check after recovering from a virus that forced him to miss the World Cup qualifier against Ukraine.
Vieira lauds Maicon signing
Manchester City football development executive Patrick Vieira believes new signing Maicon’s experience can help the English champions in their quest for ongoing success.
Premier League title holders City travel to Stoke today before next week’s daunting Champions League tie away to European giants Real Madrid. Former Arsenal and France star Vieira said the arrival of Brazilian right-back Maicon, whom he played alongside at Inter Milan, would strengthen City’s ability to cope with the pressure of big matches.
“He is a fantastic player,” said Vieira. “I spent a few years with him at Inter and he has experience and talent.”
Published in The Express Tribune, September 15th, 2012.
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