When Manchester City thrashed Spurs 5-1 at White Hart Lane, Roberto Mancini’s men thought they were heading for the international break as leaders of the Premier League. But United’s remarkable 8-2 humiliation of Arsenal trumped their noisy neighbours’ in majestic fashion – and has put Arsene Wenger in the firing line.
It was a stunning day of football in the most exciting football league in the world. And it was an indication of the changing face of English football. The reality is that Manchester is now more dominant than ever boasting two outstanding teams, while North London’s fallen heroes have slipped behind in spectacular fashion.
But do not make the mistake of jumping on the band wagon of turning on Arsenal’s beleaguered manager Arsene Wenger.
While Harry Redknapp’s Spurs are rock bottom and point-less having played a game less than the rest at the bottom, Wenger is the boss under the full glare of the lynch-mob who want him out of the Arsenal hot-seat. And that is so short-sighted it could push the Gunners into an era of decline that could undo all the Frenchman’s outstanding work.
Arsenal’s decline can be traced back to the departure in April 2007 of of vice-chairman David Dein, the man who appointed Wenger and was his right-hand man when it came to signing new players.
The club is in turmoil because of the behind-the-scenes power struggle between Alisher Usmanov and Stan Kroenke for control of the club. Wenger has made some outstanding signings in the past and could do so again in the future if he has the right support of the board.
As Fergie is proving by putting together another outstanding team of youngsters who could turn out to be his greatest side ever, you do not have to go out and sign ready made superstars to build a winning team.
But you do need the right support from your board and chief executive – and in that department do not underestimate the outstanding contribution of David Gill, who has made a sterling contribution in helping to keep the established stars at Old Trafford.
United’s 8-2 win courtesy of WAYNE Rooney hat-trick, ASHLEY Young double & goalS FOR Danny Welbeck, Nani and Ji Sung Park
