Sir Alex Ferguson: Should have brought van Persie in sooner

Sir Alex Ferguson admitted that MU did not use new signing Robin van Persie effectively in the 0-1 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park in the opening match of the 2012/2013 Premier League season.

The legendary strategist still praised the team's performance despite their defeat to their opponents. MU's midfield was completely outclassed by the strength of Marouane Fellaini. The Belgian player also scored the only goal to bring victory to Everton.

Sir Alex Ferguson believes that if van Persie had entered the field earlier, MU would have had a chance to change the game - Photo: Getty

Van Persie was brought on shortly after United went ahead. But the Dutch striker was powerless to help the “Red Devils” earn even 1 point. The team could not break down the disciplined and tight defense of the opponent. Ferguson shared with Sky Sport:“We were too stuck in the box. We didn’t get deep enough. With Robin in the team, you have to use his ability to deal with the centre-backs. Robin is in great form but we didn’t get the best out of him.”

Ferguson was also forced to arrange a very patchwork defence. Michael Carrick abandoned his usual midfield position to partner Vidic in the centre of defence. Antonio Valencia, the “Red Devils’ new No. 7”, had to retreat to the right-back position. Injuries to a number of defensive players such as Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans were partly to blame for this defeat. Ferguson also refused to criticise the United defence despite the fact that they were almost powerless against Fellaini.

Ferguson said:“He (Fellaini) was really annoying. He’s tall, big, strong. They just pushed the ball forward for him. That’s all they did. They always played like that and eventually got a goal from Fellaini. It worked.”

“The centre-back position was a problem but we coped quite well. With all due respect, I don’t think you can criticise the performance of the centre-backs. Michael played well, the whole defence played well.”

Sir Alex also praised goalkeeper David De Gea, who made some great saves in the first half. If it weren't for De Gea's impressive form, MU would have left the field with more than one goal conceded. Sir Alex continued to answer MUTV:“The team improved. They had eight shots on target and De Gea played very well. But we controlled the ball and created some good chances but we didn’t finish. The finishing was the difference. (But) the shots on target were good shots. The more important thing is that we played good, cohesive football. On another day we will win.”

According to Thethaovanhoa - DT