With a 1-0 victory over Tottenham on Saturday, Manchester United began the 2015/16 Premier League campaign on the right foot. It certainly wasn’t a pretty game (or one that will make Louis van Gaal happy), as United were dominated at times by Spurs, particularly in the first half before Kyle Walker’s own goal. However, three points are three points, regardless of how they’re won, and United were probably relieved to emerge from the game with a victory against a tough opponent. Among the standout players were Italian right back Matteo Darmian, newly signed from Torino, who was voted man of the match (and prompted early comparisons to Gary Neville), and Chris Smalling, who made some key tackles.
Another pleasantly surprising bright spot for United was in goal. After much worry among fans, Argentine goalkeeper Sergio Romero had a decidedly solid performance, maintaining a clean sheet and making some key saves. Many pundits and supporters were skeptical of the decision to sign him, after he saw limited appearances with Sampdoria, and has been a backup for the majority of his career. He’s also been known at times to do things like this. But if he’s given an opportunity to play, as he likely will be at United, then he can settle into his role and play more like the keeper who helped his national side to the World Cup Final.
The Red Devils were blessed for two years by Spanish keeper David De Gea, who many have claimed is among the top keepers in the world. United fans have become anxious about their goalkeeping situation, with De Gea still likely to leave the club before the transfer window ends. Joining De Gea in the director’s box on Saturday, highlighting the strange situation at Old Trafford, were Victor Valdes (who appeared only twice for United after joining last January, and is unlikely to play for them again) and Anders Lindegaard, De Gea’s long-time backup who is also likely moving on.
However, it’s possible the concerns are a little premature. Romero, 28 years old, has put in strong performances for Argentina, both in the World Cup and, more recently, the Copa America. In addition, United have 22-year-old Sam Johnstone. The lad from Preston featured several times in the club’s pre-season tour to America, putting in very impressive displays against some of the world’s top players. He has never appeared in a league or cup match for United, and as such is certainly looking to make his debut in the coming weeks. In most of his play, both for United in pre-season and on loan spells, he’s looked very composed and mature, considering his age.
So, do United really need to go out and spend huge money on a new keeper? Sure, it’d help. The latest rumour is Spurs’ Hugo Lloris is interested. But it doesn’t appear to be strictly necessary. United now look to have a strong defence, with Darmian, Marcos Rojo, Daley Blind and Luke Shaw all proving they can hold down the fort. As such, it isn’t strictly necessary to spend an outrageous amount on a star keeper. A tandem of Sergio Romero and Sam Johnstone, even with the occasional blunder, definitely can be a viable option in the Premier League, especially with a decent defence in front of them.
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