For the last two games, SAF has picked Ji-Sung Park in the starting line-up as opposed to Cristiano Ronaldo and it’s raising a few eyebrows amongst supporters. Not least because Ji seems to just fit in to the team with his selfless link-up play and have a positive impact on all his team mates with his renowned, tireless energy
Nobody doubts Ronaldo‘s huge talent and skill- his ability to beat players, his electric speed and his often pinpoint crosses- but there seems to still be a case to be made that he plays as an “individual” and goes for personal glory, when he should pass the ball. This again on his defensive duties – sometimes Ronaldo seems to just wander back aimlessly and not be giving his 100%.
The other slightly paradoxical thing about this team selection is that over recent times, it hasn’t been a smooth road for Ronaldo in his personal life- in the main his unwelcome involvement in a rape case and some pretty tough negotiations over his contract extension. And yet, during this whole period, SAF continued to pick him.
And it isn’t really a case of Ryan Giggs returning from injury either- given that Darren Fletcher seems to be the one making way there and then Giggsy swapping wings with Park.
The facts are in how MU has played since Ronaldo has sat on the bench while Ji-Sung has started. An excellent win over West Ham and a cruise to victory over Portsmouth. True that Ronaldo came on as a sub in the latter game- but by then it was already won.
And Park’s understanding with the likes of Scholes, Rooney and Smith are growing each time he plays. In conclusion, nothing short of impressive.
Of course, they could both play in the starting line-up as they did against West Brom….!!