Sir Alex Ferguson

The last time Manchester United lost an opening Premier League game was way back at the start of the 2004/5 season and was to Chelsea. Yes the Red Devils did bounce back by going on to win the title, but what happened on Monday night at Goodison Park is a clear indication that history might not repeat itself this time around unless Sir Alex Ferguson does something to the Red Devils quickly.

While with tongue in check Ferguson said his team played the better football, the reality on the night was that Tim Howard was not challenged enough for all off United’s so called ‘good football’! And unless keepers are put under pressure how will they concede goals?

Besides, Everton’s match winner, Marouane Fellaini showed what a big burley player can do to the Red Devils when they do not have a full strengthen defence to call on.

Will there be a response? Yes I expect one because Ferguson’s own hatred of losing. But will it be enough to wrest the title from ‘noisy neighbours’ Manchester City? That’s the million naira question!