United Reject XI

Okay, maybe ‘reject’ is a little harsh, but it certainly applies to some of these players. In recent seasons, it’s been common to see established names leave United it seems. However, it was always said of Ferguson that he knew when to let players leave, and that not many players go on to do well at other clubs. Well, even though some have pushed for a move away, I’ve included them in my United Reject XI (Okay, someone give me another name for ‘Reject’) But one man, Darron Gibson is reportedly on the verge of joining the list if rumours are correct – Newcastle are close to agreeing a deal.

Goalkeeper

Tim Howard – Now at Everton and one of the most impressive goalkeepers in the Premier League.

Defenders

Phil Bardsley – Sunderland came knocking and since his departure, the Englishman has established himself in the first team up North.

Gerard Pique – Allowed to go back to Barcelona as United drafted in new defenders. Now a regular starter for the European Champions.

Ryan Shawcross – Joined Stoke City where first team football is the order of the day. Competition for places pushed the moved.

Mikaël Silvestre – After almost 10 years at United, the Frenchman joins Arsenal as he finds his place in the team fading away. Now at Werder Bremen.

Midfielders

Chris Eagles – Tipped as a future first team name, Chris ‘The Hair’ Eagles found himself being offloaded to Burnley where he still plays his football.

Philip Neville – The break-up of the Nevilles as Phil was allowed to sign for Merseysiders, Everton where he has since gained the captains armband.

Alan Smith – After injuries, Smith couldn’t force his way into the team. Tried as a midfielder and eventually signed by Newcastle where he can still be found.

Kieran Richardson – Snapped up by Sunderland as he failed to make in-roads on his United career. He did have a tough competitor to beat in Giggsy!

Forwards

Giuseppe Rossi – Allowed to leave to the amazement of many fans. He’s now one of the hottest properties in Spain for Villarreal

Carlos Tevez – Fergie simply wouldn’t ‘Sign him up’ and allowed him to leave. Probably the most hated ex-player right now.

Subs:

Ben Foster

Danny Simpson

Liam Miller

Zoran Tosic

??Darron Gibson??

Diego Forlan

Louis Saha

Like I said, ‘Reject’ may be too strong, and it’s the main reason you don’t see the names such as Van Nistelrooy, Ronaldo and Beckham. Fergie undoubtedly rated all three, and several others, but either forced transfers or personal clashes caused their United careers to end.

Of the starting XI above, the three big names to go which are a little frustrating now (hindsight is great) would be Howard, Pique and Rossi.

If you could re-sign any of the players in the team above, who would it be and why?