Analysis: Manchester United 0 CFR Cluj 1

Champions League, Wednesday 5^th December 2012

This was a somewhat dull fixture which meant a great deal to Cluj but little to United. A second-half screamer ensured the win for the Romanians, despite the fact they eventually failed to progress from the group stage. Here are some brief talking points from the game:

Defensive options

The back line of Jones, Smalling, Wootton, and Büttner was a complete change from the regular back four this season, and gave us a glimpse of United’s back-up options in that area. Jones was impressive, galloping back and forth and putting in some good crosses. Smalling was dominant in the air and strong in the tackle, but once again showed his frailties with the ball at his feet. Wootton was exposed at times, and further emphasised that his future may lay away from Old Trafford. Büttner was lively, and rash, but a good threat going forward.

Rooney on the right

Wayne Rooney started on the right for the second consecutive game against Cluj. Ferguson recently hinted that Rooney needed to play continuously to keep his fitness and sharpness up, and his further deployment on the right suggests a start there in future games. With several of United’s wide options out injured, there appears to be some sense in this selection.

Rooney’s delivery has greatly increased over recent months, making his crossing potential much greater from the right. His link-up play with Phil Jones down that side against Cluj was also impressive, and that can no doubt be transferred to playing with Rafael. Although not at his best, the Rooney against Cluj was clearly lacking enthusiasm for a meaningless tie, and the potential to improve on that right-hand side in more important matches is evident. He has the raw tools to play there well after all.

Going Forward

This game is unlikely to have had any positive impact on the squad ahead of the Manchester derby this weekend. It was a disappointment to lose at home, albeit in an unimportant fixture. Many of the players lacked the enthusiasm to perform to their highest level, and this showed. No doubt there will be a greater intensity about United in the bigger games to come.

Ratings

De Gea-6, Jones-7*, Smalling-6, Wootton-5, Büttner-6, Rooney-6, Cleverley-6, Giggs-6, Powell-6, Welbeck-7, Hernandez-6

(Scholes-6, Fletcher-6, Macheda-6)

*Man of the match