Richardson sold to Sunderland

It has been clear to may United faithful that Kieran Richardson was just not good enough to cut it as a first team player at Old Trafford. I for one hope he goes onto find his feet at Sunderland. This guy has plenty of potential but was unable to translate that on the pitch at Old Trafford. The question of daunted or dud has yet to be answered in my view but whether it was a niggling self-doubt or lack of real talent his departure was the only way forward.

This transfer is a good bit of business for everyone involved. Despite scoring a few goals this season and putting in some better performances there was always discreet but tell tale signs from other players and from the manager that he was not accepted as one for the future. Whether it was the look from Rooney to Ronaldo when he seemed almost apologetic for his decision to pass to Richardson – who went onto run into a cul-de-sac and give possession away, or whether it was the telling look from Sir Alex when he again failed to control a ball on his chest at Fratton Park, which set up Portsmouth’s opening goal, the writing has been on the wall for some time. And with the arrival of Nani to add to the mix this transfer makes plenty of sense…

Selling Heinze is no bad thing

The departure of Gabriel Heinze took a step closer today. Despite some blogs taking the news rather personally, I fail to see the problem. Let me be clear, Heinze was an excellent find for Manchester United. He excelled in his first season and was rightly rewarded with Player of the Season. This was mainly due to winning the crowd over with his tenacious attitude, his commitment and overall contribution. In my view, it was also partly down to a sense of relief at finally having a decent left back – which he most certainly was. However, just because he manfully provided reassurance in a position, not truly felt since Dennis Irwin, it does not mean we shouldn't sell.

Since joining Manchester United Heinze’s reputation went through an arguably rapid rise but again arguably it risks a rather rapid decline. Firstly, this 29 year old recognises the threat provided by Patrice Evra and the decision by Sir Alex to retain the younger players such as Evans, previously sent on loan. Secondly, this is arguably his last chance to secure a big contract elsewhere. I truly believe that Sir Alex Ferguson’s knows that despite his commitment his lack of pace – so cruelly exposed at times this season – can not be risked during a title defence. The Premiership is quicker and more and more we are seeing players reaching their 30s that seek the slower, steadier pace found it Italy or Spain.

Some will lay the blame at having to balance the books – and its hard to ignore the market sense in selling a player at 29 that will command a decent sum - but I also sense his departure is in the best interests of the club. This player is not the player he was, is 29 and is being outpaced by the fast and furious style of the Premiership. If we can get £6m for him – I say do it.

Like so many departures before this one, many may not yet realise its the right thing to do – because they like the player’s style, attitude and commitment etc. But this is not the business of sentiment. And, I am prepared to sit in the minority and say that right here right now, I believe allowing Heinze to leave is the right thing to do.

Our best signing of the summer so far is...

The signings of Nani and Anderson have caught the eye and imagination of most Manchester United fans. I have already read numerous posts on how Anderson will fit in to the new system, how he is the new Ronaldinho and how Nani is Ronaldo mark two. Firstly, let me say this. I hope all of that is true. Secondly, let me say this. The most important signing United have made this summer is Owen Hargreaves.

Owen Hargreaves has been a top player for over 6 years for one of Europe’s biggest teams. And now is he is a Manchester United player. Yes, his transfer saga was protracted. Yes, he doesn’t capture the imagination of a flair player but in my view he is a tremendous signing.

We have needed to add some more quality to our central midfield for a few seasons now. Paul Scholes remains the heartbeat of our side and our most talented and important midfielder on our books. Michael Carrick has progressed as expected and his range of passing and ability to retain possession played a big part in our success last season. Without wishing to criticise Darren Fletcher, whose spells in the centre of midfield were at times impressive last season, Owen Hargreaves is the missing piece to the midfield. For me, Paul Scholes is the master and Michael Carrick is his apprentice. Equally, Owen Hargreaves will be first choice and Darren Fletcher his understudy. These options now give us the blend of qualities needed to take on the demands of defending our Premiership Title and have a real go at the CL and FA Cup, without worrying so much about injuries, tiredness or suspensions.

Over the years we have been blessed with quality players in central midfield. The greatness of Bobby Charlton is still the benchmark for many fans, others point to the passing of Ray Wilkins, the engine of Bryan Robson and more recently, the grit and termination of Paul Ince and Roy Keane.

Like any partnership, I believe a midfield duo needs understanding and different styles that complement each other. And I believe the partnership of Carrick and Hargreaves can be a key part of the future for United over the next 4-5 years. I liken them to the partnership of Cambiasso and Riquelme of Argentina without fear of being too bold. Of course, other players will emerge (Darron Gibson is apparently one to keep an eye on) and others will be bought and sold. But right now we have two players on our books that will be the fulcrum of the side. From this important platform we will be able to spring the attacking exploits of Rooney, Ronaldo, Anderson, Nani, Park and (I hope) Rossi and Saha. I am not overlooking the contribution Paul Scholes has on this side. Genius should never be ignored. But the satisfaction I now have is this: when Scholes makes the mistake of tripping up Totti in the future to get himself sent off, all our hopes of controlling the midfield are not ruined by gamesmanship or poor tackling.

And sitting behind this complementary shield of vision (Carrick) and vehemence (Hargreaves) will be Vidic and Ferdinand. Impressive isn’t it? This formidable four will also allow our fullbacks to attack with real purpose. So when the attacking play begins to excite you once again next season, spare a thought for those that allow it to happen. Don’t get me wrong, I am more than happy for the talk to be about Nani, Anderson and who we should sign as another striker but I feel it important to point it out now, that the reason we chased Hargreaves for so long will soon become very obvious to 76,000 excited fans…