Coming to the boil...

Too much has been made of Manchester United's start to the season. In truth, there hasn't been a great deal wrong with the performances. The defence has been strong and our midfield has been controlling games. Yes our attacking play has lacked a directness and penetration but that was to be expected when you lose Rooney (to injury), Saha (to injury), Ronaldo (to suspension), Solksjaer (to retirement). And don't forget we have also lost our captain who, despite being a defender, is probably one of the best crossers in the game.

The key was to get a good start and keep the confidence high in the squad. I think that has generally been achieved. The result against Spurs was important. Not because of the title race, but because it allowed the new signings to demonstrate their ability to contribute. A spectacular shot from Nani (deflected or not) went someone way to ensure the OT faithful are thinking 'new Ronaldo' rather than 'another Richardson'. The power and energy of Hargreaves next to the skill and guile of Scholes is a fine mix. And with Carrick and Fletcher as options too, there is no longer a combination that concerns me in central midfield. A far cry from the days of Miller and Djemba Djemba.

What excites me most is the challenge of selecting a starting X1 when everyone is fit. Does Saha start ahead of Tevez? Does Nani start ahead of Giggs? Does Carrick begin to start more than Scholes? Only an idiot would right of Giggs and Scholes completely but at long last you feel some worthy challengers are in place to at least give food for thought. The truth is that the course of the season will demand everyone plays their part. And with the Carling Cup coming up, the likes of Kuszsack, Silvestre, O'Shea, Evans, Pique, Simpson, Anderson, Fletcher, Gibson and Campbell should also get their chance to start.

So ignore those that seek to suggest that United have gifted Chelsea too much of a lead. As no sooner had John Terry said such a thing than he was left to reflect on Chelsea's loss to Aston Villa. Sometimes it is best to judge in May. Afterall, United were written off last season too...