Last Word on Sport

In The News; Individual Focus by Philip Meese - 14 Jan 2023 12:16

Part of being a football writer was focusing on the issues in the news. I did so many of these articles that to ensure that I’ve not linked too many on one page, I have split these articles into two sections. The other one, focusing on general issues, can be found elsewhere on this site.

However, this one focuses on the articles I specifically wrote about certain figures within the game and what was happening around them at the time of writing.

Weighing Options for Pep Guardiola

Midway through the 2015-16 season, Pep Guardiola announced he would be leaving Bayern Munich at the end of the campaign. This article looks at the potential options open to him at that time.

Wayne Rooney Injury may be a Blessing in Disguise for England

This article weighed up why an injury Wayne Rooney picked up prior to Euro 2016 was no cause for concern.

The Jimmy Murphy Stand Debate

Why Manchester United should name a stand in honour of possibly the most important figure in their entire history.

Sunderland Loan Can Make or Break Adnan Januzaj’s Career

An article speculating on whether the Belgian youngster’s loan spell might galvanise his career.

Wayne Rooney’s Decline: Where the Blame Really Lies

A look at why despite being an amazing player, there’s a sense that Wayne Rooney could, and should, have achieved so much more in his career.

Why Paul Pogba’s critics should look at the Bigger Picture

Pogba’s second spell at United was in its infancy when this article was published, although in hindsight, it’s probably fair to say he eventually proved his critics right.

Ander Herrera: From bit-part player to potential Manchester United Captain

Talking up the merits of why the then-United midfielder was a good candidate for team captain.

Claudio Ranieri’s Sacking: A Decision that Leicester City Had to Make

Just nine months after winning the Premier League, Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri was shown the door.

The Curious Case of Cameron Borthwick-Jackson

A look at the sudden downturn in fortunes for a youngster who, just a year previously, had seemed to have the world at his feet.

Why Marcos Rojo’s Injury presents a bigger problem to Manchester United than Ibrahimović’s

 

A look at how the defender’s season-ending injury might impact United more than the loss of their star striker.