Top 5 flops for Manchester United

Being the defending Premier League champions, not many would have expected Manchester United’s debacle this season. Although some would argue on the Manager’s tactics as a key issue for the side’s dismal performance, it is also imperative that Manchester United’s players have let their manager as well as their side down by performing below par. Here we look at the players who are among the top five flops for Manchester United this season:

Tom Cleverley:
Once hailed by Sir Alex Ferguson as one the most promising English midfielders, Cleverley has failed to match the expectations of the club as well as the manager. His pace on the ball, which used to be one of his traits, has fallen off drastically. Also, he has given away the possession to the opposition quite often which has derailed the flow of attack and pushed the team back on defense.  However, Cleverley is the kind of player who thrives on short passing and movement. But, David Moyes refers to stretch the play which increases the gap between the players, making it difficult for Cleverley to play his natural game. In his 18 appearances for the club so far, Cleverley has managed only one goal and not even a single assist.
Flop Rank: 5
Ratings: 2/5

Antonio Valencia:
The best player for United in 2011 and 2012, Valencia has just managed to show few of those glimpses this season. His direct approach and lightning pace used to terrorize the opponent defenders. But his greatest strength is his weakness now. He has narrowed down his vision and has become too one dimensional and predictable for the defenders. His crosses have been horrible this season and he has been losing a lot of pace too.
Going by the talks in the media, this might be his last season in a United shirt.
Flop Rank : 4
Ratings: 2/5

Ashley Young:
Brought in as a replacement for the Welsh wizard Ryan Giggs, Young’s career got off to a superb start with some wonderful goals. But his penchant for diving has brought him a lot of criticism. He has become too predictable with his moves. His crosses have not been great either. This has been one of the reasons why Moyes has not played him for the entire 90 minutes.
Given the poor form, he might be transferred this summer.
Flop Rank : 3
Ratings: 1.5/5

Shinji Kagawa:
It might be a bit harsh to label Kagawa as a flop given that he has had limited opportunities, but whenever he has gone to the field, he has not been able to impress Moyes. With the likes of Mata, Januzaj and Rooney vying for the same position behind the striker, Kagawa might find it even more difficult. Undoubtedly one of the most talented midfielders, it is criminal to waste Kagawa’s best years on the bench at United. Maybe it is just that some players just do not work for a club and sadly Kagawa could be labeled as a flop.
Flop Rank : 2
Ratings: 1.5/5

Anderson:
Anderson’s entry into the club drew huge expectations. His stellar performances in the under 17 world cup for Brazil, brought him to FC Porto where he caught the eye of Sir Alex. He was excellent in his first season wherein many saw him as a long term successor to Paul Scholes. It has been all downhill for him after injuries and also, the lack of match fitness has disrupted his United career. He has always shown glimpses of his potential but has not been consistent. Now on loan at Fiorentina, chances are that the Brazilian will make the move, permanent in the summer.
Flop Rank : 1
Ratings: 1/5