United's defeat to Crystal Palace at the Theatre of Dreams really stated the need for Sir Alex Ferguson to look long and hard at his current crop of fringe players.
With the first team struggling in recent weeks, the Carling Cup clash was a chance for some of the reserves to stake a claim for a first team selection. However, they used the occasion to potentially end their Reds careers, with a number of potential replacements failing to step up to the plate.
On a night of few positives, the performance of Chris Smalling was the highlight, with a commanding display in the centre of defence, further enhancing his growing reputation. Ravel Morrison also looked lively when introduced after half time, and seems like a future star in the making.
But that was about as good as it gets, with the rest failing to catch the eye. The highly rated Paul Pogba failed to influence the game, and seems to be largely over-hyped. It is clear to see he is talented at his own age group, with his power and physique helping him dominate, but his lack of creativity is exposed in the first team, and he is as a result currently ineffective.
Elsewhere, long-time fringe players Jonny Evans and Darron Gibson did nothing to help their opportunities, and may well be offloaded soon. Mame Biram Diouf and Federico Macheda also struggled to impact proceedings, with suggestions of loan moves for both in January. Ben Amos in net was nervous and indecisive, and Antonio Valencia put in a performance unlikely to worry the other wingers.
Dimitar Berbatov was another disappointment, offering nothing to the game, and was replaced at half time. His Old Trafford career appears to be coming to a close sooner rather than later. It highlights Fergie's obvious need for signings, with the Reds linked with hundreds of players around the globe. Improvements are required if United are to challenge City for the top spot, and regain their title.
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