Wayne Rooney scored a sensational four-timer to send Manchester United top of the Premier League as the Red Devils beat Hull 4-0. Everyone is praising Rooney for his solo efforts (even I admire that) but I think this game provided some other good news as well.
Return of Rio Ferdinand
The game against Hull marked the return of Rio Ferdinand after a 3 month long absence. The United skipper had been out of action since October 2009 and was ruled out until 2010. However he marked his return and played the entire 90 minutes which did look as if Rio has retained his form and could help his manager who is worried about their defense.
I am glad Rio returned at the right time as he may be handed the responsibility to monitor Carlos Tevez when United face City in the Carling Cup semi final.
Michael Owen got a start
I was initially surprised to see Owen starting, especially after the awesome form which Berbatov had shown in the previous games. But Fergie wants to help Owen to get on the plane to South Africa and hence he paired the two English strikers up front.
To be honest, Owen did look fine. Though he missed some easy chances which came his way but overall I think he played fine. And when Rooney is scoring goals for fun, his striking partner has to act as a mere supporter by making assists.
Nani may have OT future
I don't know what others thought but I think Nani had a fantastic game against Hull at a mutinous Old Trafford. After his bust up with Sir Alex Ferguson, I thought the Portuguese will never feature for United, but he has featured in a few games. And his performance against Hull was one of his best ever at OT. Probably, Nani has future at Manchester United.
Rooney, Rooney, Rooney, Rooney
That's how the score sheet looked featuring the name of Wayne Rooney who scored all four goals for Manchester United. The wonder kid took his goals tally for the season to 20 in 28 matches and is just three short of his best-ever return.
The return of VDS, Ferdinand and Evans does make the back four much stronger. Is this the time that things will start to turn in United's favor? What say folks?
