Opinion What constitutes a Manchester United player

I also recall seeing Klaas-Jan Huntelaar excel for the Netherlands in a game against Republic of Ireland and thinking how he seemed an ideal Reds striker and option for Ferguson. The same could be said about Sergio Aguero at Atletico Madrid, except he ended up becoming an idol at our neighbours, and Sunday’s opponents, City. On the subject of Blues stars, I know Sir Alex scouted Vincent Kompany and he was another who could have graced the red shirt instead.

More recently, Alexis Sanchez looked the part, particularly at Udinese, although he would end up only staying at United a short time. Eden Hazard would have suited the team down to the ground, in my view, and I’d kept an eye on Jack Grealish ever since seeing him play for Aston Villa’s Reserves at Old Trafford, believing he contained that special ingredient. Unfortunately, he’ll be lining up against us this weekend.

Yet this is the life of being a football fan. I am sure most others look at other players and view them as potential recruits for their team. There probably is no such thing as somebody being, or at least seeming like a ‘United player’. Yet, quite quickly, I am able to recall loads of instances where I’ve held this to be true.

The opinions in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of Manchester United Football Club.