I am writing this piece as a bona fide fan of Manchester United.

If the performance of Ben Foster in the Charity Shield match against Chelsea is anything to go by then I can say with all authority that he cannot be number one goalkeeper for Manchester United in the absence of the injured Van der Saar. The Englishman could hardly catch any ball at once and his composure in the air was suspect. He could have effectively punched the ball to safety instead of that half hearted approach that resulted in the first goal.

Foster would have to prove himself a worthy successor to Van if he is fielded in this week’s England friendly at Wembley otherwise tried and tested Kuszczak should be the first choice.

There is no doubt that the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo would be felt but it is here that the world would see the true talent of Rooney as he plays his traditional role in front.

Did you see how he defied the wild chase by the Chelsea defence to score the equalizer in injury time? Expect more of this in the new season.

Nani after that splendid first goal against Chelsea in the Charity Shield is injured and will be out for some weeks. What a shame! This should really be a testing time for Sir Alex as close neighbours Man City have laid an ambush to snatch some of the silverware from the over decorated wardrobe at Old Trafford. City’s attacking trio of Tevez, Adebayor and Robinho can constitute a real threat and United must be on the look out.

By the way, losing two cups on the trot through penalty shootouts should not be a laughing matter. The first was against Bayern Munich and then Chelsea. Not a third time please.

Cheers everyone.