Ryan Giggs is one of the most accredited players in the Premier League, there’s no doubt about that. The success that he has had during his glittering career demand your respect and admiration, yet edging towards his 40th birthday it upsets me that his performances are plummeting in front of my eyes. As a life-long Manchester United fan, it pains me to say it but I think the Welsh wizard needs to be dropped. Here are three reasons as to why I think such a horrible thing.
1) Ball retention
It seems as though Giggs has lost the ability to pass the ball. It’s often the case that he receives possession but panics, which is unlike Giggs, and needlessly gives the ball away. Perhaps it’s the thought that he can’t keep up with the pace of the game anymore that adds pressure onto him, or maybe his awareness is just weaker than it used to be. Either way, it’s frustrating to watch. He has completed just 72% of his attempted passes in the league this term – the worst in the squad of those who have played more than one game.
2) Legs 11
Once known for his blistering speed, his darting runs and his incredible, fleet footed skills, Giggs’ has had to adapt his game, naturally, as he ages. He no longer has the legs to play on the wing and has been tucked inside into the central areas over the last few years, but it looks as though the extended game time under Moyes is really getting to him. Giggs looks sluggish and generally off the pace in games. Giggs is dispossessed 1.7 times per game on average.
3) Taking up space
It may seem harsh, but Giggs is taking up the space in the team which I would like to see Shinji Kagawa deployed. The little Japan international was outstanding with he played last season, scoring six goals and creating 19 chances in his 20 appearances (5 full games). He also hit the target 75% of the time and completed 90% of his passes. It’s infuriating knowing you have such a talent in the squad without using him.
United fans, do you agree with my views?
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