This week has seen the release of Sir Alex Ferguson’s book, and the media around it has sparked a reaction from just about everyone. From his views over David Beckham and the attitude of Roy Keane to his accusations regarding Mark Bosnich and his gut. But there was one aspect that got me thinking, and that was his remarks regarding his bad luck with goalkeepers after Peter Schmeichel’s departure. He then proceeded to suggest that Edwin van der Sar was one of his favourite players he’s ever managed, but it’s another keeper that I will focus on in this piece, and that’s a goalkeeper he was forced to let go.
Ron-Robert Zieler was on the books at United as a 19-year-old but suffered a broken arm which ruled him out of action and ultimately put him behind Ben Amos in the pecking order. He did spend time on loan at Northampton but signed for Hannover 96 on the recommendation of Fergie, and after a three year stint he has been linked with a move back to England. This time, however, the Express are suggesting that it’s Liverpool. So how does he compare with the Reds’ current number 1 Simon Mignolet.
The Belgian has played eight games this season and kept three clean sheets, while averaging three saves per game. He has made a claim success of 96% and conceded just 0.88 goals per game. His distribution stands at 60% and he has completed 63% of his punches.
The 24-year-old German, however, has played nine games and kept just one clean sheet. He has averaged 2.11 saves per game and conceded 1.33 goals per game, completing 78% of his punches and also has a distribution of 76%.
With a steadier defence ahead of him then Zieler would be closer to the Belgian’s statistics, but he is still only in the early stages of his career.