Carling Cup Final's Brightest Stars of the Future

Andrew Whittaker by Correspondent Written on March 01, 2009
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This article is a preview to the Carling Cup final, that is being played later today.

By the top-managers, this trophy is merely seen as a bonus, and as a way of letting the younger players of the squad having a go at some piece of silverware.

That means that today's cup final will show a lot of variation in players. Manchester United will put out a starting eleven, with many young players, whereas Tottenham will put their strongest side out their.

Because of this, I have chosen to do the best starting eleven of today's starting line-ups, commenting and analyzing their future simultaneously.

Here is my personal opinion of the best players of today's final.

 

Goalkeeper: Ben Foster

Brilliant Ben, was considered one of the most promising goalkeepers in England, when he played for Watford during a two-year loan spell with them from 2005-'07.

This stint, saw his reputation increase with lightening speed, getting all the applause he deserved. His manager at Watford, Aidy Boothroyd, was pleased, to say the least, by his on-loan goalkeeper.

He even went as far as saying: "he's better than current Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar" and "I believe he is going to be the best goalkeeper in the world."

As a result of his form, he earned his first, and only, cap for England on Feb. 7 in a match against Spain.

Due to long injury spells, such as damaging his knee-ligaments, Ben Foster has had limited success at United, but remains a bright prospect for the future.

 

Right Back: Rafael da Silva

One of two identical twins, Rafael has stunned Manchester United's fans all over the world with his brilliant technique, his right mind and his defending.

Even though he was injured recently and will take no part in this game, he has been a key figure in United's march to the final, and therefore has to be included in this article.

Originally signed from Brazilian side, Fluminese in 2007, him and his brother Fabio, did not get a work permit before 2008, where he was finally ready to make his debut against Peterborough in a pre-season friendly.

He has shown fantastic form throughout the season, earning the United right back spot ahead of players like Gary Neville, John O'shea and Wes Brown.

No. 1 moment in his career so far, came in a game against Arsenal where he scored United's only goal with a stunning left footer.

 

Centre half: Jonny Evans

Sorry Spurs fans, neither Michael Dawson, Jonathan Woodgate or Ledley King has what it takes to claim the spot in front of the Northern Ireland international.

The Belfast born United player has been really impressive in his first full season for United.

Having signed for United's academy in 2006, Evans did not make his League Debut until September 2008, playing in United's 1-1 draw against rivals Chelsea.

Despite only being 20 years old at the time, Jonny wasn't overawed by Chelsea's big forwards, leaving Sir Alex Ferguson to call him: "The natural successor to Rio Ferdinand."

With Injuries and suspensions to first choice Rio and Vidic, Evans has proved to be a blessing from the sky in Manchester United's pursuit to gain a 3rd premiership medal on the trot.

 

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written on March 01, 2009 Preview/Prediction

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