United Powerless Without Rooney?

For many who witnessed Wayne Rooney master his way to 34 goals in all competition this season, believe that Manchester United without Rooney is Powerless and simply "ordinary".

Last night saw a powerful Barca team dismantle Arsenal with their main-man Leo Messi scoring four goals that was majestic.

So every team has one player they rely on more than the other, that's the simple fact of the footballing world today. With form and ability the expectancy grows within a team an ultimately within the supporters.

Real have become dependant on Ronaldo and Higuian this season, while Liverpool on Torres, Arsenal on Fabregas. So while teams might be winning the odd game without their star-man, they still rely on his brilliance and presence.

Looking ahead to to-nights all important European clash with German opposition Bayern, United will be without star striker Wayne Rooney, Rooney influence on the pitch has been the catalyst in United fight for a fourth consecutive title. His fight, his passion and ambition to be the best and win games has made United one of the favourites, but a United without that has got people talking about a weak powerless team.

Is that true, is United weak and powerless without the England striker? I fail to agree with so many of you whom believe United will fall apart in the absence of Rooney.

Yes we lost at the weekend, but the loss isn't entirely the result of Rooney been sidelined, decision on and off the pitch had an impact on the final result.

United have sufficient fire power and ammunition to over come a quality side like Bayern Munich. A definite advantage is that United will play in front of 70 000 home fans, the presence of Giggs, Scholes and others who have the necessary experience and ability will help their cause.

Berbatov needs to step up his game, and if he does, the Bulgarian could show why Sir Alex paid thirty million for his services. Nani and Valencia will have to be more available on the wings and feed Berbatov and possibly Macheda.

In the defencive, Patrice and company need to be aware of the threat that Robben and Ribery pose. United have shown that they are more comfortable at home, and they have the means, but the questions have to be answered by the performance. Can United progress to the Semis, without Wayne Rooney?