Alex Ferguson's Lineup Blunders: Why United Lost the Derby

Just like all other United fans, I was absolutely crushed by the shocking home loss to local rival City, who are now on an upswing.

The somber atmosphere at Old Trafford brought emphasis to the defeat, marking the 50th anniversary of the Munich Air disaster.  United had hoped to draw inspiration from the heroics of the Busby Babes and pay them homage in some style.

But instead the team looked tardy and emotionally handicapped throughout the match, and City no doubt capitalized on their weaknesses to produce a victory.

Now I know I’m not Fergie, but I have to say I think he made some real errors in his lineup.

Why play Anderson and Scholes together?  While their levels of expertise and experience may differ, these players share a very similar style of play.

Sir Alex should have started either Hargreaves or Carrick to secure the back of the midfield, but  he went for an attacking strategy and this will never work without Wayne Rooney, who is currently suspended.

And why play Giggs for the entire 90 minutes?  Yes, he's a veteran, he can deliver (sometimes) when it comes to big matches, and he creates lots of assists.

But look at his age!  Giggs is 34 years old.  Is it really ever a good plan to start an aging player, then rely on him to complete a grueling 90 minutes?

J.S. Park is not as graceful as Giggs, but when you play Nani and Park in the wings, the team gains mobility and most likely some decent assists—provided that Ronaldo plays up front.

Finally, let’s consider this error.  Not truly a tactical misstep, but rather Ferguson’s brazen decision not to buy a striker in the January window.

Players like Huntelaar and Berbatov were closely linked to a United move, but Fergie still conserved his faith to rely on Louis Saha, who has truly disgusted me this season so far.  You know that at some point, either Rooney or Tevez will suffer slight knocks or be rested for big matches, but who can defy Sir Alex?

Meanwhile, though, United must look forward to Sparky's team, who could cause an upset at the Emirates.

Yeah, I may be talking crazy, but it's football after all.

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