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FA Community Shield 2013: Major Takeaways from Manchester United's Win

Joe StrangeAug 12, 2013

In what was David Moyes' first competitive game in charge of Manchester United, the Red Devils ran out 2-0 winners against Wigan Athletic in the Community Shield on Sunday.

After a disappointing preseason campaign, the win was exactly what the doctor ordered for Moyes and his side as Robin van Persie scored twice to earn them the first trophy of the new season.

While picking up a piece of silverware was undoubtedly an added bonus, the game provided the former Everton boss with a final chance to assess his squad before the Premier League begins this coming weekend.

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So, other than learning that they're capable of comfortably beating Championship opposition, what were the major takeaways for United ahead of their opening game away at Swansea?

Robin van Persie Is Still in Form

The acquisition of Robin van Persie from Arsenal last summer was arguably the difference between United lifting the league title and finishing second to rivals Manchester City.

And luckily for new boss Moyes, the Dutchman appears ready to put in a second consecutive season of eye-catching performances after scoring a trademark brace at Wembley.

His first, a towering header from Patrice Evra's neat cross, was not a typical Van Persie goal but showed that his attributes go far beyond his ability with the ball at his feet.

The former Feyenoord striker added another goal in the second half as he gears up to try to match or better the 26 league goals he bagged last season.

If Sunday's game is anything to go by, there's every chance he'll be just as important as he was under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Shinji Kagawa Must Be Used More

Despite being named on the bench and there being six substitutions allowed, Kagawa was given only a seven-minute cameo in the Wembley showpiece.

The Japanese star has been involved in a number of preseason matches but appears to have failed to convince Moyes of his credentials as a regular starter thus far.

The former Borussia Dortmund star enjoys playing in an attacking midfield role just behind the striker(s), but in Moyes' 4-3-3 formation there was no room for him.

With Danny Welbeck and Wilfried Zaha employed on either side of Van Persie, Moyes opted for a more disciplined and less creative trio of Michael Carrick, Ryan Giggs and Tom Cleverley in midfield.

Kagawa is clearly a gifted player who showed glimpses of his best form when played in his correct position last season, but Moyes must find a way to utilise his talents more often.

Wayne Rooney Will Be Key Under Moyes

Following his side's victory, Moyes was questioned about the future of Wayne Rooney and whether a move to Chelsea was likely before the close of the transfer window.

"

Is it still the club’s policy that he won’t be sold? Correct. Am I concerned everyone says he wants to go? That’s right.

He’s not for sale, no change at all. There’s no other answer to that question.

"

Moyes' stance indicates that he sees Rooney as a key part of his plans ahead of the new season, which is unsurprising given the Red Devils' failings in the transfer window thus far.

A drawn-out move for Barcelona's Cesc Fabregas appears to have failed, and Moyes is looking increasingly likely to utilise the former Everton player in an attacking midfield role or out wide.

Pep's Legacy Another Level 😤

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