Andy Gray's Barcelona vs Man Utd best XI
If you had to pick the best manager and 11 players out of the incredible array of talent that will be on display in this weekend's Champions League Final, who would you go for? We asked Betfair's UK Football Ambassador Andy Gray...
Sir Alex Ferguson - This needs no explanation. Just look at his record. He's won trophy after trophy after trophy. Sir Alex is possibly the greatest manager of all time.
Edwin van der Sar - Edwin's kept twice as many clean sheets as his opposite number, Victor Valdes, which is why, for me, he goes in goal. He plays with such confidence and is a brilliant shot stopper.
Patrice Evra - This guy's got an abundance of pace. He make's crucial tackles and has bags full of stamina. Plus he's a handful going forward, he has the ability to get past defenders and make crosses into the box.
Nemanja Vidic - Solid as a rock at the back, Vidic is one of the strongest defenders around. He has a great aerial presence and is more than match for any forward. He's been known to head a goal or two as well.
Gerard Pique - His physical size and outstanding technical ability make him strong in the air. He manages to use these qualities going forward, and is a real danger from dead ball situations.
Dani Alves - This boy's got super-human speed. He is a tireless runner and covers so much ground. He manages a regular contribution to attack without neglecting his defensive duties.
Xavi - It's this lad's ability to subtly dictate the game that makes him so effective. He's a dynamo of energy whose quick passing outwits the best of the rest.
Iniesta - A constant menace from midfield, Iniesta has a sublime range of passing and dribbling skills. He knows what makes football tick and manages to control the tempo of each game he plays. He nicks himself the odd goal as well.
Antonio Valencia - He's been an inspiration for United since his return from injury. His high tempo, attacking game play is a problem for anyone. He combines balance and composure with a tactical brain.
Ryan Giggs - Age might be catching up with him but he's still a real danger going forward. His awareness and distribution of the ball is second to none. And he takes a decent free-kick.
Wayne Rooney - This boy's got everything - pace, strength and incredible shooting ability. He'll always score goals and is a match winner. On his day there's nobody better.
Lionel Messi - Goals. This lad has scored an incredible amount of goals this season. He's bagged 52 in all competitions, 11 in the Champions League. Put Messi anywhere near the goal and he'll find the back of the net, that I guarantee.
- Betfair is calling on football fans to create their own ultimate Manchester United and FC Barcelona hybrid team.
We have launched Europe's Ultimate XI, allowing punters to choose their own starting 11 from the best players on either side contesting the May 28 showdown.
Fans can demonstrate their tactical know-how by nominating a manager, selecting a formation and picking some of the best players in European football for their starting line-up.
Supporters across Europe can then share their opinions and debate the line-ups with the wider football fraternity via Facebook and @BetfairFootball on Twitter. And Betfair will reveal the most popular XI players as chosen by the fans the day before the Wembley showpiece on Friday 27 May.
Published: 27 May 2011
Wasim (May 25, 2011 1:58 PM) said:
I Agree !!!!!!