With the Premier League season coming to an end, clubs like Manchester United, Manchester City or Liverpool can start focusing in planning the next season while the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham or Chelsea fight until the end to achieve their goals. It’s time for scouting in search of young talents to build exciting squads and engage the fans with new faces to bring more glory to the club, in some cases, or recover the lost one, in others.

I will turn my eyes to sunny Spain in order to find five of the finest under-23 players of La Liga, in the hope that the likes of Mata, Michu or Cazorla are not the last ones that changed the flip-flops for the umbrella.

Alvaro Vadillo

The latest starlet from the Real Betis youth academy. This precocious winger made his first appearance with the first team at the age of 16 in 2011, although a clash against Sergio Ramos in his Santiago Bernabeu debut weeks later ruled him out for six months with a ligament injury. A year and a half later, Betis boss Pepe Mel has given him a permanent spot in the senior squad, a move Vadillo is justifying by showing a great form on his return to La Liga.

Quick, skilful and with ability to perform in both wings, Vadillo called the attention of clubs like Barcelona and Manchester United before his injuries, reason why Betis chiefs urged to raise his buy-out clause from £2.5 million to £17 million last January before he made his reappearance. Definitely a player to watch, and the club could be willing to negotiate his transfer for a lower fee.

Geoffrey Kondogbia

Without a doubt, one of the most desired midfielders in Europe, as Wenger recently pointed out by saying “everyone is after him at the moment”. Sevilla signed this strong holding midfielder last season from Lens for a £3.3 million fee, and could be ready to sell him this summer, as his price tag has raised to £17 million after impressing in La Liga with a fine display of tactical skills and stamina. However, the investment group that owns half of the players’ rights could be interested in keeping the player at Sevilla at least one more season to continue his development.

Kondogbia has called the attention of Real Madrid, Arsenal, Chelsea or Manchester City, among others, and although the player himself has expressed signing for Los Blancos would be a dream come true, Sevilla chief Jose Maria del Nido has always been reluctant to strengthen Real or Barcelona with his young stars, circumstance top Premier League clubs could take advantage of.

Ruben Pardo

This young midfielder is considered in San Sebastian as Xabi Alonso’s successor. Growing at Real Sociedad’s youth academy with the Real Madrid ace as a reference, the 21 year-old gained notoriety in Spain after commanding the Under 17’s midfield in the 2011 European Championship success, where he played a key role in Julen Lopetegui’s squad.

Slowly gaining a spot in Philippe Montanier’s starting XI at Real Sociedad, Pardo has featured in 24 games this season and the Txuri Urdin club has rushed to seal a £25 million buy-out clause to ensure negotiation before seeing the starlet go. In his first season as a regular first-squad player, Pardo is improving the numbers of his idol Alonso in some of the areas the veteran player has been mastering for over a decade – such as passing accuracy (82.3% for Pardo against Alonso’s 82.2%) or long pass accuracy (70.2% against 67%).

Ander Herrera

A key player in Marcelo Bielsa’s line up – he has started the 25 games he has featured in this season – Herrera has been a crucial piece in Athletic Bilbao’s attack during the last two seasons. Normally acting as an attacking midfielder, the 23 year-old has in his dribbling skills and ability to combine with other team-mates his main assets, as he is not precisely a scoring prone player. Despite being an offensive player, Herrera also helps in the defensive duties, as his 6.6 ball interceptions per game testify.

Although his buy-out clause is simply unreachable – £33 million – this tends to be a habit at Athletic, as their policy of playing with only Basque-origin players reduce notably their chances of signing new talents. Nevertheless, his price tag would be substantially lower. Herrera is also a regular for La Rojita, the Spanish Under 21 team, and senior coach Vicente del Bosque has pondered a call for the first team in previous occasions.

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Antoine Griezmann

One of the main players responsible of the outstanding season Real Sociedad are completing in La Liga, Griezmann has formed a devastating duo of wingers with former Arsenal player Carlos Vela. Fast-paced, extremely creative and with a powerful left foot, this talented Frenchman counts 8 goals and 3 assists on his league tally.

Griezmann has publicly admitted his desire of Champions League football, and should Malaga or Valencia end up taking Real Sociedad’s current fourth place, a summer exit could be a predictable ending to his excellent season. Both Arsenal and Tottenham have been reportedly linked to the French winger.

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QPR boss Harry Redknapp says Joey Barton is enjoying his loan spell with Marseille and thinks the midfielder wants to stay in France.

Barton is on a season-long deal with the French side and he has admitted he would be keen to sort out a permanent switch if a transfer can be agreed in the summer.

Redknapp has watched the controversial star in Ligue 1 and has been impressed with his performances. The R’s boss thinks the former Manchester City and Newcastle man is happy in France and, even though he would be happy to see him return, it looks unlikely.

“Joey has done well, he’s been excellent at Marseille. He’s had a great season for them,” said Redknapp.

“He’s been good. I’ve seen Marseille play this year and he’s done ever so well for them. If you saw where Joey lived in Marseille, I think it would be very difficult to get him back.

“You watch Marseille and see the mountains in the background and you drive through the town and see all the boats. Joey has a nice lifestyle there. I’d be surprised really if he wanted to come back.”

Despite his well-publicised disciplinary problems, Redknapp would welcome Barton back into the fold if a permanent move does not materialise over the close-season.

He added: “I’m not saying I don’t want Joey back. He belongs to the club. If he has to come back, he has to come back.

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“If it doesn’t work out then he has to come back, he’ll be a good player here. He can play, he’s a good footballer. If there’s no deal there, he’ll come back.”

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At 22, is there much time for Aaron Ramsey to become the creative midfield dynamo that he promised to be back in 2008 when he made the switch from Cardiff to Arsenal? Of course there is. Was the whole world aware of Andrea Pirlo’s abilities as the creative hub of an undefeated title-winning side at 22? Probably not, and the same can be said for Xavi, who, despite being hugely important for Barcelona in the early part of the last decade, really came to prominence as the best midfielder in Spain’s history in his late twenties.

However, Ramsey doesn’t quite have time on his side at this stage of his career to slowly rebuild that aspect of his game following that injury in 2010. Even following a very, very good end to last season, the Welshman hasn’t won over all his doubters. For every flash of brilliance, some are eager to see a stray pass or a lapse in concentration just so it can be said that the player is still no good.

But Ramsey, and with plenty of credit to Arsene Wenger, has reinvented himself as an industrious midfielder in the midfield two. Where he was once talked up as one of the possible heirs to Cesc Fabregas’ throne – and he offered plenty of evidence early on that he could do it – the player he is now post-injury just doesn’t possess the quickness of thought or the consistency to be a creative centrepiece in a top team like Arsenal.

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Yet there have been monumental strides forward, even since the turn of the year. Midway through last season it was suggested that Ramsey should go out on loan again, largely because he needed a run in a team, but importantly to get away from the vitriol – as harsh as it sounds, it’s true – of the Emirates.

Now, however, the Welshman could be staking a claim as a regular and even important member of the starting XI. Let’s not completely remove ourselves from the idea that Ramsey can offer creative flashes here and there, because he can. How much of a benefit to Arsenal’s game is it to have an extra player in the midfield who has the mind of a creator, even though he may not have it in his body to execute the decisive passes with precision every time?

Ramsey is as dogged as anyone in the Premier League – and English football should be lapping it up. On his day, he can be that absolutely perfect combination of rugged toughness associated with the Premier League and the ingenuity of those on the continent. Despite it only being a pre-season friendly against a vastly inferior opposition, Ramsey was fantastic against the Indonesia Dream Team. The flicks, tricks and party skills are all memorable, but the fact that Ramsey had the confidence to pull it off is hugely encouraging.

But then that’s the fortune of him being only 22: there is still so much more to come from him in the future, and this should be the season where we see it begin the fall into place.

The problem with the 2011-12 campaign is that too much responsibility was placed in his hands too quickly. He was often played just behind Robin van Persie in Fabregas’ old role and given instruction to pull the strings for the rest of the team. The fact that he failed on the whole to do so is an indictment of the poor decision to offer such responsibility to a player who had just recovered from a career-threatening injury. He only recorded five assists in that campaign.

More so, last season saw Ramsey deployed in unfamiliar roles, often playing on the flanks and offering very little other than industry.

Going into this season, the fortune is that there is so little emphasis placed on Ramsey that he can fly under the radar and quietly continue his development. The focus is on a new central midfielder, possibly two. Everyone understands the need for a new striker, while some discussion is also being had about how to accommodate both Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere.

For Ramsey, it’s a case of continuing where he left off last season, putting forward his best abilities but in a role that suits him. Alongside Mikel Arteta, he’s continued to develop his awareness and defensive responsibility, as well as offering an outlet for Arsenal’s attacking game.

Ramsey was made a scapegoat in the past, though much of it was probably frustration at the club’s overall position at having lost its best players and offering little in the way of genuine encouragement for the future, rather than the player’s own ability. It made his continued path to recovery all the more troublesome, meaning there was no room for error.

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Provided Wenger stays true to Ramsey’s current abilities, this coming season promises to be the player’s real awakening from the troubling past. A redefining of his character on the pitch and the makings of a truly world-class defensive midfielder.

Is there much more to come from Aaron Ramsey next season?

Join the debate below

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Roberto Soldado’s expected move to Tottenham is not done yet, after the striker refused to comment on his future, reports the Metro. 

The 28-year-old’s prospective move to White Hart Lane had looked all but done and dusted, but the official announcement is yet to be made, despite Soldado being replaced as Valencia captain by Ricardo Costa.

But despite the loss of the armband and widespread reports suggesting a £25million fee has been agreed with the North London club, Soldado has remained tight lipped over his future.

‘I do not know what is going on at the moment,’ he said. ‘At the moment, I cannot say anything.

‘We will wait to see what happens. When the right time comes, I will speak, as I always have done.’

Soldado has emerged as Andre Villas-Boas’ top summer target as the clubs hunt for a world class striker continues.

The club missed out on another Spanish forward in the form of David Villa earlier in the summer, who opted to join Atletico Madrid despite the deal being thought to be virtually done and dusted.

Tottenham will be desperate to ensure something similar does not happen with Soldado, with supporters being left frustrated at the clubs failure to sign a striker in the past two transfer windows.

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The club are still confident however of having Soldado in their squad for their opening day fixture against Crystal Palace on August 18th.

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There are many players in the Premier League proving age is just a number. Brad Friedel, at 42, has set records for his age. He is currently keeper for Tottenham Hotspur. He was been honoured with the U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year award. He is still one of the top ‘keepers in the league. Ryan Giggs, aged 39, is the most decorated player in English football history. He also holds the club record for competitive appearances. He is the only remaining player in the Premier League who played in the old First Division.

So, age is clearly no barrier and Nest Pensions have just launched a new competition for anyone who is over 60 and still likes to have a good time on the pitch or on the dance floor. The competition is part of their Still Got It Campaign and the lucky few can win an all-expenses paid day out with the stars.

To enter the competition click here

Five football fans could win:

The chance to meet living legends Joe Royle, Jimmy Case, Mike Summerbee, Howard Kendall and Ron ‘Chopper’ Harris at an all-expenses-paid trip on 4 December 2013 to the National Museum of Football for you and your nominee.

Joe Royle was recruited by his home team of Everton at the age of 16. For five seasons, he was one of Everton’s top scorers. In the Championship-winning side of 1969–70, Royle scored 23 goals. He then went on to lead Manchester City to win the League Cup in 1976. He also played with Bristol City, Norwich City, and the England national team. He was forced into early retirement at the age of 33 due to a knee injury. He was voted into Norwich City’s Hall of Fame by his supporters. Royle carried on his career as a manager for Oldham Athletic, Everton, Manchester City, and Ipswich Town.

Jimmy Case is known as a player with one of the hardest shots in the game. At the end of his first full season, he helped Liverpool to victory in the League and the UEFA Cup. He helped lead Liverpool to win their first European Cup. Case won the League and the European Cup twice more with Liverpool and also added a League Cup winners’ medal in 1981. He then went on to play for Southampton and was voted Saints player of the year for 1989-90. In December 1990, he was selected to represent the Football League against the Irish League. He later temporarily managed Brighton and non- league Bashley.

Mike Summerbee made his league debut playing for Swindon Town in 1959 at the age of 16. He later was picked up by Manchester City and started in every single match his first season. He was the only player for Manchester City to do so that season. Summerbee was one of the most influential players for Manchester City side which won four trophies in three seasons from 1968–70. Summerbee, also known as “Buzzer”, was known for his fiery temperament. After more than 400 appearances for Manchester City, he moved to Burnley, then Blackpool and Stockport County. Within a five year period, Summerbee played eight times for England including the 1970 World Cup. Summerbee is now the Club Ambassador for Manchester City.

Howard Kendall is most famous for his connection to Everton, a club that he both played for and managed. He played in the 1964 FA Cup Final for Preston North End against West Ham United. At the time, he was the youngest player to appear in a Wembley the final. Kendall joined Everton and moved into midfield with Alan Ball and Colin Harvey, the trio gaining the nickname “The Holy Trinity”. He moved to Birmingham City then Stoke City where he was appointed a player-coach. There, he was awarded as the inaugural player of the year. Kendall was player-manager at Blackburn Rovers and returned to play for Everton before he retired in 1981. He continued his career with Everton as a manager.

Ron “Chopper” Harris is regarded as one of the toughest players of his era. He played for Chelsea in the 1960s and 1970s. He now plays football regularly with the “Fat Dads” where his toughness and furious tackling continues.

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Winners can test their skills against the stars, hold the FA Cup and will be presented with their own #Stillgotit trophy by their footballing heroes. Finish off with a three-course meal in the museum’s private dining suite and an overnight stay in Manchester. Twenty runners up could also win £30 shopping vouchers and a #Stillgotit trophy.

Alongside Peter Lawell’s announcement that Celtic yesterday recorded their best-ever interim financial results, the bullish assertion that the club could also spend £8m on a single player this summer will prove a tantalising conversation piece for fans over the next few months.Lawell’s stipulation that a prospective £8m outlay needs to represent value to the club is par for the course and will spark up speculation surrounding a few of the more attractive targets linked with Celtic recently.“We would not buy a 29-year-old at £8m on a four year contract at £40,000 a week because that is dead money,â€said Lawell.“If there is value in signing an £8m player we will look at it.“The money is there to be reinvested in the squad.â€With the above in mind, Cenk Tosun would certainly have fitted the bill, had the 22-year old not been snapped up by Besiktas just a couple of days ago. However, there are multiple targets Neil Lennon will continue to keep tabs on in the forthcoming months. Here are top three candidates so far…Steven FletcherA short game of cat and mouse between Celtic and Sunderland hinted at Fletcher moving back above the border though this was quashed by Gus Poyet’s understandably inflated price for his top scorer, who commanded a £12m fee not so long ago. The availability of the forward will be largely dependent upon the Black Cats’ Premier League status, though with Fletcher in and out of the side, it would be surprising if an approach from Celtic wouldn’t turn his head. In terms of what he’d offer the club, Fletcher would seem the ideal acquisition: dangerous in the air, predatory around the box and armed with in-depth experience of Scottish football.
Alfred FinnbogasonIt was widely reported during the January transfer window that Celtic might be priced out of a move for the Icelandic striker. Not anymore. Heerenveen’s front man has been banging them in in the Eredivisie this term, with 22 goals in 20 games in all competitions. Such form has attracted a host of Premier League suitors, though the Hoops will certainly have the financial clout to compete in a crowded marketplace now and their long-standing interest will definitely appeal to a player who is keen to escape Holland as soon as possible.
Aron JohannssonU.S. striker Johannsson was another one looked at by Lennon on a recent scouting mission to the Netherlands. The 24-year old has caught the eye with a series of athletic displays at AZ Alkmaar and it’s likely that his value has increased beyond the £5m being touted last summer. With the man himself teasing in a potential move to Glasgow on Twitter just before Christmas, it’s obvious that playing at Celtic Park is on his radar.

How much of a ‘mutual agreement’ it was for Nemanja Vidic to leave Manchester United at the end of the season, we may never know. But for Vidic he may not feel he’s really leaving Manchester United. The club that the Serb joined is very different to it’s current incarnation and it’s understandable that sticking around for a rebuilding process, which at 32, he will never get to experience the fruits of his labour, would be unattractive.

One thing that is certain, however, is that Vidic will be playing for Inter Milan next season. In light of this fact, David Moyes feels it would be best for the Premier League champions to start getting used to life without their captain and will attempt to phase the defender out as the campaign comes to a close. The wisdom of Moyes looking so far to the future must be seriously questioned given the precarious nature of the present that he finds himself in.

The strongest argument for continuing to play Vidic is a simple one: he remains Man United’s best centre back. And while the situation is of course more nuanced then this, there is no other single factor that should be given as big a weighting. David Moyes can ill afford more poor results in what has been a tragic opening salvo at Old Trafford. The best way to avoid this  is to play your best team. It’s hard to see why it should be more complicated than this.

And yet it is. But even looking at the complexities of the situation only yields further arguments against phasing Vidic out. For one thing, it is wrong to assume that just because United will not qualify for the Champions League this season, means that the remaining games no longer matter. Results matter – always. Alex Ferguson had built a club that knew this and to forget it so quickly would be a disastrous. Mentalities are hard-built, but easily broken, and the idea that it might be okay to lose a couple of more games this campaign if it benefits future development is a very dangerous one to give players.

Along with this internal psychological factor, there is the external factor of how Manchester United are perceived. What happens between now and the end of the season will likely have a huge bearing on who the club can attract in the summer. Memories are short in football and only appear to be getting shorter as the pace of news-cycle increases. Stutter to the end of the campaign and United will go into the summer in much the same negative news spiral that they currently find themselves. Put together a strong finish to the season and it would go along way to changing the current image of the club. The fact that Vidic is leaving only emphasises that United’s ability to attract players this summer may be more important than ever.

Practically speaking, it’s even harder to see the benefits of leaving Vidic out of the team. The reasoning appears to be that it enables the team to work on a defensive partnership that are going to have to deal with the hole left by the Serb’s absence next season. However, if we assume that United are going to buy a replacement for Vidic in the summer – and if all the talk of ‘war chests’ is to believed, this would seem to be a fairly safe assumption to make – then it becomes very difficult the see the logic of leaving the captain out.

Some may find it laughable that Moyes is even thinking so much about next season when it’s far from certain he will even make it to the end of this one. However, even with next season in mind, it seems that the Scot would be better to continue to play Vidic then phase him out.

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While Moyes may have been guilty of not changing enough during the summer, it seems like he’s trying to change too much, too quickly now. But then again, maybe this decision was not one that he had any control over. Even if the decision to leave was Vidic’s, David Moyes may be better advised to try and get the most out of his veteran centre back rather than let him fade away.

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This weekend sees Everton host title-chasing favourites Manchester City, as the Toffees also look to keep their slim chances of Champions League football alive for one more game. But it’s a harrowing thought for many Everton fans that any points they take off City would hand the impetus back to Liverpool in the title race.

On paper, it’s both Everton and Manchester City’s toughest remaining fixture. And recent history suggests it isn’t a game that City prosper in either. Everton have won eight of the last 10 Premier League meetings with City at Goodison Park, losing just once.

While Everton still have a mathematical possibility of gaining the final Champions League spot, they’ll be looking to go all out. Roberto Martinez has built a team that has looked rejuvenated. The relentlessness of their recent good form suggests they are in no mood to let up. With a number of players still possibly looking to impress upon their national coaches in times for the World Cup, the Everton players aren’t likely to roll over for the sake of local rivalry.

Leon Osman has allayed the fears that they may be tempted to take their foot off the gas:

“We’re professionals and it’s what we do. It’s a big game at Goodison and we want to enjoy it and win it. A lot of clubs will be watching this game very closely but we’ve got to put all that out of our minds and do what we always do and go into the game to win.”

To be honest, you’d never expect anything other than what Osman has said. Any deep-lying wish for Liverpool to miss out on the Premier League trophy is never going to be aired publicly.

With Tottenham still breathing down their necks, Everton’s players will still have as much to worry about beneath them as they have above. A loss to City would give Tottenham the chance to level with them on points, putting more pressure on the final game against Hull. For all the suggestions that fifth and sixth will be no different, for a club with finances as limited as Everton, every little helps.

If they remain hopeful for the future, finances will be the key. Any chance they have of progressing into the Champions League – as Roberto Martinez promised – could hinge on small details. An extra million here or there could have an immeasurable impact in time.

Martinez has worked wonders so far, and he’ll see the match against City as another chance to show how far his Everton side have come this season. There’s a very real prospect of them breaking the 70-point barrier for the first time in Premier League history, and they won’t be looking to secure this on the last day.

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The title race has had so many twists this season, with each contending side having made seemingly fatal slip-ups along the road. It’s Everton’s turn to have a say, and it could be the biggest of all. Martinez’s side have yet to just take it easy. They’re a professional and skilful outfit, so don’t expect them to let up for the sake of rivalry.

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You would be excused for thinking that, despite their enormous history, Manchester United will likely spend another year out of the Premier League title race next season.

After all, the Red Devils finished in a shocking seventh place last season and the Old Trafford outfit is still getting over the shock. Likewise, following the departures of Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra, Manchester United is a club caught in transition.

But we at Football Fancast have high hopes for the Red Devils next season, believing the lack of pressure currently upon them could see them stage a surprise coup for the English title.

With that in mind, here’s FIVE reasons United should still be considered serious title contenders.

[ffc-gallery]CLICK ON LOUIS VAN GAAL TO REVEAL

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LOUIS VAN GAAL

Many doubted David Moyes’ credentials as Manchester United manager but the same can’t be said for Louis van Gaal.

The Dutchman has worked at Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich, winning La Liga, Bundesliga, Eredivisie and Champions League titles in the process, and is more than acclimatised to life at a major club.

Furthermore, comparisons with Sir Alex Ferguson are hard to ignore. Like Fergie, Louis van Gaal is nothing short of completely crazy:

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And his two leading philosophical pillars – a belief in youth and attacking football – suit Manchester United perfectly.

WAYNE ROONEY AND ROBIN VAN PERSIE

Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez were undoubtedly the Premier League’s top striking partnership last season, amassing an incredible 52 goals and 17 assists between them.

But now the Uruguayan flesh-chomper has departed for Barcelona, it’s time for Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney to emerge as the most prolific partnership in the English top flight once again.

Manchester United’s pre-season tour suggests the Red Devils will adopt a 3-5-2 system next season, which will allow both Rooney and RVP to be on the pitch at the same time, whilst assisted by Juan Mata at No.10:

The last time the England and Dutch internationals teamed up for a whole season – without it being disrupted by RVP’s regular injuries – they amassed a collective 38 goals and 19 assists, firing the Red Devils to their 13th Premier League title.

And if the Netherlands’ impressive World Cup campaign is anything to go by, van Gaal will undoubtedly get the best out of his Oranje compatriot. Van Persie netted four times at Brazil 2014, including this now-legendary header:

Here’s some highlights of the United forwards combining to great effect during the 2012/13 campaign:

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THEY’VE ACTUALLY BOUGHT A MIDFIELDER

As viewable below, with the exception of Michael Carrick, Manchester United were absolutely woeful in the middle of the park last season:

Which makes you wonder whether the retirement of Paul Scholes was actually the prevailing factor behind United’s woes last term, rather than Sir Alex Ferguson stepping down.

But believe it or not, the Red Devils have actually sought to rectify their most intrinsic flaw this summer, having overlooked it for several seasons and failed to truly address it with the signing of Marouane Fellaini twelve months ago, with the acquisition of Athletic Bilbao’s Ander Herrera.

And if last season’s form is anything to go by, the Spaniard’s energetic playmaking is exactly what the Old Trafford side have been desperately searching for over the last few years:

He also nonchalantly produced this defence-splitting pass during United’s pre-season friendly against LA Galaxy:

Furthermore, Louis van Gaal isn’t stopping there. If recent speculation is to be believed, Juventus star Arturo Vidal is also on his way to Old Trafford:

A NEW SYSTEM

Manchester United looked horrendously outdated in a philosophical sense under David Moyes, but that looks set to be rectified with Louis van Gaal importing his 3-5-2 system that earned Oranje such plaudits at the World Cup.

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As previously stated, the Red Devils have lined up in a 3-5-2 for all of their pre-season friendlies, and this team, barring the absence of Robin van Persie, could well constitute their strongest starting XI next season:

Admittedly, as much the formation could give United a unique tactical advantage over their opponents, it could also become their intrinsic curse. The last major Premier League side to attempt 3-5-2 was Manchester City and it flopped spectacularly.

But LvG knows the system, how best to implement it and the type of players required well, having been luxury to a test run with the Netherlands at the World Cup.

Perhaps most importantly of all however, it gives the Old Trafford side a clear sense of identity and direction – something they tellingly lacked under Moyes.

NO CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Manchester United fans were incredibly disappointed to witness their club miss out on Champions League qualification last season but it could well prove to be a blessing in disguise.

As Liverpool proved last season, focusing your attentions solely on the league whilst divisional rivals are battling on several fronts at the same time can be a huge advantage.

Free of the shackles of European football, Liverpool staged an almighty coup for the Premier League title, finally finishing just one point short to eventual winners Manchester City.

United will be privy to that benefit next season, also having considerably longer rest time between fixtures.

It could however see them struggle to capture their priority targets this summer:

Barclays has today launched a new television advert to mark the start of the 2014/15 Barclays Premier League season. The 60 second advert, called ‘picking ourselves up’, airs for the first time this weekend (16 August) on UK TV and digital channels.

Ex-Tottenham Hotspur captain and England international Ledley King paid a surprise visit to the filming shoot along with the Barclays Premier League Trophy to help inspire the school children taking part.

The film aims to shine a light on grassroots football and highlight those, both young and old, who capture the excitement of the Barclays Premier League and champion the true spirit of the game. A group of two young London teams feature in the advert on the eve of the new season with anticipation building following last season’s thrilling finale.

The advert marks the next stage of Barclays ‘thank you’ campaign which, through a series of initiatives, recognises and rewards club legends, community heroes, ex-players and fans who go above and beyond in their love for the game.

Ledley King said: “Seeing kids who are passionate about the game and want to learn and develop is fantastic. We want to see people play the game with a smile on their face and it’s up to the players at the top of the game to be role models for all those youngsters who aspire to be just like them”.

David Wheldon, Managing Director of Brand, Reputation, Citizenship and Marketing at Barclays, said: “Our mission is to champion the true spirit of the game and the start of this new season, always a time of great optimism, is the perfect opportunity to do this.

“From the commitment of grassroots coaches, to the unwavering support of fans around the world, and the integrity of players who play the game in the right way, we want to say thank you to those who embody the spirit of the game week in week out”.

The advert was filmed at Wormwood Scrubs in London, the site of one of the first Barclays Spaces for Sports facilities which this year celebrates its 10th year anniversary.

Throughout the 2014/15 season Barclays will be rewarding fans who join the conversation via the Barclays Football Facebook Page or Barclays Footy Twitter Page with exclusive ticket and merchandise giveaways.

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Starting on Tuesday 19th August, Barclays’ Ticket Tuesday promotion will give fans the chance to win tickets to their favourite team every Tuesday of the 2014/15 Barclays Premier League season. Barclays will once again also be giving away more than 8,000 tickets to local communities in partnership with Barclays Premier League clubs.

For more information on the campaign visit www.facebook.com/barclaysfootball.

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