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Man Utd fans might not agree, but Fellaini deserves to be Pogba replacement

Blamed for Moyes failings

Life in Manchester hasn’t been easy for Marouane Fellaini. Chastised as the embodiment of one of the most embarrassing periods of Manchester United’s modern history, David Moyes’ marquee signing remains very much the pantomime villain at M16 – but is such vitriol still justified?

The mistakes have been well documented, but does he make more mistakes than others? The difference being that everybody remembers the mistakes of the figure who is easily ridiculed.

What United fans have struggled to cope with most is Fellaini’s abrasive style of play. With Paul Pogba out injured, it appears Fellaini will deputise – a clash of styles in the extreme.

However, in terms of effectiveness, willingness to adhere to the principles of the coach and ability to offer a different dimension altogther, the Belgium international deserves his place in the team.

 

Fellaini attitude cannot be questioned

All of his toys are still very much in the proverbial pram. There has been no public outcry when interviewed in his homeland about his lack of first-team action. When a move to AC Milan and Galatasaray was blocked by his manager in the summer, Fellaini turned up for training as normal, and on he went with his day – admirable behaviour in a era of player power.

“He’s an important player for me – a lot more important than you can imagine,” Mourinho said prior to United’s midweek Champions League win over Basel. “I feel weaker without Fellaini in my squad, doesn’t matter if it’s on the pitch or on the bench. If his conditions are improved, he will be selected, I need him.”

When everyone else around you fails to believe, faith of those who matter most can have a real rejuvenating effect on a player. Fellaini came off the bench on Tuesday with United playing nice football, but lacking real potency, and headed United into the lead.

His celebration – becoming somewhat of a trademark as the boo boys continue to rear their ugly heads around Old Trafford – pointing to his name on the back of his shirt, shows just how determined he is to prove a point – something Mourinho will relish with a tough match to come against Everton.

 

Herrera may have to wait

Most fans will see Pogba’s injury as an opportunity for fan favourite Ander Herrera to be given his chance to get back in the side, and his ascension to Bryan Robson-esque popularity get back on track, but after his midweek exploits, and his patience sat on the bench, the time is right for Fellaini to be that man Mourinho turns to.

Yes the style of his play might not be all that aesthetically pleasing, but in Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Juan Mata, United have all the ingenuity they need. Pogba simply added to that. Fellaini now offers a more combative option, against an opponent he will be really looking to prove a point against.

 

Great time to face Everton

Fellaini made his name at Everton as that handful arriving late in the box, but he will be more determined to perform against his former employer as his mistake cost United three vital points last season at Goodison Park – and when Fellaini makes a mistake, fans remember.

Having put on such a woeful showing in the Europa League in midweek, one which Ronald Koeman rued for lack of fight, Everton will be bringing hell, fire and fury down the M62 on Sunday.

And one man determined to fan those flames is Fellaini, and the time is right for Mourinho to put faith in his imposing midfield dynamo. It may not be the most flamboyant of performances, but with a point to prove, Fellaini can get the job done in his own, unique way.

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