Alex Ferguson should replace Owen Hargreaves

Owen Hargreaves has shown himself to be a talented footballer throughout his career and in the few appearances he has made for Manchester United, but at a price of around £17 million he has found himself to be anything but value for money after turning out for the Premier League side just 26 times since his arrival back in 2007.

Although the Glazer family have suggested they are more than happy to continue to bankroll Sir Alex Ferguson in the transfer market, the manager is yet to find a replacement for Hargreaves.

Although his loyalty to the player is admirable, it still appears like a crazy decision not to replace a player who is constantly crocked. Despite the fact that United have Carrick, Anderson and Fletcher as players who are capable of playing in the holding role that Hargreaves occupies, none of them appear able to make the role their own. The Manchester United betting suggests they are still in with a great chance of winning the title this season, but they can’t expect to dominate games without having a top-class holding midfielder.

Should Hargreaves continue to remain in a permanent state of injury, something Ferguson clearly feels is unlikely considering his decision to include him in his 25-man Premier League squad, then Sir Alex may be left ruing his decision not to find a replacement for a man he had hoped would be a key part of his squad.

Meanwhile, United travel Everton this weekend and the Everton betting suggests the home side, who have struggled to score so far this season, could be in for a very tough time.

With things still going relatively well on the pitch, United fans may be forgiven for putting any fears they may have about their squad to the backs of their mind as they look to regain the status of Premier League champions from their rivals Chelsea.