YPT visits

Even with Keane in the back their defensive deficiencies continued, Beckham was not 100% and could not finish the match, and Giggs was out with a hamstring injury. Things went from bad to worse when the game ended and United was 3 goals down. Chelsea, therefore, moved ahead in the standings and United sunk another slot. Winning another Premiership now was practically an impossibility - with 15 games to go United can only lose one if they are to win the league. However, it was impressive to hear and see the supporters still supporting their team as the players left the field...obviously dejected. I learned first hand that United fans will voice their criticisms and question things they disagree with, such as line -up and substitution decisions, but they will always support their team.....always.

FINAL THOUGHTS

For someone who spends a great deal of time involved in youth player development in the United States, the chance to visit an Academy the likes of Manchester United was an opportunity I will not soon forget. I do not hesitate to say I came back a better coach. It was not so much about learning drills as it was about learning how to be a professional. When I first started visiting professional clubs a few years ago it was more a technical quest for me, meaning I wanted to learn better training exercises. As I get older I find myself more interested in structure and philosophy. One of the key points of United's Academy philosophy seems to be enjoyment. Everyone involved understands that, regardless of physical and technical ability, if the players do not enjoy themselves they will not progress. United has been successful in finding qualified trainers who do not have to work at making the process enjoyable for the players. It comes natural to them - it's part of their personality. When you are there, you are not part of an organization...you are part of a family. Assistant Academy Director Paul McGuinness summed it up the best:

'Whilst we demand the best of players at all times both on and off the field, we do have an enormous amount of fun. There is a real sense of togetherness.'

MANCHESTER UNITED vs CHELSEA at OLD TRAFFORD

Saturday would bring another highlight for me...seeing Manchester United play Chelsea at home at Old Trafford. The atmosphere was absolutely incredible. You felt it as soon as you set foot in the stadium. As Man U's website says:

'When you step into the Theatre of Dreams you're walking into more than just a football stadium. It's been the focus for the passion of millions of fans around the world for nearly 90 years. All the hopes and dreams of the club have been played out here and every blade of grass on the pitch could tell a story.'

United, sitting in 7th place, were looking to turn things around and start their climb back to the top of the Premiership. Chelsea was positioned just below The Red Devils in the table and were having troubles of their own but, as any fan will tell you, Chelsea always play well when they visit Old Trafford. Unfortunately for the home side, things did not go well.