Player review: Brown

Injury forced Wes out of the run-in, but his contribution was immense when his team-mates were suffering on the treatment table…

Story of the season: With injuries affecting the United’s back line through much of the autumn and winter, Wes stepped up when Rio Ferdinand was out with back problems and strung together a series of solid performances. His appearances in the team were interrupted when he suffered a thigh strain just before Christmas, an injury that left United without a recognised defender in the starting line-up in the match against Fulham. But he returned for the league games against Hull and Wigan, and United were immediately back to winning ways. His form this season earned him England call-ups for the friendlies against Brazil in November and champions of Africa Egypt in March, after more than a year away from the international scene. His appearance at Wolves at the start of March was his last of the season after he suffered a broken metatarsal. He returned to the squad at the end of April and was an unused sub for two of United’s final three games.

Finest moment: This goal will be remembered by most for Wayne Rooney’s exquisite assist to Dimitar Berbatov, but it was only made possible by the artful application of Wesley’s sturdy bonce. Away at the KC Stadium, United were 2-1 up but the points far from secure in the face of a vibrant showing from Hull City. Brown strode forward to attack a clearance from keeper Boaz Myhill’s, thumping it fully 50 yards into Rooney’s path as accurately as any Paul Scholes pass. Wazza took a couple of touches and threaded the ball through Anthony Gardner’s legs to find Berbatov for a tap-in at the far post.

What’s in store? Two seasons ago, Wes signed a five-year deal to keep him at the club until 2013, so we’ll be seeing him around for a good while yet. There will be added competition for places at centre-back next term with young Chris Smalling joining from Fulham, but Brown’s dedication and versatility mean there will always be a place for him in Sir Alex’s plans.

 

ManUtd.Com