Euro 2008 Scouting

Scouted: David Silva

Spain's Euro 2008 quarter-final win over Italy might not linger in the memory but some of the men involved may be worth remembering.

Like David Silva, for example - a creative midfielder for Spain and the subject here of a scouting report by United supporter John Cho:

Player's name: David Silva
Position: Winger
Match Scouted: Spain v Italy
Strength: Quick feet, intelligent, sharp shooter
Availability: A product of Valencia's youth system, he might want to leave this summer for Champions League football. I'll be upset if this kid, like Torres, goes to Liverpool. I've kept saying this kid will be big. Now we have the proof.
Estimated cost: £15 - 20 million.
Key moment: The whole match against Italy. Torres and Villa were nowhere to be seen, but this kid tormented the Italian defence with his quick feet, clever passing, finding space, quick changes in direction, and some threatening long-distance shots. Although a winger, he sometimes appeared in the middle as a playmaker and also helped out in defence.
Suitability for United: Some people may say his physique is not right for English football, but after seeing him take stick from the Italian defence, he is likely to hold his own against Premier League defenders.

Scouted: Arshavin

Andrei Arshavin's return from a two-match suspension at Euro 2008 was eagerly awaited by Russia, and the Zenit St Petersburg forward didn't disappoint.

A menace all night to Sweden with a goal into the bargain, Talking Reds poster Red 68-99-08 says United should make a move...

Scouting Report

Player name: Andrei Arshavin
Position: Forward
Match Scouted: Russia v Sweden
Key Moment: Almost too many to mention. He really makes Russia tick. He scored Russia's second goal - a just reward for the impact he made throughout the game.
Strengths: Strong runner, good finisher, great movement. But undoubtedly he strongest asset is his skill and creativity.
Weaknesses: He's not the most physical of players, but his energy and ability to beat players means that shouldn't be a problem.
Suitability: Perfect. He's adaptable, he can play up front, off the main striker or out wide. He'd be a great addition to our squad.
Estimated Cost: Arsenal are the latest in a long line of clubs to be linked with a move that cost around £12million - but expect his price to rise if Russia continue to progress at Euro 2008.

Scouted: Ibrahim Afellay

Ibrahim Afellay is considered to be one of the brightest young prospects in Dutch football.

PSV Eindhoven's 22-year-old midfielder was an outstanding performer in their 2007/08 Eredivisie title success. He started his first match at Euro 2008 in the 2-0 win over Romania and impressed Talking Reds user ChorltonRed.

Scouting Report

Player name: Ibrahim Afellay
Position: Attacking midfielder
Match Scouted: Holland v Romania
Key Moment: Provided the cross from the right for Klaas Jan Huntelaar's 53rd minute goal, but the pass which Boulahrouz failed to capitalise on in the first half was fantastic.
Strengths: Very skilful and confident on the ball, has great balance and loves to take players on. He's a real creative influence at PSV.
Weaknesses: He doesn't seem to score very many goals. He only got two last season in 23 league appearances. But he has got an eye for goal and I think his contribution will improve.
Suitability: He's young and would add to United's threat going forward. Dutch players tend to settle well in England so it wouldn't be a problem for him. He's also been a regular in a championship-winning team.
Estimated Cost: Valencia and Arsenal are both interested apparently. He'd cost at least £10m, maybe as much as £15m depending on what he does in the rest of the tournament.

Taken from: www.manutd.com

Manchester United should sign one of these players X)