O’Shea wants to lose ‘Mr Versatility’ tag
The 22-year-old Waterfordman has confirmed his reputation as one of the Premiership’s most exciting young talents this season. In more than 50 appearances for the Old Trafford club, he has excelled in both full-back positions and at centre-half, with manager Alex Ferguson also insisting he would have no hesitation in naming O’Shea in midfield some time in the future.
As part of a defence Ferguson still believes lacks the necessary experience to complete the Scot’s aim of conquering Europe again, O’Shea might be fearful of getting the same number of chances next term. That seems unlikely, though, and he is almost certain to sign a new £35,000-a-week deal this summer.
However, while he is happy to take the accolades in his stride and play in whatever position Ferguson requires as he takes the first tentative steps towards stardom, he would prefer to concentrate on just one position.
“The one thing I don’t want is for people to say I can play anywhere,” he said. “It’s fine for this season because it’s done me the world of good but over time I want to stay in one position.
“I don’t know what that position will be but at the moment I’d like it to be centre-half, although a lot of people would probably say my best position is full-back.”
O’Shea’s immaculate control and easy running style make him a natural for either slot, although the full-back positions do also provide an opportunity to show off his attacking talents. He seems adept at producing the odd ‘Cruyff turn’ and includes Luis Figo among the opponents he has nutmegged this season.
Most memorable of all though was the mazy run into the box at St James’ Park followed by the shot which crashed against the crossbar in the famous 6-2 win over Newcastle.
However, he does recognise that with his increased profile come extra responsibilities and he can no longer be quite as carefree as he has in the past.
“You have to be a bit more clued-up about where you go and how you handle yourself,” he said.
“When I first came over, I could do anything and get away with it but now there will always be someone to say ‘that’s John O’Shea’.
“You have to be wary of that but I’m glad it’s happening. It shows you have had a good season.”
Markus Neumayr, Eintracht Frankfurt’s 17-year-old playmaker, claims he is poised to become the first German player signed by United.
Neumayr first caught the eye of Manchester United at an Under-16 tournament in Italy. He was given a trial at Old Trafford last October and was swept off his feet.
Neumayr has no doubts whatsoever that the move will go ahead and claimed “everything is settled”.
Eintracht Frankfurt vice-president Klaus Lotzbeier also believes the move will happen but is a little more cautious.
He said: “I can confirm that Manchester United have expressed big interest in him. It’s not a done deal yet but a contract will be signed once the English law allows this to happen.”
According to Eintracht’s youth co-ordinator Holger Muller, Neumayr is “a mixture of Tomas Rosicky and Andreas Moller” and has “strong character and huge potential”.
Meanwhile, United will get their Premiership trophy on the Goodison Park pitch on Sunday but only after Everton have completed their lap of honour.
An agreement between the Premier League and the Merseyside club has been thrashed out today after lengthy talks.
But the champions will have to wait for around 30 minutes after their final league game of the season to allow their hosts to complete their own lap of honour.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
