Blanc excited by O'Shea potential

Veteran defender Laurent Blanc has predicted a bright future for Manchester United team-mate John O’Shea.

The Irishman’s outstanding performances in a variety of defensive roles for the Old Trafford side this season have been one of the major reasons why Blanc has spent so long on the sidelines in recent months.

After starting 21 games to the end of November, the 37-year-old has appeared in Alex Ferguson’s starting line-up just four times since, including the two ’dead’ Champions League matches with Basle and Deportivo La Coruna.

And, as he contemplates the end of an illustrious career, Blanc acknowledges United’s defence is in safe hands, particularly with O’Shea in the side.

“John has done very well this year,” Blanc told MUTV.

“It doesn’t matter whether it is at right-back, left-back, central defence or even midfield, he always seems to adapt.

“For someone who is only 21, he is very mature and plays the game with intelligence.

“He’s important for the future of Manchester United, as are Wes Brown and Mikael Silvestre.

“They can continue to develop with the players who have greater experience and they will do well.”

Many pundits questioned the wisdom of Blanc’s arrival at Old Trafford on a free transfer from Inter Milan 18 months ago.

The Frenchman is now clearly past his best and his lack of pace was badly exposed by Albert Luque in Spain last month.

However, Ferguson believes Blanc’s presence on the training ground can provide the younger members of his defence with valuable lessons which they can take into the remainder of their own careers.

It is unlikely though there will be an extension to his current contract which expires in the summer, although the player, famously denied a World Cup final in 1998 following his dismissal against Croatia in the semi-final, is uncertain what his future holds.

“Manchester United existed before me and it will exist after me,” he said.

“I don’t know what I will do next year but I think I need a break.

“Maybe if I could help some younger players that would be good for me but I do have some time to think about it before I have to make a decision.”