NEWS
A selection of FirstTouch's best football writing, brought to you by emerging journalists, collaborators, and fans.
Old Trafford expansion put on hold
Logistics hindering progress in Manchester
Manchester United who have had an average season this year are facing a dilemma on how to increase the capacity of their stadium. The club have been contemplating on redeveloping Sir Bobby Charlton Stand and the plans were drawn up about three times in the past 10 years but they are once again put on hold because of logistical reasons. The club are not the first to extend the capacity of their stadium as Tottenham, who are currently renting the Wembley Stadium, have already started construction at the White Hart Lane. Chelsea also will be using Wembley soon when the construction commences at the Stamford Bridge. The problem with Manchester United’s stadium is that it cannot be used while the construction takes place like how Liverpool did in Anfield. This means that they would require to use other facilities aside from their home ground and the only other option in Manchester is the stadium of their rivals. The practically of that is unlikely considering the relationship between the two clubs. That being the case, Manchester United have decided to put that project on hold once more as they look for other alternatives.
Manchester United Managing Director had this to say, “"It would be a multi-season challenge and it isn't certain that there's a way of doing it which doesn't render us homeless."
Old Trafford already has the capacity of up to 80 000 and still want more considering that there is work required to accommodate higher numbers of disabled supporters. It would be interesting to see who United will maneuver this situation if they decide to start working on redeveloping the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand.
Race For EPL Top Goalscorer
Salah’s aim to score against top 6 teams
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool is on par with Harry Kane as the English Premier League top goal scorer with 24 already to his name this season. The Egyptian winger is the talk of the moment and was interviewed by former Liverpool player Jamie Carragher on Friday. The player reflected on the fact that he has managed to score against all the other top 6 teams except for Manchester United and he feels he still has some unfinished business. He recalls the missed chances in the game played at Anfield and has been studying De Gea’s weaknesses because he is planning on scoring past the goalkeeper who is in the form of his career as well. The player says he looks for a goal in each game and wants to continue with his impressive form and go on to win the golden boot ahead of the best strikers in England. Do you think the Egyptian has what it takes to outscore Harry Kane, Sergio Aguero and the rest? Drop your comments below.