Why December is a Pivotal Month for Manchester United

Every December seems to be an extremely busy one  in the English Premier League.

With Manchester United scheduled to play five games in an 18-day stretch, this year is no different.

Subsequently, United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes that December will put his entire squad to the test.

“December is a particularly busy month when we often play eight or nine games,” Fergie told Inside United.

“We’ve got a Boxing Day game, a New Year’s Eve game… it’s going to be a hectic spell and that’s when the squad really kicks in.”

Despite a lack of depth and world-class talent in United’s midfield, Sir Alex has downplayed making any wholesale changes in January.

However, former Manchester United star Nicky Butt believes that Fergie will make changes if he needs to.

“Every team can improve, no matter who they are,” Butt told the club’s official website.

“Even Barcelona can improve so I’m sure Sir Alex will sign players, whether it be in midfield, defence or up front. He’s always looking to enhance his squad.

“I think it’s difficult to pick the four starting across the midfield.

“In years gone by, everyone knew who the strongest four or five was. It’s different now but we’ve still got some good players.

“I think Sir Alex will be looking to try and get a steady pairing in the centre. He’s had injuries to Darren Fletcher, Clevlerley and Anderson so it’s been difficult to get a regular line-up in midfield. It helps when you can get everyone on a roll and playing well together.”

The Red Devils are currently sitting two points behind City in the Premier League, but United’s “noisy neighbours” do have a game in hand.

Everyone will be watching when City take on Chelsea later today. I know I will.

I also expect that Sir Alex Ferguson will be keeping a close eye on Mancini’s side.

If City boss the game, changes will surely be in store for the Red Devils.

So what players should United target in January?

Mario Goetze should be Fergie’s number one target.

The German international is the ideal player for the Red Devils. He’s young, quick, creative, hard-working, and has world-class technical ability.

If United are seeking a defensive midfielder, look no further than Bastian Schweinsteiger.

Schweinsteiger is one of the world’s premier midfielders. He can dominate the center of the pitch and has the class to aid the attack.

If United can lure the Bayern Munich to Manchester, they could just see themselves hoist the Premier League trophy is May 2012.