Wes Brown on the importance of squad depth – exclusive | OneFootball

Versatile defender Wes Brown may know the importance of squad depth better than anyone, having spent his Manchester United career playing in teams that were overflowing with talented players. It is a testament to Brown’s work-rate and ability that he continued to be a mainstay in the squad for over a decade.

The depth of the squad was a key factor in Sir Alex Ferguson’s success across such a long period of time, with the legendary manager being able to make substitutions that enhanced the team rather than weakened it. With the transfer window fast approaching, many fans are hoping United’s need for further depth in the squad will be addressed to allow the team to continue to push on.

More games next season

United’s third-placed finish guarantees the Red Devils a return to the Champions League next season, ensuring at least eight more games next season. As it stands, United do not have the depth required to compete on four fronts, with Michael Carrick usually only having three or four players on the bench that he can trust to bring on should changes be required.

The Red Devils are looking to bring in a variety of players in the upcoming transfer window across multiple positions, although it is believed they are prioritising central midfield. This is music to the ears of United fans, who know that a much deeper squad will be required to bring success back to Old Trafford.

Brown’s thoughts on United’s full backs

During The Peoples Person’s exclusive interview with United legend Brown, sponsored by NetBet, the versatile defender initially gave his thoughts on United’s current options at full back. He said: “I’ll start with Luke. I think Luke’s been excellent.”

“And we’ve got Dalot and Mazraoui. I mean, Mazraoui was excellent. And when he comes in at times and he can play everywhere, but to be fair, Dalot’s probably played more. You know, he’s the one that’s sort of cemented his spot a little bit. And you know, Dalot is a good player.”

“I always say, the best way to put it is, when I was there, even when I was centre-back, I was playing right-back, the manager still brought other people in. And you know what that does? It always means it’s competition. Now, I also think a lot of these people can you can play better at times. And I think with that competition, that definitely happens.

“I personally don’t think that’s the main area. But at the same time, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with, you know, if you see someone there who you think might be shining and it’s a chance of getting them, then I don’t see any problem doing that.”

Brown’s take on the forwards

Moving into the forward area of the pitch, Brown went on to say: Yeah, I mean, we all love Sesko, especially how he’s developed this season. And when Cunha plays there, it’s not the same. I think everyone likes Cunha on the left. And Mbuemo’s done it a few times, not the same. So I think ultimately, that is definitely somewhere you look. I always say who, and then you struggle. Honestly, you do struggle a bit.”

“And I’m talking about everywhere. If you look at the financials, you can’t go deep. Because it’s not right to do that yet. That’s not your main priority. I still think midfield is. But at the same time, you do need a backup. Now whether you can really push someone from the youth team to do that, but be still really focused, I’m not sure. Because it is tough.”

Brown’s concluding thoughts

Giving his final thoughts on the subject, Brown said: “But you look at the bench and you go, they could probably start for most teams in the league. And if you can get to that, then… I think first of all, the games, you win more games anyway. Because everyone’s fighting for competition. And you’re picking up points and you realise around Christmas time that we’re actually very good. You try not to think about it too much, but you know, it gives you a little boost”

Here’s hoping the recruitment team at United take Brown’s advice and invest heavily in beefing out the squad so that Michael Carrick has the best chance of increasing his already excellent win-rate.

Featured image Ryan Pierse via Getty Images

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The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social