The David Moyes backlash is stronger than ever. Tomorrow when Manchester United hosts Aston Villa, there will be not but two different groups utilizing the sky above Old Trafford to express their message against the embattled Man U. manager and “The Chosen One” banner that celebrates him. If those United supporters who paid for the fly-overs believe their stunt will inspire Moyes to step down, they’re wrong.
“All it has done is strengthened my resolve to get the job done right,” the defiant manager said today of the backlash against him.
“I’m more driven to succeed than ever. I want to change the position we’re in just now. I really do believe we can do that.”
So that’s his response. It appears the David Moyes backlash has not changed his mind about whether not not he’s in over his head. And the embattled and beleagured boss also turned down the opportunity to rip the fans who planned the ‘Moyes Out’ stunt.
“I’ve heard of it and what they’re saying about it,” he said.
“It’s a long journey here and this is just the start of the journey.”
So he just gave a platitude and the party line as a counter to the David Moyes backlash. The blame should be spread around.
Not just Moyes, but the players too and even Sir Alex Ferguson, who received abuse for installing Moyes as he sat in the directors’ box on Tuesday.
"Wrong one – Moyes out" banner set to fly over Old Trafford – David Moyes's reaction https://t.co/iDPAlnlfr8 #mufc pic.twitter.com/ATYVo5PSOP
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) March 28, 2014
The Chosen One banner is certainly a polarizing presence within the Manchester United fan base. At Old Trafford it really inspires a passionate backlash. The Chosen One banner was almost ripped down following the 3-nil loss to local rivals Manchester City on Tuesday. Stadium stewards had to be called in to stop angry Red Devils supporters from taking it down.
Some fans had earlier called for the group that made the banner – Stretford End Flags (SEF) – to remove it following the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool almost two weeks ago. SEF has stated the banner will remain for now.
Paul M. Banks owns The Sports Bank.net, an affiliate of Fox Sports. An MBA and Fulbright scholar, he’s also a frequent commentator on national talk radio. The former NBC Chicago and Washington Times contributor has also been featured on the History Channel. President Obama follows him on Twitter (@paulmbanks)