Reds skipper Gary Neville gives his thoughts on the Community Shield.
This year’s Community Shield is set to provide a truly competitive spectacle, according to Manchester United club captain Gary Neville.
Despite the ‘friendly’ nature of Sunday’s clash with Chelsea, the veteran defender believes that two of England’s biggest clubs won’t be able to hold back when they step out onto the Wembley turf.
“It’s always a game you want to win and it’s definitely important for the fans – a lot of supporters will turn out from both sides. Playing another 90 minutes is good, too, but when it comes down to it there’s personal pride at stake and everybody wants to win," he said.
“You usually find the Community Shield is a lot more competitive than pre-season friendlies – on the tour, for instance, you’re thinking more about getting your fitness up to scratch. That’s also important at Wembley, but at the end of the day you want to make sure you’re the ones climbing those steps to the winners’ podium."
With over 550 appearances in a United shirt, Neville is one of the most senior players at the club and was handed the skipper’s armband after the departure of Roy Keane in the 2005-06 season. He then went on to become the fifth United captain to lift the Premier League title in 2006-07.
But despite his vast domestic and international experience he doesn’t feel he needs to impart his wisdom onto his fellow players.
“To be honest with you, all the players we’ve got in the changing room are here because they’re top footballers," he added.
"Antonio Valencia’s new, for instance, but he’s played in the World Cup so I don’t think he’ll be fazed by playing at Wembley. It’s not something I really need to worry about as captain.”
Neville does believe, however, that the curtain raiser provides the opportunity to size up the opposition for the coming season.
“Sometimes you can get your first look at new players who have arrived over the summer. It gives you an early indication of where your opposition are at in terms of their preparation, and it provides a first look at any new system that might be implemented by their new manager, Carlo Ancelotti,” says Neville.
“But a Community Shield game in the middle of August on a lush Wembley pitch doesn’t tell you anything about how teams will cope at Bolton or Stoke in the middle of January.”
The full interview will be in the official Match Programme for the game, which can be ordered now by clicking here.
