Manchester United News and Notes: Hazard’s Demands; Fletcher Recovers – Fan’s Take

Posted Friday, May 25, 2012 by YAHOO Sport

The Premier League season might be over, but the summer transfer window is nearly upon us. Manchester United is one of the clubs looking to improve during this offseason in hopes of catching their bitter rivals, Manchester City. Here is a look at the news surrounding the Red Devils:

Eden Hazard makes his demands

Things are getting a little interesting with Lille's Eden Hazard. The Manchester United target recently told the press how he will choose his new club, and his word's didn't sit well with me.

"My decision will depend on my position and how much playing time I will get," Hazard said. "It will be Manchester City, Manchester United or Chelsea. Not everyone can say that they have a choice between three top clubs."

I'm not sure how I feel about this statement. Hazard is a talented player who is just now coming into his own as a playmaker. However, I don't know many 21-year-olds who can demand first-team action without earning it. I know Hazard has the skills to make a difference at Manchester United, but I'm already concerned about his attitude. Considering his already high price tag, I'm starting to think that manager Sir Alex Ferguson should look at some other options instead of risking team chemistry on a potential diva.

Darren Fletcher's road to recovery

Midfielder Darren Fletcher is slowly working his way back to the pitch after missing most of the 2011/2012 season with ulcerative colitis. He'll see his specialist next month in hopes of being cleared to resume practicing with the club in July.

It's been a long road for Fletcher. Colitis is a debilitating bowel disorder that affects your everyday life. I've seen first-hand how much damage colitis can do to a person. Fletcher's potential return to the pitch is a testament to his desire to play soccer again. I hope he gets cleared by his specialist, not just for health reasons, but because Manchester United could definitely use him in 2012/2013.

Bebe returns from loan

Winger Bebe is returning to the club after struggling to fit in at Besiktas during his season-long loan with the team. Besiktas had the option to make the loan a permanent transfer, but after running afoul with the Turkish club, Bebe will re-join Manchester United this summer.

Ferguson doesn't make many mistakes with his signings, and Bebe may eventually pan out for the team; however, I'm starting to have some doubts. If Bebe couldn't make it work in Turkey, then how am I supposed to believe that he will suddenly develop into a solid player with Manchester United? I know there are three years left on his contract, but I think it's time for Ferguson to cut his losses and move on.

Derek Ciapala has been a fan of Manchester United since the World Cup in 1994. His favorite Red Devils' moment is when they won their 19th English Championship in 2011.