Fuzzy Logic

I've no time today for a proper paper round-up, but I can always find time to criticise Alan Hansen whose column today is a masterpiece in the art of taking nonsense.

His premise, that Barcelona are still the team to beat in Europe is fair enough.  Yet the logic he employs is in his argument is dodgy to say the least.  Take this:

If United face Barcelona at any stage this season, the game will not merely be won by what happens on the pitch.

The psychological scars must also be erased by United and the only way they can do that is by beating Barcelona again. Considering that they might have to do that in a semi-final or even the final, then it only emphasises the challenge they face.

Which could be paraphrased thus: To beat Barcelona United must beat Barcelona.  What?  Alan Hansen never made it as a manger?  Imagine preparing your team with that wisdom...

And later:

And while United’s young players have done exceptionally well so far in this campaign, Sir Alex will know that experience is everything in Europe and many of the kids don’t have that yet.They might have played for England, but Europe is a different animal to international football and, although people might look and say that the youngsters will take to it in two seconds, it is not as simple as that.

They will have to bed in, but Sir Alex has the experienced players within his squad to ensure that United have the right blend to progress

 Which could be paraphrased: United don't have the experince in Europe, but they do have the experience in Europe.

The guy's a genius...