Two more players signed up for United today as the squad continues to take shape for next season. First to put pen to paper was defender Matt Robinson, who signed a two year deal. Robbo was a revelation last season, winning both the Players’ Player of the Year and the Sports Writers’ Player of the Year (including a vote for him from Rage On). Robbo is probably Graham Rix’s most important signing so far, and hopefully his presence will persuade one or two of the prevaricators to sign up too.

Joining him is ex-Portsmouth goalkeeper Chris Tardif, who also signed a two year deal. Tardif only made three appearances for Pompey, and none at all under Harry Redknapp, and was released at the end of the season. He also played 14 times on loan at Bournemouth the season before last. He has just returned from talks with Spanish 2nd Division club Cadiz, but presumably the climate in Oxfordshire was more to his liking.

These signings still mean that there are significant gaps in both defence and midfield, and we can expect further players to join between now and the start of the season. The only confirmed players that Rix has spoken to are the Dundee pair of Lee Mair and Dave Mackay, both defenders. Despite rumours to the contrary, Martin Keown has been linked with both Everton and Wolves, and David Bentley is being sought after by Wolves and West Ham.