Tomasz Kuszczak had arguably one of football's most frustrating jobs for five years - waiting for the great Edwin van der Sar to show signs of frailty in either his form or fitness.
Kuszczak's chances to play in the first team between 2006 and 2011 were naturally limited, but whenever the opportunity did arise, United's deputy goalkeeper generally seized it with both hands. Remember his debut in September 2006? The Reds may have lost, but the Pole made a stunning penalty save from Arsenal's Gilberto Silva.
His previous Old Trafford appearance, when he came on as a substitute for West Bromwich Albion in May 2005, also
caught the eye, showcasing Kusczak's shot-stopping ability, agility and athleticism.
With the survival-seeking Albion trailing 0-1 and losing first-choice keeper Russell Hoult to injury after just 22 minutes, Kuszczak came off the bench to make a string of saves and keep out United for the rest of the match. Robert Earnshaw’s penalty eventually earned Bryan Robson’s men a vital point and the following term Tomasz established his position as first-choice goalkeeper at The Hawthorns.
In the summer of 2006 United embarked on a relentless pursuit of the Poland international. Finally, after turning down three offers, the Midlands side relented and allowed
