Will Power

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Ronaldo's Return 'Two Years Off'

Cristiano Ronaldo would love to return to Manchester United, but it’s unlikely to happen in the next 12 months.

That’s the view of Sky Sports’ Spanish football expert Guillem Balague, who believes Real Madrid will not consider selling their star player for another two years.

A group of Manchester United fans arranged for aeroplane to fly over El Madrigal during Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Villarreal at the weekend with a banner urging Ronaldo to “come home” to the club he played for between 2003 and 2009.

The Ballon D’Or winner has been linked with a return to Old Trafford after reports emerged that he was unhappy with the sales of team-mates such as Angel di Maria, Xabi Alonso and Mesut Ozil.

However, Balague says suggestions that a deal could be struck before next season are wide of the mark.

He told Revista de La Liga: “It is quite clear that Manchester United are letting all this continue because they are interested in Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Cristiano Ronaldo dreams and would like to go back to Manchester United. It’s just the timing which I think people are getting wrong.

"People want this to happen in January, if possible. It’s not going to happen. In the summer? I don’t think it’s going to happen. Real Madrid have got no intention whatsoever of selling Cristiano Ronaldo next summer.

“In two years’ time I would say yes, that is possibly the time when he will be 31 going on 32, for Real Madrid to say: ‘OK, if we can cash in on him, brilliant. He has done a lot for us, but that’s it, time to move on.

“I don’t think it’s going to happen this summer. People will have to be a little bit more patient.”

Credit: skysports.com

Robin van Persie Has Confidence In Manchester United

Robin van Persie believes Manchester United are growing stronger every day and says a top-four finish for Louis van Gaal's side is "realistic".

United have made a shaky start to the season with a leaky defence conceding 13 goals in seven games this season but van Persie believes confidence is building.

The Dutchman has been further heartened after United held out for a 2-1 win at West Ham on Saturday despite Rooney's red card.

"We are working together on this project and I think games like winning 4-0 against QPR help," said van Persie.

"We had a setback against Leicester (losing 5-3), but to win in these circumstances like the weekend sends a message and shows that even in these difficult games we can win. Now we have to extend that.

"The first half was 11 v 11 and we were playing really well as a whole team. Eight minutes later, it was 10 v 11 and the whole thing changed, but the way we fought for each other was unbelievable. It was a bit nerve-wracking at times, but we dug in and we did it so it gave us a lot of confidence."

Van Persie added that van Gaal's philosophy was demanding but that the rest of the squad were buying into his approach. He also revealed that the Dutch coach wants the players to have their say at team meetings on what is going right and wrong.

Speaking at the launch of Manchester United's first global sustainable technology partner Abengoa, van Persie said: "It's very demanding in a good way as you have to be focused every single day of the sessions or the meeting.

"He wants players to get involved in the meeting too. You have to give your own input, which is what the staff likes. That's a bit of the Dutch thing. Everybody gets involved in the project. We are all working on it. Everyone has their own say, which is maybe new for some players but not for me as I know how he works.

"I think it's very interesting and very good because we are all pulling on the same rope - as the Dutch say. We all have one target, which is to win and win as much as we can. If I look at what I have seen in training and on the pitch in games, I can see that it is getting much better.

"We are improving every day and getting better. Some training sessions are incredible and we are showing that in games as well."

Van Persie said that reaching the top four in the Barclays Premier League was a "realistic target" and that the squad were setting high standards.

He added: "We have to make at least the top four. That's a realistic target but it's still early in the season.

"We are here, everybody wants to win every game, every training session and even if we are playing a different kind of game like table tennis. We are winners. We are not here just to set low standards. We want them to be as high as possible, winning games and winning trophies.

"This year we have a great manager, great staff, great fans so when you look at everything together it makes it hard [not to be in the Champions League]. Everything is in place to be up there competing with the very best teams. I think we can do it and we will."

Angel di Maria Admits Plan To Return Home

Manchester United forward Angel di Maria has told Argentine radio that he plans to return to his home country one day.

The 26-year-old revealed his plan to return to his first club Rosario Central, and has talked with Ezequiel Lavezzi and Javier Mascherano about also making the move back to the city he hails from.

“As for anyone it was a dream for me to come to Europe,” Di Maria told Radio del Plata.

“But it will also be a dream to play again in Central.

“Central will always be first in my head. I’ve talked with Pocho [Ezequiel Lavezzi] and Masche [Javier Mascherano] to return to Central together.”

The Argentine Primera Division side, nicknamed ‘The Scoundrel’, seem to have always been a distraction for Di Maria, who admits finding it hard to resist discussing his boyhood club.

“When you ask me how I will return to Argentine football, I tell you how I will not go back," Di Maria added.

"Then show them a video of Central."

Such talk so soon after making a record £59.7million move to Old Trafford will be slightly unnerving to United fans so early in his United career, but it is unlikely the former Real Madrid man will make the return home in the near future.

Di Maria has made a strong start at United and said after scoring on his home debut: "I wished very much for the day of my debut at Old Trafford and I did in the best way, scoring a goal.

"The happiness is enormous."

Thorpe Thirsts For More First-team Action

Tom Thorpe is hoping for more first-team football at Manchester United after his brief taste of Barclays Premier League action in Saturday's win over West Ham.

The 21-year-old came off the bench in the closing stages of the 2-1 victory and is determined to prove he is worthy of more minutes in Louis van Gaal's star-studded side. Although his central defensive partner for the Under-21s, Paddy McNair, got the nod to start alongside Marcos Rojo, he had no qualms after the Northern Irishman's assured performance, and was merely thrilled to make his debut for the club he supports.

"Paddy did really well," the Reserves captain told MUTV. "His header basically saved a goal so he did great. Obviously I was delighted to get on and hopefully there is more to come. I was very pleased, being a United fan and having been here from such a young age. To come through and get my first-team debut, I was very happy.

"You can see a few lads making their debuts this season and the ones who have been in the team have done really well. As soon as you get a little bit, you want more and hopefully there will be."

Thorpe had little time to reflect on his memorable weekend as he skippered the U21s to a dramatic win against Tottenham on Monday, scoring an injury-time winner.

"We're delighted with the win," he added. "It was a good game between two sides who wanted to play football and a good test. I clashed heads in the first half and got a lump so Marnick [Vermijl] said to me he didn't think I would have scored [the header] if that hadn't happened!"

McNair Debut Impresses Rooney

Manchester United debutant Paddy McNair earned plenty of plaudits for his performance against West Ham on Saturday and captain Wayne Rooney has now joined the growing list of admirers.

Injuries to Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans forced Louis van Gaal to call upon the 19-year-old who was paired with new signing Marcos Rojo at the heart of the Reds defence. The win over the Hammers wasn't without its tense moments, particularly after Rooney was sent off with half an hour left to play, and the captain was hugely impressed by McNair's performance under difficult circumstances.

"That was probably one of the bigger tests a young defender can face, up against a team putting in lots of crosses into the box, but he took it and stood up to it, especially in the second half," said Rooney. “It won’t get much tougher in terms of physical strength and aggression against him, but he dealt with it and we are all delighted with him."

McNair's stand-out moment was a last-ditch clearing header from almost inside his own goal as Hammers striker Enner Valencia looked set to pounce at the back post. Rooney added: “I saw the clearance he made at the end. I thought he was tremendous for us."

McNair is one of seven Academy graduates that Louis van Gaal has unleashed into first-team action this term with Rooney insisting, like his manager, that youth will always be given an opportunity at United.

"Although we let Tom Cleverley go on loan and Danny Welbeck go to Arsenal, we have brought in a young Manchester lad in Tyler Blackett who played every game until Saturday. The situation was forced on the manager but he has brought Paddy in and it's shown he isn’t afraid to throw young players in."

Herrera Suffers Fractured Rib

Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera sustained a fractured rib during the match against West Ham United on Saturday.

The Spaniard was substituted in the 74th minute and the club will continue to monitor his progress over the next few weeks.

Since arriving this summer, the 25-year-old has scored two goals in four appearances for Louis van Gaal's side.

United's final fixture before another international break is against Everton on Sunday at Old Trafford.

Monday, September 29, 2014

Rooney's Rashness

Wayne Rooney’s red card against West Ham was a shock because he has done “a lot to curb that side of his game”, the Daily Mail’s Ian Ladyman told the Sunday Supplement.

The Manchester United captain lashed out at Stewart Downing and was handed a straight red card resulting in a three-match ban – one of which will be the clash against Chelsea.

United managed to hold on to their 2-1 lead and survive a late disallowed goal from West Ham.

“Wayne’s actions landed his team in it. If not for an offside flag, it would have cost his team two points,” insisted Ladyman. “He knows he got it wrong. His manager knows he got it wrong.

“Wayne has done quite a lot to curb that side of his game. What really shocked me was that any player can succumb to the pressure of a big occasion, chasing a game in a final or a semi-final – but this was a Premier League game that United were leading.

“The ball was in United’s half and out of the blue, Wayne hacks Stewart Downing to the floor. He was deservedly sent off. It was clever management from Louis van Gaal [to defend Rooney] but privately I’m sure he was seething.”

Dominic Fifield of The Guardian questioned whether last week’s humiliation at Leicester caused Rooney to see red.

“We saw Rooney’s reaction at Leicester when the fourth goal went in, he was livid and bawling at his defenders," he said.

“You do wonder whether this is frustration that’s come from the Leicester game. He’s used to seeing United teams steamroller visitors to Old Trafford when they’re 2-0 up and that should have been four or five.”

The Daily Telegraph’s Jeremy Wilson added that Rooney’s sixth career sending-off is not a return to the hot-headedness he displayed as a youngster.

He said: “It’s five years since he’s been sent off for Man United and three years since the England one [against Montenegro], I’m not excusing it, but there’s some context there.”

The Sunday Supplement panel agreed that the 28-year-old’s moment of madness – a day short of his 10-year anniversary of joining United – will not taint his legacy.

Wilson said: “The fascination with Rooney is not one incident on Saturday – it’s why someone who we thought would become a great player has become a very, very good player.

"He looked better than Cristiano Ronaldo when he was a teenager and obviously it’s not easy to take that step to the very, very best in the world.

“I don’t know if it’s off-field things in his preparation. I always feel that there’s a simmering frustration that what has been a very, very good career has not quite gone to the stratosphere that you would hope.”

Comparing Rooney to his peers is unfair, insists Ladyman, who claimed: “The reason he’s not reached the heights of Ronaldo and Messi is because he’s not as good as they are, simple as that. He is absolutely as dedicated. He’s been an exceptional footballer for Manchester United.”

“I think we’re being too harsh," Fifield added. “Maybe he’s been eclipsed by other greats but when you look back on his career – five Premier League titles, a Champions League, he’s the captain of his country, he could end up as Manchester United’s record goal-scorer and he could end up as England’s record goal-scorer.

"That’s not too bad!”

Credit: skysports.com

Wayne Rooney: Captain On The Field, Leader In The Office

It’s hard to believe a decade has gone by since 18-year-old Wayne Rooney wore the famous Manchester United red shirt for the first time after completing a deadline-day move from Everton in the summer of 2004.

His debut was spectacular, with a hat-trick in a 6-2 Champions League victory over Fenerbahce on 28 September 2004. The striker has gone on to carve out a highly successful and trophy-laden career for club and country, both of whom he now captains. Indeed, his managers at each level, Louis van Gaal and Roy Hodgson, see him as the perfect candidate for both roles.

Van Gaal and Hodgson’s decisions to make Rooney captain tie in with a number of Aon Hewitt’s five steps in positioning new leaders for success. Aon Hewitt knows having an engaged leader in business is a key factor in building an engaged workforce, and the same applies in football. Step one is focused on the selection process, which involves looking at the cultural fit and learning agility of the candidates in the running. This is something van Gaal took very much into account when picking Rooney.

“For me, the choice of captain is always very important. I took three weeks to observe all my players in the USA on tour and I think Wayne is ready for it,” explained the United manager. “Wayne has shown a great attitude towards everything he does. I have been very impressed by his professionalism and his attitude to training and to my philosophy. He is a great inspiration to the younger members of the team and I believe he will put his heart and soul into his captaincy role.”

The Reds boss also highlighted the importance of Rooney’s influence within the dressing room and away from the action on thefield. “I have also explained to him that outside the pitch is also very important to me. He accepted the responsibility,” revealed van Gaal. And in the way Aon Hewitt’s research has found that managers can directly impact engagement level among their subordinates, van Gaal added: “His attitude has been excellent and I like him very much, how he trains and also how he performs in the games and how he has performed to his fellow players. I believe he shall be a great captain for Manchester United.”

Rooney has labelled the responsibility “a huge honour” and says it’s a dream he always felt destined to fulfil. As captain, he intends to ensure he keeps motivating and inspiring those around him, in the way a leader in business would engage his employees.

“Being captain is always a responsibility I have had in me, especially on the pitch,” said Wayne, now in the club’s all-time top three goals coring list alongside Sir Bobby Charlton and Denis Law. “It will be a little bit different now off the pitch with new responsibilities, but I have always felt I am a leader on it. My aim has always been to help us win games.

“The time is right for me to be captain and I am ready for the responsibility. Only time will tell whether I can be a successful captain but I will certainly be giving everything I can to help this club win trophies.”

Another step in Aon Hewitt’s leadership success model looks at having a series of meetings to facilitate integration and gather information. Rooney says good communication between the players is vital on and off the pitch, and this is something of which he has taken a leadership role.

“I have always been vocal either on the pitch or in the dressing room. There have been times both for England and United when I have been told to be quiet!” he joked. “It has always been a part of my game and I think it is important that players speak to each other. You have to communicate. That is the only way you are going to help each other.”

Another part of Aon Hewitt’s recommendations for positioning new leaders for success focuses on pre-boarding and the importance of creating an onboarding team to support the new leader’s assimilation, each with responsibilities. In business, that team may consist of an employer, HR leader, administrative assistant, recruiter, and a mentor. In United and Rooney’s case he has the support of his manager, assistant boss Ryan Giggs and the other coaches, and his team-mate and close friend Darren Fletcher who van Gaal selected as vice-captain.

“Darren is a natural leader and will captain the team when Wayne isn’t playing,” declared the Dutchman. “He is a very experienced player and a very popular member of the dressing room. I know he will work well alongside Wayne.”

Scotland international Fletcher, who, like Rooney, is also captain of his country, sees his team-mate as the ideal man to lead the Reds and is relishing the part he can play in helping him.

“Wayne and I have always worked well together and we will continue to work closely in our new roles. Wayne is the captain but I’m there to help him in any way possible and be a leader in the dressing room alongside him,” explained the midfielder. “I’m very grateful to the manager for putting his trust in me. He has basically just said to me to keep doing what I’m doing and not to change anything and that’s my mind-set. I’m not doing anything differently to what I’ve done in the last four or five seasons. You find yourself getting older and experienced and in a position where you try to help people and lead a bit.

“I’ve learned so much from all the great captains I’ve played under and you to try to translate that to help others in the dressing room. That’s all you can do – be a voice on the pitch, help people out and if someone is in a little bit of trouble go and speak to them and just do as much as you can. If I take bits from all the great captains I’ve worked with I won’t be going far wrong.”

Aon Hewitt has also looked into the factors involved in leaders having direct impact on engagement levels within their teams. They pinpoint inspiration, reflection, having an action plan and support as the key elements, all of which Fletcher believes is encompassed in Rooney’s make-up as captain.

“He is a born winner who wants to win everything,” he declared. “His desire and determination on the pitch sets the example and he has a never-say-die attitude. In the last few years he has developed a real leader’s role in the dressing room in terms of the voice he has in there. He’s great at helping people and giving advice to younger players – he’s really developed that. He is going to be a fantastic captain for Manchester United.”

To learn more about Aon Hewitt’s talent strategies for organizational success, click here.

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Manchester United Unveils Abengoa As Its Official Sustainable Technology Partner

Manchester United and Abengoa (MCE: ABGB/P SM /NASDAQ: ABGB) have announced today a global partnership which will see the club enhance and develop its sustainable business practices.

Abengoa, founded in 1941, has operations in five continents and employs over 25,000 employees globally. Abengoa is fully committed to developing technological solutions that will allow our world to become more sustainable.

Abengoa will identify, advise and implement sustainable ways in which Manchester United can save resources and reduce waste. As one of the UK’s most environmentally conscious sports clubs, this new agreement enables Manchester United to further develop its sustainability credentials.

Manchester United selected Abengoa to help the Club fulfil its sustainable practice objectives and demonstrates its commitment to sustainability. Abengoa is renowned for being innovative and its global reputation and unparalleled expertise in solar energy, renewable fuels and desalinated water make them the ideal advisories to partner with.

Manchester United Group Managing Director, Richard Arnold comments:

“Manchester United is proud of all the work we have been doing over many years to meet the guidelines set in our sustainability policies; however we recognise how much more can be done to become even more environmentally-sound as a business. Through our partnership with Abengoa, we hope to learn more about how we can reach these goals and will seek their advice and assistance in implementing cutting edge technology that will help us become more sustainable.

“With a global fanbase of 659 million followers we have a huge audience to communicate with and we hope this new partnership will inspire them to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.”

Manuel Sánchez Ortega, CEO of Abengoa, has commented:

“At Abengoa we are proud to be associated with a great team like Manchester United that shares our vision that we all have a responsibility to our earth and to future generations. Its example is an excellent opportunity to show the world of football and its millions of supporters, including the next generation of sports fans, the principle of responsible and sustainable management of our energy and environment."

Rafael Encouraged By United's Attacking Style

Manchester United defender Rafael was impressed by the fighting spirit shown during the 2-1 win over West Ham but believes it's the Reds' attacking threat that is the team's greatest asset.

The Brazilian was a thorn in the side of the Hammers' defence at Old Trafford on Saturday as he and debutant Luke Shaw were given freedom to get forward - a benefit of the diamond formation adopted by Louis van Gaal.

Rafael played a key part in the game's opening goal, providing the cross for Wayne Rooney to give United an early lead, and was delighted by his side's performance in the opening 45 minutes.

"I think we played brilliant football in the first half, apart from conceding from a set piece," he told MUTV. We could have scored more goals, and I think the way we played in the first half is the way we have to play from now on.

"If we had drawn the game, I think everyone would have felt deflated in the dressing room, but instead we were all motivated and knew we would sleep well that night. After last week [against Leicester], I couldn't sleep all night!"

The defender was also influential at the other end, where he was pleased to see United keep the visitors quiet for long periods, despite injuries and suspensions affecting the back four.

"You just have to fight for every ball and that's what we did," he added. "Every player was trying to prevent them from crossing the ball because we knew how good they were in the air. We did very well. When they had the ball in the net at the end, I looked over and saw that the linesman had his flag up and was thankful for that! We defended as a team in the second half, everyone was brilliant."

Man. United Confirm New Responsibilities For Strudwick

Following recent reports in the media, the club have today moved to explain Tony Strudwick's new and expanded responsibilities within Manchester United's coaching structure.

At the start of this season Tony took on the role of head of athletic development. Tony is now overseeing the athletic development of all players, working with Louis van Gaal for the first team right through to Paul McGuinness in the Academy.

Introducing this new role and using Tony’s invaluable experience in sports science, which spans over 20 years, shows the club’s commitment on placing greater emphasis on developing players for the long-term success of the club.

Tony told ManUtd.com: "I am thoroughly enjoying this new role. With increased importance on developing players for the future, the athletic component becomes critical in their advancement and to have the chance to work with the younger players, who are in the early stages of their career, as well as the first team, will give a continuity of progression which is critical to their future success.”

Credit: Manutd.com

Mata Hails De Gea Achievement

Every Monday, Juan Mata posts his weekly blog, offering insight into his thoughts on what’s been happening on and off the pitch…

As I wrote last week, the team was ready to work hard and keep going in order to overcome our tough start. That sacrifice was shown against West Ham and the three points make us look at the table in a different way now.

Once again, the support of Old Trafford was a big help. Our goal now is to become more consistent and to keep working on our football style to add more points. The more we enjoy on the pitch, the more we will make you enjoy our games. The team aims to keep growing throughout the entire season and we are sticking together to achieve that.

It was a special day for David De Gea, who has reached 100 Premier League games. He is one of the most skilled goalkeepers I’ve ever seen so I know you will play many more than 100, my friend.

It was also unforgettable for Paddy McNair. Making a debut with Manchester United at Old Trafford being just 19 is amazing, and I am sure he will always remember this day. It’s good for the young players to see that they can fit in the first team. It has always happened in this club and it’s a good tradition to keep. In my opinion, Paddy has a bright future ahead.

We are already thinking about the match against Everton next Sunday. Last season we couldn’t win, but I believe it will be different this time and we will be able to get the three points in our stadium.

Have a nice week. I hope you start next Monday in a good mood as well. Thank you all!

Hugs,
Juan

Rooney: Red Card Was Right

Wayne Rooney admits it was "the right decision" by referee Lee Mason to send him off in Manchester United's 2-1 win over West Ham on Saturday.

The captain was shown the red card just before the hour-mark for a high challenge on Stewart Downing as the Hammers midfielder threatened to break clear from his own half.

Rooney told reporters afterwards that he apologised to his team-mates for his error of judgement and was grateful to them for holding out for a vital victory.

"It was probably the right decision," declared Rooney, who also confirmed he will not be appealing the dismissal. "I saw the West Ham player making a counter-attack and I tried to break up the play, but I just misjudged it.

"I didn't absolutely volley the lad. I tried to trip him up and, to be fair to him, he got further away from me and that's why my leg is straighter than it should have been. As he pushed the ball away, my leg straightened out and that is obviously why the referee deemed it as a red card."

When asked if he apologised to his team-mates after the match, the captain replied: "Of course I did. I think everyone knew [I was in the wrong]. It’s always tough against 11 men when you are a man down, especially when they are throwing a lot of balls into the box as West Ham were doing, so I am grateful that we held out."

The red card now means Rooney will be out of action for all of October bar international duty with England.

"That [missing three games] is the most disappointing thing. It is hard to take and I am obviously gutted," he added in reference to having to now sit out the matches against former club Everton, West Brom and Chelsea.

"It helps that the England games are coming up and the training here is really good. It's about getting my fitness up, so I just have to make sure I train well and are ready for when I come back."

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Valencia Weigh Up £30m Mata Bid Ahead Of Takeover

Valencia are lining up a big-money January move for Juan Mata - but must wait for Peter Lim to complete his takeover of the Spanish side before pursuing a deal for the Manchester United playmaker.

Lim, a Singapore-based businessman, has played a part in summer loan deals for Alvaro Negredo and Benfica pair Rodrigo and Andre Gomes, but is yet to reach an agreement with Bankia over the acquisition of the club.

Valencia have the option to sign Manchester City striker Negredo for £25 million.

And, should Lim's purchase of the club go through, they will turn their attention to re-signing Mata.

The former Chelsea star left Valencia for Stamford Bridge in 2011 but fell out of favour under Jose Mourinho and made a £37.1m January move to Old Trafford in 2014.

The summer arrival of Louis van Gaal, followed by the signings of Radamel Falcao, Angel Di Maria and Ander Herrera, have seen Mata's place in the starting XI come under threat.

And while it is unclear whether Mata would consider a return to Spain, United are understood to be willing to entertain offers of around £30m for the 26-year-old.

Valencia are weighing up the possibility of signing Mata on an initial loan deal in January with a view to a permanent move in the summer.

But any potential deal to sign Mata would be impossible if Lim's takeover of the club falls through.

Lim has also recently acquired a 50 per cent stake in Salford City, the Evo-Stik Division One North outfit part-owned by former United players Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Gary and Phil Neville and Nicky Butt.

Credit: Goal.com

Is Pressure Of Captaincy Getting To Rooney?

Wayne Rooney's red card for Manchester United will claim the headlines from an eventful Saturday in the Premier League.

The United and England captain must now serve a three-game ban - but the good news for manager Louis van Gaal is that his 10 men held on for a crucial win against West Ham United to ease some of the wounds from the 5-3 collapse to Leicester City.

This was among a number of key talking points from Saturday's games. Here, we look at Rooney's conduct and some of the day's other significant incidents.

Is Rooney struggling with pressure of captaincy?

While Rooney's reckless lash out at Stewart Downing was irresponsible and put Manchester United under pressure as they tried to protect an important lead, it is an offence that should be placed in context.

This was Rooney's first red card for United in five years and comes at the end of a long spell when he has seemingly curbed his more aggressive instincts - even to the point where some suggested it had taken the edge off his game.

So to suggest Rooney, who believes his best years are yet to come, has suddenly reverted to bad old ways is premature and ignores much of the recent evidence that has seen him much cooler than the hot-tempered earlier days of his career.

One factor has been introduced into Rooney's life recently, however - his appointment as permanent captain of both club and country.

And this may be an area of concern for those who want this wonderfully talented player to continue to have a clean record.

As a personality whose default position is to take complete responsibility for all aspects of his team's display, it was clear how furious Rooney was with his United team-mates when they cast aside a 3-1 lead at Leicester City. He was visibly angry at the manner in which they conceded their advantage.

And it may be an area Van Gaal feels he needs to address after he followed this up so swiftly with that wild kick out at Downing that earned him a deserved straight red card.

Rooney's performance and effort levels do not need lifting by the award of the status of captain - his desire and determination will be the same whether he has the armband or not.

But there is no doubt Van Gaal and England manager Roy Hodgson will be watching for vital signs that the cares and responsibilities of captaincy do not lead to Rooney placing increased pressure on himself and leading to the sort of incident witnessed at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Former Manchester United defender Phil Neville on Match of the Day: "When Rooney made the foul I thought United must have been in trouble at the back but United were four against two and all the defenders were in good positions. It was just a reckless tackle. There's no need to make the foul because of the position the United defenders were in."

Ex-Wales striker John Hartson on Final Score: "Rooney kicked out at Downing cynically and caught him in the thigh area for no reason whatsoever. And you just ask yourself 'why?' Only he himself will be able to answer that."

Former Chelsea and Newcastle manager Ruud Gullit on Match of the Day: "He could have just tripped him but he just lashes out. Sometimes he gets these moments in his career."

JB on text: Watching Man Utd is the most thrilling part of my week now. It doesn't matter how many they score as we know they can concede twice as many! Always praying as soon as the ball goes over the halfway line that it doesn't end up in the back of the net!

Bobby in Newcastle on text: Awful conduct from Wayne Rooney. The Man Utd and England captain should know better than that!

Sean: Just when you thought Wayne Rooney had grown up he does that. A toddler throwing his toys out of the pram. Should not be captain.

Credit: BBC Sport

Rooney: 'My Best Years At Man. United Are Yet To Come'

Wayne Rooney believes he can still improve as a footballer and that his best years are yet to come.

Speaking to The Sunday Times to mark 10 years at Old Trafford, the 28-year-old said he "reads the game" better than ever.

In an interview before Saturday's sending off against West Ham, the Manchester United and England captain said he was "a lot more mature".

"I now know exactly what I want to do on the pitch," Rooney said.

Rooney's dismissal in the 59th minute for a high foul on West Ham's Stewart Downing was the sixth of his career, but the striker's first for United since March 2009.

He had earlier put United on the way to a 2-1 victory with his 219th goal for the club.

Rooney added: "I still believe I can get better as a footballer. In the next three to five years you will see me as a different player. The next two or three I feel could be the best of my career.

"I'm at a stage, especially after playing at this club for 10 years, where I've picked up a lot about the game - I've learnt.

"When I was younger I wasted far too much energy charging around in the last 15 minutes. I'd be tired, your legs aren't fresh and you might miss a chance.

"I'm a better footballer now than I was then. When I was younger I was raw, there were moments when I did spectacular stuff, but now overall my play is better."

After coming close to leaving Old Trafford twice in his decade at the club, Rooney added: "It's more than likely I'll be here for the rest of my career."

Credit: BBC Sport

Yorke On Rooney's Red Card


Dwight Yorke has labelled Wayne Rooney’s red card against West Ham as “inexcusable”.

The Manchester United captain opened the scoring but was sent off for a cynical kick at Stewart Downing which will now see him suspended for three games against Everton, West Brom and Chelsea.

United’s 10 men managed to hang on and seal a 2-1 win at Old Trafford despite West Ham’s late equaliser from Kevin Nolan being ruled out for offside.

But Yorke, himself a former United striker, was unimpressed with Rooney’s actions particularly because he has offended before.

He said: “This is inexcusable in my opinion.

“I think it’s a lapse of one moment, a split moment.

“We have seen him do this in the past for England against Montenegro. It’s just one of those moments where you really can’t defend him.”

Yorke also insisted that the added responsibility on Rooney’s shoulders after Louis van Gaal named him as United captain means he is under more scrutiny than ever before.

“He’s our talisman, our leader in the team and he should be setting a far greater example than he shows here.

“But I’m sure he’ll look back at that tonight and be bitterly disappointed with his reaction.”

McNair Earns His First-team Stripes


With seven minutes remaining in Manchester United's clash with West Ham at Old Trafford on Saturday and the Hammers knocking on the door in search of an equaliser, Carl Jenkinson swung over the most dangerous of crosses with Carlton Cole and Enner Valencia attempting to pounce.

Paddy McNair was in the eye of the storm. The 19-year-old, thrust into the spotlight due to an injury list that includes Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones, was facing the sort of examination everybody anticipated as Sam Allardyce's team loaded the box with players. To say the boy from Ballyclare's response was ice cool would be the master of the understatement. The rookie, who joined the club as a no.10 and is still a novice in centre-back terms, dived to meet the trajectory of the cross and angled a header intelligently away from goal to prevent a certain leveller for Valencia.

It was the undoubted highlight of an assured first 90 minutes from McNair, who was quickly into his stride and looked undaunted despite playing alongside Marcos Rojo in the Argentinian's first game in the middle. Luke Shaw, another teenager, was making his debut at left-back but the defence performed resolutely, aside from conceding a goal to Diafro Sakho following a corner.

McNair can be pleased with his debut which marked his rapid progress at the club. He only made his debut for the Under-21s as recently as last February, at Leicester City, and that was as an injury-time substitute. His first start at that level came in the 3-0 win against Molineux on 10 March. The fact that he has now made his senior bow, the sixth of Louis van Gaal's debutants from the Academy, with a seventh following in Tom Thorpe late on against the Hammers, illustrates how quickly things can happen in football.

"He played very well," the manager said of the defender in an interview with MUTV. "I could have imagined a performance like this before the match because he’s a very good player. Mostly, players like this have good debuts. I’m very pleased for him that we won, because he played very well and his goal-saving header in the second half was fantastic. He was also very good with the ball at his feet."

His team-mates were equally praiseworthy of McNair's efforts and he will reflect on an afternoon's work well done when sitting in front of Match of the Day this evening. "Paddy did great," enthused van Persie. "I know how hard it is to make your debut. I made mine in Holland for Feyenoord and he made his for Manchester United in front of 75,000 people, at home, in a difficult period. He did really well on the ball. His decision-making was great and defensively he stood up well. It was great for him."

Rafael, the other member of the new-look back four, described him as "one to watch" and felt his performance was "brilliant". "He played very well, he played some fantastic football and everyone is really pleased with him," revealed the Brazilian. "He should keep working hard because he has a big future."

For a club and manager that continues to invest faith in youth, the future is looking bright for both United and McNair after such an important win in trying circumstances.

Shaw Hopes United's Luck Is Turning

Luke Shaw believes Manchester United's luck could be turning after the 2-1 victory over West Ham on Saturday.

The summer signing from Southampton made his debut in the narrow triumph and impressed but, like everybody else of a United persuasion, was relieved to see Kevin Nolan's late effort disallowed for offside. The Reds have arguably not had the rub of the green in the early part of Louis van Gaal's tenure, having penalty claims rejected against Swansea City, Sunderland and Burnley, while several calls went against the team at Leicester City.

Wayne Rooney's red card was another blow at the weekend, and the skipper faces a three-match suspension, but Shaw was pleased to hang on for a welcome win.

"It was a tough debut, I would say," said Shaw. "Obviously, we went down to 10 men and it’s never easy but we all fought hard and showed how much we wanted these three points. It means a lot to us. Overall, I’m really pleased with how my debut went but the main thing, for me, was to get the win."

Shaw says preparation on the training pitch was key with van Gaal having to field an inexperienced backline featuring two debutants - Paddy McNair being the other one - and Marcos Rojo switching to centre-back.

"We focused a lot during the week on how we were going to set up," explained Shaw. "We all knew what we had to do and, at the end of the day, the manager said it as well – it doesn’t matter how old you are as long as you are going to put 100 per cent in and play your best. It’s all you can do.

"My heart sank [when Nolan appeared to equalise]. I didn’t know if it was offside. It was close. We haven’t had much luck either with decisions. We have actually had a lot of bad luck, even with Wazza’s red card as I would say there was a handball before that but the referee didn’t stop play. Earlier in the game, Sakho did the same to me. But I just focus on winning games and I’ll keep doing that."

Shaw was pleased to last the full game, even though his number was initially held up for Tom Thorpe to replace him in stoppage time.

"That was confusing!" he admitted. "I felt really good, especially in the first half, but it was going to be tough as we went down to 10 men. I felt a little bit of cramp but it’s normal as I’ve not played 90 minutes for four or five weeks. I was glad to get through it and I’m feeling really good.

"The injury was a bit of setback but I’ve worked hard in the last weeks and had some talks [with the boss]. He’s been a great inspiration to me and hopefully I can carry that on. For him to say I’m an example at a massive club like this is something to be really happy about. Like I've said, the aim is to win the next three games and carry on producing good performances and getting the points."

Andreas Pereira Yet To Start Talks Over New Deal


Andreas Pereira says that Manchester United have not yet contacted him regarding a new contract, but he is following Louis van Gaal's advice and staying calm.

The 18-year-old Belgium-born Brazil Under-20 midfielder made his debut in United’s 4-0 Capital One Cup defeat at MK Dons in August, and has been tipped to make a number of first-team appearances this season.

With concerns growing over Pereira’s long-term future, the youngster says that van Gaal has told him to not worry, while debunking the idea that the Dutch boss disfavours Brazilian players.

Talking to Lancenet, the teenager said: "They haven't contacted me yet, but Van Gaal told me to stay calm.

"He wants to give me a chance because I have plenty of talent. When he arrived at the club, I talked with him. He always does so.

“It's not true that (he doesn't like Brazilian players), he always treated me in a normal way."

Pereira praised the leadership qualities of United’s senior players, notably Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie and Angel di Maria.

"They are very humble, normal people," he added. "They talk with me, give me advice, they help a lot.

"They tell me what is better to do and not do. Anderson talks with me a lot and Darren Fletcher also helps."

Van Persie: More Than Three Points

Robin van Persie says Manchester United earned more than just three points in the victory over West Ham on Saturday.

Following last weekend’s loss at Leicester City after twice being ahead by two goals, the Dutch striker says it was “absolutely vital” that the Reds claimed a win over the Hammers.

Wayne Rooney put his side ahead after just five minutes with van Persie doubling the advantage on 22 minutes. The visitors pulled a goal back before the break and following Rooney’s dismissal after the break, United were forced to hang on for the victory.

The result moved Louis van Gaal’s men up to seventh in the table with van Persie hoping the win can spur the Reds on now.

“I think this goes even further than three points,” Robin told MUTV. “It was absolutely vital to get the three points for everyone’s belief and the fans’ belief. They were right behind us and were absolutely great.

“I thought we played really well in the first half but in the second it was a completely different game because of the red card. At times it was a bit nerve-wracking but we did ever so well and everyone fought really hard.

“It was a bit frustrating to concede a goal when we did because in that period in the game the only way they looked like scoring was from a set-piece and it happened, just before half-time. That was a bad moment for us but I think we did really in the end to win this game. For everyone involved with Manchester United I think this is about more than just the three points.”

Van Persie's strike, which turned out to be the winning one, was his 50th United goal in 81 games. The Dutchman is pleased with his return but is always looking to do better.

“It’s an okay stat!” he laughed when asked about the milestone. “I would like to increase it a bit more - you always want to do better and improve, but if you play 81 games and score 50 goals it’s a good rate.”

Van Gaal: Victory Rewarded Fighting Spirit


Louis van Gaal felt two sides to Manchester United's game yielded three much-needed points against West Ham - with the steel of the second half ensuring the silk of the first was fruitful.

In a first half which echoed the corresponding period at Leicester City, the Reds went 2-0 up through strikes from Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie only to have the lead halved for the break when Diafro Sakho beat David De Gea with a headed goal. But unlike last weekend, United successfully weathered an opposition storm after the interval and held onto the advantage to finish as victors - despite having captain Rooney sent off with more than 30 minutes left to play.

"After the red card, we had to fight for the victory and I have said to the lads you have been rewarded today because you fought until the end - and more than that," a delighted van Gaal told MUTV.

Rooney was dismissed by referee Lee Mason for kicking out at Stewart Downing as the West Ham midfielder threatened to sprint away from him with the ball. It was a straight red card and as such, it caused incredulity and anger in the crowd.

"I could imagine why he did it," said van Gaal, when asked if he was disappointed by Rooney's challenge. "But I think you have to do it more friendly and that is the only thing that I can say.

"You can ask if that is a red card. I think you see what you want to see and I believe he [the referee] could have given a red card. In professional football, you make these faults, but I also saw them from West Ham. They weren’t punished like Wayne."

Van Gaal felt there was one such unpunished misdemeanour in the lead-up to Sakho's goal, saying: "We had a goal against us from a corner but you have to ask if the West Ham attacker was making a foul because he was in David De Gea's five-metre area (six-yard box).

"Okay, so he didn't hit De Gea the first time but, the second time, he hit De Gea and that's why he was on the ground. That's a pity because we played such a good first half. I think we played very well."

The aforementioned home fans eventually recovered from the shock of seeing their skipper trudge off to play a big, vociferous part in helping the Reds to see out the victory - a factor duly acknowledged by the manager.

"The crowd is always incredible, it’s unbelievable the way they supported us," he said, before adding with a smile: "I’m happy because of the result, we needed it after that extraordinary loss at Leicester, when we also played very well in the first half. We have to do that for 90 minutes!”

Premier League: Manchester United 2 West Ham 1

Wayne Rooney scored and was sent off as Manchester United secured a hard-earned 2-1 triumph over West Ham at Old Trafford.

Rooney and Robin van Persie gave the Reds a commanding early lead but Diafra Sakho's effort, also before the break, made for a nervous second half, exacerbated by the decision to send off the home skipper with around half an hour still to go.

With teenagers Luke Shaw and Paddy McNair making their debuts in defence, the Reds made a confident start and were ahead after five minutes. Rafael escaped down the right and delivered an inviting centre that was met by Rooney's clever first-time finish.

The Hammers could have been level within a matter of seconds as Daley Blind's mistake let in Enner Valencia but the Ecuadorian produced a wild shot into the Stretford End. Relieved, the hosts increased the pressure with Radamel Falcao and Angel Di Maria off target and James Tomkins blocking a Rooney shot after more nice play by the raiding Rafael.

A second goal duly arrived on 22 minutes when the busy Ander Herrera tackled Alex Song cleanly and Falcao, ignoring calls to shoot from the crowd, slipped in van Persie. The Dutch striker eased his way past Winston Reid and buried a low drive inside Adrian's right-hand post.

United were flying, as one glorious move involving van Persie and Herrera led to Di Maria failing to apply the finish, but the visitors gained a lifeline when Stewart Downing's corner was sloppily dealt with. David De Gea failed to make a convincing punch and, after Enner Valencia hit the bar, Sakho was left with a simple header into an unprotected net.

The second half began at a slower pace until Falcao collected a Shaw pass and saw a deflected shot from outside the area pushed away spectacularly by Adrian. De Gea also had to make a save, at his near post to thwart Sakho, before United were reduced to 10 men just before the hour mark. Rooney halted Downing's break inside his own half with a crude foul but there was incredulity as referee Lee Mason's decision to show a red rather than a yellow card.

Sakho headed into the side netting as obvious gaps at the back started to appear so Louis van Gaal withdrew Falcao for Darren Fletcher. The Reds lost the influential Herrera to yet another injury as he departed the scene holding his back and it became clear the hosts were content to try to repel the Hammers, without worrying Adrian's goal.

Enner Valencia cut inside to deliver a deflected shot wide and, after referee Mason failed to produce a second red card for Sakho's foul on Rafael, McNair was forced into a brilliant headed clearance deep inside his own box with seven minutes remaining. There was an almighty let-off in the closing stages when Carl Jenkinson's cross was converted by Kevin Nolan but the assistant referee's offside flag rescued van Gaal's men.

Louis van Gaal: Players Are Struggling To Understand Ideas

Louis van Gaal has admitted that his Manchester United squad are struggling to get to grips with his ideas.

The Dutchman has presided over the club's worst Premier League start, with United going into Saturday's meeting with West Ham having collected just five points from five matches.

"We give [the players] a lot of information," Van Gaal said.

"There shall be a moment in the season that this information is not too much. At this moment maybe it is too much."

Since taking charge on 16 July, Van Gaal has experimented with different formations and made several alterations at the club's training ground in an attempt to implement his "philosophy".

The former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach is adamant that the club will benefit but has conceded that he may have pushed his players too far, too soon.

"You have to work out that information," said the United manager, who acknowledged that fans are already "very tired" of hearing his pleas for patience.

"It's very difficult because we are starting with a new team and a new relationship between players so that's why it needs time."

Saturday, September 27, 2014

McNair Enjoys The Big Stage

Manchester United defender Paddy McNair is hoping for more opportunities to play at Barclays Premier League grounds after games at Old Trafford and Anfield so far this season.

The Northern Ireland Under-21 international, who was on the first team's bench for the Capital One Cup tie at MK Dons and is in the senior squad again for Saturday's West Ham game, discusses life with the Reds in this interview, first published in the current issue of Inside United...

Have you enjoyed the start to the season?
It’s good to kick off in a successful way and we’ve played well. It’s always nice to beat Manchester City, particularly when it’s for a bit of silverware.

How enjoyable is it playing at some of the senior stadiums?
It’s a good experience playing at Old Trafford. It’s a bigger pitch and a big stadium but I think it suits our [Under-21] team because we pass the ball well. It’s always good to play at grounds like Anfield too. Everybody wants to play there at some point in their career.

What are you views of the Under-21 league in general?
It’s a good league but there are quite a few breaks, which do allow us to learn more from Warren [Joyce] on the training ground. I think we’d like to play more games ideally as there are only 22 fixtures this season.

Talk us through your dramatic winner at Reading last season that took us into the semi-finals of the competition…
It was nice to make up for the week before that when I deflected a shot [for Norwich’s late equaliser at Old Trafford]. I think Louis Rowley came back because he was tired so I said: ‘You sit and I’ll go up’. Guillermo Varela passed it to me and I arrived at the right time and just smacked it in.

Moving further forward was nothing new to you…
I used to be a no.10 and then I played out wide as well – mainly because I was so small. I was smaller than everyone else and wasn’t strong enough when I joined Paul McGuinness’ squad. I think we played Burnley in pre-season and I’d grown a lot that summer and played in a kind of Barcelona-style false no.9. Virtually the whole team were midfielders! But then I moved back and did alright. I played there more and more and kept playing there.

Do you class yourself as a defender now?
I think I will mainly play in defence for the rest of my career but I still think I can play in midfield. So it is a case of either or. I don’t mind as long as I’m playing.

Does being part of a three-man central defence suit your game?
I hadn’t played it much before until we used it in the second half against Manchester City. It’s normally been 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 but we’re starting to play it with Northern Ireland Under-21s as well.

Where did you spend the early part of your career?
I started at Ballyclare Colts when I was 10 and stayed there for four seasons. I was captain but we had a few good players. There was another lad who played against me at Barnsley in our friendly and a couple of boys went to England on trial with Liverpool and other teams. It was a good local team and we all went to the same school. We won most things we entered.

When did you join United?
I came here when I was 14. I attended Ashton-on-Mersey school for two years and obviously came in full time then with Paul McGuinness’ team. I was a scholar for two years and finished my education. I’m the second-youngest for my age group – James Weir is the youngest.

What are your hopes for 2014/15?
Just to try to win every game and be successful. We came close last year so hopefully we can win the league trophy this time around. We were runners-up even though we used 40-something players and it was hard to get the same team every week. It was only in the last 10 games or so that we had the same consistent side. I’m happy. I’m enjoying my football. I had a bad injury for a while in the Academy so I think I am over that now and can push on.

Shaw Ready For Manchester United Debut

Luke Shaw is determined to make up for lost time after injury and can’t wait to make his Manchester United debut against West Ham.

The England international was forced to miss the first four matches of the season before sitting on the bench for the recent clashes with QPR and Leicester City. Now back to full fitness, his first-team bow is imminent.

In an exclusive interview with United Review, Shaw says he's "loving it" at United and feeling ready to finally pull on the famous red shirt for the first time in a competitive match.

"The injury got me down a little bit as I've never been injured for so long before," he admitted. "I was a bit annoyed, but I've been back in training now for a couple of weeks."

Shaw's hamstring injury occurred on the eve of United’s pre-season friendly with Valencia and ruled him out for several weeks - a frustrating blow for the 19 year-old. “It was literally in the last training session ahead of the game. I had to stop because I was in too much pain. I'm back up now, raring to go and hoping to stay injury-free and fit for the rest of the season.”

Saturday’s clash with West Ham offers the Reds a chance to bounce back from last Sunday’s shock 5-3 defeat at Leicester, where Shaw could only watch from the bench as his team-mates surrendered two-goal leads.

"We know it [losing a game like that] isn't good enough. We're Manchester United. We cannot go 2-0 and 3-1 up and throw away a lead like that. We've since worked hard in training and hopefully it will pay off.”

Who's That Playing?

They spent £149 million in the summer.

The problem is that not much of Manchester United spending went on central defenders. After getting rid of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic that was always going to be a problem.

They now only have one senior centre-back available for Saturday's Premier League game against West Ham.

Marcos Rojo is fit, but Chris Smalling (leg), Phil Jones (hamstring) and Jonny Evans (ankle) are injured and Tyler Blackett is suspended.

The Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal says injuries will force him to play the kids this weekend against West Ham.
Newsbeats looks at his options as they try to improve on their poor start to the season.

Tom Thorpe

Tom Thorpe, 21, is the under-21 captain, though he's not played a first team game.

He had a strong season last year at the heart of defence and could be the most likely option to come in and fill the position.

He's known as being strong in the air and capable of being an aerial threat in the opposition box.

The fact he's Manchester born may please a lot of fans who've seen many local stars leave the team over the last few years.

He's in the squad this weekend.

Paddy McNair

Paddy McNair joined United as a midfielder three years ago.

He's not played for the first team but is also in the squad this weekend.

He comes from Northern Ireland and was moved to play in central defence after United's under-21s had their own injury issues in defence.

He's thought of as one of the under-21's fastest improvers who learns quickly and is comfortable on the ball in advanced positions.

Daley Blind

Daley Blind is a former Ajax player who signed a four-year deal earlier this month.

He's known as a defensive midfielder but also for his versatility for filling in where needed.

He has not had the best start to life at Manchester United but hasn't enjoyed a strong defence behind him.

When he has he gets on the ball and passes it around controlling play, which is what he does best.

Darren Fletcher

Darren Fletcher started the season in the team but with the signings of Daley Blind and Ander Herrera his chances have been limited.

He's spent the best part of two years recovering from a bowel condition but has played in central defence before.

The team's vice-captain could now prove a pivotal player for United in the coming weeks.

Credit: BBC Sport

Jeff Stelling: Football Doesn't Feel Sorry For Manchester United's Defensive Woes

A lot of managers get criticised for making so many changes to their sides for the Capital One Cup, particularly Premier League ones.

But the one great thing is that it gives you the chance to see some of the unheralded kids, and so many of them took their opportunities this week.

From Jordan Rossiter, who scored for Liverpool, to Jordan Williams, who came on for the Reds and had the bottle to take a penalty in that epic shoot-out against Middlesbrough.

Then there was Adam Armstrong at Newcastle and Ryan Mason at Spurs, who really grasped his chance with a fantastic goal - it's great for these players to get their chance in the spotlight and show they can do it.

Now, I challenge those Premier League managers to put them again this weekend - even if they don’t start them, make sure they’re involved.

They’ve taken a step along the road, now let’s encourage them to take a few more steps. Let’s just not discard them back in to the obscurity of the Under-21 team or the reserves.

I thought Mason was very eloquent when interviewed after Tottenham’s win over Nottingham Forest.

He’s 23-years-old, so he’s not a kid, but he’s never had that chance with Spurs. He said he felt he deserved to be further up the pecking order and now he’s shown what he can do.

Of course, it’s going to be a big weekend for one young kid in particular, because Paddy McNair could start for Manchester United against West Ham, which is absolutely brilliant.

But I just wish that Louis van Gaal had included him, sang his praises and said how much confidence he’s got in him, not said: ‘We haven’t got any defenders, we’ve got nine players injured’.

For me, this would have been the time to build the young man up and say how much he deserves his chance rather than: ‘Well, he’s getting it because we’ve got a load of injuries.’

Apart from anything else, does he expect that football is going to give Manchester United any sympathy? They had £150million and they chose to spend it on attacking players and ignored the defensive side of things.

It’s no use Van Gaal moaning and groaning; get on with it, put the young man in, give him a chance and let’s hope he grasps it with both hands

JEFF'S GEM OF THE WEEK

It has to go to Leicester for their 5-3 win over Manchester United. I was watching under-16 football at the time of the match but my youngest son kept texting me the scores and I couldn't believe it for love nor money - I thought he was taking the mickey!

Of course the penalty that was awarded at 3-1 that got Leicester back in the game wasn't a penalty - yes, United got a harsh deal. But realistically, they're away to a newly-promoted side, they're still a goal to the good, and they've got this huge array of talent.

They can't use that as an excuse for the way they fell apart in the ensuing minutes. And by the way, it's not as if Manchester United have ever had a dubious penalty awarded in their favour, let's get that straight! United can't use that as an excuse; we expect better from them and I'm sure we'll see better.

I love Leicester boss Nigel Pearson - he's grounded, astute, underrated and did everything right on the day. Leicester have got loads of pace, Jamie Vardy was brilliant and it was a thrilling comeback.

For the Foxes to have eight points at this stage of the season from the games they've had is nothing short of a minor miracle. Good luck to them!

Credit: skysports.com

Van Gaal Facing Injury Crisis

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says youngsters will get their chance in Saturday's Premier League match at home to West Ham because his team is beset with injuries.

Defenders Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans have all been sidelined, while Tyler Blackett is suspended after he was sent off in the shock 5-3 defeat at Leicester last week.

New boy Marcos Rojo is therefore the only senior central defender available to Van Gaal for Saturday's match at Old Trafford.

"We have nine injuries and one suspension with Blackett," said Van Gaal on Thursday. "The younger players can have their chance now.

"All the three right-sided centre-halves are out, I don't know how long they will be out for.

"Evans is a very difficult one. His bone is bruised a lot and we have to wait and see, to evaluate it.

"Smalling yesterday ran out of the training session because he had stiff legs.

"We have to see what that means but I don't take risks with players.

"I have to admit that I have never been in this situation before (in terms of number of injuries).

"It is strange, for me it's difficult to understand. We are evaluating what we can do in a different way.

"But you have to train on a certain level because otherwise you can't play a game.

"I have already said I have adapted to a certain level but you cannot train lower because you then can't perform in the right way."

Versatile midfielders Daley Blind or Darren Fletcher could be used at centre-back on Saturday and Van Gaal also revealed that he is considering giving 19-year-old Paddy McNair his debut.

Asked if he thought blooding youth teamers could be risky, Van Gaal replied: "They are always ready, I think.

"They have hunger to play the game and Manchester United youth education has a certain level that can provide that.

"It's a big difference, but in one game you can show yourself."

United have made a sketchy start to life under Van Gaal and lie 12th in the Premier League table, with just one win from their first five games.

And they come into this game off the back of an incredible defeat at Leicester, where they were beaten 5-3 after leading 3-1.

Asked if this was the toughest job of his career, Van Gaal said: “At this moment, it may be.

"But we have to see in a year, not in a week when we have nine injuries and a red card.

“As a manager, you know already in advance that it's a big challenge.

"This club is in transition, we don’t know in advance when the difficult moments will be.

“We should have won last weekend and, if we had, we would be two points off second place. Because of the loss, you are questioning me.”

United’s defending at Leicester has been criticised in some quarters but Van Gaal says his own reaction to the loss has been calm.

“I don't think my players are robots,” he said. “They are human beings and human beings make errors.

“I am also a manager who always wants to evaluate and discuss things. That's the way I do things and I have done it, this week is no different.

“It's happened and it's about overcoming things.

“It’s not a regular occurrence. When you see our figures in the Premier League, apart from the last match, then we are defending well.

“The average is conceding less than one goal I think and we have scored a lot of goals. I think we are fifth or sixth (in that department). I see it differently to a lot of journalists.

“We will overcome things, the season lasts a long time.”

RvP Reveals Key Talks

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has revealed manager Louis van Gaal held a one-hour meeting following their shock 5-3 defeat at Leicester last weekend.

United led 2-0 and 3-1 before succumbing at the King Power Stadium to highlight the defensive frailties in the side.

Van Gaal subsequently called a lengthy post-match debriefing and Van Persie feels it has helped them as they prepare to face West Ham at Old Trafford on Saturday.

“It shouldn’t be possible, but it still happened,” Van Persie told Fox Sports Australia. “We have to deal with it. We had a proper look at it the next day.

“Sometimes it was a bit confronting. It was a long meeting, one hour or something, but we went from there, started again this week and got a couple of really good sessions in and everyone feels ready to face West Ham.

“When you look at the defensive mistakes, it starts somewhere else. That’s what we looked at as well.

“It’s not just the one mistake that happens – there’s a mistake before the mistake and before the mistake, sometimes positional wise.”

Van Persie has also spoken to captain Wayne Rooney and summer loan signing Radamel Falcao to discuss how they can become a more potent strikeforce.

“We want to play together,” he said. “We are constantly talking to each other, asking ‘how can we improve our game together?’ Everyone feels together we are stronger.

“It’s quite interesting to see one of these conversations because we all have the same targets. We all want to win games and to share success.”

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Sam Allardyce Comes To David Moyes' Defence

West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce has defended David Moyes’ time as Manchester United manager.

The Scotsman succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson as the Red Devils boss last summer but was sacked four games before the end of the season after failing to secure them a place in the top four of the Premier League.

The only major signing that United made last summer was that of midfielder Marouane Fellaini from Everton for £27.5million, and they brought in Spanish playmaker Juan Mata from Chelsea for £37.1m in January.

In contrast this summer, following the appointment of Louis van Gaal as the manager, United have signed Ander Herrera (£29m), Luke Shaw (£27m), Marcos Rojo (£16m), Angel di Maria (£59.7m), Daley Blind (£14m), Vanja Milinkovic (sent back to FK Vojvodina on loan) and Radamel Falcao (on loan from AS Monaco).

Allardyce has now questioned United’s failure to sign the players that Moyes wanted when he was in charge of the club.

“If I was sat at home in David’s shoes, I would be wondering why they didn’t spend the £150m with me,” he told The Sun.

“There was a complacency by United in not going out and delivering the signings David felt he needed. Now there’s a panic on.

“He will obviously look at what he might have done better but he should have got the players and he tells me he didn’t get any of them.

“It was difficult enough taking over from Alex Ferguson but if, when you take over, you don’t get what you want, it’s so much harder.

“It was a great shame because he’d done everything right at Everton and Sir Alex saw the fact he wanted to build at United like he had done at Everton.

“I’m not so sure anybody would have been successful in that season – history tells you that. Look at other examples, like when Brian Clough took over from a legend in Don Revie at Leeds and only lasted 44 days.”

Cristiano Ronaldo Dismisses Manchester United Speculation

Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has dismissed speculation about his future, claiming that he is not thinking about moving back to Manchester United just yet.

Over the past few weeks, the Portugal international has been strongly linked with a return to United next summer.

Ronaldo played for United from 2003 until 2009, before joining Madrid for a then-world record transfer fee of £80million.

During his time in the Spanish capital, the 29-year-old has won La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the Champions League and the FIFA Ballon d’Or.

He is aware of the transfer talk but is giving no consideration to his long-term future at this stage as he remains fully committed to Real.

“They are all speculations about my future,” Ronaldo said after scoring four goals in Real's victory over Elche on Tuesday.

“My future is Madrid. I'm happy this season is going well and my future, I will not speak about, it does not make sense."

Cole: Falcao One Of A Dying Breed

Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole feels Radamel Falcao is one of a dying breed of old-fashioned no.9s.

The 42-year-old Reds legend wore the shirt with distinction during his time at Old Trafford and is looking forward to the Colombian getting off the mark for his new club following his loan switch from Monaco at the end of the transfer window.

In an exclusive interview with ManUtd.com, Cole backed Falcao to become a real favourite once he reaches peak fitness and is acclimatised to the physical nature of the Barclays Premier League. After being denied by a save from QPR's Rob Green and then hitting the bar at the King Power Stadium on Sunday, Falcao is getting closer to grabbing his first Reds goal.

"Of course, he had a bad injury with his cruciate [knee ligament] and it's a case of getting yourself back up to match speed," explained the Treble winner. "There were flashes the other day at Leicester and everyone knows what a quality player he is.

"It was a super ball for Robin van Persie and a superb header for us to go 1-0 up. He will score goals at this level because he's a quality player. Fingers crossed, he'll stay away from injuries and do very well for Manchester United.

"For me personally, when I look at him, I see an old-fashioned centre-forward. He wants to get into the box and score goals. He is very brave. You don't see a lot of that any more in the game. It's why he went to Monaco in the first place for £50million. He gives you a hell of a lot of goals.

"I wouldn't say there are others like him out there," he added. "The old-fashioned no.9 is a dying breed. There are not many out-and-out goalscorers who want to run into the box to score goals.

"So I think they are a dying breed. When you do have someone like Falcao, if he does score goals, he will be treasured here. It's a case of gradually easing him into it as he's been out for a long time and going from there."

Cole admits the arrival of the world-class striker has given Louis van Gaal selection problems up front but it is a situation that any manager in the world would welcome.

"Well, that's why I'm not a manager or a coach," he replied, when asked which forwards he would select. "I think when you bring in all those players, you are going to create a problem.

"It's a healthy problem when you've got good strikers but, as a manager, you've got to make those decisions and balance the rest of the team off that if you play them all together."

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Gloops Extend Partnership With United

Manchester United is delighted to announce that gloops, its social gaming partner in Japan, have extended their partnership with the club.

The market-leading Japanese social gaming company has seen nearly 1.4 million downloads of its Manchester United titled game ‘European Club Team Soccer Best Eleven Plus’ since the partnership started just over a year ago.

The celebrated football-themed game allows users to assume the role of team manager, recruiting and creating the best squad possible and battling against other gamers to win the league.

Since the company’s foundation nine years ago, gloops has produced more than 40 different games and now boasts over 30 million users.

Manchester United has almost four million followers in Japan and the retention of gloops in the club’s family of sponsors follows on from the addition of a number of partnerships with some of the country’s most successful brands.

United’s group managing director, Richard Arnold said: “We are delighted that gloops have decided to extend their relationship with us for another year, and demonstrates that having a partnership with Manchester United yields impressive returns.

“gloops have produced an extremely popular product, with almost half of our four million followers in Japan downloading its Manchester United branded game, which is impressive given the short period in which it has been available.

“They are at the forefront of the development of social gaming in Japan and we believe they can continue to help the club deepen our engagement with our fans there.”

gloops, Inc. CEO, Hideyuki Ikeda commented: “As the official social gaming partner of Manchester United, we are honoured to support the club's activities in Japan.

Through our social game ‘European Club Team Soccer Best Eleven Plus’, we at gloops hope to increase the number of football and Manchester United fans, as well as providing entertainment to more people with our various games.

"Alongside a world-class football club like Manchester United, gloops wants to continue giving full support to people who play active roles in the global scene."

As part of the partnership, gloops have also undertaken a Manchester United Soccer Schools programme and have worked with the Manchester United Foundation over the course of the last 12 months.

Opinion: I Believe In Angel

Sunday's match at Leicester City may have, ultimately, been a terrible disappointment but I must admit there was a moment when I realised Angel Di Maria has the potential to become a Manchester United legend.

I found myself wanting him to get on the ball all the time, such was his ability to constantly produce magical pieces of inventive football and, of course, his goal was a thing of majestic beauty.

This was only his third appearance for the Reds, and the first one I had not witnessed in the flesh, but he is rapidly emerging as a player capable of becoming as big an idol as Cristiano Ronaldo was here. Without wishing to heap any additional pressure on the South American, it is difficult not to be enthusiastic about what he can achieve at Old Trafford.

Every player I have spoken to of late has been blown away by Di Maria's skills in training. Luke Shaw feels the midfielder is among the best five players in the world. Brazilians Rafael and Andreas Pereira may consider Argentina to be traditional rivals but the respect for their new colleague is obvious. It seems he is equally as impressive at the Aon Training Complex, away from the cameras.

What I admire most about the former Real Madrid star is his desire to make things happen. Not all of his intended passes or shots come off but he is constantly trying to make a positive impact on the game. I spoke with Sir Bobby Charlton in the summer and he commented that he likes players to not be afraid to take defenders on. Speaking generally, the legendary Knight felt sometimes today's footballers can be guilty of passing the ball conservatively to keep possession instead of thinking further forwards. This is definitely not an accusation that can be levelled at Di Maria.

Not only does he excite on the pitch but he looks just as impressive off it. I'm fortunate to be in a position where I see the United players away from the action and he is clearly a devoted family man who dotes on his baby daughter. When she was brought to meet him at an Old Trafford event this week, his face lit up and he was consumed in a way that only a fellow parent can understand.

It was as though everybody else in the crowded area instantly vanished as he playfully interacted with the toddler and carried her off to the changing room. He admits his love-heart and thumb-sucking celebrations are aimed towards little Mia and it was interesting just to watch the family together.

Everything I've seen, on and off the pitch, has only served to cement the impression that Angel is going to become a Manchester United great and enjoy immense popularity among the Reds faithful. I admit that I have been bowled over and cannot wait to see him perform again on Saturday against West Ham. Di Maria is fast becoming a real favourite and the sky is the limit for him at Old Trafford.

Credit: manutd.com

Rooney's Rousing Statement Of Intent

Wayne Rooney says Manchester United will prove the doubters wrong, despite fluctuating form since the start of the season. And the Reds captain has complete faith in manager Louis van Gaal and his team-mates to make the side successful.

United surrendered a 3-1 lead against Leicester City on Sunday to lose 5-3, meaning the Reds have taken five points from the first five games this season, leaving van Gaal’s side in 12th position, eight points adrift of leaders Chelsea. But it is early days and things can change, which is exactly what Rooney has in mind.

“There seems to be a lot of people who have written us off because of Sunday’s result, but I don't see it that way,” the striker said in a message posted on Facebook. “When I look around our dressing room and see the quality we have and the manager’s unbelievable attention to detail I have no doubts this team will be successful.”

United’s summer spending attracted attacking talents Angel Di Maria and Radamel Falcao to give the Reds an exciting edge going forward – the challenge, as evidenced on Sunday at the King Power Stadium, is counter-balancing that with defensive solidity.

Rooney’s positivity about the future comes as he approaches the 10th anniversary of his incredible debut against Fenerbahce at Old Trafford on 28 September 2004. The 28-year-old has followed up his Champions League hat-trick heroics with 446 appearances and 218 goals to place him third among the club’s all-time leading scorers.

“There have been some great moments in those 10 years,” Rooney said in an MUTV interview about the anniversary, “winning trophies, winning Premier League titles and the Champions League – but it has gone quickly. I’m looking forward to adding more years to that and hopefully being as successful as we have been in the past.

“There are times when you don’t win things that you want to win but it’s how you react to it. That’s what we’ve always done well – we’ve reacted to the seasons where we haven’t been successful and went on to win the league or a cup after it. That’s what we have to do again now: move on from last season and try to make this season successful.

“Last year wasn’t good enough. As players, we let ourselves and the club down. We have to bounce back from that. We have to come out of that bad time and make United successful again.

“The plan is now that I have signed a new long-term deal at the club and hopefully in five years time I will be sat down doing a 15-year interview with [MUTV]. I don’t see any reason why not.”

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Phil Neville: Manchester United Are '£100m Off Winning Title'

Manchester United may need to spend another £100m on players before they can compete for the Premier League title, says ex-defender Phil Neville.

United lost 5-3 at Leicester City on Saturday, but Neville says he "wasn't surprised with the result".

"I know United have spent £150m," Neville, 37, told BBC Radio 5 live.

"I think there's another two transfer windows of similar amounts of money needed - maybe £100m - before they can even think about winning the title."

New United boss Louis van Gaal spent almost £150m in the summer to sign midfielders Angel Di Maria, Ander Herrera and Daley Blind plus defenders Marcos Rojo and Luke Shaw, while striker Radamel Falcao joined for a £6m loan fee.

But Neville, who clarified on Twitter he was referring to a total spend of £100m across the two windows, told BBC Radio 5 live "there are still key positions in the team that need filling".

"I think the centre-back position is obviously the key area," he said. "Holding midfield or centre-midfield needs addressing [too]."

Tyler Blackett, 20, has played at centre-back in all five of United's league games this season, but he struggled against Leicester and was sent off.

Neville, who was on the coaching staff at Old Trafford last season, defended the club's failure to sign an established centre-back in the summer transfer window, and backed United's English defensive contingent to prove their worth.

"That squad needed quality, not just run-of-the-mill players, they needed world-class players, and there were no world-class centre-backs out there," Neville said.

"I think that's why in the next two transfer windows, United might still be looking for that world-class defender.

"I am certain Chris Smalling will come good and I have full faith in Phil Jones as well. They've bought a lot of foreign players, you don't get rid of your English spine."

United are 12th in the Premier League table, having won just one game this season. They were also eliminated from the League Cup by a shock 4-0 loss at MK Dons.

Cascarino: Shocking Defending

Tony Cascarino believes Manchester United's defending against Leicester City on Sunday was shocking.

The Red Devils lost 5-3 to Leicester at the King Power Stadium, conceding four goals to the Foxes with no response after leading 3-1.

Cascarino told the Morning View on Sky Sports News HQ that he feels United lack a commanding centre-back.

''Defensively United were shocking," he said. "They had flair and they can outscore teams. 'There’s no doubt United will win games this season by scoring four and the oppositions might get two or three.

''Some of the goals they were giving away… Gary Neville said they were ‘soft’, that’s being kind because centre-half’s go off to win a ball and sometimes we saw two people challenging for the same ball.

''You want somebody commanding the area, that leads and they go for it.

''It’s like when a goalkeeper comes and picks things out of the air. When you’re a centre-half, you know your goalkeeper will take pressure off you. The Man United defenders were too close together and they lacked everything. The pace and the ability to read things were just so poor.''

Alan Curbishley agreed with Cascarino, and he believes that whoever wins the Premier League title will be the best defensively.

He said: ''The team that wins the Premier League will be the team with the best defensive record and I think that will be Chelsea because we know Jose Mourinho works very hard defensively and gets criticised for it somewhat.

''It seems to me that at the moment defending has gone out of the Premier League, which is great for the fans and everybody else because there’s all these goals going in. But when you start analysing some of them, they’re so bad in some respects.''

Credit: skysports.com

Rafael's Team-mate Tales

In our exclusive interview on team-mates, United right-back Rafael talks about playing poker with Darren Fletcher and socialising as a squad...

Who is your best friend at the club?
I have some big friends here. I would always say Antonio [Valencia] is the closest one but Anderson and Fletch are big friends of mine too. I have a lot of friends in the squad.

Do you have a room-mate at the hotels?
No, we do not share rooms together but when we're sitting in the lounge at the hotels, we often have conversations. It's always nice to do that with your team-mates.

Do you discuss tactics and other footballing matters away from the club?
When we are away, we do some other stuff, but of course we often talk about football. Sometimes, I go to Fletch's house and we play poker and talk about football all night! But of course we do talk about other things as well.

Do you watch any other Premier League games together?
Yes, we do that when we are away. When we're at home, we often play video games but we stop to watch some matches together.

Do you socialise with the other players?
Yes, we had dinner together in Manchester last week. It is always nice when everyone is together. It allows us to talk properly as a team.

Was it Wayne Rooney's idea to get everybody together as a squad?
Yes, I think it was Wayne’s idea. He spoke to everyone about it. Now, he’s the captain here, he's doing everything like that.

Credit: manutd.com

Monday, September 22, 2014

Van Gaal Seeks United's New 'Guardians'

Louis van Gaal has reiterated the importance of young players to his plans for Manchester United, declaring they can be its "guardians" going forward.

The Dutchman defines a guardian as someone who is ingrained in the club's identity and ideology, having been coached there from an early age or, as in the case of Wayne Rooney, signed from another team while still young. Rooney, now 28, has just passed the 10-year anniversary of his arrival from Everton, longevity which made him a logical choice to be the new captain in van Gaal's eyes.

"It's very important for a club such as Manchester United to have guardians of its culture," said van Gaal when speaking to the Sunday newspapers.

"Every youth player who comes through can be a guardian. The 'Class of 92' [Beckham, Butt, Giggs, Neville and Scholes] were guardians of the club's culture. You need very good youth education so you have always more players who can become guardians.

"Wayne Rooney is also a guardian of this culture now as captain and he can transfer this culture to his fellow players."

Van Gaal cited the cores of long-serving players he helped to create at his former clubs, and his intention to repeat this with the Reds.

"I did it with Barcelona where I gave debuts to Xavi, [Andres] Iniesta, [Carles] Puyol and [Victor] Valdes. At Bayern Munich, we had [Holger] Badstuber, [Thomas] Muller and [David] Alaba who can guard the culture. I also want to do that here but the youth players have to take their chance when they receive it."

Van Gaal Gives Insight Into Ryan's Role

Louis van Gaal has shared some insight into Ryan Giggs' responsibilities as his right-hand man, revealing the Manchester United legend takes the lead when briefing the players about their opponents.

Giggs has been on the club's coaching staff since the summer of 2013 when David Moyes succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson and after a four-match stint as caretaker boss at the end of last season, the Welshman was retained in the new regime as assistant manager. And while one of van Gaal's compatriots Marcel Bout scouts the opposition, it's Giggs who gets to stand up in front of the squad and deliver the information.

"Yes, he presents it," said van Gaal, in a briefing with the Sunday newspapers.

"My analyst Marcel Bout goes to the [opposition team's] games and gives his analysis and cuttings to Giggs who makes a presentation. I check it, and then Giggs presents it to the players. The next day, we simulate our opponents in the training sessions."

Being asked to ape the opposition was something United's players became accustomed to during the pre-season tour when they impersonated Inter Milan and mimicked Real Madrid among other teams. This week, members of the squad will have been playing like Leicester City under guidance from Giggs and of course van Gaal.

"I always prepare for matches very thoroughly," added the boss. "I have four books about the games Leicester have played already, including the one they lost against a smaller club [Shrewsbury in the Capital One Cup]. I know everything about the team, about their individual players, about the subs who can come into the game, even the atmosphere in the stadium and how they kick the first kick of the match. Everything."

Murphy: Man. United Let Down By Lack Of Defensive Leader

Manchester United conceded four goals in the space of 21 second-half minutes in their disastrous defeat by Leicester but it was not their collapse that concerned me the most - it was the fact they looked so vulnerable throughout the whole game.

What went so wrong? Well, United's defence lacked leadership, experience and quality. But if I criticise them, then it is also important that I point out they did not have much protection.

The balance of the team was all wrong. We already knew Louis van Gaal's squad was top-heavy with superb attacking talent but this game was the first time we have seen that it does not matter how dangerous they are going forward if they cannot defend.

At times, they were simply all over the place.

You cannot tell me that they did not have the better players - if you compared the two teams on paper, United should have won the game.

But, tactically, United were naïve.

That, on top of the inexperience of some of their players, combined to make them so bad at the back that, every time Leicester went forward in the second half, it felt like they could have scored.

Leicester should never have got the penalty that led to their second goal, and that clearly ended up being a big boost for them. Even so, there is no excuse for United conceding three more.

They were still 3-2 up with less than half an hour remaining and, although they were under pressure, the game should still have been in their control. Instead, they were nervous.

When you are in that situation, leadership matters. I am talking about somebody at the back organising things - telling a couple of midfielders to sit in front of the defence and saying "stay there and don't move".

In the past, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic have been that voice, but they have gone and not been replaced.

Instead, against Leicester, United had 20-year-old Tyler Blackett at the heart of their defence. He is learning his trade and was never going to provide that kind of authority.

When you are a young lad in a back four, you need help from all around you but because of the number of attack-minded players that United had on the pitch, that did not happen. The Leicester players were given far too much space.

I can understand why it happened, because it is hard for players who are forward-thinking to change their mentality and dig in. Too many of United's players have that mind-set.

If you look at United's formation, they again set up in the diamond they used in their win over QPR last weekend.

Daley Blind was sitting in front of the defence but he was really the only one protecting it, because in front of him he had Angel Di Maria flying up the pitch, Ander Herrera who is also forward-thinking and then Wayne Rooney who was behind the two strikers.

Blind got lots of praise this week for the way he shielded the defence against QPR and set the tempo with his passing - but that was a completely different game where the opposition did not have a go at attacking United, or see very much of the ball. So the Dutchman did not have to defend very much.

This time, with the pace and energy of Leicester, plus the number of players they pushed forward, the game by-passed him a little bit.

Blind was trying his best and he is clearly a good player but, when you are isolated like he was, then playing as a holding midfielder is really tough. You just cannot cover the width of the pitch on your own.

United were left even more exposed when their full-backs, Marcos Rojo and Rafael, pushed up into Leicester's half, something they both tried to do.

Rojo is still adapting to the English game and I felt he struggled against the Foxes.

For the home side's fourth goal, he was caught out of position after pushing on past Juan Mata, who was then caught in possession, allowing Leicester to break and score.

Rojo had played a bad ball to Mata, who had a man arriving quickly to close him down, but my point is more that full-backs should not overlap unless their team are in safe possession.

It was a poor decision by the Argentina international, and it was not the only time it happened. Again, that comes down to inexperience.

United play Chelsea and Manchester City in a few weeks and, when they do, Van Gaal could try again at being as open as his side were against Leicester.

But what happened against the Foxes showed how much of a gamble that would be.

If United want to challenge against the top sides then they have to look at changing their system or their personnel.

I am not sure they have other defenders in their squad who could make a massive difference because, if you look at the players missing on Sunday, you could really only argue that £27m summer signing Luke Shaw should be given a chance now, and that Phil Jones would play if he is fit. But that is it.

So a change in system is probably more realistic. We have already seen Van Gaal change from playing with three at the back, which is how he started the season, and he will continue to try to find the right balance with the players he has got.

Playing another holding midfielder would give the back four more protection but that gives him the problem of fitting in all of his big-name attackers. In the last two games we have seen how much quality they now have going forward.

Something has to give, though, otherwise this sort of defeat will happen again.

From what we saw against Leicester, United have got a long way to go before they are challenging for the title again, and it is going to be a scrap for them to get into the top four.

Danny Murphy was speaking to BBC Sport's Chris Bevan.

Credit: BBC Sport