De Gea: I Was Like Captain America In A Year

ManUtd.com sat down with David De Gea to discuss his impressive development since joining the Reds in the summer of 2011...

Which area of your game has improved most since you joined United?
I have been here for four years now and I think that every aspect of my goalkeeping has improved. It is hard to single out one area because we have worked and improved on everything.

How much has it helped to speak the language, particularly with your defensive team-mates?
I actually think the biggest impact is when you are in the dressing room. You need it on the field as well, of course, but you need it in the dressing room. I think the fact that I have started to do interviews in English has really helped as well, it has helped me to learn more of the language as well.

When you first joined United, you started a gym programme that has helped you increase in size and strength. Has that finished now, or should we expect you to get bigger?
I was like Captain America in one year (laughs)! No, I still do the programme, although not as much as before. It is more of a reduced programme now but certainly I did a lot of gym work at the start and it did have a big impact.

We have noticed that you have caught more crosses over punching this season. Is that something you have worked on in training?
You might have noticed it now but I think I have always caught them before. You always work in training to try to catch the ball and that is always your first option. That is always the main aim of a goalkeeper. As I say, you might have noticed it this season but I have always tried to do that.

You are in the best form of your career, but have said there is always more to learn. Is there a specific area you're trying to improve?
Again, no matter how excellent your form is, you can always get better and there are always aspects of your game that you can improve. You can improve everything. No matter how well people think you are playing, or how well you think you are playing yourself, it is always a case of working on every facet of your game. There is hopefully more to come.

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Rooney: Festive Schedule Is Tough

Wayne Rooney hopes a longer rest period will pay dividends for Manchester United when the Reds travel to Stoke City for the club's next festive fixture on New Year's Day.

Rooney and co. will be looking to extend the unbeaten run to 10 games when making the short trip south to the Britannia Stadium.

By then, the players will have had several days to recuperate and prepare for the rigours of facing Stoke – more time than was on offer between the Boxing Day win over Newcastle and Sunday's stalemate with Tottenham.

When reflecting on the match at White Hart Lane, the United skipper felt the demands of the quick turnaround had affected both sides.

"It’s not easy playing two games in three days. You do lose a lot of quality from both teams and the second half was a bit scrappy," Wayne told reporters.

"In the future, I think it [the schedule] has to change because it is tough and no-one wants to see any players getting really bad injuries from it. It is very demanding and I think it needs looking at."

Despite having to play at midday in north London, United were buoyed at Spurs by the usual vocal backing and the efforts of the travelling fans were appreciated by the captain.

"It's tough for the fans, too, travelling over Christmas, with the weather we've had over the last few days," Rooney added.

"But that is how it is. We have to deal with that and we have to try to cope. As a player, you want to play and to try to help the team win."

Off Day For Strikers

Manchester United limitations clear as they fail to find finish at Spurs, writes Sarah Winterburn...

There are plenty of conclusion that can be drawn from Manchester United's 0-0 draw with Tottenham, largely covering familiar ground about United's lack of a dominant midfielder, a paucity of energy and ideas in the latter stages reflecting obvious fatigue and a defence that looks vulnerable under the slightest bit of pressure.

It all adds up to a Manchester United side some way short of title contention, whatever the players would have you believe after their latest home stroll.

But there is only one real conclusion to be drawn from White Hart Lane and it’s best to leave Louis van Gaal to simplistically explain: "We were fantastic in the first half but if you don't score goals, you can't win."

You can look at the statistics that show United completed only 71% of their passes (down on a seasonal average of 85%) while their players were dispossessed a frightening 19 times, but despite missing a Nemanja Matic in midfield, a Mats Hummels in defence and any semblance of genuine attacking options on the bench, United still created more than enough clear-cut chances to beat an incredibly limited Tottenham.

Van Gaal named an unchanged side from the Boxing Day cruise over Newcastle, rightly confident that he only needed one of Radamel Falcao, Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Juan Mata to take inevitable early chances at White Hart Lane before tiredness took hold. Tottenham have surfed their luck to record narrow wins against Swansea, Burnley and Leicester; Van Gaal's gamble was that his significantly better attacking players would have the match won by half-time.

He probably sighed as Falcao hit the ball tamely at Hugo Lloris, tutted as Van Persie inexplicably tried to ball-juggle rather than lash home from close range and looked to the heavens as Mata's deflected free-kick sparked a penalty box melee that only needed the slightest touch in the right direction.

Surely there would be more chances as Tottenham's midfield duo of Ryan Mason and Benjamin Stambouli allowed Mata the space to create and Rooney the freedom to burst into the box?

There were indeed more chances and they too were spurned as United's quartet of stellar attacking players - scorers of 23 Premier League goals this season - all chose the same day to look befuddled by the combination of two white posts and one in-form goalkeeper. Hugo Lloris was excellent but he should have needed a far better performance to keep a clean sheet.

Van Gaal described the second half as "a struggle for life" but it was clearly a struggle he was expecting after choosing the same 11 players just 43 hours after the conclusion of their last match. His bench was packed with defensive options not only from necessity but also because he had rightly foreseen a late surge from a Tottenham side who have picked up ten extra points in the last five minutes of matches this season. But he was expecting a struggle to protect a 2-0 lead rather than a 0-0 stalemate.

This Manchester United side does not have the personnel to win the Premier League this season but that is not a conclusion that can be drawn from a 0-0 against Tottenham they should have won by half-time; anybody who still needs 90 flawed minutes to draw that conclusion has not been paying attention since August.

Credit: Skysports.com

Top 10 Stories Of 2014

2014 has been one of the more eventful years in United's long, celebrated history. Here, ManUtd.com takes a chronological look back at the stories that have made the headlines over the last 12 months...

James Tuck

1. JUAN MEMORABLE DAY

United signed Juan Mata for a club-record fee of £37.1million in January on a day that had a touch of Hollywood about it, as the Spanish midfielder arrived at the Aon Training Complex by helicopter to complete his move.

2. FAREWELL, VIDA

Skipper Nemanja Vidic announced in February he would be leaving the club at the end of the season, after eight years. He would later be joined by fellow defensive stalwarts Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra.

3. DE GEA HONOURED

David De Gea was named the Fans' Player of the Year and Players' Player of the Year at United's end-of-season awards ceremony in May, after a stellar campaign. It heralded the keeper's coming of age.

4. A LEGEND RETIRES

Ryan Giggs brought the curtain down on his glittering 23-year playing career later that month, having been a central figure in perhaps the year's biggest story as he took temporary charge of the Reds following the departure of David Moyes.

5. NEW MAN IN CHARGE

On 19 May, a month before he coached the Netherlands in the World Cup, Louis van Gaal was announced as United's new manager, with Giggs named as his assistant.

6. VAN GAAL BEGINS SHOPPING

Van Gaal quickly set about building his new squad with the purchases of Ander Herrera, Luke Shaw, Marcos Rojo and, for a club-record fee of £59.7million, Angel Di Maria.

7. FUN AT THE BIG HOUSE

A record crowd for a soccer match in the United States of 109,308 watched the Reds beat Real Madrid at Michigan Stadium in August, en route to lifting the pre-season International Champions Cup.

8. WAYNE'S GAIN

After a summer of speculation, van Gaal appointed Wayne Rooney as his new captain in August, with Darren Fletcher taking up the vice-captain's role.

9. DEADLINE-DAY DRAMA

United fans not used to taking much interest in the September transfer deadline day had their eyes glued to the TV as the Reds swooped late for Daley Blind and Radamel Falcao.

10. A FRESH START

Two weeks later, we saw United's new-look team in action. Di Maria, Blind, Rojo and Falcao all made home debuts as QPR were dispatched 4-0. A new beginning? As 2015 dawns, it certainly looks that way under Louis van Gaal...

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Ask Anders: Quickfire Questions

Goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard answers quickfire questions on his Manchester United team-mates...

Best dressed player
I would say Ashley Young. He makes a big effort most days.

Funniest team-mate
Ander Herrera. Even though I don’t always understand what he says, he is a funny guy!

Best new signing for banter
Ander, definitely.

Best singer
I think it’s Phil Jones, even though Wayne would try to claim this title, but at our last Christmas party he kicked himself off the throne! [laughs]

Best dancer
Phil Jones again – if he gets on the dancefloor, the whole party is saved.

Biggest prankster
Hmmm... now we haven’t got Rio [Ferdinand] here and Quinny [Quinton Fortune] isn’t in the locker room anymore… I’d probably say Darren Fletcher.

Team-mate with the best music taste
Ashley Young again or Tyler [Blackett] – Tyler does well.

Rojo Plans To Return From Injury In New Year

Marcos Rojo admits it has been frustrating to miss so many of Manchester United’s recent fixtures through injury, although the Argentinian defender is optimistic of returning in the New Year.

The summer signing has not featured since the Reds’ 2-1 win at Southampton on 8 December and has since missed four matches against Liverpool, Aston Villa, Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur.

During an interview for the Boxing Day edition of United Review, the official matchday programme, Rojo explained why it has been difficult to watch the team from the stands.

"It’s something you never want to go through," he explained. "You always want to be out there playing on the field, helping your team-mates.

"I’ve had the misfortune to get injured recently and I really don’t like it. It’s terrible to miss training and be out of the team. I just hope I can regain my full fitness quickly and it doesn’t happen again, as it’s never good being injured."

United’s next match is against Stoke City on New Year's Day, a fixture that is swiftly followed by a long trip to Yeovil Town in the FA Cup third round. After missing so many games through injury, Rojo is looking forward to coming back at the start of 2015.

"Certainly there are a lot of games coming quickly, one after another," Marcos said. "That’s what I want, to get fit as quickly as possible so I can lend a hand to the team.

"The manager is going to want as many players as possible for this busy period. It’s an important part of the season with so many games in quick succession."

Young Has Proven His Worth To Van Gaal

Louis van Gaal’s injury headache was eased on Sunday when Luke Shaw made a welcome return to action, although the Manchester United manager must now decide whether the summer signing deserves to reclaim his starting place from Ashley Young.

Shaw signed in late June as the most expensive teenager in world football and was immediately tipped to enjoy a successful career at Old Trafford, having previously excelled with Southampton in the Barclays Premier League and represented England at the 2014 World Cup.

While a hamstring injury sustained on the eve of the season delayed his debut until a 2-1 win over West Ham on 27 September, the 19-year-old went on to show all of his quality and potential in a series of all-action displays at left-back. The position, it seemed, was his to dominate.

But just as momentum was gathering, Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in November’s 2-1 win at Arsenal and subsequently missed six first-team fixtures. His arrival to the treatment table coincided with Young’s return to fitness and the former Aston Villa star has since made the most of his opportunity by filling in as an auxiliary wing-back, as he did so admirably during United’s successful pre-season tour of America.

In each of his seven consecutive starts, Young has visibly grown in confidence and stature, while displaying an engine that has driven him up and down the flank with impressive ease. There have been a raft of assists, too, including the sumptuous cross that led to Radamel Falcao’s powerful header at Villa Park, where United came from behind to earn a deserved point.

Young has proven himself an invaluable asset to van Gaal, who is on record for liking adaptable players who can switch between positions. Although the boss recently hinted he will abandon his 3-5-2 formation upon Shaw's return, he will certainly not jettison United's renascent wing-back, who has excelled over the festive period. Ashley Young is unquestionably here to stay.

Credit: manutd.com

Mata: Let's Keep Our Good Run Going

Juan Mata feels that Manchester United’s excellent end-of-year form can carry forward into the New Year as the Reds prepare to face Stoke City on the back of a nine-match unbeaten run.

Mata himself was impressive in Sunday's 0-0 draw with Tottenham at White Hart Lane, where he played in the hole behind the two strikers. The play-maker came close to scoring with a free-kick in the first half of the game and used his control and excellent range of passing to unlock the Spurs defence. In fact, had it not been for an excellent first-half performance by the home side's goalkeeper Hugo Loris, Mata and his United team-mates would have surely secured all three points.

The Spaniard told MUTV: “I think we had enough chances to score one, maybe two goals. We were thinking [at half-time] that we should have scored and the manager said that. We should have rewarded ourselves. I think we wanted to win and we showed, mainly in the first half, that we could have won."

When tiredness set in after the interval, the game's momentum shifted to Spurs and Mata admitted the hosts had the better chances in the second 45 minutes.

"In the second half they pressed more, they were more offensive and David [De Gea] made great saves as always," reflected Juan.

"But I think both teams were more tired than in the first half and the game was a bit slower than in the first. It was a more open game, [whereas] I think in the first 45 minutes it was about us."

Although the Reds were unable to follow up the Boxing Day victory with another success, Mata still feels the run of outcomes which closed 2014 is a very positive one.

“It’s a good end to the year with a good run of results," he declared. "It has been a long time since we lost the last game so we have to keep going, and we have to keep playing the way we played in the first half. I think it was great football. We always try to get results.”

With Stoke away as the next assignment on New Year's Day, Mata believes the fixture list could have been kinder but says the Reds should be able to take all three points on current form. The Spaniard added: “It is a difficult stadium, it is very windy and it is cold but we will try to play our football and come back to Manchester with three points.”

Mata Excited By What 2015 Has In Store

Every Monday, Juan Mata pens his personal blog, and this week, in his last article of 2014, he is in reflective mood and excited about the year ahead…

This is the blog’s last entry of the year so first of all, before I forget, I would like to thank you for all your support, for your comments and for being always there, and, of course, I wish you a happy 2015!

It’s been a long time since I started to talk with you through this blog. I can’t believe it, time flies! I hope you still enjoy reading it every Monday morning, same as I do when I write it. I also hope you make the most of the last few days of 2014!

We have closed the year with two games in just 48 hours and I think the team did very well against two tough opponents. Personally I felt really well on the pitch and that makes me look forward to the next stage of the season, to keep working hard so we can do even better.

Having a look at my stats in the last 12 months, I can see that I have played 32 official games in 2014 and I have scored 12 goals. It’s a good figure but obviously my aim is to have a better 2015, and I work every day for that. As you know, many things have happened during 2014 from a professional point of view, but my goal is always to become a better footballer and I will keep this way in 2015.

As I told you before my family is here these days, and I love that. It’s a joy and a boost of energy for me to have them here at home. They are already talking about New Year’s Eve. I will try to keep the Spanish tradition and eat the 12 grapes, even if I’m going to be in a hotel with the team ahead of the game against Stoke (not an easy one, by the way), which is something I have got used to in Christmas in the last few years… I hope we can start the New Year with a good game and a good result.

Credit: manutd.com

Van Gaal Criticises Schedule

Louis van Gaal has blamed his Manchester United side's subdued second-half performance in their 0-0 draw against Tottenham Hotspur on the congested Christmas schedule.

United dominated the first half at White Hart Lane but fell off the pace after the break as both teams failed to find a breakthrough.

The fixture came less than 48 hours after the final whistle was blown on United’s 3-1 win over Newcastle United on Boxing Day and Van Gaal admitted his players had run out of steam.

He said: “I have said one month ago what I think about this [the Christmas period]. It is scientifically proven that the body cannot recover within 48 hours.

“When you, as an FA, allow that, to play matches [so close together], you see what it is like. The second half was much different to the first half, not only for Manchester United, but also for Tottenham Hotpsur.

“I think Tottenham Hotspur can play much better than today, and also my team could have played in the second half much better.”

The draw extended United’s unbeaten run to nine matches, but two points dropped represented a blow to their renewed hopes of challenging for the Premier League title.

It was a repeat of their inability to defeat a 10-man Aston Villa side on December 20 and although Van Gaal expects his side to improve in the new year, he said the result at White Hart Lane was proof that they are not yet ready to be champions.

He added: “When you cannot win such type of matches, when you are the better team, against Aston Villa and also now, it’s very difficult to be the champion at the end of the season.”

Credit: Skysports.com

Jones Disappointed By Draw At Tottenham

Phil Jones was pleased to keep a clean sheet in Sunday’s goalless draw at Tottenham Hotspur but feels his Manchester United team-mates could and perhaps should have won by a comfortable margin.

The Reds dominated the opening 45 minutes at White Hart Lane and went close to scoring through Radamel Falcao, Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Juan Mata in what Louis van Gaal has described as “the best first-half performance” of the season.

United were less impressive after the break as the festive schedule took its toll, but still controlled enough possession to perhaps merit three Barclays Premier League points. Speaking to MUTV afterwards, Jones tried to assess why victory eluded the Reds in North London.

“We created numerous chances in the first half and perhaps should have been three or four nil up at half-time, but it wasn’t to be,” Jones said.

“In the second half they came out and pushed us to the end. We knew that would happen, but we stayed resilient and we kept a clean sheet.

"It's always nice to come away with a clean sheet but ultimately the lads are disappointed not to have taken all three points.

“I thought Falcao and Robin were terrific today. They held the ball up well, they linked up well but it just wasn’t our day in front of goal."

Sunday’s match kicked off just 43 hours after the Boxing Day clash with Newcastle United ended and the players were visibly tired towards full-time at Tottenham. Jones is not making any excuses, however, and is already looking ahead to facing Stoke City on New Year's Day.

“Yes I think fatigue is always going to kick in with two games in three days but it’s the same for every club in the Premier League,” the England international told MUTV. “You have to do it, we have done it, and now we look forward to the game against Stoke on Thursday.

“It will be a difficult battle down there we know what they are about and what it will be like. Every game in the Premier League is a physical test and it’s an even bigger test there.

"But we will prepare right and recover well, and hopefully we will get the three points against Stoke."

Van Gaal Frustrated By Tottenham Draw

Louis van Gaal rued missed chances and two lost points after his Manchester United side played out an entertaining but frustrating goalless draw with Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane on Sunday.

Juan Mata, Robin van Persie, Radamel Falcao and Ashley Young all went close to scoring in the Barclays Premier League fixture but could not beat Spurs goalkeeper Hugh Lloris, who was tellingly given the Man of the Match award by broadcasters BT Sport.

“We lost two points I think,” reflected van Gaal. “We had the best performance of Manchester United’s season in the first half, we could have scored four or five goals I think, but we didn’t reward ourselves. In the second half, it was more of a struggle than football.

“You could see [then] that the players could not recover in two days. It was an ugly match. In the first half we played very well, but when you do not score goals then you cannot win. I said already before the matches, it is the culture of England [to play twice in 48 hours]. I think the human body cannot recover with 48 hours and in the second half it was a struggle.

“We gave three possibilities or chances away but we could have also scored from three possibilities - Juan Mata, van Persie and Falcao could have scored. The first half was a fantastic half of ours, but then you have to finish the attacks and we were not so effective today.”

United are now exactly halfway through the league season and van Gaal admitted his team would have been ahead of schedule with victory against Spurs. “I should have been satisfied if we had won today because then we would have had 38 points out of 19 matches and that is two points a match on average, which is very good.”

Premier League: Tottenham Hotspur 0 Man. United 0

Manchester United made it nine games without defeat after rounding off the 2014 calendar year with a goalless draw against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane.

With both sides playing open, attacking football, the best chances fell to Louis van Gaal's team but some rare lapses in finishing and an excellent display by the hosts' goalkeeper Hugo Lloris led to the game ending in stalemate.

Van Gaal named an unchanged side to the one that defeated Newcastle United 3-1 at home on Boxing Day, making it the first time since November 2012 that the Reds' line-up remained the same in consecutive matches. It also meant a second start in as many games for Radamel Falcao who seems to have proven his match fitness to the manager, whilst the only alteration on the bench had Luke Shaw putting himself in contention for a first appearance since November after overcoming ankle ligament damage. Tottenham made three changes as Mauricio Pochettino looked to rotate his players. In-form Harry Kane kept his place in the starting line-up as he looked to continue his fine run of form with 15 goals in all competitions this season.

The game took twenty minutes before really sparking into life, with excellent work by Juan Mata on the edge of the box releasing Falcao for a tame shot, followed by two excellent pieces of play by Tottenham and England winger Andros Townsend. The latter wriggled free from his markers both times, to firstly find the grateful arms of David De Gea with a pass before a left-footed shot from the edge of the area was parried by the in-form Spanish goalkeeper. Moments later a blatant push on Robin van Persie gifted a free-kick to United in a central location, but after Juan Mata’s curled shot was deflected onto the post it was Vlad Chriches who reacted first before the Reds' no.20 could knock home the rebound.

A series of chances fell to United in the last ten minutes of the half. Falcao could have scored as he latched on to a through ball before shooting too close to Loris. It was the Frenchman who kept the home team on level terms as the sides went into the break, not least when he denied van Persie. Carrick's lofted throughball was controlled brilliantly by the Dutch striker but the ball would not drop for him to get enough power on the shot and the goalkeeper was able to block it.

Ashley Young’s cross found Wayne Rooney arriving late into the box but his header fell into the arms of the Spurs keeper. On the stroke of half-time it was Young again relishing his new role on the left who ran at Chriches before unleashing a powerful strike that seemed to be curling into the top corner before Loris again managed to react and tip the ball around the post. The first chance of the second half came as Rafael, a half-time substitute for Valencia, freed Mata down the right but van Persie could not convert the cross as he fired over the bar. Mata also spurned a good opportunity just after Townsend sent a powerful effort into the grasp of De Gea at the other end - Rafael's cross fell kindly to the Spaniard eight yards out but his right-footed shot went sailing over the crossbar.

Tottenham’s best chance of the game came after 82 minutes when Ryan Mason found himself in the United box but his powerful left-footed shot cleared the frame of De Gea's goal.

The final minutes were dominated by the hosts who had a number of chances. albeit without worrying the United goalkeeper too much. Fazio headed over the crossbar from an Erikson free-kick on the right as they pushed in vain for a winner but in the end the game drew to a close with both sides wishing their finishing had been sharper.

Van Gaal: The First 6 Months

Louis van Gaal has reinvigorated Manchester United since taking over the club in July and his short reign as manager has provided great encouragement for Reds supporters around the world. Here, we relive the Dutchman's first six months in charge... Mark Froggatt

JULY: THE FIRST DAY
Van Gaal was officially unveiled on 17 July, when he appeared at an Old Trafford press conference alongside Sir Bobby Charlton. “I have the age to have seen him playing, so I know what he means for Manchester United and English football,” the new boss explained. “It was a great honour to do that with him.”

JULY: VAN GAAL'S STRONG START
ManUtd.com's Mark Froggatt: "What came across most prominently about van Gaal was his complete control of the room and surprisingly relaxed demeanour. Where have we seen that before? An honest confidence – not arrogance – underpinned every answer that was assembled in good time. At one point, a five-second pause followed a question about what he would consider a successful first season at Old Trafford!"

JULY: REDS ON THE ROAD
Van Gaal took charge of a successful pre-season tour that began with a 7-0 win over LA Galaxy. It finished with Darren Fletcher and Wayne Rooney holding aloft the International Champions Cup trophy in Miami following an impressive 3-1 victory over Liverpool.

AUGUST: BACK DOWN TO EARTH
After such a positive pre-season, even van Gaal would not have foreseen a 2-1 defeat to Swansea on the opening day of the season. It was a sobering result, reminding everyone associated with the club of how much work had to be done this term.

AUGUST: DI MARIA'S DEBUT
After joining United for a club-record fee of £59.7million, Angel Di Maria made his debut during a goalless draw at newly-promoted Burnley. The game was scrappy, yet the Argentinian showed glimpses of his immeasurable talent to leave fans purring.

AUGUST: DEADLINE DAY
An eventful transfer deadline day ended with Radamel Falcao and Daley Blind signing on the dotted line, and Danny Welbeck leaving for Arsenal. Van Gaal had virtually overhauled the squad and was about to mould the club in his own image...

SEPTEMBER: RED REINFORCEMENTS
Goals from Di Maria, Herrera, Rooney and Mata clinched a morale-boosting win over QPR in a match that bore resemblance to the first day of the season. This was a new team, with new players and new confidence. Fans left dreaming of a bright future.

SEPTEMBER: LEICESTER LOSS
Despite holding a 3-1 lead - thanks to Di Maria's shot - United succumbed to a shock 5-3 defeat at Leicester City that reminded all supporters that van Gaal’s men will need time to develop. Tyler Blackett also learned a big lesson following his red card.

SEPTEMBER: SHAW'S DEBUT
After suffering an early-season injury, Luke Shaw finally made his Reds debut in a 2-1 win over West Ham and showed all of the quality that convinced the club to pay for his services. The 19-year-old had finally started his Reds career – and in style.

OCTOBER: DAVE SAVES
As Player of the Year, David De Gea’s quality has never been in question. But the Spaniard’s importance to the team was underlined with his jaw-dropping display against Everton, when his penalty save to deny Leighton Baines and a stunning last-gasp stop from Bryan Oviedo helped the Reds bag an important 2-1 win.

OCTOBER: FELLAINI'S RENAISSANCE
ManUtd.com's Mark Froggatt: "Fellaini's renaissance can be traced back to The Hawthorns and his first United goal, after coming on as a substitute to score when he chested the ball down, turned adroitly and powered his finish past Boaz Myhill. That second-half effort earned a first start of the campaign against Chelsea and it was his stifling of Fabregas that helped clinch a dramatic point at Old Trafford."

OCTOBER: VAN GAAL VS MOURINHO
The talk before United’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea centred around the battle of the league's two most decorated managers, van Gaal and Jose Mourinho. While both men were more interested in the football, it remains a fascinating duel that will run on and on this term.

NOVEMBER: DERBY DEFEAT
After snatching a late draw with Chelsea, United hoped to glean a positive result from the Manchester derby. But Chris Smalling’s dismissal made life difficult and, in the end, Sergio Aguero’s goal proved decisive. The Reds earned some credit for a spirited performance.

NOVEMBER: GUNNING FOR GLORY
United’s burgeoning team spirit was on display in the 2-1 win at Arsenal, where the Reds were largely outplayed but came together to record a galvanising triumph at the Emirates. Rooney’s excellent counter-attacking goal will live long in the memory.

NOVEMBER: INJURIES HIT HARD
Van Gaal’s squad has been plagued by injury in his first six months, with almost every player picking up a knock at some stage. Di Maria was struck down with a hamstring problem against Hull City, but returned in late December, only to pick up another knock in training before the Boxing Day win over Newcastle.

DECEMBER: SPOTLIGHT ON CARRICK
Michael Carrick returned from injury in the derby, but his influence was truly felt in December. Van Gaal: “He is my vice-captain, he brings a lot of experience but also composure and I can use him in different positions, which I like. Because he is my vice-captain, he can also transfer my philosophy on the pitch.”

DECEMBER: UNITED 3 LIVERPOOL 0
ManUtd.com's Adam Marshall: “We all realise there is much work to be done, particularly if Chelsea and City are to be caught in 2015, and the Premier League is about more than the United vs Liverpool agenda. However, this latest result was a huge one for those who truly appreciate the rivalry.”

THE NEXT SIX MONTHS...
Van Gaal’s press conferences have all been fascinating affairs that have provided plenty of insight, intrigue and even laughs. As time has gone on, the manager has spoken with growing confidence about the future and if his next six months are as entertaining as the first, United fans are in for a treat. Cheers to that!

Credit: manutd.com

Opinion: Rooney Was United's Main Man

Following a frustrating draw against Aston Villa last week, Wayne Rooney was pivotal in ensuring Manchester United got back to winning ways against Newcastle United on Boxing Day, once again highlighting his immense influence on Louis van Gaal’s side.

It wasn’t all that long ago that, following a stunning 34-goal campaign back in 2009/10, many proclaimed Rooney’s best position was right up top, as the Reds’ lead striker. Despite that assertion, this writer – and, indeed, many others – felt Wayne’s talents were best exploited in a deeper-lying role.

Under Sir Alex Ferguson, Rooney was often deployed behind the main striker, with the likes of Ruud van Nistelrooy, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and, latterly, Robin van Persie all benefiting from Rooney’s wily forward play. However, only under van Gaal has the Reds’ 2004 signing been given an extended run as an attacking midfielder, and both player and manager have reaped the rewards.

The skipper was at his swashbuckling best against Newcastle. A midfield role suits his ability to dictate a game but, at the same time, does not hinder his goalscoring nous, as he showcased with two well-taken strikes.

When Wayne is played as the lead forward, you risk compromising key aspects of his game, such as his excellent long-range passing ability, which is – dare I say it – Scholes-esque. He highlighted this against Aston Villa last weekend, frequently finding the likes of Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young on the flanks. However, it was only against Newcastle that, under instruction from his manager to play "more attacking", we saw Wayne at his best.

Sitting behind the imposing forward duo of van Persie and Falcao, Rooney juxtaposed his serene passing and perfectly-timed runs into the box with dogged defensive work in midfield. It was a performance that did not escape the eye of his manager, who praised Rooney’s professional, classy and controlled display.

"When Wayne scores two goals and also gives an assist for the third goal, you can’t help but be very happy as a manager," van Gaal told journalists at his post-match press conference.

"He has the lung capacity to run for 90 minutes as a midfielder, which is why I played him there, but I can still use him as a striker," the boss added. "But for the team, at this moment, it is better that he plays in midfield."

Although the manager hinted Wayne’s occupancy of this role may only be temporary, it is possible Rooney could make it his own over the coming weeks and months. It enables us to see Rooney in full flight, while also creating the tactical means to utilise the likes of Juan Mata, Falcao and van Persie without the risk of the Reds’ forward line becoming overcrowded.

Only time will tell if this proves to be the case, but either way, let’s hope Wayne continues his fine form into 2015.

The opinions expressed in this article are personal to the author and do not necessarily represent the views of Manchester United FC.

Credit: manutd.com

Carrick: We Will Keep Chasing

Midfielder Michael Carrick insists Manchester United will not stop in the pursuit of Barclays Premier League front-runners Manchester City and Chelsea.

Louis van Gaal’s men lie third in the table after beating Newcastle United on Boxing Day to make it seven wins from the last eight league games, with City (seven points ahead of United) and Chelsea (10 points in front) lying in second and first place respectively.

Next up for the Reds is a trip to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday lunchtime, before a New Year’s Day visit to Stoke City. Carrick knows both games will be tricky tests but says confidence is high within the United camp.

"The signs have been good in recent weeks," the midfielder told ManUtd.com. "We were bitterly disappointed not to win last week [at Aston Villa] but we beat Newcastle and now have two big away games. They will be a good test for us to see where we are at.

"We’re continuing to look up and will continue to try to catch them [City and Chelsea]. We’re not satisfied with third – it’s obviously an improvement and we’re getting better, but we want to keep looking up.

"Going to Tottenham is always a tough game and to go there two days after the Newcastle match at 12 noon makes it very tough. But we have to get ourselves ready for that and it’s the same for them as well. It’s a game we look forward to and we go there confident."

The Reds were at their free-flowing best in the win over the Magpies at Old Trafford, with the attacking play between Wayne Rooney, Falcao, Juan Mata and Robin van Persie really catching the eye.

"That’s four world-class players you’re talking about there. Going in to a game with those lads in your team gives us a real threat and a lot of confidence, knowing we can create chances and score goals," added Carrick.

"It clicked together nicely [against Newcastle] and hopefully in the weeks coming up we’ll see something similar. We had good possession, created some chances and looked dangerous. They started early on the counter-attack and that was something we had to be careful of. I thought we dominated the game and won it well in the end.

"Results breed confidence and the manager has been able to make more of a consistent selection, which helps. We’ve still had to change a couple of the defenders around a little [because of injuries] but, all in all, it’s been more of a consistent selection and I think that has helped us."

Rojo: 2014 The Best Year Of My Career

After playing in the World Cup final and completing his dream move to Manchester United, Marcos Rojo accepts he has enjoyed the “best year” of his entire career – although the Argentinian defender is determined to continue his personal ascent in 2015.

Rojo joined the Reds from Sporting Lisbon in the summer and has quickly established himself as one of Louis van Gaal’s primary centre-backs. Although injuries have prevented him from featuring of late, the 24-year-old is loving his time at Old Trafford and wants to kick on upon his return.

“It’s all going well,” Marcos explains in the Boxing Day edition of United Review, the club’s official matchday programme. “I’ve settled in really quickly and I like the city a lot. The football club is incredible. I get on really well with my team-mates and they treat me well. And, what’s more, it’s even better now we are on a run of winning almost every game.

“It’s good because quite a few of us all arrived at the same time so that means we’re all together and we are learning together at the same time. We have English classes as well and are having a laugh together at the same time as we are learning.

“It’s true that it’s been a really positive year for me - probably the best year of my entire career. To be able to play in a World Cup and then to actually play in the final, that’s not an easy thing for anyone to be able to achieve. I was fortunate enough to be play in the final in Brazil and, soon after, get a chance to sign for Manchester United. It’s really incredible to defend the colours that are so famous and important to so many people around the world.”

Young Hails United Confidence

Ashley Young has outlined the feel-good factor that comes with being part of a Manchester United team full of confidence after the 3-1 win over Newcastle United.

The wide-man was once again an important outlet in a wing-back position on the Reds’ left-hand side, helping Louis van Gaal’s men earn another three points at Old Trafford as United chase the Premier League’s top two outfits, Chelsea and Manchester City.

Wayne Rooney’s first-half double highlighted United’s supremacy and thoroughly pleased Young, who was eager for the Reds to stamp some authority immediately after kick-off.

Young told MUTV: “I think we showed, especially from the first minute, that we wanted to stop them from playing straight away. I think we did that. The way we played and dominated the game was fantastic. We’re just disappointed to let them score and concede that penalty.

“It’s always nice to be involved with the winning team; it’s always nice to win. We’re playing well, and things are going well on this run. We want to keep the momentum going and I think we showed how well we have been doing.

“When you’re playing with confidence, you put in performances in the way that not just myself, but the whole team are doing. It’s fantastic to be involved in. As long as we keep this run going, I don’t think there are many teams that will be able to stop us.”

For Young and his team-mates, the success against the Magpies carries extra significance ahead of trips to Tottenham Hotspur and Stoke City, with a visit to White Hart Lane to begin with on Sunday.

The Reds’ no.18 added: “It’s a busy period that we’re entering, so it’s important to be getting wins – especially at home, but on the road as well. We know we’ve got tough games coming up so, fingers crossed, we can keep up this momentum and the hard work.

“Especially with having Christmas Day off, it was vitally important to get the three points. We have tough away games coming up now and we’ve got to make sure that we’re prepared in the right way – and I’m sure we’ll be able to get the three points if we are.”

Rooney: Goals Reminiscent Of Scholes

Wayne Rooney was delighted to take advantage of the opportunity given to him by Louis van Gaal to push forward more from his midfield role against Newcastle United, producing two goals and an assist.

Likening the style of his brace to that of Reds legend Paul Scholes, Rooney put United on track for a comfortable 3-1 victory with two first-half strikes when surging into the visitors’ area.

Despite a late Papiss Cisse penalty snatching a clean sheet away from the hosts at Old Trafford, the United captain spoke positively of his team’s display.

“It’s a role that I’ve played many times and I know I can play,” Rooney said of his position further behind Radamel Falcao and Robin van Persie. “The manager has given me even more licence to get forward and get into the box from that role. As Paul [Scholes] did many times over his career, he could see the ball when it was wide and see the space and run into it – I did that today with my two goals. It’s nice to win, nice to score goals and I’m delighted with the performance.

“It was a good performance, a good win. We were disappointed at the end to concede a goal but, overall, we’ve got to be pleased with the three points.”

The afternoon’s success keeps van Gaal’s men within 10 points of leaders Chelsea and three clear of fourth-placed Southampton, prompting Rooney to maintain an open mind with regards to how the Barclays Premier League could end.

“There’s a long way to go – we know that,” the no.10 stressed. “We’ve chased leads down before over a big number of points. Anything can happen, especially over the next week or two. There are a lot of games and if we can come out of these games the right side with the right results then we’ll be in a good position.”

The Reds travel to London on Sunday to face in-form Tottenham, who won at struggling Leicester City on Boxing Day.

Wayne Rooney was speaking to BT Sport after the match.

Mata 'Privileged' To Play With Wayne

Juan Mata has described playing alongside Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney as “a privilege”.

Rooney was in inspirational form in the Reds’ 3-1 Boxing Day win over Newcastle, scoring two and making the other for Robin van Persie, and claiming the Man of the Match award in the process.

The striker worked his magic from a deeper midfield role which he has played on occasion this season and Mata believes it’s a position Rooney can continue to thrive in.

“I think he can play there, yes,” declared Mata in a post-match interview with MUTV. “He can defend, he can attack, he can pass and he can score goals arriving into the box.

“For us, he is a very important player and I feel privileged to play with such a player as Wazza.”

Like Rooney, Mata was involved in all three of United’s goals with the duo linking brilliantly at times during the 90 minutes with Radamel Falcao and Robin van Persie, who netted the Reds’ third. The Spaniard spoke afterwards of his admiration for his fellow attackers and hopes the Reds can continue the recent good form at Tottenham on Sunday.

“I really enjoy playing with all players like that [Rooney, Falcao, van Persie]. As strikers, they offer you a lot of movement so you can pass the ball to them,” he explained.

“We just want to keep playing well. Physically it’s difficult [to be ready for Sunday’s game] but mentally we are ready. We now recover today and tomorrow and try to be the fittest we can for Tottenham.”

Van Gaal Lauds Impressive Display

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has commended the Reds on a comfortable 3-1 win against Newcastle, making particular reference to the excellent first-half showing.

The manager was pleased to see his charges return to winning ways ahead of a busy spell of fixtures and – with that in mind – believes the Reds handled Boxing Day’s game with superb professionalism.

“I think we have dominated the game for 90 minutes and scored fantastic goals - we should have scored much more,” Van Gaal told MUTV.

“The first-half was, of course, the better half and, during the second, we were already thinking of the match against Tottenham, which is why we did not dominate – I am very pleased with the performance today.”

Two-goal hero Wayne Rooney was also the focus of praise from the boss who was happy to see the forward take up a more attacking position than during the Aston Villa game last weekend.

"Against Villa, he was a little bit too defensive and I asked for him to be more attacking," the boss added. "He then scores two goals and gets and assist, what more can you demand as a manager?"

Di Maria Suffers Pelvic Injury

Angel Di Maria was ruled out of Manchester United's 3-1 victory over Newcastle with a pelvic problem.

Manager Louis van Gaal revealed Di Maria had suffered the injury in training on Christmas Eve.

The Dutchman, whose side visit Tottenham on 28 December, does not know when his £59.7m record signing will return.

"It is not a muscle injury," he said. "It is more the pelvis does not have the right relationship with the leg."

Van Gaal added: "We will have to wait and see for the analysis."

Di Maria, 26, only returned to the United side at Aston Villa on 20 December after a three-week absence with a hamstring tear.

Premier League: Man. United 3 Newcastle United 1

Wayne Rooney inspired Manchester United to a 3-1 win over Newcastle by scoring twice and setting up another for Robin van Persie, even if Papiss Cisse's late penalty took some of the gloss off a fine day at Old Trafford.

The victory means the Reds are now unbeaten in eight Barclays Premier League matches and have recorded 11 straight wins on Boxing Day. Such a display also suggested Louis van Gaal was right to let his players spend Christmas at home.

The boss made just one change from the XI that started at Aston Villa, with Paddy McNair coming into his three-man defence so Michael Carrick could move back into midfield in place of the benched Darren Fletcher. Angel Di Maria was the only notable absentee from the matchday squad with an injury sustained during the Reds’ final training session.

United began at a lively pace and looked ambitious in the final third, although the first real chance of the game fell to Ayoze Perez, who took a fresh-air shot when presented with a clear view at goal in the 11th minute. Radamel Falcao, starting at Old Trafford for the first time since 5 October, then headed Ashley Young’s right-footed cross just wide of goal.

Moments later, in the 15th minute, Robin van Persie latched onto Wayne Rooney’s lofted pass and slid a low shot into the side-netting after rounding the advancing Magpies goalkeeper, Jak Alnwick. Daryl Janmaat then forced an excellent save from the in-form David De Gea midway through the first half with a rasping drive from around 25 yards, a minute before van Persie ghosted into the area once again to head Young’s in-swinging cross wide of the far post.

United eventually made a breakthrough in the 23rd minute with an excellent counter attack that left fans purring at Old Trafford. Rooney started it off inside his own half with a lovely pass out wide to Juan Mata, whose brilliantly chipped cross was astutely played back across the area by Falcao for Rooney to claim his seventh goal of the season.

The club captain was celebrating once again in the 36th minute when a superb sliding tackle from Falcao allowed Mata to regain possession outside Newcastle’s area, before the diminutive Spaniard slipped an inch-perfect pass through the Magpies defence for Rooney to clip another guided shot past Alnwick.

After the break, van Gaal’s men made a bright start to the second half and extended the lead in the 53rd minute through van Persie, who escaped his marker to nod Rooney’s deliciously lofted pass home in front of a jubilant Stretford End. Newcastle responded by moving up the pitch and almost got one back through 17-year-old Adam Armstrong as his shot flashed wide of De Gea’s far post.

With one eye undoubtedly on Sunday's trip to Tottenham Hotspur, Carrick and Falcao were both withdrawn to standing ovations just after the hour mark with Fletcher and young James Wilson coming on. Rafael da Silva later made his return from injury - and a first appearance since the 1-1 draw with Chelsea on 26 October - in place of Antonio Valencia. Those changes affected the flow of the game and the tempo dropped significantly as the clock ticked on at Old Trafford, where heavy rain fell throughout the second half.

Newcastle pressed forward nonetheless and earned a late penalty with three minutes left when Jack Colback was tripped by Phil Jones, allowing substitute Papiss Cisse to calmly fire into the top-right corner from 12 yards. That riposte did not spark a dramatic comeback, however, and United held on to record another fine Boxing Day win.

Louis van Gaal Touchline Rants Are Pointless

Louis van Gaal believes other Barclays Premier League managers are wasting their time by shouting and bawling at their players from the touchline.

Unlike his contemporaries - and one of his most famous predecessors, Sir Alex Ferguson - the Manchester United boss prefers to relay messages to his players through his assistant Ryan Giggs, who can regularly be seen on the edge of the technical area at Old Trafford.

Not once has Van Gaal appeared on the touchline, home or away, this season.

That has come as something of a surprise to United fans, but the Dutchman insists it would be a waste of time if he ranted at his team from the side of the pitch.

"I don't see any influence from me when I am there shouting," he said. "They are not understanding you.

"With the fans in the Premier League shouting so much, they can't understand you.

"That's why I'm always on the bench. You have trained them to read the game by themselves all week.

"It is much more important that they are more involved with the game, that they make their own decisions. It is like a child - you educate them."

Van Gaal's Boxing Day opponent, Newcastle's Alan Pardew, is one of the most vocal managers from the touchline in the top flight.

Pardew's passion has boiled over into anger at times, which has been costly for the Magpies boss.

Last season he was banned for seven matches for headbutting Hull's David Meyler just two months after he was warned about his conduct following a foul-mouthed pitch-side tirade towards Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini.

The former West Ham boss has endured a number of spats with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, and also received a two-match ban for pushing linesman Peter Kirkup two years ago.

"I have never had a fight," Van Gaal added. "I only use my voice - never my hands or something like that."

The omens are looking good for United ahead of Friday's match against Pardew's men.

Since the Premier League began, United have won 19, draw two and lost one of their 22 matches played on Boxing Day.

Another victory would keep them just about in touch with leaders Chelsea, who are 10 points above them in the standings.

Given that the Blues have lost just once this campaign, it would take an almighty effort from United to catch Jose Mourinho's men, but Van Gaal is not convinced the Londoners have the title sewn up just yet.

"In the Netherlands and also in Germany, you have the Christmas champions but that doesn't mean you will be champion in May or June," Van Gaal said.

After finishing seventh under David Moyes last term, United have set Van Gaal the target of a top-four finish this year, but the former Bayern Munich manager is aiming even higher.

"Our goal is still to be champions at the end of the season," he said. "In a football world, number one is the most important thing.

"But it's not always easy.

"That's why the board have said that our goal is within the first four places but still, with my players and all the staff, we are trying to achieve more than they expect from us."

Rio Tips United For Top 3

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand is convinced his old club will finish in the Premier League’s top three this season.

Six wins in seven matches have seen United rise to third in the table after a difficult start to the season where they just one of their opening five league games.

And QPR centre-back Ferdinand, whose 12-year spell at Old Trafford ended in the summer, insists United remain on course to qualify for the Champions League next year.

"Six weeks ago I think you'd be thinking hopefully they'd get in the Champions League," Ferdinand told Sky Sports News HQ. "Looking at them now, I think they'll finish definitely in third place, definite Champions League, then maybe they'll get one of the cups.

"If they continue on the run they're on, then who knows? They could go into second or first, but I think Champions League this season would have been something they were asking for and I think they'll finish in that comfortably."

He added: "(Van Gaal) had a sticky start, but the lads seem to be getting a better understanding of what he wants and you can see that in the results in the last six or seven games. Michael Carrick coming back has been a huge plus for them."

United are seven points behind city rivals Manchester City and 10 points adrift of Chelsea ahead of the visit to Old Trafford of ninth-placed Newcastle on Boxing Day.

Goalkeeper David De Gea has been instrumental in United’s recent run of form and the Spaniard insists it is vital Louis van Gaal’s side continue to maintain their recent form.

He told United’s website: "It's all about keeping this good run going both as an individual and as a team and to keep on going with these good results.”

Sir Alex: Fergie Time Was My Little Trick At Manchester United

Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted that 'Fergie Time' was a "little trick" he used when Manchester United were searching for a goal in the closing stages of a game.

Ferguson, who won 38 trophies during his 26-year reign at Old Trafford, says that his tactic of standing on the touchline looking at his watch was a ploy in order to get into the minds of the officials and his side's opponents.

Speaking to Clare Balding for a BT Sport Christmas Day Special, 'Clare Balding Meets', Ferguson explained: "That's why I used to go to my watch. I never looked at my watch, I didn't know how many minutes.

"It gets across to the opponents and the referee, which is a little trick. The thing about the last 10-15 minutes of a game, particularly at Old Trafford, you've got 65,000 people there.

"At half-time I always stress: don't panic, be patient, wait. In the last 15 minutes you can do what you like. I'm a gambler, shove bodies up front, take the gamble ... it didn't always work but a lot of times it did.

"If you're in that dressing room after the game and we've scored in the last minute, the electricity is unbelievable, they're jumping on top of each other, hand-clapping, it's a fantastic place to be.

"Most important thing is that those fans are walking out of the stadium desperate to get down to the pub to talk about, desperate to get home to tell their wife and their kids what happened at Old Trafford in the last minute of the game. And that's my job, to get them home happy."

Rooney To Continue In Midfield

Louis van Gaal has hailed Wayne Rooney's versatility as he looks set to continue in the central midfield role he has occupied recently.

Rooney played as a deep-lying midfielder against Aston Villa as Manchester United extended their unbeaten run to seven games at Villa Park.

The United captain has scored or assisted 94 goals in his last 100 league games at Old Trafford and he continues to be an influential figure at the club.

When United were chasing the game at Villa Park, they switched to a 3-4-3 system with Wayne Rooney in midfield and the change helped them force an equaliser.

"Against Aston Villa, he (Rooney) was more of a defensive midfielder," said van Gaal. "He has the ability to run from box to box - that is also a little bit that he has to feel in the match, to read in the match that he can do that.

"That is a matter of time and I believe that he can do that."

Credit: Skysports.com

Lambert Plans Tom Cleverley Talks

Paul Lambert is to hold talks with Tom Cleverley with the Aston Villa boss hinting that he is keen to make his loanee a permanent signing – either in January or next summer.

Lambert has praised the Manchester United player’s conduct and enthusiasm since the 25-year-old moved to Villa Park in the summer.

Cleverley is on a season-long loan, which means Lambert has time on his side when it comes to weighing up his options.

The Scot said: "I have the option to buy in January but I have got him for a season-long loan anyway.

“I would definitely try but a lot will depend on finances. I will have a discussion with Tom and sit with him and see what he thinks. He is still a Manchester United player.

"But the great thing about Tom Cleverley is he has been brilliant here. His enthusiasm for the game and the way he plays the game is great.

"The way he is around the place is great. I am pretty sure he loves his football here. He has been a credit to himself and Manchester United with the way he has conducted himself.

"I think he has played really, really well, and he has many years ahead of him. Knowing Tom Cleverley as I do in a short space of time he won't want to sit on the bench (at United)."

Credit: Skysports.com

LVG: Bale Rumours Not For Public Discussion

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has refused to answer any questions on whether he is preparing to make a record bid for Gareth Bale during the January transfer window.

The Welshman has been linked with a move back to England, with more than one newspaper reporting recently that the Reds are lining up a £90m swoop for the Real Madrid player.

But the Dutchman was not ready to be drawn into any speculative conversation with the press at an Old Trafford news conference on Tuesday, saying: “I cannot discuss that with you.

“I discuss that with my CEO (Ed Woodward) and not with anyone of the media.”

And Bale's representatives have told Sky Sports News HQ that reports linking him with a move to Old Trafford are "irresponsible journalism".

The straight-talking Van Gaal also said that despite United’s excellent recent run in the Premier League, he is trying to instil a style a play into his squad that will help them to dominate for longer spells in matches.

Since losing at home to Swansea on the opening day of the Premier League campaign, United’s form at Old Trafford has been good – with seven wins from eight – but Van Gaal believes there is still much improvement to be made.

He added: “It’s a pity when we came back from the United States (pre-season), where we won everything, and then lost our first game in the Premier League.

“We want to build a fortress at Old Trafford and have done that already because we have won a lot and I’m happy with that. But in the Premier League it is not easy to win your games.

“My record in away matches is not too bad as a coach, when you compare it with home matches because in away games (outside England) teams wanted to attack.

“But here they want to defend and that’s why it is more difficult. So we have to develop a certain way of playing so we can dominate.

“Every week we are dominating for 45 minutes, or 60 minutes, so now we have to dominate for 90 minutes. We did it against Hull City – that was a good mach.”

And the 63-year-old reiterated that the United squad will be stretched thin over the Christmas period with four games in 10 days.

Among those currently out injured are Luke Shaw, Ander Herrera, Marouane Fellaini and Chris Smalling.

Asked about who could possibly return for the games against Newcastle on Boxing Day and Tottenham two days later, he went on: “The problem is I have a lot of injured players, which is the problem of these matches in the coming weeks.

“No. No. They are (Shaw, Herrera and Fellaini) not coming back. Chris Smalling maybe. I’ll take a look on Wednesday.

"For a few players this period is fun because they are recovering quickly but you also have players who are not recovering so quickly, so I have to rotate.”

Credit: Skysports.com

Boss Welcomes Sir Alex's Support

Louis van Gaal has welcomed Sir Alex Ferguson's words of support for his tenure at Manchester United.

The Scot sung the praises of the current Reds chief and outlined why he believes success will follow when the injury situation clears at Old Trafford. "When he gets the best players back, you watch United," Ferguson told BT Sport. "Because he's a great coach, he'll do well."

After toasting the press and wishing everybody a merry Christmas, the United boss confirmed he is fully aware of the backing he enjoys at the club.

"It is fantastic when you come to Manchester United," explained van Gaal. "You hope, because I know Sir Alex, that he shall support you. When he is supporting you, because he is doing that not only this week but also other conferences he gave, he shows a lot of confidence in belief in me; that I need as a trainer coach, as a manager of Manchester United.

"You need the belief and support of managers such as Sir Alex, but also from Sir Bobby Charlton and David Gill. I have the belief, so I’m very happy with that because then you can work in a more easy way. It’s also a pressure because he believes in you, and it gives you that pressure that you have to give results. It is not so easy to win the Premier League matches."

Rooney Hopes For Falcao Scoring Run

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has backed Radamel Falcao to continue his scoring run over the festive period following the Colombian's goal against Aston Villa last weekend.

The striker has quickly become a fans' favourite since his loan move to Old Trafford from Monaco in the summer, a reputation he enhanced by netting the Reds' equaliser at Villa Park to cancel out Christian Benteke's first-half opener.

Speaking on the eve of United's Boxing Day encounter with Newcastle, Rooney has explained why all of the club's new signings have adapted quickly to life at Old Trafford and welcomed Falcao's goal-scoring prowess.

“It was great for Falcao to get on the scoresheet, and it was a great header," Wayne told MUTV. "I’m pleased for him, and I hope he continues that into the next few games.

“It must be strange for the new players to have more games than ever over Christmas, having had the time off previously. They have to adapt and be ready for it, while being aware of the fixture list. I’m sure they’ll be prepared for the upcoming games."

Louis van Gaal's men take on Newcastle on Boxing Day, a fixture Rooney recalls from last season when the Magpies took three points from Old Trafford. However, the in-form striker believes the Reds' encouraging home form will see them through this time around.

“It was a blow," he conceded. "We had a few bad results at home last season but thankfully our form at home is a lot better this season. It’s important to us because we want to make sure we keep winning our home games.

"They’ve had their highs and lows – they started badly and there were a few shouts for Alan Pardew to lose his job. I’m happy he wasn’t sacked and I think they went on to win five or six games in a row. They haven’t picked up as many points as they would have liked to in the last few games, but it’s always a tough game against Newcastle.

“I don’t think losing to Sunderland will affect them too much. It was a big loss for them in a derby, especially with the last-minute winner but they’re coming to Old Trafford to play Manchester United, so they’ll be ready for it. I think we’ll have to be at our best to win the game."

Van Gaal Explains Tactical Formation Choice

Louis van Gaal has admitted to MUTV his hand has been forced when it comes to selecting his formation for Manchester United's recent Barclays Premier League matches.

The boss has been pleased with the work of Ashley Young and Antonio Valencia in wing-back slots but feels the attacking duo are not suited to orthodox defensive roles. With Rafael still to appear after injury, despite being on the bench last weekend, and Luke Shaw sidelined since sustaining ankle ligament damage at Arsenal, there has been a preference for a three-man central defence of late.

Young and Valencia have pushed forward to good effect, setting up goals against Aston Villa and Liverpool respectively, but the system could revert to a flat back four when Rafael and Shaw are back fully fit.

"Yeah, but as wing-backs and not as full-backs," the manager replied when asked how pleased he has been with Young and Valencia. "Now I am more or less obliged to play with wing-backs because the real full-backs, Shaw and Rafael da Silva, were not fit enough and that is not good. I have to select what I want but now I am forced to select. For a manager, that is not so good."

With Newcastle United welcomed to Old Trafford on Boxing Day, the Dutchman is still working out how best to utilise his players when they are all available. Angel Di Maria has been employed on the flanks and in an attacking role since initially shining in a more central position and the Argentinian's adaptability should prove useful in the upcoming games.

When asked about Di Maria's best position, van Gaal conceded: "We still have to find that out. It is also [about] the composition of the team, we have to look for the best team also because all of the players were injured so I could not select the team that I want."

With the Reds sitting in third place in the table and only being denied a seven-game winning run with the draw at Villa Park last time out, the fact the boss has still to name what he feels is his best XI must be very encouraging for all United fans as 2014 comes to an end

Van Gaal: Players Off On Christmas Day

Louis van Gaal has revealed his Manchester United players will have Christmas Day off ahead of the encounter 24 hours later with Newcastle.

The Reds would traditionally report to the Aon Training Complex for a light session while families around the country spend time with their loved ones at home. However, this year, the Dutchman has intervened to reward his players.

“I have changed that, I have given them free time and Christmas day with the family,” the boss told MUTV on Friday. “We shall come together the next day here at our Aon Training Complex. Then we will have all of the meetings like we have done all season.

“I believe in a total human being so the environment is also important. I think they are more pleased to be at home with their wives and children. I hope they shall give everything to beat the opponent then.”

Van Gaal was manager of the Dutch national team this time last year and was able to enjoy his Christmas holidays at home in the Netherlands. Although he enjoyed that time, the boss is just as happy to lead the Reds into action against Newcastle.

“When you are a national team coach then you don’t have to do anything at Christmas because in the Netherlands the players are also free and have holiday,” van Gaal explained. “But here we play football and that is also nice.”

Wayne Rooney is pleased to have Christmas Day off this year and believes his international team-mates will be equally relieved, given that they are used to enjoying a winter break while playing with former clubs.

“It must be strange for them to have more games than ever over Christmas, having had the time off previously,” Rooney told MUTV. “They have to adapt and be ready for it, while being aware of the fixture list. I’m sure they’ll be prepared for the upcoming games.

“We’re not actually training on Christmas Day this year because we’ll be spending it at home, which will be good for the foreign players and those of us with children.”

David De Gea Relishes Busy Winter

David De Gea is viewing Manchester United’s busy upcoming schedule as the ideal opportunity to maintain the club’s positive form.

While the goalkeeper is still adapting to the hectic winter run of fixtures that is absent in the Spanish game, the former Atletico Madrid stopper insists he relishes this period of the season and is looking at it as a chance to build on the Reds’ unbeaten run of seven matches and to entertain supporters who are enjoying Christmas breaks.

“It’s all about keeping this good run going," De Gea told MUTV. "Both as an individual and as a team and keeping going with good results.

“It’s a bit strange for all of us who are coming here from other leagues where we’ve been used to having a winter or at least a Christmas and New Year break. At the same time, these are the fixtures you really enjoy. It’s a good period in the season and these games are always exciting.

“You’re used to spending your holiday time with your own family, but we appreciate it’s really important for the people who are watching the games and have been working all year round. It’s nice for them to be able to have a rest and to enjoy some exciting football.”

The Boxing Day clash against Newcastle United in 2012 is still fresh in the memory of De Gea, who donned United’s gloves for the entertaining 4-3 win at Old Trafford.

“I do remember the game – it was very, very exciting,” he recalled. “I’m still enjoying my football in exactly the same way as I was from day one, the first game I played for this club.

“This one is going to be a very, very big game. It's very important for us. It’s an exciting fixture. I’m looking forward to the game. We’re at home, so we have got the backing of our fans as usual. It’s really vital that we get the three points and keep this run going because I think we’re in some decent form at the moment.”

Sir Alex Ferguson: Michael Carrick Is The Best English Player

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says Michael Carrick is "the best English player" around.

Louis van Gaal's side have won six out of seven games since Carrick, 33, came back from an ankle injury in November.

"I think Michael's the best central midfielder in English football," Ferguson told BT Sport. "I think he's the best English player in the game."

Ferguson also said to "watch United go" once Van Gaal's squad - third in the Premier League - is fully fit.

Carrick - named United vice-captain on Friday - won a recall to the England squad shortly after his return to fitness in November, but had to pull out with a minor groin problem.

His early-season absence has been one of a number of injury problems to trouble Van Gaal since he began work as United's manager in July.

Argentine winger Angel Di Maria returned from injury as a substitute during Saturday's 1-1 draw at Aston Villa, yet Ander Herrera, Marouane Fellaini, Marcos Rojo, Chris Smalling, Luke Shaw and Daley Blind all remain sidelined.

"I don't know how Louis van Gaal can expect to get the best results with the injuries he's had," Ferguson added.

"When he gets the best players back, you watch United go - because he's a great coach, he will do well.

"I'm not interested with what is happening with the players he's brought in, as that will take time.

"When I brought in Patrice Evra and Nemanja Vidic in the January of the same year, they were all over the place. They took five months to get used to playing for Manchester United - the culture and the history of the club.

"These new players will be exactly same."

Ferguson said he had been particularly thrilled with the form shown this season by Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea, whom he signed in 2011.

"They have still got great players," added Ferguson, who remains a director at Old Trafford after retiring as manager in 2013.

"The World Cup has maybe taken a little bit out of Robin van Persie, but you watch him in the second half of the season. He will be fine.

"Rooney is back flying and he will always get you a goal. Having a goalscorer in your team is always an advantage.

"The one that is most pleasing to me is David De Gea. When we bought him as a kid he was really skinny but he had ability. He has special talents and he is showing that now and I'm really pleased for the kid.

"When we get those players back, we will be fine."

Training Talk: Jonny Evans

Jonny Evans is the latest Manchester United star to take part in our Training Talk feature...

Which part of training do you enjoy the most?
In the actual session? It's always nice to have a little game because they are quite competitive and it's a chance to express yourself in tight areas. You get to see some fantastic goals in those little games and that's probably the most enjoyable part of it.

Who was scored the best goal in training?
Do you know what, I think Giggsy [Ryan Giggs] scored one and this always sticks in my head. He has gone to shoot and given the goalkeeper the eyes to shoot across goal but stuck it in at the near post instead. But it was a drill from about 30 or 40 yards out and not one-on-one with the keeper. That's how good it was.

Talk us through the best goal you've ever scored in training...
I remember when I first came into the first team, I scored one with my left foot that went right into the top corner. I haven't scored one since! [laughs].

Who is the most competitive player in training?
I think everyone is competitive. In the past, it would have been Giggsy. It's hard to tell now but Giggsy would have been the one who got the angriest anyway.

Who would join you in your ideal five-a-side team?
I would go all-out attack and pick two strikers. I'd have Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie. Adnan Januzaj because he's quite skilful so I'd have him plus Juan Mata.

Are you doing anything specific in the gym at the moment?
We're always in the gym and are doing a lot of power work and explosive work. We're concentrating on that really and trying to get that speed element of our game.

Are there any areas of technology or statistical expertise you're using?
I mean the good thing with stats is we get feedback straight away - after every session. We see how many kilometres we have run, how much height, speed and distance and I think it's good to know how far you've pushed yourself and how strenuous it has been. You have to be aware of what you're doing to your body so you can taper it down the next day if you think you cannot do another hard session - especially leading up towards a game. You can try to manage yourself as we get the stats after every session.

Are there any unsung heroes at the Aon Training Complex who deserve some credit?
The two kit men. In the past, Albert [Morgan] would travel with the team whereas it was changed last season so the two kit men have to travel on ahead. Alec Wylie and Ian Buckingham go down the day before everyone else and return after us. I know there's two of them but it must be a lonely job and they don't stay in the hotel with us because they have to be near the stadium. That's quite a big one and we appreciate them doing that.

Credit: manutd.com

Marcos Rojo Explains Hard-man Image

Marcus Rojo admits his personality transforms once he takes to the field for Manchester United - to the point where even his own family and friends do not recognise him.

Since arriving at Old Trafford in the summer, the 24-year-old Argentinian has become known for his relaxed demeanour and is rarely seen without a smile on his face. However, that image contrasts heavily with the aggressive, all-action style of play that he adopts while marshalling the Reds' back-line.

During an exclusive interview for the Boxing Day edition of United Review, the club’s official matchday programme, Rojo reveals the extent of his ‘split personality’ and explains how his upbringing in La Plata has shaped his entire approach to defending.

“I’m totally different off the field to what I am on it,” the South American insists. “People who know me, like my Mum and my partner for example, always say to me: ‘How come you are so different off the field when you are always chilled out and smiling whereas, when you step out on to the pitch, your face changes’… They say it’s like someone else is going out there to play!

“But I am not scared to put in a challenge,” the tough no.5 continues. “What it is, from being a young kid, I used to play football around my neighbourhood in La Plata with kids who were much older than me. I would be aged 10 and playing against lads who were 18 and they would play hard and not hold back, and that’s how I grew up.”

Rojo has missed United’s last two outings against Liverpool and Aston Villa with a thigh injury - as Louis van Gaal confirmed on Saturday - but hopes to return over the festive period.

Mata Ready For Christmas Schedule

Hi everyone! Christmas is here. Since I was a kid, I’ve always loved this time of the year… And I still do, even if the way I spend Christmas since I came to England is different.

As you know, there is no break in the Premier League - this is the busiest month of the season, actually - so it’s a very important period of the year when you can win or lose a lot of points in just a few days. In fact, this week we play on Friday and Sunday.

Our goal is to finish the year in the best possible way: with two more victories. Against Aston Villa, we couldn’t get our seventh win in a row. It was a complicated game. They scored first, a great goal from Christian Benteke and didn’t leave much space for us to come back. We were able to tie the game thanks to Radamel Falcao’s header - I’m very happy for him, I think he deserved it because he works hard every day and, at the end of the game, despite Aston Villa playing with 10 men, we couldn’t score the second goal. Villa Park is a tough stadium for every team, although United must try to win always, in every place. We should have taken more advantage of those minutes after the red card, but they defended well and even tried the counter-attack.

Also in Christmas, I like to play and see the special atmosphere in the stadiums, particularly on Boxing Day when I’m sure Old Trafford will be full of kids. This is one of the most special games of the season and, no doubt, one of the symbols of the Premier League. We will try to have a great day by winning against Newcastle.

Hugs and thank you for always being there! Have a great festive season with the ones you love and Merry Christmas to all!

Juan

Read more from Juan on Christmas in England, La Liga and the European Handball Championship final via juanmata8.com.

Credit: manutd.com

Carrick Expects Falcao To Go On A Goalscoring Streak

Michael Carrick was delighted to see Radamel Falcao on target for Manchester United at Villa Park and he believes the Colombian will notch many more goals this season.

The on-loan Monaco striker has struggled with fitness and form since moving to Old Trafford in early September.

His 53rd-minute equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa on Saturday was just his second goal for United and Carrick said: "He's scored so many goals over the years and you feel when he gets the chance he'll score.

"It was a terrific header, so I'm pleased for him. After being out for a bit that's him back and hopefully he can go on a bit of a streak now.

"It was a great run by Ashley (Young), a great ball and a great header. It was a nice goal all around and I'm pleased for Falcao."

Carrick was, however, disappointed that the Reds could only claim a single point against Villa.

"We came here to win so we feel we let two points go," added the England midfielder. "We controlled the first half and went a goal down from nothing.

"We didn't create enough around their box to be a real threat. The second half was better and we felt we could go on and win it but the final cross didn't really go for us.

"We felt we were in control of the game. When they went to 10 men we didn't make the most of it.

“We tried things which maybe weren't on so that's a bit frustrating as we had the opportunity to put them under pressure.

"We would hope for more but we didn't lose, we took a point and hopefully we can carry it on over Christmas and be stronger when we come out the other side in January."

Evans: Let's End 2014 On A High

Jonny Evans says the players are ready for Manchester United's hectic run of games over Christmas and New Year and determined to pick up maximum points.

The Reds go into the busy festive period on the back of a 1-1 draw at Villa Park on Saturday. Despite dominating possession for much of the match, Louis van Gaal's men were unable to find a winner after Radamel Falcao headed the visitors level following Christian Benteke's opener.

"We felt we should have gone on to win, especially with them going down to ten men," he told ManUtd.com. "We got the goal early in the second half and had a lot of possession but didn't create many chances other than the goal. Against ten men I thought we'd create more but it wasn't meant to be."

Evans was disappointed to leave the Midlands with just a point, but with a seven-match unbeaten run carrying United into games against Newcastle (26 December), Tottenham (28 December) and Stoke (1 January), the Reds want to kick on positively into 2015.

"It's a busy period now and we've got to keep that momentum going of not losing," added Jonny. "We know what we have to do in the next couple of weeks with lots of games. We have the experience and it does test the squad, but I think everyone will get a lot of playing time and it's always a great period to be involved in."

A key positive at Villa Park was another goal for Falcao, who started only his second game in two months. Like all his team-mates, Evans was delighted to see the Colombian striker back among the goals.

"He did very well and got his goal," Evans added. "It was a great cross from Youngy and a great header. He's got a predator instinct in the area. Look at his record over the years, he's scored lots of headers and one-touch finishes – he has great movement."

Carrick: Now Watch Falcao Go

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick hopes fans will now see the best of Radamel Falcao following the Colombian’s equalising goal against Aston Villa.

After a stop-start opening to his Reds career, Falcao was named in the first XI for only the fourth time for the trip to Villa Park on Saturday, but he took full advantage to rescue a point for United.

"He's scored so many goals over the years and you always feel that when he gets that chance he will score,” Carrick told MUTV. "He's scored a terrific header again today and I'm pleased for him."

As well as bagging his second goal for the club, Falcao completed a full 90 minutes for the first time this season and the Reds' no.16 fully expects the Colombian to fire United to bigger and better things following his confidence-boosting goal.

"After being out for a bit that's him back and hopefully he can go on a bit of a streak for us and we, as a team, can return to winning ways and get on a roll again," said Michael.

"Things are going okay, although we hoped for more [at Villa], but we didn’t lose and hopefully we can carry that on over Christmas and be stronger for it when we come out on the other side in January."

Rooney Disappointed Not To Beat Villa

Wayne Rooney was disappointed after Manchester United's 1-1 draw with Aston Villa on Saturday, saying the Reds should have taken all three points from the game.

United were forced to come from behind at Villa Park after Christian Benteke had put the hosts ahead, but the Reds couldn't find a winner after Radamel Falcao headed in an equaliser in the second half.

Villa had Gabriel Agbonlahor sent off with 25 minutes remaining, and Rooney believes the Reds should have made the most of the advantage.

“We’re disappointed, he told MUTV. "I thought we were the better team and their goal came against the run of play. We came out for the second half knowing that we had to push for an early goal, and managed to do that.

"When they went down to ten men, they put more bodies behind the ball which made it a bit more difficult, but perhaps our final pass or cross wasn’t there. We’ve missed an opportunity today.

"They knew that after the red card they would have to defend with men behind the ball, and sometimes it can be difficult. It was frustrating, their goal came from a free-kick and deflected into the top corner, but these things happen. We had to lift ourselves and we did well to get the goal after the break, we just couldn’t find a second.

“We were pushing them and we had good possession, but just couldn’t get a breakthrough. We’re paying the price for that now. It’s important not to lose the game, but we thought we’d done enough to win. We should have got three points, so we’re a bit disappointed and frustrated.”

Louis van Gaal's side dominated for long periods without finding the net, but looked favourites to win after Falcao nodded home Ashley Young's cross.

The goal was the striker's second for United on his fourth start for the club, and Rooney was delighted to see the Colombian get on the scoresheet on his first start since 5 October. “It was a great run and cross by Ashley and an equally great header by Radamel, so it was a nice goal, he added. "I’m pleased for him today."

Van Gaal: We Needed More Aggression

Louis van Gaal was disappointed that Manchester United could not convert possession into three points at Villa Park and said his team needed more aggression to beat a determined Aston Villa side, who remained just as resolute when they went down to ten men in the second half.

“When you are the better team you have to win,” the boss told MUTV. “We have had a lack of aggression in the first half, I think at that time we were much better. We kept the ball very well but didn’t do too much with it. We didn’t create many chances in the first half.

“Because of the lack of aggression we were losing 1-0 and then we changed that attitude in the second half. We did everything to win but it is very difficult. I have to say that Aston Villa did very well also.”

Christian Benteke gave the hosts the lead after 18 minutes but, as van Gaal pointed out, it was against the run of play. A change at half time saw Michael Carrick shift from a three-man defence into central midfield, which began to have the intended effect.

“With Carrick you have more passes to the strikers and that was needed which is why I changed Darren [Fletcher] for [Tyler Blackett] and put Michael in midfield, but I could have changed a lot of players because I think that it is the first demand that we are aggressive.”

It didn’t take long – eight minutes in fact – for a change in the scoreline as Radamel Falcao converted with a fine header from Ashley Young’s cross.

“It was a fantastic goal and I am very happy for Falcao because he needed that, but I am always happy when Manchester United score!”

United appeared to be in the ascendancy when Villa went down to 10 men following the dismissal of Gabriel Agbonlahor for a late tackle on Young, but the numerical advantage wasn't translated to the scoreline.

“It [can be] like that as the opponent shall always make the space narrow, they used the long ball well and we couldn’t manage [playing against] the long ball to Benteke so it was dangerous for us. It’s always important not to lose but I am frustrated because we gave two points away and that is my feeling of this match."

Premier League: Aston Villa 1 Man. United 1

Radamel Falcao rescued a point for Manchester United at Villa Park on Saturday with a brilliant second-half header as the Reds were held 1-1 by ten-man Aston Villa.

The Barclays Premier League’s lowest scorers took the lead against the run of play on 18 minutes through Christian Benteke’s fine finish, before Falcao struck early in the second period to earn a draw for United, who remain third in the table.

Louis van Gaal stuck with the same system which helped United overcome Liverpool last Sunday but he made two changes to the first XI, with Darren Fletcher coming in for the ill Marouane Fellaini and Falcao starting his first match, in place of James Wilson, since Everton at home at the start of October.

It was Falcao’s strike partner, the in-form Robin van Persie, who had United’s first sightings of goal during a rather cagey opening quarter to the game. The first came on three minutes when the Dutchman was well found after a good surge down the left by former Villa winger Ashley Young, but van Persie scuffed his effort across the box rather than towards goal. He did manage to connect brilliantly with a superb cross-field pass from Wayne Rooney on 17 minutes however, but his right-foot volley was well gathered by Brad Guzan.

Despite not creating a whole host of openings, it had been all United up to that point so it came as something as a shock to everyone inside Villa Park when Paul Lambert’s side made the breakthrough a minute later.

Fabian Delph hoisted a free-kick into the box which was brought down by Benteke at the back post. The striker twisted and turned his way past Jonny Evans before curling an unstoppable shot past the helpless David De Gea.

The earlier pattern in the match continued thereafter with United dominating possession once more but clear-cut chances remained hard to come by. Valencia headed well wide soon after the goal, before van Persie slipped Falcao through but the Colombian was unable to get enough power on his shot to trouble Guzan. The Villa keeper had to be alert on 33 minutes though when Young’s hopeful cross went all the way through towards the stopper who dived to his left to palm it away.

Van Gaal had said before the match that while results had been pleasing of late, the performances could still improve. With that in mind he shuffled things around at the break as Tyler Blackett replaced Fletcher, and took up a spot in defence, allowing Michael Carrick, who had again started in a three-man central backline, to shift forward into midfield.

After De Gea had made a typically brilliant, point-blank save from a Benteke header just after the restart, van Gaal’s change seemed to have the desired effect as the Reds sparked into life as an attacking force.

Van Persie and Mata both forced Guzan into solid stops before the Reds drew level in superb fashion on 53 minutes. Young made another menacing run down the left before standing a cross up for Falcao who planted a header past Guzan before sprinting towards the deliriously happy United fans in the far corner to celebrate.

Angel Di Maria made his long-awaited return to action just after the hour-mark, in place of van Persie, as the Reds went in search of all three points.

United’s cause was given a boost on 65 minutes when the hosts went down to ten men as Gabby Agbonlahor was given his marching orders for a late tackle on Young.

The Reds reverted to a 4-4-2 formation for the final 16 minutes of the game as James Wilson came on for Valencia, but clear-cut chances began to dry up despite plenty of possession.

Villa substitute Leandro Bacuna fired a stunning effort just over in the dying stages, but a seventh straight win was not to be for the Reds who were forced to settle for a point.