Van Gaal Explains Rojo Absence

Louis van Gaal has revealed that he did not want to take a risk on Marcos Rojo’s fitness after the centre-back picked up an injury on the eve of Sunday’s win over Liverpool.

The Argentinian had successfully returned to action following a shoulder problem in the Manchester derby, but he joined fellow defenders Chris Smalling, Luke Shaw and Rafael in missing the match against the Merseysiders.

The manager told MUTV: “He [Rojo] felt something yesterday, and I didn't want to take a risk. If a player is complaining about a knock, I ask whether or not they want to play, and that's the end of it. So, I played Phil Jones today.”

Using the versatility of his players, van Gaal opted for a central defensive trio of Michael Carrick, Jonny Evans and Jones who was back in action for the first time since West Brom away in October. It gave the defensive unit a home-grown feel which pleased the manager, who also had academy graduates Paddy McNair and Tyler Blackett on the bench.

When asked specifically about Carrick’s display in the back three, van Gaal replied. “I think he did very well. I thought it was an all-English defence today but I was soon corrected by Jonny Evans - it was a British defence.

“I can also mention other players who stood out today but we played like a team and everyone is happy with the result.”