Criticism Of Louis van Gaal's Manchester United Unfair

The criticism levelled at Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal and his perceived defensive style of play is unwarranted, according to the Sunday Supplement panel.

A run of three consecutive goalless draws - for the first time since January 2005 - has seen Van Gaal's United come under scrutiny, with chants of 'attack, attack, attack' heard at Old Trafford in recent weeks.

But the Reds have since followed up their goal drought with two victories against CSKA Moscow and West Brom, showing a marked improvement in their efforts going forward.

Speaking on the Sunday Supplement, Oliver Holt of the Mail on Sunday was quick to jump to the Dutchman's defence, claiming a repeat of the attacking football seen under Sir Alex Ferguson was an unrealistic target - for now, at least.

"Under Ferguson, United were a relentless entertaining side," Holt said. "Ferguson had some faults but he produced very entertaining, winning football sides - he managed to do both.

"It's a huge bar for Van Gaal to match. I understand why United fans miss that, we all miss that, but Van Gaal is doing his job, he is doing what he was brought in to do.

"He has got Manchester United back into the Champions League and they are very close to the top of the table.

"United can't go straight back to what Ferguson was doing just like that, they've got to go step by step and I think some of the criticism towards Van Gaal, and his playing style, is unfair.

"There is still an awful lot to admire in United's football, not least defensively. [Anthony] Martial is a skillful, exciting young player and, while [Wayne] Rooney may not be playing well, he is still quality."

United's 2-0 victory over West Brom at Old Trafford on Saturday was the fifth consecutive game in which they have kept a clean sheet, a run which stretches 555 minutes.

Asked whether United's defensive surety could lead the club to the Premier League title, The Sun's Charlie Wyett added: "If they're keeping clean sheets then absolutely, 100 percent.

"Despite the fact they've been chanting 'attack, attack, attack', United fans - similarly to Chelsea fans under [Jose] Mourinho - won't care, ultimately they want to see wins.

"If Untied can continue to keep clean sheets his they've got a chance, although I still think they'll fall short."

Credit: Skysports.com