“And there are also matches where I’m very bored or angry because we are not disorganising our opponent’s defence”.
Advertisement
Thousands of fans had left their seats before Wayne Rooney converted a penalty deep into injury time of United’s tiresome 1-0 win over Sheffield United in the FA Cup.
In the beginning of my years as a manager, then I would leave the stadium five minutes before the end.
“The supporters have got right behind the players and there is a togetherness at the football club”.
Van Gaal had no issue with the ironic cheers that greeted United’s first serious effort on goal when Memphis Depay shot a yard wide but said observers have to take into account the opposition, pointing out the Blades made it hard for his team by playing 11 men behind the ball and showing no adventure.
“Against Chelsea I have enjoyed it but the result was 0-0 and we could have lost”, Van Gaal said. It is not an easy time now, (and) the fans were there. Everyone thinks he has an ankle problem but I think it’s more the knee than the ankle.
“You have to be happy as a United fan that we are in next round and we have won the last two games, ” said the United boss during an edgy press conference.
At least Manchester United fans have something to bond with the manager over.
Van Gaal refused to respond to the outspoken former United midfielder on the eve of his team’s trip to Newcastle. Maybe the traffic. There are many reasons why someone might leave early.
Van Gaal’s comments echo those of his critics, including Class of ’92 alum Paul Scholes.
“You never know the reason”.
In their last FA Cup match on Saturday against Sheffield United, the Red Devils had a tough time trying to find the net. They can criticize but they can also cheer the players.
“And that was also the case in former days. Every week I’m saying we have to improve in the third or fourth phase”.
“It’s also frustrating for the players and frustrating for the staff because we are seeing this match”, he said. “But that’s why an opponent is there and they want to prevent us from doing that”.
Advertisement
Speaking to BT Sport ahead of the game, van Gaal cited the fact Mata needed a rest as to why he didn’t start.
