Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal believes his side can not afford to slip up in any of their final four games of the season, as they compete to finish in the Premier League’s top four and to win the FA Cup.
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Then the Manchester United and England captain conjured up a moment of magic that won the game and revived Louis van Gaal’s hopes of Champions League football.
United are in danger of losing out on the Champions League as they are now fifth in the league, four points behind cross-city rivals, Manchester City, who have played an extra game.
The Belgian warmed up, he seemed ready, he was sent back to the bench as van Gaal brought on Timothy Fosu-Mensah instead during Manchester United’s 1-0 win at Norwich.
Maximum points against Norwich, West Ham and Bournemouth could give United a chance of leapfrogging City before they face Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final on May 21.
Juan Mata has scored more Premier League goals against Norwich City than any other opponent (4).
Van Gaal said it is for the board to decide whether finishing fourth would constitute a successful season.
In another match, Newcastle stumbled at the worst possible time in its fight for Premier League survival, drawing 0-0 against already relegated Aston Villa. We just need to make the difference, whether it be someone producing a bit of quality which ends up with a goal or somebody committing a bit more going forward so we make best use of the pressure we’re applying to the opposition. We can’t go gung ho and make the game very open.
“I thought the first 10-15 (minutes) we played well and applied good pressure”.
But van Gaal had no regrets over his decision, but doesn’t know how long the pair will be out for. “Darmian has a kick on his ankle and we have to see the reaction tomorrow”. This team has been poor all season and relegation seems fitting for their season so I expect them to lose.
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United could still secure the top four spot as they are now on 63points, one adrift of the Citizens.
