Louis van Gaal has insisted Manchester United must take things “step by step” as they edge towards a top-four place in the Premier League.
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The league victory against the Hertfordshire club moved Van Gaal’s men level on points with fourth-placed Manchester City, although Manuel Pellegrini’s men have a game in hand.
Injuries at last look like subsiding, 11 goals have been scored in the last three games and, perhaps most importantly, United have something to play for in three different competitions.
He has helped revive United’s top-four prospects as they chase a third straight Premier League win at West Bromwich Albion tomorrow.
“But Timothy has saved us three times I think because of his speed and I was very pleased he was on the pitch”.
He said: “Players are coming back in March, I think, but we have to build them up also”.
“You see how (Marcos) Rojo is struggling”.
Ikechi Anya of Watford and Daley Blind of Manchester United compete for the ball during the Barclays Premier League match between Watford and Manchester United at Vicarage Road on November 21, 2015 in Watford, England.
But the Dutchman is remaining cautious over his side’s chances, telling reporters: “We go step by step”.
Anthony Martial and Matteo Darmian’s return against Watford were timely boosts, but United remain without a host of key players at this crucial period.
United’s manager also praised the performance of 18-year-old Tim Fosu-Mensah, who made his full debut at centre-half.
“We needed a left-back and we inquired about a lot of players”. We fought until the end and scored a goal, so I am very happy for them.
Van Gaal revealed he was contemplating whether to introduce Jesse Lingard into the fray late into the game at the expense of Mata or Ander Herrera, shortly before Mata gave United the lead.
“It should be fantastic for Manchester United and the fans, when you win a title, but the (last) FA Cup is many years ago so that would be fantastic also”. The weather meant it was hard to play good football.
“Mata can score these kind of goals”.
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In truth, Van Gaal was fortunate to be able to reflect on a win as Watford dominated large patches of the match. “He has given me the chance and luckily I have played several games in a row”.
