REDLYUNITED: November 2015

Monday, 30 November 2015

Midfielder steps up his return: Included in U-21 side

Maroune Fellaini maybe back in time for the weekend clash with West Ham, as he has been selected in the U-21 side to face Liverpool.

The midfielder has been injured and was expected to be back after the international break, but was still out after the break.

He is in the squad to face Liverpool's U-21 tonight. Another midfielder who has long been injured but is in the squad as part of his recovery is Nick Powell.

Fans will be hoping the Belgian comes clean and improves his fitness so he could be in contention against West Ham. As he could provide another dimension to the goal drought United attack.

Two players that should consider leaving United come January

The January transfer is just days away and rumours of players movements have been circulating on various media platforms.

It remains to be see if Manchester United will welcome new players to Old Trafford, but with Van Gaal saying he needs to add speed and creativity to the wings, and the team's current struggles in scoring goals, it may not come as a surprise if the Dutchman brings in one or two new faces.

With the expected arrival of new faces, there maybe a corresponding expected departure.

Some players in the United camp seems to have depreciated in the value they add to the team.

Redlyunited looks at the United squad and highlight two players that should consider leaving.

1. Victor Valdes.
The former Barcelona man has not only gone down the goalkeeping ranks at United, he seems to be in the bad books of the manager.

He has been relegated to the u-21 team, and was not invited to the United4unicef dinner which had a lot of United stars in attendance.

His wife came out to criticise the United management on instagram. This for sure won't go down well with Van Gaal and his board and with January close by, the exit door seems widely open to the Spaniard.

2. Maroune Fellaini

The Belgian have never lived up to expectations since his Moyes aided arrival at Old Trafford. He has since been unable to nail down a starting place in the team, and has rarely enjoyed prolonged stay in the starting eleven.

His expectations this season were dashed with the signing of Schweinsteiger and Schneiderlin. Both players have overtook him in the United midfield.

He was seen as a camouflage striker by Van Gaal at the start of the season, but the unexpected arrival of Martial and his instant explosion once again pushed him down the starting ladder.

He has since then become the fulcrum of Van Gaal's seemingly ineffective plan B. He has also not been helped by injuries.

With the European nations cup coming up next year, and his playing time at United not guaranteed, plus that Van Gaal may make a move for another attacker come January, a move away from the theatre of dreams may not be far from his mind.

Mathematics is one subject hated by a lot of people for various reasons. But irrespective of our love or hatred for the subject, it’s one subject whose application is need by all in our daily activities.

But when blended with football, mathematics could be an interesting subject for the fans. Here RedlyUnited is blending Mathematics with football, hey not the hard part of mathematics as we know not everybody is a mathematician, but we’re just testing our basic mathematical knowledge, while also having fun.

So here is it. Our values or numbers are gotten from Manchester United player jersey numbers. And we add, subtract, divide and multiply these values to get another number, which will be the jersey number of another United player and that player becomes our final answer.

Example: Solve the equation: De Gea plus Fellaini

Answer: De Gea wears Jersey number 1

Fellaini wears the jersey number 27

Therefore De Gea plus Fellaini is 1 plus 27 which equals to 28.

i.e 1+27 = 28

And the jersey number 28 is worn by Schneiderlin.

Therefore De Gea plus Fellaini equals Schneiderlin.

SIMPLE AND FUNNY!!!

Now here’s today’s class work

Depay multiplied by Martial minus Herrera

(Depay X Martial) – Herrera =

Answer coming later in the day

Valdes wife angry at Manchester United.

While it is a known secret that Victor Valdes have been finding life difficult at Manchester, the grief seems to have risen to another level.

The former Barcelona goalie, joined United with the hope of being a stable back up to fellow Spaniard De Gea, but has recently find himself completely frozen out of United.
The shot stopper has fallen out with Van Gaal, and a move out of Old Trafford looks imminent.

The goalkeeper was not invited to the United for UNICEF fund raising dinner, and his wife Yolanda couldn't hide her emotions as she took to Instagram to let know of her emotions.

"Not invite my husband Victor Valdes (for), the gala #united4unicef is the last thing expected of such a big club like Manchester United. An act benefico is always a benefit.
Screen shot of her post below.

United need one or two match winners to win the league says legend.

Former Manchester United defender Garry Neville believes that United need to sign one or two 'match winners' before the team can look like real title contenders.

The former right back says United is building a solid structure, but the team needs a player in the mould of Gareth Bale or C. Ronaldo.

“If you put two more players into Manchester United’s team, say a Gareth Bale or a Cristiano Ronaldo into that team, that team could win the league. Because the structure that is being built at this moment in time is solid.”

“But they need that match-winner, that Neymar, that Luis Suarez, the one that is going to light up a game and score one or two goals to take it away, then all of a sudden they would look like a Barcelona, because they’re dominating possession,
making teams look foolish.” He added.

Leicester 1- 1 Manchester United: Two things we learnt

Manchester United missed the chance to go top of the Premier League as the team had to come back to snatch a point, after a Jamie Vardy record setting goal. With both goals coming in the first half, United failed to spark up during the second half. On a day when almost nothing worked in favour of Van Gaal's boys,
Redlyunited looks at two talking points of the game.

1. The philosophy needs a change: Since the beginning of this season, Van Gaal and his tactics have come under a lot of criticism. From fans and ex-players. The match against Leicester once again showed clearly that it may be time for the Dutchman to adopt another pattern. With the team having lot of possession without intent, power and and direction. United are not creating the chances, players can't express themselves on the ball, a lot of tactical restrictions and rigidity. United seem to be too predictable. To think that the most successful period in the club's history was built on fast, quick counter attacking football, it looks like a nightmare washing United hold on to the ball, without killer passes, pace, and ideas.
Think it's time for Van Gaal to loosen up a bit.

2. United lacking real fighters on the pitch: Every title challenging team needs too important things on the pitch. Leaders and fighters. Currently United lacks that fighting spirit and inspiration on the pitch. Wayne Rooney that used to be the team's inspirational player seems have lost his enigma and zeal. United need to get that spirit back. Chelsea had Costa and the likes of Hazard doing that last season. Aguero, Yaya Toure and Silva are the main inspiration in the City side. United don't have a replica of those players currently. Players who will get angry with things and ginger others. Currently the whole team except De Gea seem comfortable once the team can salvage a draw.

Leicester 1 - 1 Manchester United: Player ratings

Manchester United had to come back from a record breaking Vardy's goal to earn a point at the King's Power stadium. On a day when only few of Van Gaal's men turned up. Redlyunited rates the performance of the boys in red.

De Gea:6.5
The one thing the United keeper will not want to happen, happened. Vardy putting the ball in the back of the net. Could have done better with the Vardy goal by delaying his rush out, and had another fantastic save with his leg midway the second half.

McNair: 5.5
First start in a while, good display from him, helped out the attack once a while.

Smalling:6.5
Primarily saddled with the responsibility of keeping Vardy silent, but was not in position to stop the goal, another good day in the office for the Englishman.

Blind:6
Good performance from the Dutchman, his delivery from the corner kicks were probably the best United have had all season.

Darmian:5.5
The Italian is not too used to playing at such an advanced position. Helped out in attack very well, but could have done better with the Leicester goal.

Carrick:4.5
He was a surprise inclusion in the starting eleven. He was a little unconvincing in the first half, but got better with the game.

Schweinsteiger: 5.5
The all important goal he scored says it all. He became the first German to score for United. Typical Schweinsteiger United performance.

Young:5
He started ahead of Memphis Depay, and put in a decent performance. Could have offered more going forward.

Mata: 5
Another silent performance from the Spaniard, had a goal bound shot deflected out for a corner. Tried as much as he could, but not just his day.

Rooney: 4
Another performance that will raise a lot of questions from the United captain. Playing in his favorite position, he failed to stamp his authority on the game and was substituted midway into the second half. He created no chance and had no shot on target.

Martial: 5.5
He was United liveliest player in the final third, but wasn't too effective. He may still need to improve on some aspects of his game.

Sub's:
Depay: 4
Had only a blocked half chance.

Confirmed: Manchester United team news Vs Leicester

STARTING XI
De Gea McNair, Smalling, Blind Darmian, Carrick, Schweinsteiger, Young Mata Rooney, Martial

Subs: Romero, Borthwick-Jackson, Fellaini, Memphis, Pereira, Schneiderlin, Rashford

History and stats ahead of Leicester Vs ManUtd

Manchester United have lost just one of their last 14 games in all competitions.

Manchester United have kept 6 clean sheets in their last 7 games.

Manchester United have kept 8 clean sheets in their last 11 games against Leicester City.

Jamie Vardy will be hoping to
break Ruud van Nistelrooy's record by netting for an 11th consecutive Premier League match.

Leicester are 1 of just 3 Premier League teams Wayne Rooney has played against but is yet to score against, others are Derby and Blackpool.

Out of the 20 teams in the Premier League, Manchester United are joint 17th for chances created this season, level with Aston Villa.

Manchester United have had (8) 0-0 draws during Louis Van Gaal's time as manager.

Manchester United have kept a clean sheet in 27 of Louis van Gaal’s 66 games as a manger of the club.

Only Leicester and Tottenham have lost fewer games than Manchester United in the Premier League this season.

Leicester are the only team in the Premier League history to come from two goals down to beat Manchester United in their 5-3 win last season.

Leicester have recovered more points from losing positions (10) than any other team in the Premier League this season.

Leicester have scored in 14 successive Premier League matches.

Leicester are the only side to find the back of the net in all 13 of their league encounters this season.

4-2-3-1: Mata starts, Lingard and Depay out: My Manchester United XI to face Leicester

Manchester United will travel to surprise team of the season and table toppers Leicester City. A victory will take United top of the table, while a draw or defeat may drop United off the second position.

On a week when Van Gaal's boys failed to turn up against PSV in the Champions League, fans will be hoping for a compensation performance at Leicester.

This week, redlyunited will be hard and frank.

David De Gea starts in goal, the Spaniard will be hoping to keep a clean sheet against an inform Vardy.
Darmain starts at right back, he had a good outing in the Champions League and I expect him to keep his place. Smalling and Blind will continue at the heart of the United defence, as Jones is still out. Rojo completes the back four.

Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin start in midfield, with Bastian coming under intense criticism from Paul Scholes, fans will be hoping for another controlling
midfield performance from the duo, especially in helping the defence to keep Vardy out of the game.

The attack is where United have been having issues.

Ashley Young seems to be a perfect replacement for underperforming Depay, I think it's time to give him a start on the left side of the attack. Rooney seem to be untouchable in the Van Gaal setup and would start in the hole behind the striker. Mata returns to the starting eleven, keeping Lingard out if the team.

Martial starts upfront, hoping to get the goals again.

That's my starting eleven, what's yours?

Leicester boss backs Martial to Improve

Van Gaal's opposite number in the next Premier League game Claudio Ranieri says Martial is strong and intelligent, and believes he will improve.

Martial was United's star at the start of the season with five goals and three assists in nine matches, this made him a crowd favorite at the theatre of dreams.

However the striker has struggled for goals in recent matches and have come under intense criticism form Paul Scholes.

However former Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri says Paul Scholes criticism of the player will improve him.

"It is right to make criticism -
and Scholes made the right criticism - but it will improve his mind".

"His character is very strong,
he is young, but strong. It is important that he is also intelligent and then he can improve."

Midfielder reveals he his a United fan, and want to join

Ghanaian midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has revealed that he is a Manchester United fan and will be willing to move to England and Manchester to be precise.

The 24 year old Udinese midfielder moved to Italy in 2010 and has established himself as a key member of the team.

He was recently linked with a move to Italian Champions Juventus.

But he has opened up on wanting a move to England for two reasons. First, his girlfriend lives in London, and secondly he is a United fan.

In an interview with ll Gazzettino he said : “The Premier League? I like England and I like English football. I am a fan of Manchester United, where I wish to play.”

It remains to be seen if a move to United will come to reality.

Manchester United 0 - 0 PSV: Five things we learnt

Manchester United have it all to do, after the team's boring draw which means the team must win at Wolfsburg to stand a perfect chance of qualifying for the next round of the Champions League. On a night of few positives at Old Trafford, Redlyunited bring out five talking points form the game:

1. Schneiderlin's new dimension:
The midfielder added visibility the long and diagonal to his game. It was a welcomed development, that helped united bring the ball faster to the front three and wings. The long balls is a dimension of football, united had lacked since the retirement of Paul Scholes. Michael Carrick brings it up at times, but seeing it again from the Frenchman was fantastic. Fans will be hoping he can constantly bring it into games.

2. A lot of pace in the side:
Fans have accused the current team of being too consecutive, and lacking speed in the final third. But against PSV, the trio of Martial, Depay and Lingard showed that United have got the pace upfront. Lingard and Martial caused a lot of problems in the first half. And that was impressive. Lingard and Martial threatened a lot swapping positions .Fans will hope the team loosen a little, and get back to the fast attacking football, as United have the players that can effectively do that.

3. Depay's worry continues:
After his impressive performance against Watford in the weekend, a lot were expecting a follow up performance from the Dutchman against his former team. But the reverse was the case as the winger failed to again play up to the billing and expectation. He lacked idea upfront and was too predictable. Not a kind of performance that will get him into the team again.

4. The philosophy once again raises questions:
Van Gaal's possession philosophy is one that has not gone down well with a lot of United fans. This match is one good example of why fans doubt the philosophy. The match was there for United to win, but the team lacked the speed and wickedness in tearing teams down. Traditionally Unites is a team based on fast wing play and quick translation, but Van Gaal seem to be too conservative, when the team can take some attacking risk. If United had been fast and precise on the night, Old Trafford would have been happier.

5. Qualification hanging on a balance:
Thee 0-0 draw means United must win at Wolfsburg to perfectly keep qualification hopes alive, while the stats have shown that the German team hardly loses at home. United have got a lot to do to make it to the next round. United fans are not used to qualifying like this, but are in a situation that will prove the true strength and viability of Van Gaal's philosophy. Possible but difficult

Manchester United 0 - 0 PSV: Post match players and Van Gaal's reaction

Manchester United staged a below par performance on a night when a win would gave guarantee the team's qualification into the last 16 of Europe elite club competition.

The team lacked the cutting edge, accuracy and luck on the night. Here are extract form the post match reactions from coach Van Gaal, and some players. The Dutchman still believes United can qualify.

"Anything's possible. We can win anywhere. We've proved that in the Premier League and we must do it in the Champions League." The Dutchman said.

On the poor result the manager said: "They (The players)are human beings. You never know. We are still
in a qualifying position I believe."

Despite missing one of the team's best goal scoring chance, Van Gaal was happy with Lingard: "I think Jesse Lingard played a very good game." He said on the youngster.

He was not happy with his midfielders who he believes lacks some confidence :"It was clear some of our players didn't have the confidence to demand the ball tonight."

I said during half time our
midfielders should be available for our defenders. I wasn't happy about that." He added.

Captain Wayne Rooney believes a draw was a good result.

According to him "It is a game we were capable of winning and we played some good stuff in the first half."

"In the second half we showed a lack of composure so that was not great. Overall a draw was probably fair."

Defender Smalling believes the team could have won the game, and is optimistic that United can get the job in Germany.

"We've made it hard for ourselves ahead of the last game but we'll go to Wolfsburg with hope."

"We had more than enough to win and make the difference in the final game." He added.

Manchester United 0 -0 PSV : Player ratings

Manchester United may have to qualify the hard way after the team was held to a goalless draw at Old Trafford.
The result dropped United to second in the group, and the team must win at Wolfsburg to guarantee a place in the last 16.
On a night the boys in red failed to live up to expectation, redlyunited rate the players

De Gea: 6.5 (Redlyunited man of the match)
The Spanish keeper was at his goal stopping best. He had a couple of decent saves and United could have conceded without him in goal.

Darmain: 5.5
Nice to see the Italian back in the team. he had a good game, solid defensively and helped in the attack putting in a number of decent crosses. Substituted with six minutes to go.

Smalling:6
The ever present defender was at his commanding best, and didn't have too much to deal with.

Blind: 5.5
He was part of a solid defensive unit and his over head long ball could have provided a goal for United midway the second half.

Rojo:6
Had a decent game and helped out massively on the attack.

Schneiderlin:6
The Frenchman was the anchorman in the middle. His long and diagonal passes is something United fans would want to see more.

Schweinsteiger: 4.5
Had a decent game, with one half chance wrongly ruled out for offside. Substituted midway into the second half.

Depay: 4
A lot expected from him, but he seem to lack the attacking instinct to beat his marker and influence the game.

Rooney: 5
The striker started in his favorite position, behind the striker, but couldn't stamp his authority on the game. Had to drop deeper due to changes late on.

Lingard: 5
could have won Unites the game, had some decent chances, but he couldn't convert. Little much more expected of him.

Martial: 5.5
The striker was lively in the first half, had a couple of half chances, but drifted out with time into the second half.

Subs.

Fellaini: 4
Came on for schweinsteiger, but couldn't affect the game. Conceded some unnecessary fouls

Young: 5
came on for Depay, put in some decent crosses with the final goalscoring touch lacking.

Mata: No rating
came on too late

Confirmed Manchester United eleven to face PSV

United vs PSV: De Gea; Darmian, Smalling, Blind, Rojo; Schweinsteiger, Schneiderlin; Lingard, Rooney, Memphis; Martial.

Subs: Romero, McNair, Young, Fellaini, Mata, Pereira, Wilson.

Attacking duo back in training ahead of PSV tie

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney and fellow striker Anthony Martial have both trained with the team as Old Trafford prepares to host Dutch champions PSV in the Champions League.

The duo missed the 2-1 win over Watford last weekend, and will be hoping to get into the team.

Surprise absentee at the training today was German midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger. The player maker scored the winning goal in the match.

Other expected absentees were Ander Herrera, Antonio Valencia, Phil Jones, Michael Carrick and Luke Shaw.

Another player who could be in line for a return is Belgian Maroune Fellaini. The big man has missed the last few games due to a calf problem. He was also back in training with the squad ahead of the game.

Wayne Rooney may soon receive a mouth watering offer from any club in China. Backed by recent massive financial investment, the Chinese Super League wants Wayne Rooney to improve the look of football in the Asian country and want to make him the face of Chinese football.

Chinese football has recently attracted some big names in the game, like former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson and players such as Brazilian Robinho, Tim Chaill and Demba ba.

With improved broadcasting standard, T.V rights and super deals the Chinese league hopes to attract some of the biggest names in world football.

Wayne Rooney is 30, and has been struggling for form and goals at United this season, and with his current contract expiring in 2019, Wayne's future is up there for speculations.

Manchester United youngster makes long awaited comeback

Quite a number of Manchester United fans would have forgotten the name and man Nick Powell.

The midfielder hasn't play for United since February, due to injuries and a lot feared that his bright footballing career might be over.

But the 21 year old played on Monday night for the U-21 team as they lost their first match of the season 2-0 at Norwich.

Warren Joyce, the U-21 team coach recently said the midfielder is looking good for his return to action on the field. "He's certainly put in the hours in the gym and on the training pitch, and is probably in the best condition physically he has ever been in his life." Said Joyce.

Unconfirmed reports had it that the midfielder was ready to quit United.

The midfielder lasted for 55 minutes on the pitch, before being substituted.

Great to see him back. Hope this would mark the beginning of his full return to first team football.

4-2-3-1: Martial and Rooney back. My Manchester United eleven to face PSV

Manchester United will be hoping to strength their chances of making the next round of the Champions League with an avenging victory over a PSV side that defeated them some weeks ago back in Holland.

The starting eleven for United still remains highly unpredictable due to injuries to various players. But United will be hoping to have the duo of Martial and captain Wayne Rooney back in the team.

De Gea undoubtedly starts in goal, with Blind coming in to replace injured Phil Jones at centre back. Ashley Young started ahead of Darmain in the 2-1 victory over Watford, I expect the Italian to start this game.

Schneiderlin and Schweinsteiger would continue in the middle of the park, given Michael Carrick's continuous absence.

Depay had a fantastic game against Watford, as he seems to be getting his confidence back, I expect him to continue in the team though this time on the left, with returning Wayne Rooney starting in the number 10 role, being the Striker, Lingard keeps Mata out of the team as he starts in the right, while Martial completes the eleven leading the lines.

That's my expected starting eleven, what's yours?

Impressive youngster to be offered new deal

Manchester United's revelation of the season Jesse Lingard and his agent are in discussions with the club over a new deal.

The new deal will see the player earn twice what he currently earns.
Lingard has had an impressive season so far, providing an important assist for Wayne Rooney in the Champions league against CSKA Moscow and followed it up by scoring the opening goal in the Premier League game against West Brom.

The 22 year old recently earned his first national call to the English team, and his form has been keeping Dutchman Depay out of the team.

His new deal is reportedly close to £50,000 as the player currently earns an incentive based £25,000-a-week. And things could be wrapped up by December.

Van Gaal considering signing another left back come January

Manchester united boss may sign a left back in January. Injury to first choice left back Luke Shaw is making Van Gaal considering making a move.

Shaw is expected to be out for a major part of the season after undergoing an operation for a broken leg in United's Champions League defeat at PSV.

His injury have left United with Argentine Marcos Rojo and Dalley Blind as United's choice for the position.

"I was convinced Luke would have a very good season and because of that I didn't buy a second player for left-back. Maybe we have to buy a left-back in January." Van Gaal said.

Do you think United need another left back?

Manchester United want Ronaldo back - Van Gaal

Manchester United gaffer Louis Van Gaal says he wants to bring back the Old Trafford legend, even though it may be difficult.

Ronaldo left United in 2009, for a then record fee of 80m, but reports of a move away from Madrid have intensified over the last few weeks. With reports linking the Portuguese star with a move to either PSG or United.

The Portuguese has though constantly said he is happy at Real, though anything is possible.

On transfers, Van Gaal said "We are looking at all players, not just Ronaldo, But these players are mostly ungettable."

"With Ronaldo, let's wait and hope." He added.

The three times world footballer of the year was part of the Madrid side that lost the El-Classico 0-4 to a Luis Suarez inspired Barcelona over the weekend.

Since leaving United, Ronaldo has scored over 323 goals to overtake Madrid legend Raul, as the club's all time goal scorer.

It remains to be seen if Ronaldo will make the United switch.

Do you think United need Ronaldo?

Manchester United duo could be back for PSV clash

The injury crises rocking United may not be far from over. Ander Herrera and Phil Jones were injury casualties in the 1-2 victory over Watford. Though both players may not be out for too long.

Van Gaal said on both payers "My first impression is that they are not too heavy but the problem is that we have to play Wednesday already. Jones had a twisted ankle and Herrera a hamstring injury.

Both players will likely miss the PSV game during the week. But two players that could be available for the PSV clash are strikers Wayne Rooney and Anthony Martial. Rooney missed the Watford tie due to illness and Martial, due to the injury sustained on international duty.

Van Gaal has said he hopes both players can be ready for the tie.

Rooney is ill, and that is a matter of days, not weeks. I expect that he shall play Wednesday, but you never know, I do not know the development of the illness. Today he is at home, we gave him a day off to heal the illness; tomorrow he comes
and I can say more."

"Martial is another problem, his foot, it is not as heavy as the media have written but we have to wait and see if he can play Wednesday."

United fans will be hoping both payers will be available for selection, as United won the Watford tie with no outright striker on the pitch.

Watford 1 - 2 Manchester United: post match players and manager reactions: I'm a happy coach, says Van Gaal plus more....

Manchester United produced a late winner at Watford to go top of the table, at least before Arsenal and Manchester City play their games. It was an all round collective Victory as Depay's opener in the 11th minute was cancelled out by a late penalty in the 86th minute, after Rojo fouled ighalo in the box, but United had smiled last when Deeney deflected Bastian's cross into his own net in added time here are the views of Manger Louis Van Gaal and his players after the game.

Schweinsteiger to Memphis after the game: "Great game, great haircut."

Schweinsteiger: "You always have to believe. This victory is very important for us."

Schweinsteiger on De Gea: "David De Gea is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. We are happy that he stayed here, He made a lot of good
saves and you need a good goalkeeper when you want to win something.”

Memphis Depay: "I'm happy I could have finished 90 mins. We started well with the early goal and the whole team gave
everything today."

Van Gaal: "I was amazed by the spirit in our team. I'm very proud that I am the manager
of the team.

"I am very happy for Basti. He needed a goal, he got it and our friend Memphis also scored a beautiful goal. I'm a happy coach. Before the Bastian goal Smalling
had a fantastic chance that was saved. We didn't play so good offensively. We created a lot of chances and could have finished the game much earlier."

"I think Rooney and also Martial will be back against PSV."

Van Gaal on Depay : "He was superb in the first half. The role is the best role for him, I knew he could do this."

Van Gaal on De Gea: Van Gaal: "Yes of course David de Gea was great but the keeper is there because he has to save goals for the team."

Van Gaal :"I put Rashford on the bench today who is a fantastic talent although Wilson has more experience. But he has a knee injury."

Watford 1- 2 Manchester United : Match Report

Manchester United leaped to the top of the table in the most dramatic fashion. With two goals in the last seven minutes of the game. A goal to each side in the dying minutes of the game was the main story of the game.

Manchester United had been hampered by injuries, to about six main players in the squad, there was no doubt that the line up was going to be a little strange, and shaky.
United started the game, better of the two sides exchanging passes and looking more lively.

It therefore only take 11 minutes for United to score the opening goal of the match. A beautiful well placed Herrera cross, to attacking Depay was all United needed to break the deadlock. The Dutchman getting his second goal in the Premier League.

United's ugly injury run continued when assist provider Ander Herrera got injured with a hamstring and replaced by Rojo.

United then changed to what looked like a 3-5-2 formation, with no actual striker on the pitch.

Minutes after the united goal, Ashley Young gifted the ball away, but Bastian backward run was brilliant to denied igahalo a clear chance. United then dominated things for the rest of the half, with no clear chance for either side.

Early into the second half Watford gained some momentum and played two corners in quick succession.

A great save from De Gea defined Troy Deeney on the 56th minute, while on the 59th minute Schneiderlin had to be at the right place at the right time to block Ighalo's goalbound effort.

United then had to do a lot of defending, and yet again Jones had to come off for McNair with an injury though he didn't look bad.

Chris Smalling had to make a crucial block before De Gea again pulled off a stunning save to preserve United's lead.

Watford had another chance on the 75th minute as Troy Deeney thumps a shot straight at De Gea.

United should have extended their lead on their 84th minute when a Dalley Blind ball over the top finds Lingard who tries to lob Gomes, with the Watford goalkeeper saving the effort.

Two minutes later United conceded a penalty after Rojo brought down Ighalo in the box.

Deeney converted the resulting spot-kick Pegging the game back to a draw.

But United were not through and on the 90th minute, they went so close as Chris Smalling flicks a corner towards goal and Gomes made a great save.

But the game was far from over as Bastian Schweinsteiger's cross-shot from a tight angle is turned in by Troy Deeney for United's winning goal. United doing it the Sir Alex way.

Confirmed: Manchester United starting eleven Vs Watford

Manchester United XI vs Watford: De Gea, Young, Smalling, Jones, Blind, Schweinsteiger, Schneiderlin, Mata, Herrera, Lingard, Memphis.

subs: Romero, Rojo, McNair, Darmian, Goss, Pereira, Rashford.

Van Gaal: Depay not affected by number 7 jersey

Van Gaal has revealed that he doesn't believes that the expectations on Depay of putting on the jersey number 7 is affecting him.

Depay was a PSV most influential forward last season, helping the Dutch team to the Eredivisie title as he ended the season as the league's top scorer.

Expectations were high when the flying winger moved to Old Trafford in a deal worth £25m.

On his arrival, he was given the jersey number 7, which is a symbolic at United. The number previously worn by United legends such as Ronaldo, Beckham, Cantona, and George Best.

Since his arrival, Depay has struggled with form and consistency. But Van Gaal believes this has nothing to do with the jersey number.

When asked about it, Van Gaal replied "I don't think. I do think the media is making that of it. But I am not superstitious and
he is certainly not superstitious.

Rooney and Martial out: Redemption time for Depay

Manchester United will be travelling to Watford in the Premier League without a senior striker. Skipper Rooney is out with illness while Martial and 'emergency forward' Maroune Fellaini will also miss the tie.

This is leaving Van Gaal with the options of either starting Wilson who can't play for 90 minutes upfront,(due to lack of match rhythm according to Van Gaal) or playing either of Depay, Mata or Herrera.

Without doubt, Depay seems the best choice of the three, due to his physique, technique, and speed. But on form, the Dutchman may not get the nod.

Since joining United, Depay has failed to live and play up to expectations. He has scored only one goal in the League, and has sat out the last four matches, with Lingard preferred ahead of him.

With the situation of things in the United attack, it looks very much likely that the Dutchman will play for United against Watford, and a good performance will get him back into the good books of Van Gaal and on the hearts of the Old Trafford faithfuls.

He no doubt has everything to be a starter and exert more influence in the United team, and a game against an opposition like Watford, with the regulars missing is a perfect time, opportunity and chance to show he is much more needed in the team.

Good Luck Memphis...

Confirmed: Rooney, Martial and others out of Watford clash. Summary of Van Gaal's press conference...

Manchester united boss Van Gaal has confirmed that skipper Wayne Rooney is I'll and will miss the Watford clash.

Van Gaal also added that Michael Carrick, Anthony Martial, Maroune Fellaini and Antonio Valencia are out
of the game at Vicarage Road due to injury.

The United manager hopes to have both Wayne Rooney and Martial back for the Champions League game against PSV.

Van Gaal says James Wilson is available but he cannot play for 90 minutes because he lacks 'match rhythm' .

More to come....

History, stats, facts and figures ahead of Watford Vs Manchester United

Watford have lost their last nine encounters with United in all competitions.

Watford have lost just twice in their last nine league matches at home, winning four and drawing three.

Manchester United have not conceded a goal in their last five matches, and in 555 minutes of football.

Manchester United have conceded in just three of their last eleven games in a competition.

United will be hoping to equal a record the team attained in 2005, when the team didn't concede a goal in six straight matches.

Manchester United have the best conversion rate in the Premier League this season, having scored 20% of their shots.

Watford seems to be struggling for the goals as they have have scored more than only three other Premier League teams this season.

Juan Mata has been involved in 30 Premier League goals for since he moved to United in January 2014, more than any other player at the club during that time.

Jesse Lingard is the first Manchester United player to score a league goal from outside the box in 2015.

Three main things fans want to know from Van Gaal press conference today

The international break has come and gone, Premier League action is back this weekend. Van Gaal will be hosting the media this today ahead of United's trip to Vicarage Road to face Premier League new boys Watford.

Every Manchester United press conference is highly anticipated, but this seems to be of more interest due to some occurrences during the international break.
Here's why

1. Is Martial fit to face Watford? If no for how long will he be out?
Since the Frenchman's substitution against England, no official statement has come out of Old Trafford. French coach played down the injury as nothing that should keep him out for so long, while his wife also posted on Instagram, something fans hope will be true, that the striker is not I injured. But today fans will get an official answer to those questions.

If he's not ready to face Watford, fans will want to know when the star boy will be back.

2. When is Carrick coming back? Carrick was another injured united player during the break. And like Martial, no official statement has come out of Old Trafford.

Unconfirmed reports says the midfielder would be back by December, fans will be waiting for Van Gaal to shed more light on when the midfielder would be back. He is sure expected to be out for a while.

3. Hope no new injury casualty: After international breaks like this, players return to their clubs with slight injuries and knocks. Though non has been suspected yet in the United camp, fans would be expecting a clean bill of health from all other players. No illness, no knocks.

Valdes set for United exit

Manchester United Spanish goalkeeper Victor Valdes is edging towards a move away from Old Trafford.

The former Barcelona keeper was a surprise signing to some United fans, but has fallen out with manager Van Gaal.

Both men had a nice working relationship at Barcelona, but the story took the opposite directon, when the two met again at United.

Van Gaal relegated the Spaniard to the junior team, and recently unconfirmed report has it that Van Gaal has banned Valdes from training at all or meeting first team players at the Carrington training ground.

But according to Goal.com the Spaniard may be returning to Spain with former city rivals Espanyol in January.

According to the report, he has held advance talk with the Spanish club and a January move is likely.

4-2-3-1 Martial out, Herrera starts: My Manchester United eleven to face Watford

United will be hoping to continue from where they stopped before the international break, but this time with more goals, when the team travel to Watford.

Injuries to players during the break will affect the team a little.

De Gea undoubtedly starts in goal.

Darmain should start at right back ahead of Ashley Young. Though the Italian has been far from convincing in his last few games, a good performance against Watford wouldn't be asking for too much.

Jones and Smalling should continue their partnership at the heart if the defence, though there are still questions as to the availability of Smalling, after the defender sat out England's game against France due to a knock. United fans will be hoping he is certified fit and okay. Rojo completes the back four.

Schneiderlin and schweinsteiger would be starting in the middle of the pack as Michael Carrick would most likely miss the game, due to the injury sustained on national duty.

Mata starts on the right, while fellow Spaniard Herrera starts behind the striker in the number 10 role. The competition for the left wing is between Depay and Lingard. Lingard gets the nod ahead of the Dutchman based on his current form and high confidence level.

Wayne Rooney leads the line in the expected absence of Anthony Martial.

That's my starting eleven, what's yours?

Yesterday, news of Arjen Robben move to Manchester United saturated the Internet. Unconfirmed reports has it that the Dutchman has agreed to join United in January, following a fall out with fellow Bayern team mate Lewandoski.

A move to United is a possibility based on two to three reasons.

Firstly, Robben is not strange to United manager Van Gaal. He is one of Van Gaal favorite, most trusted, important and potent players when Van Gaal managed the Dutch team. Secondly United currently lack firepower on the flanks, and Van Gaal has come out to say he needs speed and creativity on the wings, and without a second thought, Robben fills into the caliber of players that can bring the needed spark on the wings for united.

But here's the begging question: is Robben the solution to United's problems?

Robben is a player whose quality can never be questioned, but signing him to United is a move United may not need at this time, considering certain factors.

1. His age: At 31, Robben's best footballing days are arguably behind him. Hence signing him reveals United's short sightedness. With quite a number of key players in the United squad over and around thirty, bringing another thirty year old may not be the best.

Players like Wayne Rooney, Michael Carrick, Bastian, are over thirty. Therefore signing a player, whose replacement will be needed in the next two or three season may not be the best of decisions.

Van Gaal has already laid down a good template for the United future, with players like Martial, Lingard, Depay, Perreria, De Gea and Schneiderlin key to the perfect United future. Van Gaal has spent a lot in two seasons at United, hence any signing now should be one with the future in view, so in the next two or three seasons, the team will be stable needing less reinforcements.

2. His Injury issues: while you can never doubt his quality and consistency, same cannot be said about his availability due to injuries. Robben is injury prone. That was one of the main reasons he has had to move from one club to another.

At his age, injuries don't heal very fast, and that is not good for a Player United may be relying very much on. He is one of the few players in football that have the 'glass leg'.

3. Tactical imbalance: the arrival of Robben to the United, means one if the present united attackers would have his playing time reduced. The main target here are Mata, Lingard, Depay and Herrera.

These are players that have been doing a decent job for United up to date, with the exception of Depay. While non of the good performers are not outright wingers, Lingerd and Depay both with time would develop into classy wingers. Robben's arrival maybe harmful to the development of players like Lingard, and Depay.

Do you think United need Robben?

Belgian manager urges Fellaini to find new challenge outside Old Trafford

Maroune Fellaini has found himself on the fringe of first team duties this season, as he began the season with suspension after his late sending off last season.

Since returning from the suspension, the midfielder has been unable to establish himself in the team.

At the start of the season, Van Gaal had proposed that the big Belgian will be deployed as a striker, but with the arrival of Martial, Fellaini has turned into fulcrum of Van Gaal's plan B, especially when the team is losing or is in dire need of goals.

He has not also been helped by the arrival of Bastian Schweinsteiger.

This has made Belgian national team coach Wilmots suggest a move away from Old Trafford.

With the European nations cup coming up next year, the Belgian manager is concerned.

"A player who does not play for his club is annoying for a (national) coach."

"Fellaini could play to support the attack, as the No.6. He has very good technique, very good ability to track back and recover."

"Maybe he will try to find a new challenge in January, if it is possible." He told Le Soir.

But with Michael Carrick and Anthony Martial's recent injury and the hetic December schedule approaching, the Belgian may get some games under his belt, and go in to impress manager Van Gaal.

Do you think Manchester United should consider selling Fellaini?