Manchester United will travel to Shrewsbury in the fifth round of the F.A cup.
The peak of the tie sees Manchester City facing Chelsea at Stanford Bridge.
Here's a full breakdown of the draw:
Chelsea v Manchester City
Reading v West Brom
or Peterborough
Watford v Leeds United
Shrewsbury Town v Manchester United
Blackburn v Liverpool or West Ham
Tottenham v Crystal Palace
Arsenal v Hull
Bournemouth v Everton.
Tie to be played between 19 and 22 February.
Welcome, the F.A fifth round draw is about to start, and Redlyunited brings you the pairing as the are confirmed....
Stay connected ....
Chelsea v Manchester City
Manchester United have had an improved start to the year compared to how it ended last year. United have lost only one match this month, and several players in the United team have put in commendable performances.
Manutd.com the official United website has nominated three players for the January Manchester United player of the month.
Wayne Rooney
Skipper Wayne Rooney has enjoyed a fantastic start to the year. Six goals in his last six appearances says it all. He scored in all but one United's fixtures in January.
Anthony Martial
The young striker won the award last month, and is in contention to win it again. His brilliant performance against Derby is still fresh in our memories. He also assisted Wayne Rooney winning goal against Swansea.
Cameron Borthwick-Jackson
The 18 year old has effortlessly fit into the team without any trace of notice. Since coming on for Ashley Young in victory over Liverpool, he has started the next three games and has put in convincing performances. His positioning, calmness and composure are applaudable.
Click here to cast your vote
Who impressed you the most of the three?
The Arsenal legend believes fellow countryman Laurent Blanc would definitely be tempted to take up the managerial post at United if the opportunity presents itself.
The PSG manager has been linked with United, and remains a visible and viable option. He has guided both Bordeaux and PSG to league titles in France, and is a former United player.
Henry wrote in the Sun:
"Blanc has done an amazing job at Paris Saint- Germain and has plenty of Old Trafford connections after spending the final years of his playing career there, although I’m not sure PSG would let him go.
''But Manchester United are still a bigger club than PSG and I can see why Laurent would be tempted if he gets the chance to become the new Ferguson.
"He has paid his dues at PSG and he is ready to step up to the challenge of coaching one of the world’s biggest clubs.
German midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger could be out for the entire month of February according to reports from IBT Times.
The German suffered a knee injury during the 1-0 win over Sheffield United in the F.A Cup early January.
Manager Van Gaal refused to provide an exact date of return for the midfielder and reports in Germany claims the injury is more than first thought.
The midfielder will miss key games including matches against Stoke, Arsenal, Chelsea and both legs of the Europa League tie against FC Midtjylland.
Michael Carrick is back and may slot in for Schweinsteiger, but that still means Maroune Fellaini will most likely enjoy more playing time.
His injury will reduce the probability of Fellaini leaving this January as reports of a move to Italy is gaining grounds.
Wife of the about to leave Bayern Munich manager is reported to have visited a school in Manchester, accompanied by City’s director of football Txiki Begiristain. According to Daily Star.
The school is believed to have close ties with the club and may end up being the new school for Guardiola's kids.
A good number of City's academy players are students of the school.
The former Barcelona coach has publicly confirmed that his next job would be in England, but no official statement have been released by any club or the Spaniard himself.
Both Manchester clubs and Chelsea are believed to be interested in him, but from reports and the look of things, he looks closer to City than any if the other two interested clubs.
The Manchester United skipper has come out to the defence of Van Gaal, admitting that the United players also must share part of the blame and criticism for the team's awful season so far.
United are currently fifth on the table, and risk missing out of the Champions League next season.
But Rooney believes it unfair to blame Van Gaal alone for United's current form. He said (Via Mail)
"It’s unfair to say it’s the manager, We’re on the pitch, so the players have to take a lot of responsibility for performances and results.
"We have to stand up and take criticism when it’s there. We want to win, of course — we always want to win — and we’re trying. Even when you’re giving 100 per cent, it doesn’t always come off."
The 3-1 F.A Cup victory over Derby is believed to have bought manager Van Gaal some extra time at United, and now the team must must improve their performance in the league to give qualifying for the Champions League a fight.
Michael Carrick may be on the verge of leaving United. The midfielder's current contract expires in the summer and United are yet to open talks about a new deal with the England international.
As it stands now, the player is free to negotiate a pre contract with other clubs. As his official contract with United expires in five months time. This will alert a lot of Premier League clubs.
The 34 year old joined United from Tottenham ten (10) seasons ago, and has established himself as one of the most respected figures currently at Old Trafford.
It is left to see how Van Gaal and the board handles the issue. But letting an experience player like Carrick leave will wouldn't be too good. The player will also most likely attract interest from the MLS in America.
A popular Manchester United fan Fred Done, according to Mirror has said he would not watch Manchester United play at Old Trafford again until Van Gaal is sacked.
United's home form this season has been less than convincing. The team is yet to score a first half goal in eleven (11) home matches.
The staunch United fan owns the betting site Betfred, and has placed significant bets on Manchester United winning the Premier League title in 1998 and 2012 but lost on both occasions.
He wrote:
"Regular readers might know I do have a soft spot for Manchester United... well not any more!
"I'm so fed up with the tedious football that is being served up by Louis van Gaal I won't be going back to Old Trafford until there has been
a change.
"For 65 years, from Duncan Edwards to George Best, Bobby Charlton and Paul Scholes, I have been a Red but I just can't stand the Theatre of Dreams, or more accurately 'recurring nightmare', any more."
The Manchester United manager has once again stated his desire to see out his contract with the club.
Van Gaal joined United in 2014, after the World Cup, and signed a three year deal.
This season, the Dutchman has faced intense criticism, based in his selections, pattern of play and a lot of things. He has been 'media sacked' more than once, but yet the United boss affirmed his commitment to the club and his contract.
Speaking ahead of the F.A Cup match with Derby, he said, (Via ESPN):
"I have signed a three-year contract and I have said in all my press conferences that it's a process, not one game.
"And I want to continue until the end. If I am not willing to do that, I don't think I would have started here one-and-a-half years ago."
There have been calls from the fans, media and pundits to sack Van Gaal but the United board have refused, standing by the Dutchman so far.
It remains to be seen what will happen in the summer. When fan favorites like Pep Guardiola and José Mourinho are readily available.
Manchester United are close to agreeing a loan deal with Hull city for Nick Powell.
Hull City boss Steve Bruce has declared his interest in the 21 year old.
And with the player not coming close to playing for the first team, a loan deal would be beneficial to all parties.
The Hull manager said (via Daily Star)
"He's somebody who interests us.
"I've liked Nick ever since I saw him playing for Crewe. Whether it's something we can get over the line is still debatable, but we're trying.
"We'll see if we can do that."
Steve's connection with United as a former player could also help facilitate the deal.
Paul Clement believes the quality of players Manchester United paraded in its attack was all that made the difference in his side 3-1 loss in the F.A Cup.
George Thorne had equalized midway through the first to cancel out Wayne's early goal. Only for United to score two more goals in the second half.
He told the BBC
"You're always worried about those quality players, like Mata and Martial, off the back of our midfield.
"They were clinical, their movement and finishing was the difference.
"I thought we gave them a good game, it wasn't an easy game for them. We had some good passing spells and our goal was an excellent goal, a good finish from our holding midfielder - although I don't know what he was doing up there."
The victory sent United into the last 16 of the competition.
Manchester United may be getting ready for another battle to keep goalkeeper David De Gea, as the transfer ban formerly imposed on Both Madrid(Real and Atletico) clubs have been suspended.
Both teams were formally banned from registering new signings for the next two transfer window, but the ban has been lifted pending some legal proceedings.
Spanish paper AS, is reporting that the capital club want to reignite their pursuit of the 23 year old.
A lot of United fans were happy with the ban, which signalled a temporary end to the saga, but with the ban suspended, Madrid based paper AS is reporting that club president Florentino Perez wants to make De Gea his first signing in the summer.
Photo Source: 101greatgoals.com
Tottenham Hotspur are preparing a new and improved contract for manager Mauricio Pochettino to prevent him from leaving the club according to The Mirror.
The Argentine has improved the London club since joining in 2014, and with the club currently fourth on the table, there are hopes that Tottenham could qualify for the Champions League next season.
Spurs are remarkably ahead of Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United on the table. And the Argentine name has been linked with both Manchester United and Chelsea who could be changing their managers in the summer.
Tottenham chairman Dany Levy is keen on rewarding his manager, and a new deal seems to be in the pipeline.
Pochettino has been praised for his exceptional work ethics, and has final say on transfers at Spurs.
He has been linked with Van Gaal's job at United and will most likely be a target, should the Dutchman be sacked or leaves.
Both players were on the scorers sheet in the 3-1 win over the Rams, but it was Martial that stole the show despite not scoring.
The Frenchman provided two assists , and was a terror to the Derby defence all through the game.
Speaking to MUTV after the game, both players acknowledged the talent and character of the young striker.
Mata described him as an unbelievable player:
"I’ve been really impressed with him. He’s a very good player. He has a lot of good things and can beat almost anyone one-on-one. He can do great crosses like we saw when he passed back to me for the goal(referring to the assist for the third goal) and I really enjoy playing alongside him.
"He has incredible potential..... and for me he is an unbelievable player."
Daley Blind thinks defender won't always want to have the Frenchman as an opposition.
“I think as a defender you are not happy if you have to play against him at the moment.
"He is so quick and he makes good decisions. He can go left or right, and that is difficult for every defender. He gets into great positions and I have said before that he is going to be a great striker."
It was the first time that Martial would be providing two assist in a Manchester United match.
The Frenchman was also voted by United fans as the man of the match, beating defenders Varela and Borthwick-Jackson to the award.
The Frenchman has been a revelation since making the switch to United. He's won a number of awards in his short spell at United including the 2105 golden boy award.
He was undoubtedly United's man of the match in the victory over Derby, and according to Opta:
That was the first time Martial has provided two assist in a single game for United.
His first was for Wayne Rooney's goal, the first goal of the game, and his second of the night was for United's third goal, a wonderful run from the left to assist Juan Mata.
Do you know that with the away victory over Derby, Manchester United have just won back-to- back away games in all competitions for the first time since August.
Manchester United produced an effective performance to knock out the Rams out of the F.A Cup. It was a victory that will ease the pressure on manager Van Gaal. Wayne Rooney, Daley Blind and Juan Mata were all in the score sheet. Here are five talking points from the game:
1. United's wingbacks were superb:
Injuries have been unkind to United, especially at the wingback position.
Ashley Young, Marcos Rojo, Antonio Valencia and Luke Shaw all out. But against Derby, Varela and Borthwick-Jackson were fantastic and efficient.
They played maturely so well. With such performance, Van Gaal may not need to buy another wingback this January.
2. Rooney maybe back to his best.
In football, the stats don't lie. The United skipper has scored 6 goals in his last 6 Manchester United appearances, and again scored in three (3) away games in January 2016 same as he did throughout 2015. It's been an effective 2016 from Rooney so far, and it may be fair to say he is back.
3. United's future was on parade.
It looked like a night for the youngsters. Varela, Borthwick-Jackson and Martial were all top notch in the game.
And considering that Lingard was also in the game, though not as effective as the aforementioned, the future looks bright for United.
The first three were the best players for United on the night. All they need is the believe and playing time.
4. Derby didn't turn up:
While its nice to praise the United team, its will also be objective to say Derby were not a stiff opposition for United.
United fans must not be carried away by the victory. And wait till United meet Premier League oppositions before concluding the team is back.
5. Van Gaal keeps his job once again:
There have been wide spread news and believe that the Derby match could be Van Gaal's last if he lost.
He's been in such position a number of times this season, and in all he's come out with more time. The Derby victory was one the Dutchman needed badly, and he got it the perfect way. He would most likely remain United's coach till the end of the season.
David De Gea:6.5
Had nothing much to do as his back four provided the shield needed.
Guillermo Varela: 7.5
One of the best United players in the pitch. Very effective defensively and offered a lot on the attack. Made a lot of last minute clearance and blocks.
Chis Smalling: 6.5
Normal but effective performance from him.
Daley Blind: 7
Brilliant all round, his passes, positioning were top notch, plus his goal. Showed great attacking desire and movement.
Borthwick-Jackson: 7.5
Yet again, another fantastic performance from the youngster. Combined well With Martial upfront, carried out his defensive duties nearly.
Maroune Fellaini: 6.5
Silent, but a little improved showing. Was effective defensively, made his physical presence count.
Morgan Schneiderlin: 6.5
Combined well with Fellaini to shield the back four.
Juan Mata: 7
Not too visible in the first half, but grew into the game, became more dangerous and got the third goal.
Jesse Lingard: 6.5
Currently lacking the cutting edge in his game, but provided the assist for Blind's goal.
Anthony Martial 8.5
Undoubtedly United best player on the pitch. Terrific performance, terrified the Derby defence all through, his runs and dribbles. Had two assist to his credit.
Wayne Rooney: 6.5
Six goals in his last six, scored the first goal of the night. An absolute beauty to watch. Good all round performance from the United skipper.
Substitutes
Michael Carrick: 6
Great to see him back. His vision to spot Martial for the third goal was top notch. United have missed that in him.
Ander Herrera: 6
Came in and couldn't do much.
Manchester United became the first team to qualify for the fifth round of the F.A Cup, by defeating the Rams.
A Wayne Rooney early goal set the tune for the night, but Derby equalized midway through the first half.
Dalley Blind and Juan Mata hit the second and third goal for United.
Mata believed United were quicker and better against a physical opponent.
"It was really important, they are a good team and physically strong, we played much quicker and it was better.
"We have to focus on each round of the FA Cup, we a are through for tonight and it was a good game."
Blind analysing his goal said:
"I passed the ball and I just thought I'm close and moved forward. I moved in and it was a great ball by Jesse.
Manchester United XI vs Derby: De Gea, Varela, Smalling, Blind, Borthwick-Jackson, Fellaini, Schneiderlin, Mata, Lingard, Martial, Rooney.
Subs
Romero, McNair, Carrick,
Herrera, Januzaj, Pereira, Memphis
The agent of Manchester United's defender Guillermo Varela will be flying into England to help smoothen his loan move to Genoa, according to IBT times.
There have been reports that Van Gaal blocked the move on the basis that United are currently short of wingbacks.
Varela's agent had been previously spotted with Genoa's president and their discussion was most likely going to be about a move for the young defender.
Reports of a six months loan move has been circulating but the probability of Van Gaal sanctioning the move remains low.
Injuries to Marcos Rojo, Luke Shaw, Antonio Valencia, Ashley Young and Phil Jones means United currently have only few defenders available and sending the Italian out on loan looks difficult.
It is believed that his agent wants to convince Van Gaal that a loan move would be beneficial for his client's development.
Derby defender Stephen Warnock believes his side will not be under pressure when they take on United in the F.A Cup fourth round.
The defender grew up supporting United's arch rivals Liverpool, but still has sympathy for United's current problems. He said (Via Express)
"I grew up a Liverpool fan and you look at it now and think it's one of those situations you'd love to have seen as a kid. But now when you see it, you understand and realise how hard it is to get out of that situation and how they must be feeling.
"I don't get any pleasure out of their current situation - not at all."
Speaking about the game, the former Aston Villa player said:
"We're the underdogs going into the game and no one expects us to win. All the pressure is on United to get a result."
United are widely expected to qualify for the round of 16 of the F.A Cup, and a defeat could be the end of Van Gaal's era as United manager.
The Dutchman has admitted that the confidence and patience bestowed on him by United board, led by Ed. Woodward is generating a lot of pressure for him.
Despite the sack rants from the United fans, media and pundits, the United board have stood firmly behind Van Gaal, as they appear extremely reluctant in sacking him.
But the experienced Dutchman knows such confidence could be dangerous.
Speaking on the support he has been receiving from the board, he said:(Via ITV)
"It is fantastic, of course, but also that gives you a lot of pressure because when the board has such confidence in you, the pressure is much higher than when they say it's your last game or something like that.
"Then the confidence is not so high and you can fight against it - and when you can fight, you have bigger motivation than when they support you.
This means Van Gaal knows that if results don't improve at Old Trafford, he would be powerless to resist being sacked.
The United manager has slammed the media for spreading false rumours about his sack, but has also admitted that losing against derby or any close game now could make his sack rumors come to pass.
Speaking to the media ahead of the F.A cup match with Derby, he said:
"Now I cannot lose anymore
because then for the fourth time I have been sacked. Then it might be the truth."
Manchester United are interested in signing Nigerian and CSKA winger Ahmed Musa, according to Express.
The player has already attracted interest from number of English clubs including Leicester City.
CSKA Moscow are reported to have rejected a bid of £15.1m from Claudio Ranieri's side.
The Russian club may consider any offer in the region of £19m for the winger.
United have lacked firepower on the wing, and the Nigerian will come in handy for United. He is also a multi-positional player, which could be an added advantage. He can play on either wing, and can also play centrally as a striker. He has scored 10 goals this season for CSKA and at 23, he will be a purchase for the future.
Paul Merson has given his thoughts and final predictions for the F.A Cup ties coming up this weekend.
The Skysports pundit believes Manchester United don't blow teams apart, and this is the best time for Derby to face United. He doesn't see United losing the game, neither does he see them winning.
His final prediction is a 1-1 draw, which will cause a reply at Old Trafford.
What are your thoughts and final prediction for the game?
The Dutchman has shown his utmost displeasure at the way the media has handled his trying times as United manager.
There were media report that he had offered to resign from his post as the Old Trafford gaffer after Southampton defeated United over the weekend, while another report of José Mourinho submitting a six page letter showing interest for his yet to be declared vacant post also surfaced online.
Also on several occasions, reports of his sack has filled the media, and the Dutchman once walked out early into one of his press conference during the heat of his sack rumors.
Speaking about his sack and resignation rumors ahead of United's F.A Cup tie with Derby, he said: (Via Skysports):
"I think I don’t have mentioned that ever. You make your own stories. Then I have to answer. I am not doing that. It is awful and horrible but you can write.
"It is the third time I am sacked and I am still sitting here.(attending press conferences) I am obliged to do that. A lot of people ask in a disrespectful way. I have always faith.
"When you make your stories and the people are believing that, I am very concerned people are believing what you are writing.
"I received a lot of calls and SMSs but okay, it is this world where you can write what you want and you don't have to fear if I [say] anything.
Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick could feature for United in their F.A cup fourth round, away to Derby County.
His last appearance for United was as a substitute in the match against Swansea on January 9.
Van Gaal speaking to the media ahead of the clash confirmed that the 34 year old is coming back.
Same cannot be said of defender Matteo Darmian, as the Dutchman confirmed he will miss the tie.
“It’s more or less the same. Darmian is now out and maybe Michael Carrick shall come in but of course he’s not able to play 90 minutes.
But it’s very good he is coming back. With Darmian, it is very positive actually. It’s not too severe but he’s not able to play against Derby.” Van Gaal said.
Van Gaal however failed to give specific answers to whether Schweinsteiger and Phil Jones could make the match.
Manchester United youngster Ashley Fletcher has extended his loan deal at Barnsley till the end of the season.
A statement from Manchester United official twitter handle read thus:
Ashley Fletcher's loan deal with Barnsley has been extended until the end of the season. #mufc
pic.twitter.com/1GBg9vHSN1
4:32 AM - 28 Jan 2016
— Manchester United (@ManUtd)
The Manchester United midfielder is looking forward to a special F.A cup away tie with Derby County.
The match could serve as a redemption game for United, after the team's lackluster loss to Southampton over the weekend, that further increased sack tension on Van Gaal.
United currently lie fifth on the table, five points behind fourth place Tottenham.
The F.A Cup remains United's only viable avenue for winning a silverware, and the Spanish midfielder eagerly anticipating the tie. Speaking to MUTV, he said:
“FA Cup away games are always special, I don’t know why but they are. It’s a competition our fans love and we love it also.
“We play Derby who are near the top of the Championship and that means they will be very tough at home. I have watched some Championship games and they are very tough games. They are a good, strong team and it’s a big day for them playing Man United.
“I have very good memories of last season and the away games we played in the Cup. Our fans were fantastic in the away games and I could score in two games, so I’m looking forward to this next game.”
United waited for a late Wayne Rooney penalty to knock out Sheffield United in the third round and will be hoping for a easier passage into the next round.
Derby manager Paul Clement has been speaking to the media ahead of their F.A Cup fourth round tie with United.
Manchester United travel to West Midlands the face the Rams.
Speaking about his love and knowledge of the United players, the young manager described Maroune Fellaini as 'inconsistent but dangerous'.
‘I like Mata - I think he's a great player, I knew about Herrera from my time in Spain. The young ones, Martial and Depay, are doing it some days but not others.
"Fellaini's a bit inconsistent but dangerous."
This wouldn't come as a surprise to a lot if United fans, as the Belgian seems to be underperforming and many have called for his omission from the team a number of times.
Manchester United will be hoping to get back to winning ways, when the team face Derby County in the F.A cup.
The weekend defeat by Southampton over the weekend means Van Gaal must field a relatively strong side.
De Gea starts in goal.
Darmian was injured in the game against Southampton, though the defender has said he's fine, I expect Van Gaal to rest him. McNair starts in his place at right back. The remaining back three remains the same, in Smalling, Blind and Borthwick-Jackson starting.
Schneiderlin starts in the midfield. The fitness of Carrick and Schweinsteiger has not be ascertained, so Herrera partners the Frenchman in the middle of the park.
Januzaj has had two good outings with the U-21 side, so he starts in the right, Depay has not started a game in a while, and gets my yes for this. Pereira has also been starved of games and should start behind Martial who starts in the central striking role.
The former United manager was among the crowd at the Etihad stadium watching as Manchester City knocked out Everton to qualify for the final of the Capital One Cup.
The Scott is known to be a staunch opposition to City during his managerial days and labelled them 'noisy neighbours'.
Fans have taken to various social media platforms to analyse his presence at the Etihad.
He watched from the directors box as City qualified for their second Capital One cup final in three years.
Images via BBC 5 Live sport twitter handle.
And
Skysports football twitter handle
The former Portsmouth manager thinks Sir Alex Ferguson wouldn't do more than what Van Gaal is doing currently with the present United squad.
United are 5th in the table, and risk not qualifying for next season's Champions League. The team have failed to score any first half goal at in its past eleven games at Old Trafford and have only scored 28 goals this season. All these have led to calls to sack manager Van Gaal.
However Redknapp believes, Fergie would have made no difference managing the team. He tweeted:
"More talk today but still don’t see LVG leaving. Even if Sir Alex was there they would still only be 5th or 6th with that group of players".
@ Redknapp
1:41 AM - 26 Jan 2016
Van Gaal has spent close to £250m in his two seasons at United, and has let high profile names like Di Maria, Van Persie, Javier Hernandez and others leave United.
A lot of fans and pundits will disagree with Harry on this.
As a Manchester United fan, taking a look at the Premier League table after week 23 round of matches will spur you into some calculations.
Firstly, seeing Leicester City on top is a little surprise, but the results don't lie. At this point of the season, they are top because they deserve to be.
Scanning the table downwards, United disappointingly sit in fifth position, then the calculations begin. Calculations like can United still win the title?, what's the probability of making the top four?.... And so on..
Redlyunited analyses the chances of where United can finish the season.
1. WINNING THE TITLE
Mathematically only ten (10) points separate table topper Leicester and United, and in between lies major title contenders in Arsenal and Manchester City. Judging by the figures, a battle ready United side can catch up with 10 points.
But based on the reality of form, consistency and performance, United are miles behind the teams above them, especially City, Arsenal and Leicester.
The confidence level in the United camp must be dead low now, and that's what you need when the season is approaching the crescendo like this. The current United side lacks the fear factor, and never say die spirit of a title contender.
Except the team experience a drastic change in form, confidence and mentally, a push for the title is almost impossible.
United wining the title?
ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE, BUT NEVER IMPOSSIBLE.
PROBABILITY: 0-10%
2. A TOP FOUR POSITION:
Five points currently separate United from Tottenham in fourth place, and seven points from Arsenal in third place.
United finishing outside the top four would be a disaster, but that what's in the mirror currently.
This is United's most realistic goal for the reminder of the season. But for that to happen, United must be consistent enough to displace one of the team above it currently.
With due respect Tottenham, being the closest to United means they are the most liable to be displaced, but that's if United can be strong enough.
On a long run, Leicester City also looks vulnerable, but that doesn't look like happening soon. They may drop gradually for United to displace them, but again, that's if United improve.
United making the top four?
VERY POSSIBLE, BUT REQUIRES CONSISTENCY AND RAPID IMPROVEMENT.
PROBABLY: 40-55%
3. MAKING AN EUROPA LEAGUE SPOT:
Currently, United lie within this range, and even at that, hard work is required to maintain that position.( To the dismay of United fans).
Southampton in eight position are four points behind United, while arch rivals Liverpool are three points behind in seventh position. Hence the need for consistency.
Officially only the fifth place team automatically qualifies for the Europa league, but if any team that has already qualified for Europe wins the F.A or Capital One Cup, the next best places team takes its spot.
United qualifying for Europa League?
VERY POSSIBLE, AND LOOK MOST LIKELY BASED ON CURRENT FORM.
PROBABLY: 60-70%
4. FINISHING OUTSIDE THE TOP SIX OR SEVEN
With the current form of the team, the inconsistencies and dropping of points, United can also finish outside the top six or seven, which will make it difficult for the team to make the Europa league.
This happening will spell disaster for Van Gaal and the board.
United finishing outside the top Seven?
VERY POSSIBLE BUT DISASTROUS.
PROBABLY: 30-75.
FINAL FORECAST:
United will make Europe, but the competition depends on how fast the team improves.
Manchester United travel to East Midlands to face Derby County in the F.A cup fourth round. The competition is the only viable source of silverware for United this season, and the United captain is anticipating a tough Friday night for Van Gaal's men.
"Derby have nothing to lose. No-one is expecting them to win and they will try to cause an upset. We know that and have to be ready for that.
"It will be a difficult night for us, Sheffield United at home was a tough game, so we have to be ready to battle and win the battle. Hopefully then our qualities will show through."
Manchester United required a 90th minute penalty to knock out Sheffield United in the third round, and will be hoping for a much improved performance, after the team's woeful defeat by Southampton over the weekend.
Rooney was speaking to MUTV.
The Manchester United loanee wants give his all to his new team while helping them get back to the top three in the Belgian league.
The former Barcelona shot stopper joined United for free, but has endured a torrid time at United after his fall out with manager Van Gaal. He has joined Standard Liege on loan till the end of the season, and the goalkeeper has been speaking to the media via the club's website.
"I want to give everything physically, tactically and technically.
"I'm here to help my team and my teammates with a common goal : first of all to get back into the top six to play in the playoffs and to win the cup.
"I know that Standard are an historic club in Belgium, So it's important Standard are as high as possible in the standings and get back into the top three in the Belgian league."
Liege are currently seventh on the table in the Belgian league
Good morning Ed.
How are you doing today?
I'm writing to you as a concerned Manchester United fan, and the voice in this letter represent the voice of Millions of United fans scattered all over the world.
When Sir Alex Ferguson retired, we knew we had lost not only a manager, but a tradition, and to be honest, a lot of fans had since then lowered their expectations from the club. We knew it would be difficult winning the Premier League the way Fergie does, almost once in every two seasons, going by his statistics.
A lot of us loved the way you acted in gently dismissing David Moyes as United manager when it became crystal clear that he wasn't matured and experienced enough to lead the team.
And we were all happy with your next appointee in Louis Van Gaal. A man that had seen it all and won it all as far as club football was concerned. We felt as if we had gotten another image similar to Fergie in character and record.
But time seems to have proved us wrong.
While history told us that Sir Alex too didn't have it rosy in his first few seasons at United, we should all be aware that time and seasons have changed.
With the amount of money Van Gaal has spent, he himself knows time is luxury United fans can't afford. Not that we are asking for too much, a top four finish and beautiful football.
Listen Ed., we are happy with the business side of things at Manchester United, the club is making more deals by the day, your business model and intelligence is unquestionable, the future looks bright on the financial side, but then the footballing side is on a downward slide.
The team got knocked out of the Champions League in a group that was dubbed the easiest for all English teams, got knocked out of the Capital One Cup by Middlesbrough, the league form of the team has been pathetic, and as things stands now, the team may not make the champions League next season. Is this what a team like United deserve after spending about £250m in two seasons. No I doubt.
The brand of football is unappealing, the inconsistency in results may soon cause the team to drop further on the table.
It look from all indications that you and the board members don't want to sack Van Gaal, maybe because you don't want to turn United to a sacking club, the fans understand, but some decisions and changes are inevitable.
Another trophyless season, next season out of the Champions League, this will cost United some profit... Oh.... you are a business executive and should understand better.
It is clear the United first team needs a change, the manager either changes his Philosophy (which he doesn't appear to be changing), or you change the philosopher (the manager). As it stands, if the change occurs fast enough, the team can still make the top four.
A lot of the United fans want Van Gaal sacked, but that decision is left to you. We can't teach you your job, but you know what's best for the club. Do it. Your decision or indecision today determine the future of the club.
I rest my case...
From an objective concerned Manchester United supporter.
Manchester United have been linked to a lot of players this January.
Top of those reported target is Real Madrid's James Rodriguez. The midfielder has been reported to be unhappy at Real, and may be considering leaving the capital club.
Skysports Spanish football expert Guillem Balague doesn't think Rodriguez will make that switch to United, while Sevilla are not aware of United's interest in Banega.
While answering questions on Skysports, he wrote:
"There is no chance of James going in January and Sevilla are saying they know nothing about Manchester United when it comes to Ever Banega."
The Frenchman was a surprise signing last summer, but has become a favorite at Old Trafford.
Since opening his goal scoring account against Liverpool on his debut, the young striker looks ever improving. His dazzling runs, dribbles and wiliness to go past defenders are key strength of his game, and he has drawn comparison with French legend Henry.
Dutch defender Blind, believes the striker is on his way to becoming a great striker. He said:
"If you come with a transfer like that and perform like he did in his first game then it is really good for him.
"He is very quick of course, he is strong and I think he is really calm in front of the goal.
"He has everything needed to become a great striker. Now he is evolving and performing in the training sessions, working hard on and off the pitch with his languages and personality, he is coming along really well.
"He is a bit quiet, he is still young, but he is always in for a joke and he's a good lad."
The former Pompey boss thinks United may end up sticking with Van Gaal to the end of the season, not minding missing out of the top four.
United currently lie fifth on the table, out of the Champions League spot, and unless the fortunes of the team improves, United may not qualify for next season's Champions League.
Writing in his column for the The Telegraph, he wrote:
"I cannot see anything happening with Van Gaal because, quite simply, if United wanted to get rid of him they would have done it by now.
"United will have no problems attracting managers of that calibre (Like Pep Guardiola or Diego Simeone) because of their reputation but those guys are simply not available at the moment so I fully expect Van Gaal to battle on."
The Manchester United manager was reported to have tendered his resignation to the United board on Saturday after his team lost to the Saints, according to The Sun. But the United board rejected his resignation.
Executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward iwants to keep the Dutchman till the end if the season, before taking any major decision. It is reported that the United executive still thinks United can make the top four, and may wait till the end of the season before making any major change.
The former Tottenham boss thinks United may wait till the end of the season, after fully missing out of the top four before appointing a new manager.
Current manager Van Gaal is facing the sack after his side lost to Southampton on Saturday. José Mourinho is the name that popularly comes up as a replacement for the Dutchman, but Redknapp thinks the sluggishness of the United board in appointing the Portuguese means they are not interested in him.
In his column in The Telegraph, Redknapp wrote:
"I cannot see anything happening with Van Gaal because, quite simply, if United wanted to get rid of him they would have done it by now.
"If the United board had wanted to appoint Mourinho they would have done it already so I think they will wait until the summer and go for somebody like Pep Guardiola or Diego Simeone, if they miss out on the top four.
"United will have no problems attracting managers of that calibre because of their reputation."
Adnan Januzaj was one of the best players in the U21 side that defeated table topping Sunderland 1-0.
Guillermo Varela, andAndreas Pereira also started for the side, but it was Januzaj that stole the show, even though he didn't score.
United got the winning goal on the 69th minute, via a nice play and combination from Andreas Pereira, Matty Willock, Keane and Weir who got the much needed goal.
The United side created a decent number of chances and have had over 50 shots in their last two games in contrast to the first team.
The victory is also the team's six straight victory and the team has scored twenty (20) goals within that period.
Januzaj impressive showing again means the Belgian would most definitely be in contention for a start against Derby County in the F.A cup in Friday after his cameo performance in the defeat over the weekend.
The Manchester United gaffer travelled to Netherlands for the birthday of his daughter, after the woeful home defeat by Southampton on Saturday.
The Dutchman is however back. He arrived in England, late Monday night.
Also back in the country is Belgian midfielder Maroune Fellaini, the player flew in from his country's capital, Brussels.
It is believed that Van Gaal will hold crucial talks with United's executive vice chairman Ed Woodward on Tuesdays about his future.
Adnan Januzaj was one of the best players in the U21 side that defeated table topping Sunderland 1-0.
Guillermo Varela, andAndreas Pereira also started for the side, but it was Januzaj that stole the show, even though he didn't score.
United got the winning goal on the 69th minute, via a nice play and combination from Andreas Pereira, Matty Willock, Keane and Weir who got the much needed goal.
The United side created a decent number of chances and have had over 50 shots in their last two games in contrast to the first team.
The victory is also the team's six straight victory and the team has scored twenty (20) goals within that period.
Januzaj impressive showing again means the Belgian would most definitely be in contention for a start against Derby County in the F.A cup in Friday after his cameo performance in the defeat over the weekend.
The Manchester United gaffer has admitted that he has let down the United fans. United suffered a shocking 1-0 home defeat to Southampton this weekend, to further increase the pressure on the Dutchman. The defeat leaves United fifth, five points behind fourth place Tottenham.
Speaking after the match Van Gaal said:
“I am very disappointed that I cannot reach the expectations of the fans. They have great expectations of me and I cannot fulfil them. I am very frustrated because of that.”
When asked if he still has the appetite to carry on, he replied:
“That is a question I shall never answer to you."
The Sun is reporting that the Dutchman is on the brink of quitting United. According to the report, he has held talks with executive vice-
chairman Ed Woodward, where he discussed about his future.
The Manchester United captain announced the birth of his third baby boy of tweeter few hours ago.
The boy's name is Kit Joseph, weighs 8Ib 1oz was given birth to on January 24.
Here's the tweet from Rooney announcing the birth
Our gorgeous little boy arrived today. Kit Joseph Rooney. 8Ib 1oz. We are over the moon.
11:16 AM - 24 Jan 2016
------@WayneRooney
His wife Coleen also tweeted a similar message to welcome the new addition to the family.
Our gorgeous little Boy arrived today!! Kit Joseph Rooney .... 8Ib 1oz. We are all over the moon!! ?
11:14 AM - 24 Jan 2016
The couple got married in 2008, and already have two boys, Kai, six and Klay who is two.
Congrats to the Rooney family..
The Italian defender collided with Shane Long and was immediately substituted. He looked to have hurt his chest
After the game, Van Gaal revealed that the defender was immediately taken to the hospital as he was spitting blood.
The defender himself has sent a message to fans that he is fine.
Here is a screenshot of his tweet.
