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Paul Scholes criticises Louis Van Gaal
Former United player Paul Scholes has criticised Louis Van Gaal’s management of Manchester United so far, saying he has not seen enough improvement since the Dutch manager’s arrival.
According to ESPN, the midfielder was critical of United’s transfer window activity, saying: “the problem in defence should have been addressed in the summer. It was not as if Van Gaal was unaware that Phil Jones, Smalling and Jonny Evans were susceptible to injuries.”
The midfielder was also critical of Van Gaal’s record in comparison to David Moyes, his predecessor: “Louis Van Gaal talks about progress. I expected United to have a better record by this stage of the season. Under David Moyes last season had 17 points fomr their first 10 games. This time, having spent £150 million in the summer, they have 13 points from 10 games.
Many Manchester United fans will sympathise with Scholes’ views, and will hope that their side can turn things round against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Saido Berahino move on the cards
West Bromwich Albion striker Saido Berahino is in great form, and yesterday received his first callup to the the England senior side. This hot streak has not gone unnoticed in the media, with the Metro, amongst others, linking the youngster with a move to Old Trafford.
Given Manchester United already have Wayne Rooney, Falcao, Robin Van Persie and James Wilson fighting for places up front, a move for another striker seems unlikely, especially with West Brom allegedly asking for £25m for the striker.
Chris Smalling nears Old Trafford exit
While United are desperate for defenders, not too many Reds fans will be disappointed to hear the hapless Smalling linked with an exit. The Englishman stupidly got himself sent off in the Manchester Derby on Sunday, an act which may have proved to be the last straw with Louis Van Gaal, as it was with many Red Devils fans.
Arsenal are the club linked with a bid for Smalling in the Metro. The Gunners have history in buying United’s unwanted defenders. Memories of Mikael Silvestre’s ill-fated move to North London still make plenty of Gunners wince.
Marouane Fellaini wins goal of the month
Fellaini’s turn and power-strike against West Brom has won the club’s goal of the month award. The Belgian midfielder was brought on after United’s poor first half, and helped turn things round for the Red Devils. Since then he’s started both of United’s games, and has provided strength and balance in midfield.
Nani linked with recall
Goal are alleging that Louis Van Gaal is keen to get Portuguese winger Nani back from his loan. The winger, currently on loan at Sporting in Portugal, has been in exceptional form for his new club. Van Gaal’s switch to a 4-1-41 in recent games has left him short on the right flank, with Antonio Valencia disappointing in the role.
The move would seem a backwards step, as Nani proved over many years at Old Trafford that he was unable to perform on a consistent basis.
On his day he’s a fantastic player however, so it’s no wonder Van Gaal has been tempted.