Manchester United stole one at the Hawthorns during the weekend with a last minute own goal by Troy Deeney that helped them beat Watford 2-1, and hard-to-please Van Gaal expressed his happiness with their efforts.
The Manchester United side showed plenty of attacking potential in the match against Watford, creating chances and going forward regularly. They took the lead with Memphis Depay scoring in the 11th minute before conceding a penalty in the 84th and then scoring another at extra time.
Van Gaal was pleased with the result and about how the team did not give up after the goal by Watford and kept poking and prodding till they took the lead again. He told BT Sport, (via Espn FC), “I was amazed by the spirit in our team. I’m very proud that I am the manager of the team.”
Looking Forward To A Title Challenge
Van Gaal also spoke about Manchester United’s title ambitions. “Of course we are fighting for the first position in the league. We are closer every week, but the end is the most important.”, he said.
The manager also praised Memphis Depay, who played as the striker, saying: “In the first half he was superb. I think the role is the best role for him — I knew he could do this.”
The United boss also stated that Rooney could be back for the Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday, and currently injured Anthony Martial may also make his comeback.
Good Display of ‘Attack! Attack! Attack!’
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Manchester United had 13 shots on goal and created numerous chances during the match, in a marked change from their usual possession play that has drawn such criticism from Manchester United fans. Lingard, Depay and Mata formed a lethal attacking trio with the pace of Depay and Lingard, combined with the dexterity of Mata, causing a number of problems for the Watford defence.
But mention has to be made of the man who is fast emerging to be the best player on the Man United team – David de Gea, as he pulled off a few fantastic saves and kept his composure throughout.
