Manchester United might be third in the League after winning quite a lot of game since November last year, but the way they have done it hasn’t impressed everyone. Louis Van Gaal’s side will next face Preston North End in the FA Cup and the club’s striker Kevin Davies said that United are no longer exciting to watch.
Davies, who appeared 351 times for Bolton Wanderers, faced United quite a lot of times in the Premier League with Blackburn, Southampton and Bolton when Sir Alex Ferguson was their manager. The 37-year-old said, “I’ve got quite a few friends who were at the game last night,” he commented on United’s win over Burnley.
“Obviously they’re pleased to be back in amongst the Champions League but there have been a few boos about the long balls and the style of play has not been great.
“They’ve spent money and they should be contesting those Champions League spots.
“In terms of watching them, I don’t think they’re as exciting as they used to be but, when you lose someone like Sir Alex Ferguson, it’s always going to take time.
“They’ve got a bit of resilience about them. Not playing well and winning games you have to have. He’s not had a settled side, there’s been a lot of injuries. I don’t think he’s quite found the right system.
Davies also said that the body language of some of the players isn’t right, “Just looking at one or two of the players, like (Robin) Van Persie scoring last night, no real smile, he didn’t look particularly happy. Wayne Rooney playing a bit deeper.
“It’s probably different to what those players are used to. Players don’t particularly like change anyway but a new manager comes in, new ways, are they enjoying it as much as they used to? I don’t get that impression from the players.
“But you have to do the job that the manager asks of you. They’re fantastic players but I don’t think they’re living up to expectations.”
Manchester United have played a lot of direct football this season, and it has paid off although the fans haven’t liked the style. United were struggling early on in the League, and with a top four spot was much needed this time, some of their fans will not mind the style as long as they are producing the results.
Preston will host Manchester United in the last 16 of the FA Cup and will feel that they have a chance considering the fact that United haven’t really played with any conviction and the general nature of the competition.