LOUIS VAN GAAL admits that Manchester United were “really bad” at times in their 1-1 draw at West Ham on Sunday.
The Red Devils struggled to create chances in a sluggish first half and fell behind shortly after the break through Cheikhou Kouyate’s strike.
West Ham looked on course for victory before Daley Blind found the net in injury-time to rescue a point for United, who remain fourth and a point behind third-placed Southampton.
“I think we played really badly in the first half and we showed a lot of spirit in the second half, especially after the goal in the beginning, we gave that goal away, and then we played football after the goal. But you have to do it from the first minute,” Van Gaal told Sky Sports.
“But I have to say what spirit my team showed after 1-0 behind, and I have to thank my players for that.”
United increased the pressure on West Ham’s goal after Marouane Fellaini replaced Adnan Januzaj in the 72nd minute and Van Gaal felt his side could have registered a win following the former Everton midfielder’s introduction.
“I think with Fellaini you have to change your play style and that we have done and because of Fellaini we have created a lot of chances because I think we had three open chances before the goalkeeper [saved them], and normally you can win the game in spite of the bad first half,” said the United boss.
“But I’m pleased we have a draw here.”
When asked about the problems United faced at Upton Park, Van Gaal replied: “Especially when we had the ball, we don’t play the ball along the floor, but also, when we lost the ball, you have to win the first and the second balls much better than we did in the first half because we know they are playing long balls in advance.
“But all the second balls were from West Ham, and that’s why we have a lot of pressure. And that’s why I think the players lost their confidence with playing the ball on the floor.”
United face Burnley at Old Trafford on Wednesday with a full set of Premier League fixtures scheduled for midweek.
Very sad! RIP
Who the hell gives that comment a thumb down. Idiots.
I think it’s accidental when your scrolling.
As a Kerryperson, can I add my sympathy to his Family and his GAA Family too.
I knew him for thirty years and he was always the perfect gentleman.
We had some great texts back and forth over recent years , with the successes of our respective County Teams , but he was so rightly proud of his County Hurlers too .
His good humour will be so missed everywhere – RIP.
Great servant to Dublin Gaa. He’ll be missed. Condolences to his family and loved ones.
A great Dublin GAA man. Rest well.
RIP.
Very sad news. RIP.
A long time Friend for over 30yrs.
& a true Gentleman & Sportsman.
A super servant to Dublin GAA, and a gentleman my condolences and thoughts are with his Family, Friends and club.
RIP, great GAA Man
Ar dheis Dè go raibh a anam. RIP
Deepest sympathy to the Kettle family and everyone involved with Dublin Gaa and everyone in Fingal Ravens Gaa club.
Brian Carroll
Secretary
Roscommon GAA
May he rest in peace, 68 is so young to pass away these days.
Was he sick or die suddenly? How old was he?
Sorry, see illness now
Lord rest andy, a true gentlemen, prayers to the family
Had the pleasure of working with Andy in the Irish Times during the 80s .. A true gentleman .RIP Andy
He reminds me of ronnie barker
Brendan. I think so too. May he rest in peace.
R.I.P. Andy. I have a funny feeling that there could be some Dublin GAA memories getting shared up above today between Heffo & Andy
Rest in peace. Dublin Handball