Paul Scholes: Man Utd players and Louis van Gaal ‘look bored’

Van Gaal believes a desire to beat the traffic was one of the determining factors that led to many supporters leaving Saturday’s FA Cup third-round tie early, rather than their frustration at the quality of performance.

After a drab goalless 90 minutes, the Red Devils secured the win when captain Wayne Rooney converted a penalty in injury time to send his side through to the FA Cup fourth round.

“There are matches that I’ve enjoyed very much”, said Van Gaal.

“Maybe (because) we haven’t scored”.

He added: “There are many reasons why someone might leave early”.

“I’m not Sir Alex, as you know”.

Moments before that, Memphis Depay’s off-target effort from range – United’s first effort of any kind all game – was greeted by sarcastic cheers from those in the Stretford End, as frustrated supporters made their discontent known.

“We haven’t seen anything different now for the last six months”, said the 41-year-old. Because we are defending very well, you are asking this question.

Only Tottenham have conceded fewer league goals than United this season, but it is in attack where Van Gaal’s side badly need to improve.

“We have reconsidered and we think we have to build him up for the game and not to risk too much, by putting him in a match”.

Van Gaal, already forced to insist he wouldn’t resign due to the criticism of his methods from disgruntled fans earlier this season, will come under renewed fire if United fail to win at struggling Newcastle in the Premier League on Tuesday. “I think that’s the way he likes to play football”.

Old Trafford legend Paul Scholes attacked the current crop of Manchester United players for their performance and said he is relieved they have avoided having to go to Bramall Lane for a replay.

The United manager confesses he’s been fed up and furious at times with his stuttering side but while those fans who want to see an animated Dutchman on the touchline urging the Reds will be disappointed.

“They have been ironic (against Sheffield United) but that’s an expression of the fans and that’s good”.

“A lot of managers are (yelling from the sidelines) but I doubt if they have real influence”.

“We have won two matches in a row out of a bad period. I hope they don’t win against us”.

“Ok, I saw their game against Arsenal and they played very well”.