Van Gaal refuses to comment on Neymar reports

And that criticism continued when former target Pedro signed for Chelsea, rather than United, on Thursday.

Van Gaal quashed any claims that the Dutchman was disappointed with Woodward over the handling of the Pedro transfer.

“Well, we normally train very well, but I think this week we trained better than ever”, said Mourinho, ahead of his side’s third game of the Premier League season at West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. In fact, the report stated that they will offer the young custodian £12 million as signing on fee to see out his contract with the English club. We don’t have to change, but when we can improve we shall do that, but only in our way and not in the way you are writing.

“I have the idea that you want to separate Ed Woodward with me”, the Dutchman told his weekly news conference. Never. Every day I am updated by him and I trust him.

And with an early kick-off to look forward to against winless Newcastle on Saturday, Smalling wants United to steal an early march on their rivals for top spot.

The goalkeeper has not played this season after the manager said he was not fully focused.

Van Gaal also accused outsiders of trying to drive a wedge between him and Woodward but claimed they will not succeed.

Louis van Gaal insists David De Gea will not leave Manchester United before the transfer window shuts.

“I have seen a great match, I think the performance was one of the best in my period (as manager)”.

Does Van Gaal like that kind of public admission from one of his players?

With Javier Hernandez and James Wilson the only options beyond the United captain in van Gaal’s squad both Cole and Scholes, who between them managed 276 goals during their time at Old Trafford, believe the club’s first priority should be a new forward. I answered that question because I think it is obvious.

“I only want to beat Man United on the pitch”. “We are not selling De Gea“.

Manchester United created a plethora of opportunities to put away Newcastle throughout the match, but failed to find the killer blow needed to earn all three points.