Many were left unimpressed by Louis Van Gaal’s omission of talisman striker Radamel Falcao from his 18-man squad in Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat to Southampton. This is completely understandable. But, maybe only because Manchester United managed to lose at home for only the second time this season, and the first since opening day. Falcao, who has been so prolific across Europe during spells with Porto, Atletico Madrid and AS Monaco, has only scored three goals for the Red Devils this season. However, his opportunities have been limited. Van Gaal though, was destined to be questioned by the media, on Falcao’s absence, after the loss. He came to his own defense but also deflected from fully answering his critics.
"You have to look at the needs of your selection at the time," said Van Gaal, who said he wanted substitute cover for Luke Shaw and Angel Di Maria.
After responding so succinctly, but by no means with and complexity or substance, he addressed the comparisons that were made between himself and his predecessor, David Moyes, at this point in his side’s previous campaign. To say the least his reaction displayed a certain level of discomfort and bemusement that can be considered out of character thus far.
"You have been waiting for the moment to tell me I have the same points as David Moyes."
"We played a much better game than Southampton," said Dutchman Van Gaal. "They were lucky to score out of nothing.
"They came for a draw, I believe, and they go away with a victory. That is disappointing.”
"It is a bad result - we have to be better. We were the dominating team but you have to create more chances when you are the dominating team.”
After dealing with the Moyes comparison Van Gaal acknowledges that his side needed to create more, while also criticizing Southampton’s strategy, which was actually a masterclass and Ronald Koeman deserves a whole lot of credit. So, with Di Maria looking the only man capable of creating chances throughout the game, and with Juan Mata missing United’s two best chances, including a slightly harder third, the question still remains as to why Falcao was not even part of United’s 18. Cover for Luke Shaw, who has been criticized by Van Gaal over the season, and Di Maria, is simply not a good enough answer.
Manchester United have looked more capable at this point than they had last season. However, games like this past one, against a very well organized Southampton side, can be the difference between progression and digression.
Source: DSG
