United players baffled by Van Gaal subs – report

Matt Stead

Manchester United players have been left baffled by manager Louis van Gaal’s recent substitutions.

Van Gaal has come in for significant scrutiny after United’s 3-0 defeat to Tottenham on Sunday, a defeat which leaves the club four points off the pace in the race for Champions League qualification.

It was reported on Tuesday morning that the United dressing room was “in meltdown” after Van Gaal singled out Marcus Rashford for criticism at half-time at White Hart Lane.

According to the Manchester Evening News, it is Van Gaal’s decision to substitute Rashford at the break which has confused his players.

Ashley Young was brought on to replace the teenager, and although recognised striker Anthony Martial was already on the pitch, former Watford winger Young was utilised as the lone forward.

‘Van Gaal has made 33 half-time substitutions during his time in charge of United – 25 were tactical and eight were enforced by injury,’ claim the MEN. ‘United have won 13, drawn six and lost 11 of those games.’

Samuel Luckhurst adds: ‘His substitution struggles have worsened this season, having watched Marouane Fellaini, Adnan Januzaj and Ashley Young emerge to influence games in his first United campaign.’

A source told MEN: “Players haven’t got a clue what the f**k his substitutions are all about.”