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Football

17th Aug 2015

Louis van Gaal calls out the media over Wayne Rooney criticism

But admits United have other striking options

Robert Redmond

Louis van Gaal is refreshingly open in press conferences, but can also be spiky and combative.

The Manchester United manager spoke at a press conference earlier today, ahead of his side’s Champions League qualifier against Club Brugge at Old Trafford tomorrow night, and certainly didn’t mince his words.

The Dutchman cried foul on elements of the media, accusing them of hypocrisy over criticism of Wayne Rooney.

The United captain has started the season slowly, and was roundly slated for his performance against Aston Villa last Friday. However, Van Gaal has called out some over an apparent u-turn on the forward, who spent significant parts of last season playing in midfield.

“All the media has written for one year that I have to put him in the striker’s position so it is very amazing that after two matches you already are doubting your own opinion,” Van Gaal said.

“I cannot understand that.”MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - AUGUST 08: Wayne Rooney of Manchester United in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Manchester United and and Tottingham Hotspur at Old Trafford, Manchester.  (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)Van Gaal also revealed he has faith in Rooney’s ability to play centre-forward, but that United aren’t overly reliant on their captain.

“I have always confidence in my players but we don’t have only Wayne Rooney in the striker’s position. We have also Adnan Januzaj, Chicharito (Javier Hernandez) and (James) Wilson so I don’t think we have a lack of strikers.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naEFBs43GxI

H/T Irish Independent.

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