Our Big haired hero: Fellaini Focus

Since coming to United, Marouane Fellaini has been booed, cheered and even applauded. After a troublesome first season under David Moyes, the Belgium international has really proved his worth under Van Gaal. When the situation required, Fellaini could come on and seemingly change a game with his huge presence and ability to hold up the ball, but with all the new signings made by LVG this season, is there still space for him in the team?

Misery for Marouane: The midfielder suffered a poor debut season at United

David Moyse's deadline day signing Marouane Fellaini was the Scots first United buy as manager, after working with him successfully at Everton where he was one of the top players. Known for his aerial ability, strength and goal scoring knack, United fans were mostly pleased with the signing, especially when they remembered the problems the Belgium man caused for them in previous encounters with Everton. However the then, United No.31 struggled to fit into the United side, contributing 0 goals in his first season, making only 21 appearances, in comparison to 36 appearances, in his final season at Everton.

While criticisms were heaped upon David Moyes as Uniteds season got worse, certain players were also taking the heat from the United fans, notably players like Tom Cleverly and of course Marouane Fellaini. Additionally, slight injures continued to plague the former Everton man throughout the season and perhaps being asked to play in a deeper midfield role, hindered his form, either way by the end of 2013-14, Fellaini seemed to be on his way out of the club. 

All smiles: Van Gaal helped rejuvenate the Belgian in his second season

With the arrival of Van Gaal, there was plenty of speculation as to the arrivals and exits, concerning the United squad. With the likes of Tom Cleverly, Danny Welbeck and Nani all being shipped off, many fans might have been surprised about the retaining of Marouane Fellaini after such a poor previous season. However it would seem that Van Gaal's retention of the former Goodison park man paid off, as the midfielder would go onto score some important goals later on in the season.

"I am a coach who likes creative players, but in England you need physical bodies in your team" The reds boss said following a 2-2 draw with West Brom with Fellaini scoring a late equaliser "Fellaini is one of these players". Following his goal at the Hawthorns, Fellaini was given his first start of the season in the following home game vs Chelsea, ending with some impressive stats, as well as assisting the dramatic late equaliser from Robin Van Persie. The Big Belgian covered 12.17 Kilometres in the game, the most by any United player and put in 70 high intensity runs, the most by any player on the pitch. Finally he assisted Robin Van Persie's late equaliser against Jose Mourinho's men, heading the ball down from a free kick for the Dutch striker to smash home. Old Trafford was rocking.

More impressive performances were to follow, it would seem the Belgian gave United a different style of play, they could finally play more aerial balls and consequently were more dangerous from set pieces due to Fellaini's incredible height (6 ft 5) and strength. Fellaini would go on to score more goals against the likes of QPR, Stoke (notably a super flying header) and Preston in the FA cup. Fellaini's best form of the season was still yet to come, in early March the red devils faced Tottenham Hotspur, which represented the start of a six game run, where they would come up against Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea in quick succession, they were must win games for United as they would surely decide the top 4 which was invaluable to United as it would mean Champions league football.

Fantastic Felli: The Belgium International celebrates scoring vs City

Fellaini played a huge part in this busy period for the reds, he scored in the first game vs Tottenham aswell as assisting Michael Carrick, he caused problems for Liverpool at Anfield and went onto score a bullet header against 'noisy neighbours' Manchester City, this was Fellaini's best spell in a red shirt. He ended the season on a low unfortunately, being sent off on the final day against Hull City.

All in all, I think many would agree Fellaini's second season was much better and even go as far as to say that he was on of United's better players. The question is now that in his third season at Old Trafford, will the target man get in the team? With new midfield additions in the shape of Morgan Schneiderlin and Bastian Schweinsteiger, it would seem the man from Brussels may face competition for places, with of course Ander Herrera and Michael Carrick fighting for a starting position. One thing Marouane Fellaini has over his fellow midfielders is flexibility. Louis Van Gaal said in his pre-match press conference in Brugges tonight: "He can play as a No.9 and a No.10 and he can also play as a No.6 and No.8" 

Perhaps the flexibility of Fellaini will win him brownie points with Van Gaal as he has always re-iterated he prefers "Multi-functional players over specialists" and this may get him more game time. His ability to hold up the ball and win aerial battles is second to none, even the best of premier league defences struggle to cope with him, evidently shown in the way he scored and contributed to goals against the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea last season.

A Fellaini Finish: The big red devil slots home against Tottenham

However perhaps there is a hint that Fellaini will play just as much, or maybe even more than last season. Van Gaal in his pre-match press conference in Brugge in tonight spoke of Fellaini's future role in the team this year: "This year he will play more as a No.9 and No.10 as rather than 6 and 8 because there we have other players" Is Van Gaal about to pull another rabbit out of his hat and turn Marouanne Fellaini into an out and out striker? Either way, putting Marouane Fellaini in and around the final third causes all sorts of problems,as a striker or playing as the number 10, he gives United a new edge and a different dimension, he can hold off defenders and win the headers that perhaps fellow forwards can't. He certainly adds threat at set pieces, which may be something to consider, bearing in mind United's poor league form, when their finishing from open play has been non existent in their first three games.

Van Gaal has many options on where to put the former Everton man, thinking about United's rather small selection of strikers in Rooney, Hernandez and Wilson, perhaps he'll put his faith in him there to lead the line, certainly many more crosses will be met and while his disciplinary record may be something to look out for, Marouane Fellaini possesses unique qualities which other United players don't. The Belgian will be hoping to build on a successful season from last year and playing as a striker,he may do exactly that, should he find the net on a regular basis.

"Last season I did quite well and I want to continue" The Belgian told journalists alongside his manager at a press conference tonight in Brugge "I know my team mates, the manager and his philosophy, I am looking to do well and score goals". 

Could Gareth Bale us out?

World record signing Gareth Bale is yet again being linked with the red devils. Reports in Spain suggest that United are definitely interested in the winger, however have made no formal bid or enquiries as to acquiring him. Would he be the spark to set United on the road to challenging again for the Premier league title?

Brilliant Bale: The Welshman scored in the Copa Del Rey final and the Champions league final in 2014.

World's most expensive player, Champions League winner, Spanish Cup winner, Gareth Bale really did hit the ground running at Real Madrid in his debut season ending the season with 22 goals in 44 appearances, as well as 16 assists, including vital goals in the Champions league and Copa Del Rey final. Averaging a goal every two games, Bale is up amongst the finest forwards in world football and it was thought he may even rival ex-red Cristiano Ronaldo as the main man at Madrid.

His second season with Madrid was quieter, though he still managed to score in another major final, helping the men in white win the Club World Cup trophy. His Quality surely cannot be doubted, scoring all sort's of goals, including free kicks, solo runs from deep and long range efforts. Is he therefore exactly what United need? Pace and clinical finishing? Stamina and Strength? Creativity?

Manchester United have generally had an ethos for the past few decades of bringing through younger talent, instead of splashing out the millions on proven players. A tactic that has paid off for them in the past with the likes of Scholes, Giggs, Beckham and the Nevilles all being great successes. When the situation required however, they have been able to flex their financial muscle in bids to have them challenge for the title, the Cantona's the Van Nistelrooy's have all proved good signings and have normally pushed past United squads further and given them the 'edge' they needed.

Is this not what Louis Van Gaal needs to do? His side seems to be solid in midfield, with a reasonably settled and strong defensive United but upfront the side does seem slightly toothless at times, with no one in the forward line apart from Memphis perhaps who looks liable to beat a few players and get the fans on their feet. Many fans feel they need, in fact deserve a player who's a finished product, someone who is a reliable goal source, who has proven themselves season after season, the Ronaldo's , The Messi's , the very best.

RVP the MVP: Van Persie fired United to the title in 2013 contributing 26 league goals.

In the 2012-13 season, after a heartbreaking loss to noisy neighbours City on the final league day, Sir Alex Ferguson reacted. Despite perhaps paying over value for a 29 year old, he had invested in a player with a proven record of scoring goals, and it paid dividends Van Persie won the golden boot with 26 league goals, retaining the award which he won the previous season at Arsenal and the red devils won the league by 15 points with games to spare. Success. "He came to us at the very peak of his career" said Ferguson back in 2013. Give credit to Van Gaal, he tried to do similar with Angel Di Maria, a marquee signing, but for unknown and widely speculated reasons Angel Di Maria couldn't hack it at United and with a dip in form was sold shortly after arriving.

So perhaps Van Gaal needs to find himself a real catalyst of a signing, the Cantona's and the Van Nistelrooys of past seasons normally ended with Glory at the end of them, could Gareth Bale be the answers to Louis Van Gaal's prayers?

Obviously the price would be astronomical for United to pay, even if by some miracle Real Madrid agreed to sell  their prized asset, but with United finding difficulty with signing similar types of players in recent transfer windows, have they got many more options left to look at?

Bale is certainly proven in the Premier league, the Welsh Wizard struck fear into the majority of top flight defenders with his Powerful pacey runs and excellent dribbling skills. With this in mind, there is no real reason as to why Gareth Bale wouldn't be a sucess with United, infact he would even bring back the days of Ronaldo, a player he is just so similar to. His exellent free kicks and ability to beat a man are rivalled by few, he's the type of exciting player that many fans have been crying out for in recent years and that they've missed ever since Ronaldo's departure.

Unlucky Luke: Shaw and his team put in a poor performance against Newcastle.

The red devils put in another below par performance in their 0-0 draw against Newcastle, which prompted Paul Scholes to talk about their attacking options. "City frighten me, the goals you see in that team is incredible" the former midfielder went on "I look at our team and just don't see the same goal threat, i dont see goals from anywhere" Whilst the pressure may be slightly piling on Van Gaal from the average at best performances as of late,there may  be pressure coming from the boardroom, considering United risk suffering a third year in a row of no silverware. Which is why players such as Gareth Bale should be targeted, if they want to greatly improve their chances of having something to celebrate come the end of the season.Years gone by would tell us that a club like Manchester United should regularly be picking up the trophies and not just aiming for the top four and being second or third best.

 Does Van Gaal have an ace up his sleeve yet? As fans and writers, we'll just have to wait and see.

The Devils dull display

Manchester United have disappointed again for their third league game in a row after a 0-0 draw against Newcastle United. With Louis Van Gaal re-iterating again to the press that he is content with his strikeforce, fans may not see eye to eye with the Dutchman's views. Whilst dominating possession yet again, they failed to make any of it count, with few clear cut chances the red devils failed to maintain their 100% record.

Battling Bastian: A decent display on his full start, however his team failed to make a breakthrough

With his full start, Bastian Schweinsteiger seemed to be quite a leader in the middle of the park today, and this reflected in the opening 20 minutes when United were all over Newcastle, the German international was dominating the midfield and the magpies struggled to cope. Memphis had the beating all day long of his fullback Mbemba, a makeshift right back who had been put there in place of the suspended Janmaat, which Memphis probably should've capitalised on. Haidara had a decent chance for Newcastle, the forward found his way through on goal after a superb touch from a through pass, only to be blocked by Daly Blind as he was about to pull the trigger.

The ball did hit the back of the net early on however, it seemed like Captain Wayne Rooney had finally ended his goal drought, only to be given offside, an extremely close decision indeed, but the correct one upon further replays. Juan Mata had a decent chance from a free kick, however nothing to trouble Tim Krul. Newcastle finally battened down the hatches and tightened the midfield around the 25 minute mark, stopping the flow of United attacks. New signing Mitrovic perhaps Newcastle's brightest spark in the first half, hit the crossbar from a looping header which gave Romero no chance. A let off for the home side.

The team from Tyneside managed to soak up all of the first half pressure, blocking numerous shots from Adnan Januzaj, Daly Blind and Memphis. We all hoped for a better second period.

More pain for Wayne: Despite a lively start, Rooney seemed to be again subdued.

The second half was more of the same, the home side dominated the possession without too much penetration, with Newcastle looking dangerous on the counter attack. Memphis seemed to be the driving force yet again, trying numerous shots cutting in from the left side, however they only seemed to hit the bodies of a resilient Geordie defence. Fabricio Collocini was no doubt the stand out performer on the day, the man from Argentina seemed to be blocking everything that threatened the Newcastle goal. Truly a rock at the back, alongside Taylor.

As time crept around the 60 minute mark, Januzaj was taken off for a more recognised striker in the form of Mexico international Javier Hernandez, a sign of intent from LVG. The introduction of Michael Carrick seemed to quicken play, Bastian Schweinsteiger went off to applause from the Old Trafford faithful, a promising performance from the former Munich man no doubt. More attacking changes were made from United as Antonio Valencia replaced Darmian as a more attacking fullback. Javier Hernandez was gifted the best chance of the game, one on one with Tim Krul, his left footed shot was saved by the keepers trailing leg. Deadlock still not broken. Chris Smalling had a header come back off the post and Juan Mata spurned a super chance way over the bar after a nicely worked cross from Wayne Rooney.

Even Luke Shaw had a shot saved, after a trademark run from a deep position, it just didn't seem like United's day infront of goal. In the 90th minute, Newcastle broke from a United corner, three on two with Blind and Shaw scrambling back, Cisse's right footed shot slid across the red devils goal mouth with new signing Florian Thauvin inches away from tapping in the for a late winner. Agony for the away end. 

The match ended 0-0, Manchester United finished the game with 70% possession and 8 shots on target, more disappointed home fans left the stadium after another un-convincing and frustrating display. The man of the match award going to Newcastle captain Fabricio Collocini. 

Unlucky Louis: The United boss wasn't pleased with his sides spurned chances

"We can be pleased with the performance, but not the result" The United manager stated in his after match interview. "We played fantastic as a team but did not make the right decisions in the final third" Van Gaal seemed rather pleased with the way his team performed, describing it as "One of the best in my period" however his reluctance to admit that he needs to add to his fire power may not sit well with some fans. Should we keep faith in LVG? Or do Manchester United need to go out and buy that Marquee, which may just give them a cutting edge for the season and make them genuine title contenders.

Manchester United vs Newcastle United preview

Manchester United will face Newcastle at Old Trafford tomorrow, with the reds looking for their third straight victory to maintain their perfect start, whilst the magpies will be looking to bounce back from their defeat at Swansea down in Wales last time out.

Januzaj scores the winner vs Aston Villa

Manchester United go into the game looking to continue their decent run of results. Whilst the displays on the pitch haven't been convincing they have had to grind out results to have 6 points from 2 games. Attacking football hasn't looked very smooth yet, and United are being criticised for their lack of quality going forward, having only 3 shots on target from 2 games certainly would worry most fans. 

On the bright side, defensively Manchester United have looked quite solid. Chris Smalling seem's to be getting better and better by the game, with Daley Blind alongside him, who seems to be fitting into his new Centre back role. Full backs Luke Shaw and Matteo Darmian have received great praise both defensively and going forward and arguably have looked United's most consistent players so far. They haven't really been troubled defensively so far, however there are certainly tougher tests to come.

 The midfield seems to be slowly coming together, the ever present lynch pin Michael Carrick looks to be gaining form, with Morgan Schneiderlin alongside him adding some crunching tackles and steel to the middle of the park.

Bastian Schweinsteiger directing play vs Tottenham

One player in the spotlight leading up to the game against Newcastle is new man Bastian Schweinsteiger. The German international has yet to start for the reds, amid reports of low fitness levels he has made numerous substitute appearances in a bid by Van Gaal to ease him into the Premier league. With Uniteds front men like Rooney, Mata and Memphis only managing 3 shots on target in two games, perhaps what they need is slightly better service from midfield, in a player like Schweinsteiger, they certainly have the solution.

Having played over 500 games for German Giants Bayern Munich and some impressive displays in Germany's world cup winning campaign, there are few better Central Midfielder's out there in world football who could match Schweinsteiger for quality and precision. Joachim Lows, Germany manager sang the praises of the midfielder last month: "Basti is an absolute leader and a world class player who can put his stamp on any team, including Manchester United"

Manchester United fans are chomping at the bit, to see their new signing get more game time, so should LVG start the world cup winner against Newcastle?

United have had to grind the results so far: Smalling battles with Harry Kane

As far as squad news goes, Phil Jones is still out with a minor thrombosis and Marcos Rojo remains unselected due to a lack of match fitness. Marouanne Fellaini remains in the stands also as he serves out the remainder of his ban. "No new injuries, it is tactical but i also have to build up games for Bastian Schweinsteiger, because we need Schweinsteiger in our team" the manager told the media in a recent press conference. 

Schweinsteiger is thought to be picked to start tomorrow after the managers comments, while Memphis will be looking to carry on his excellent form from the Champions league game against Club Brugge, in which he scored 2 very well taken goals. Wayne Rooney will be hoping to once again silence his critics and open his scoring account for the season. Against Newcastle Rooney has scored 12 times in the premier league and also made 7 goals against them, so many fans will be hoping he will increase his impressive record. 

Our predicted #MUFC lineup: Romero, Darmian, Smalling, Blind, Shaw, Mata, Schweinsteiger, Schneiderlin, Memphis, Januzaj, Rooney

Will Wayne deliver?

Wayne Rooney's Manchester United career has been a roller-coaster to say the least. Known for his goal scoring prowess, individual pieces of genius and hardworking nature, criticism has never been far behind however. He's been questioned as to whether he can produce on the biggest stage, whether he can lead the line for England and now he is being questioned as to whether he can be Manchester United's main striker once more at the ripe age of 29.

Captain Rooney has a alot of responsibility on his shoulders 

After it was announced recently by Louis Van Gaal that he is happy with his strike-force of Rooney, Wilson and Chicharito, some fans would be excused for feeling slightly anxious as to whether this trio could supply the goals enough to win title. Two games into the season: A quiet outing against Tottenham Hotspur and a below average performance away at Aston Villa, Wayne Rooney seems to be under great scrutiny early on. With many, believing Rooney hasn't got it in him to play as an out and out striker, manager Louis Van Gaal has re-iterated his belief in the United number 10.

"I always have confidence in my players, but we don't only have Wayne  Rooney in the strikers position" Van Gaal also pointed out that he has Wilson, Chicharito and now Adnan Januzaj who he considers to now be able to play as a striker. The Dutchman wouldn't be wrong to back his Captain either, the England man has an impressive record in the Premier league scoring 230 goals in 482 games to date, meaning he averages a goal every 2.1 games. Not to mention he has notched up some goals against very impressive European opposition, most notably goals against Barcelona in the 2011 Champions league final, AC Milan and Roma.

Rooney's quality is not to be doubted, his infamous derby day winner back in 2011

You would certainly be a fool to claim that Wayne Rooney had lost his magic touch. The former Everton forward has been known to go through dry spells all throughout his career, however he has certainly produced for Manchester United  and England on some of the biggest stages. Wembley 2011, Rooney produced a super strike to equalize against the Catalan giants, his red devil debut with a hat-trick against Fenerbache, his Carling cup semi final goal against neighbours City to send United to Wembley. Wayne Rooney has the quality no doubt, is it fair to say he's just going through a bad spell?

Captain Fantastic: Rooney opens the scoring against the old enemy Liverpool

In a recent interview, Rooney himself admitted that he has in fact been playing below par: "I'm an honest guy, I know when i don't play well and against Aston Villa I was below my standards"

the forward went onto say: "It's just a case of getting the chances and taking them, which hopefully I'm going to do soon"

Rooney has always seemed to contribute to the cause however, he finished last season as United's top scorer, despite playing a large chunk of the season in midfield, he still managed to notch up 14 goals, which isn't too bad a return considering he wasn't the main striker. Perhaps too much pressure is being placed on the Captain, however it's hard not too after big name departures such as Robin Van Persie and Radamel Falcao, leaving Rooney to be seen by anyone as the new main man.

All in all, its only been two games so far this campaign, so perhaps pundits and fans are doubting too early, however its been seen in seasons such as 2011-12, when Rooney spearheaded the United attack that he ended the year with his highest ever tally of 34 goals, a feat he repeated back in 2008-2009 playing a similar role. Could Manchester United fans possibly see a repeat of previous glories? We will just have to wait and see.

Magic Memphis sinks Brugge

Two sublime first half strikes from Manchester United new boy Memphis and a late header from Marouanne Fellaini have put Manchester United in a comfortable position heading into their away leg of their Champions league qualifier vs Club Brugge as they ran out 3-1 winners.

Memphis Celebrates scoring at Old Trafford

As the Champions league anthem rang out loudly around Old Trafford for the first time in more than a year, Manchester United were seen as favourites to beat Belgium side Club Brugge and progress to the group stage of the Champions League. United however endured perhaps their worst possible start to their European campaign, as 8 minutes in they were knocked 1-0 down. A free kick for Brugge, 30 yards from goal, was whipped in, deflecting off of Adnan Januzaj and then again off of Michael Carrick, leaving Sergio Romero helpless. 

Manchester United hit back soon after though, with a very impressive goal from new man Memphis. The number 7 controlled a pass from Michael Carrick with his chest, flicking it over the first Brugge defender, faking twice past three opposition players in the box, before drilling it low into the bottom right corner.

Progressively Manchester United seemed to take control as they grew more and more into the game, efforts from Juan Mata and Wayne Rooney troubled the Brugge goal. Memphis had a superb chance one on one however misjudged his pass to Juan Mata to finish it off. Manchester United then took the lead for the first time, just before the break. Daley Blind played a great through ball to Memphis getting him in behind the back line, before cutting back onto his right foot and then curling into the far corner to make it 2-1. Old Trafford went wild.

Shaw and Blind celebrate with Memphis

The second half was similar to the first, the reds were mainly in control with Brugge looking dangerous on the counter. Memphis spurned a chance to complete a hattrick after a superb move from Luke Shaw linking up with Captain Rooney which left Memphis with an easy chance, only to fire over. United were lucky not to concede a second, as the referee disallowed a goal due to an injury to Sergio Romero after a collision with the opposition striker.

Brugge player Mechele was sent off for a second bookable offence in the 80th minute after a foul on Javier Hernandez. More controversy was to follow as with seemingly no time left entering the final 93rd minute and seemingly the ref about to blow his whistle, he allowed one more cross to be whipped into the box from Memphis which brilliantly found Fellaini who headed home. Game over. Sighs of relief rang around Old Trafford as they now had a vital two goal lead.

The goal scorers Memphis and Fellaini give their post-match reaction

"It is really important we win the game, we created a lot of chances" was the tune sang by the new number 7 "I feel disappointed I could not finish the last two chances". Manchester United boss Louis Van Gaal was just as delighted as his players with the win and also for Memphis to open his United scoring account: "I am very happy for Memphis,because a player needs that, i said it is only a matter of time and hopefully he shall continue"

From Muller to Mane?

Louis Van Gaal has been linked throughout the summer with bolstering his United squads fire power with the likes of Muller, Ibrahimovic and up until recently Pedro, which is why many reds supporters may be surprised with the newest name the Dutchman has been rumoured to be interested in.

Mane celebrates scoring for the Saints

Saido Mane of Southampton is now apparently the mystery striker that Van Gaal had in mind. Upon teasing the press earlier this summer by claiming the striker he had in mind was indeed a 'surprise', many people would've called you daft to even consider having Mane as a target, considering the big names Manchester United are accustom to having in their strikeforce: The Rooney's, Van Persie's and Falcaos.

In his debut Premier league season, Mane managed 10 goals from 32 games including setting the record for the leagues fastest hat-trick. The 23 year old hasn't exactly set the world alight, since arriving from Salzburg at the start of last season, however his pace and flexibility to play upfront as a striker, out wide on either wing or just in behind the striker, might just have tickled Van Gaals fancy, especially as he is known for preferring "Multifunctional players over specialists"

Could Man Utd have gotten Muller?

"Whether we can win the title is dependable if we can buy players with speed and creativity" said Louis Van Gaal earlier this summer and whilst Mane certainly fits the bill of excellent pace, fans may question whether he has the quality to compete at a club like Manchester United and supply goals regularly. Additionally with the apparent 'loss of interest' in Barcelona star Pedro, who had certainly proved himself with the current European champions,as well as the highly rumoured interest in Bayern Munich star man Thomas Muller, the pressure may be on Louis Van Gaal, especially if Saido Mane, if bought, doesn't deliver.