Lakshay Khurana
A perfect farewell to Boleyn Ground by West Ham United but a disappointing day for Van Gaal’s side. Two goals from Anthony Martial weren’t enough to keep Champions League dreams alive for the Red Devils. The FA Cup final is the only last hope to up this season’s performance for Manchester United.
Let’s take a look at few talking points from Tuesday’s game.
1. Anthony Martial is worth his price tag-
The French forward has done Van Gaal huge favours this season in return of the Dutch manager’s trust in him. The two goals by Martial prevented the dominated United from looking stupid on the pitch. He has scored many important goals and match winning goals this season. His performance against the Hammers could have been rated on the same levels but unlucky how his teammates couldn’t defend on the same level.
2. Farewell to Upton Park and Europa League participation-
Many memories have been made at the West Ham United’s stadium. Bilic’s side played their last game at that stadium in style and total domination.
A win against Stoke City on Sunday would guarantee West Ham’s participation in the UEFA Europa League.
3. Rooney not suited for a central midfield role-
Since his return from injury, Wayne Rooney has played thrice as a centre midfielder. The first one against Everton was no less than a class act by Rooney but eventually the skill to play as a Central Midfielder came out as a reality check for the skipper. Despite distributing top class accurate passes on the pitch, Rooney struggled to keep ball possession against West Ham United. He is certainly not the kind of player who takes less time on the ball and acts quickly. The England captain should stick on playing as a forward or in the no.10 role.
4. Is that it for LVG?
With chances already being less for Van Gaal to stay at Old Trafford for one more term, losing one of the most crucial games this season on Tuesday surely decreased his chances even further. Massively judged and criticised Dutch manager, can now most probably lose his job even though if his team manages to win the FA Cup and by heaven’s luck still get their spot in the top-four.
