Louis Van Gaal denies Wayne Rooney worries as Manchester United bid to rejoin European elite
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has dismissed concerns over skipper Wayne Rooney’s lack of goals so far this season as his side prepare for their Champions League play-off against Club Brugge at Old Trafford tonight.
Despite United recording back-to-back Premier League victories, England captain Rooney has failed to register a shot on target in either match, while he only touched the ball once in Aston Villa’s penalty area during Friday’s 1-0 win.
But Van Gaal offered a staunch defence of the 29-year-old, who has been restored to a central striking role this term after being deployed as a midfielder for much of the previous campaign.
“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. I cannot understand that,” said Van Gaal.
Belgian cup winners Club Brugge reached the last eight of the Europa League last season and were pipped to the title by Genk in a 10-match Championship play-off despite finishing top of the Jupiler Pro League.
“You cannot say it is not any pressure because they are a good team,” added Van Gaal. “We have to show our quality.”