Louis van Gaal Defends His Decision To Play Rooney In Midfield

Louis van Gaal has finally opened up to the media after his side’s 3-1 victory over Burnley and expressed his views on the decision to play Wayne Rooney in midfield by saying that the United midfield needs plastering and the current England captain is the right man to do it.

The Dutch boss has opted to play Rooney, who is naturally a striker in a much deeper role in recent weeks and the 29 year old been struggling to find the net, due to this new role for him in midfield. United have been heavily criticized by fans and manager in recent weeks for not performing up to the level of expectations. However, Van Gaal suggests that the versatile nature of Rooney’s game provides the Dutchman more options to form a strong and stable midfield. In an pre-match interview  ahead of FA cup clash against Preston, he said,

“I have to look for the better balance and I think until now because of Rooney we have a better balance in midfield.”

“I was very pleased how he replaced Daley Blind in the number six position.”

“He showed composure and of course he was also today the Rooney that I want to see but he has showed that he can play in every position.”

“Maybe he can better play in a striker’s position but then I have a problem in midfield.”