The Daily Mail have managed to get Manchester United fans rolling their eyes and voicing their disapproval here in the Football Transfer Tavern as they report on Louis van Gaal’s latest comments.
The Manchester United boss was talking ahead of tonight’s FA Cup clash with Preston North End and was once again asked about where he will be playing Wayne Rooney after England boss Roy Hodgson called for the United skipper to be utilised in his best position as a number nine.
The Dutchman claimed: “The composition of the team is more important than the individual player. I am sorry but that’s the way it is. Rooney probably gives more contribution to Mr Hodgson playing in a striker’s position, and I’d also put him there if I was coach of England.”
We have to say that on one level, we have to agree with the United boss. Rooney is certainly one of the best (well, only) proven forward options England have but the case is different at United.
That said, Hodgson will be able to select from the likes of Harry Kane, Danny Ings and Saido Berahino who have developed tenfold since the last Three Lions fixture.
Considering Rooney is now playing in midfield when Robin van Persie is injured and struggling for form when fit, not to mention the fact that Radamel Falcao is hardly a world beater, we think that should another forward come in during the summer transfer window, Roy Hodgson will have to prepare for Rooney playing in midfield in the run up to Euro 2016.
