Louis van Gaal challenges players to prove they belong at Man Utd
Tuesday 8 December 2015 23:20, UK
Louis van Gaal has challenged his players to prove they belong at Manchester United by defeating Wolfsburg on Tuesday night.
United could be sent crashing out of the Champions League if they fail to win in Germany and Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven are victorious at home against CSKA Moscow.
Such an outcome would be disastrous for Van Gaal's goal-shy United, and he has urged his players to take the game to Wolfsburg and prove their quality by getting the win they need to ensure their progression to the last 16.
"It's very important for the club to continue in the Champions League also for the players because they want to show their qualities at the highest podium," Van Gaal said.
"You have to prove yourselves, as a club, as a team and as players. We can't rely on the result of the other game."
United come into the game off the back of a disappointing scoreless draw - their fifth in nine games - against West Ham on Saturday.
Much of the burden to end United's poor run of scoring will fall on the shoulders of young Frenchman Anthony Martial, who is the only recognised striker in Van Gaal's 19-man squad with Wayne Rooney out injured.
After bursting onto the scene with a wonder goal against Liverpool and two against Southampton, the 20-year-old has failed to score in eight full Premier League games since but Van Gaal insists United fans must be patient.
"He's very talented but only 20 years old," Van Gaal said of Martial. "We have to give him time.
"That is always difficult when you are playing for a team like Manchester United because the expectations are very high.
"But I am convinced he shall continue with his performances and also that he will score at the right moments again.
"You cannot expect a player of 20 years old to score in the Premier League every week."
United's lack of goals have been a major source of frustration for many of the club's fans and an exit from the Champions League on Tuesday would ramp up the pressure on Van Gaal.
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However, the Dutchman is adamant it is only a matter of time before the goals start flowing and is hopeful it can happen against Wolfsburg.
"You never know that for sure but I have the experience as a manager that the goals shall come," insisted Van Gaal.
"When you are creating chances you will score and finish those kind of chances, we have that belief. It's a matter of time and I hope that we can prove it tomorrow."
