Cape Town - Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has admitted he is facing the toughest challenge of his managerial career after being left with only one fit centre-back for tomorrow's clash against West Ham at Old Trafford.
Having lost Phil Jones, Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling to injury and Tyler Blackett to suspension, Van Gaal could be forced to move midfielder Darren Fletcher into the back four or give youngsters Paddy McNair or Tom Thorpe a go alongside Rojo.
According to the Telegraph, the former Dutch coach admits that with United's worst ever start to a Premier League campaign and a prolonged injury crisis, he is now facing the toughest challenge of his career.
“I have to admit that I have never been in this situation before, so it is strange," Van Gaal said.
“All of the three right-sided centre-halves are out”.
“The younger players can pick their chances now and that’s also the policy of this club.
“You have to be fit and I always trust younger players. The youngsters are ready. They are always ready".
The Dutchman will look to overcome these shortcoming at home to West Ham on Saturday, but admits the club is still in transition and it will take time to iron out.
“We can overcome this and we have to remember that the season lasts more than one competition day.”
Having lost Phil Jones, Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling to injury and Tyler Blackett to suspension, Van Gaal could be forced to move midfielder Darren Fletcher into the back four or give youngsters Paddy McNair or Tom Thorpe a go alongside Rojo.
According to the Telegraph, the former Dutch coach admits that with United's worst ever start to a Premier League campaign and a prolonged injury crisis, he is now facing the toughest challenge of his career.
“I have to admit that I have never been in this situation before, so it is strange," Van Gaal said.
“All of the three right-sided centre-halves are out”.
“The younger players can pick their chances now and that’s also the policy of this club.
“You have to be fit and I always trust younger players. The youngsters are ready. They are always ready".
The Dutchman will look to overcome these shortcoming at home to West Ham on Saturday, but admits the club is still in transition and it will take time to iron out.
“We can overcome this and we have to remember that the season lasts more than one competition day.”