Louis van Gaal claimed Manchester United ‘s devastating defeat was “influenced” by their team bus being attacked before the game last night.
West Ham fans terrorised the United coach outside Upton Park as it was ambushed with bottles and cans which led to kick-off being delayed after riot police were called in. The FA last night pledged a full investigation.
Van Gaal then watched as his side suffered a major setback in their hopes of finishing in the top four and the Dutchman insisted the party atmosphere inside the stadium for the last game at Upton Park helped West Ham.
United boss Van Gaal said: “We cannot cope with the circumstance before the match, that’s unusual. I’ve had that experience, but my players have not so it has an influence.
“I have a long experience in football, but there are players who don’t have that experience. It can have an influence, but we cannot look for excuses.
“You can make your own opinion. The images will tell everything. We live in this world. We know it can happen. It’s not the first time it’s happened.
“The emotion worked for West Ham. I said it beforehand and you have seen it. The fans were supporting from the first minute, which was a big influence. But as Manchester United you have to cope with that.”
The defeat leaves United’s top four hopes hanging by a thread as they must beat Bournemouth and hope Manchester City lose at Swansea.
But Van Gaal, whose job will be under threat if they finish outside the top four, insisted they can still get into the Champions League.
Van Gaal added: “In the last match of the season we can a still pass over Manchester City. They can lose and we can win. You can count I think. In this league it happens a lot. Swansea are on a good run.
“We have fought the whole season for qualification for the Champions League. Still we are fighting till the end. On the last day we can finish fourth, but now we depend on Man City. Before it was in our own hands so that’s a big difference.
“It’s a mental blow for the players, but against Bournemouth we have to give everything. We cannot give Man City a free trip to the Champions League.”
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