Louis van Gaal has admitted that today’s draw with league leaders Leicester City represents a major blow to Manchester United‘s hopes of securing a top four finish.
United took the lead against the Foxes courtesy of a goal from Anthony Martial, but Leicester levelled through Wes Morgan and managed to hold on despite the dismissal of Danny Drinkwater.
Van Gaal’s side received a boost, however, after Manchester City were beaten 4-2 by Southampton. United are currently four points adrift of their rivals with a game in hand.
Speaking after United’s game, van Gaal told the club’s official website: “It is a big blow and it shall be very tough. It is also dependable on the result of Manchester City at Southampton, but I have said we have to win all of the matches because we have to close the gap. Now the pressure is less high for Manchester City than it was before the match against Leicester.”
There were some positives to take from United’s display, particularly the performance of Martial, who has enjoyed an excellent first campaign at the club.
Even if they do miss out on the top four, there is still a chance that United could finish the campaign positively as they take on Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final later this month.
Van Gaal, meanwhile, has insisted that he will remain at United next season despite persistent speculation linking Jose Mourinho with the managerial position at Old Trafford.
United have three Premier League fixtures remaining this season- against Norwich City, West Ham United and Bournemouth- and, given the improvements they have made recently, van Gaal’s side will be capable of concluding the campaign strongly.
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