Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal joined the growing list of critics slamming the Premier Leagues busy Christmas period. United are preparing to embark on six league matches in December, starting with the visit of Stoke City to Old Trafford on Tuesday. The Manchester club will also play three Premier League games in the space of eight days over Christmas - Aston Villa (December 20), Newcastle United (December 26) and Tottenham (December 28). Southampton boss Ronald Koeman was scathing of the heavy fixture list last week, labelling it as crazy. And while the situation is far from ideal for Van Gaal and his players, the 63-year-old Dutchman is willing to adapt to life in Englands top flight. I cannot change it, I dont think it is good for the players that they play within two days of a match, said Van Gaal. December shall be like that, and we have also family. I also have a wife, and kids and grandchildren and I cannot see them at Christmas. But, I want to work in the Premier League so I have to adapt and I shall adapt. Despite failing to qualify for the Champions League this season, the Dutch coach doubts a lack of continental fixtures will aid United in a potential title challenge. When asked whether the extra rest would beneift his squad, he answered: No, I don’t think so. It depends on the injuries and the other clubs are also used to playing in the Champions League. “You cannot say Chelsea are not used to playing in the Champions League, the Premier League, the League Cup and the FA Cup. They are used to that and they have all those selections for that. “When you are challenged during the whole season, you become better and we have to train to become better. It’s a longer way to improve than if you play games against top opponents.” United - fourth in the table - host Stoke after winning three straight games.
Posted on: Mon, 01 Dec 2014 10:35:35 +0000
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015