Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has hailed Ander Herrera for his Man of the Match performance in Saturday’s 3-0 victory over Hull City.
The Spanish midfielder was introduced for the injured Angel Di Maria on 14 minutes. The youngster contributed well enough and, even assisted Robin van Persie for his first goal in four matches.
“I have to say Herrera came in and did fantastic, I was very pleased with how he did.” the boss told MUTV. “He is a very fit player which is why I also let him play in the Reserves. I’m very happy for him because he needed a good performance.”
The Dutch boss’ philosophy looks to be transforming United into a more dominant side, especially at Old Trafford.
Aside Herrera’s introduction, Di Maria’s absence was countered by the presence of four midfielders in Van Gaal’s line up. Michael Carrick, Juan Mata, Herrera and Marouane Fellaini worked in tandem with one another towards ameliorating any adverse effect from the absence of the Argentine, whose 20 assists is the highest across Europe top-flight leagues so far this season.
Hull were however far from their best but the Red Devils’ all-round display translated to a deserved three points, much to the satisfaction of the 63-year-old.
“I was very pleased with our dominance in the whole game and also with our positional game,” Van Gaal noted. “We scored three goals, created more chances, and we didn’t give any chances away – that’s very good.”
Van Persie had been subjected to few criticisms following his 13-touch cameo in the club’s first away victory at Arsenal a week ago. The Netherlands international responded with a superb strike from the edge of the box which flew into the top corner.
Van Gaal was pleased to see the former Arsenal striker scoring again- his second goal in seven matches this season.
“Of course it is a confidence boost for him,” Van Gaal added on Van Persie’s strike.
“He scored three goals on the training ground so I had a good feeling for him. But a striker always needs a goal and I’m pleased he scored today.”
