Manchester United vice-captain Darren Fletcher says learning a new formation and philosophy is hard work but give up and now and they may as well all go home.
United are still searching for their first win of the season after a 0-0 draw with Burnley at the weekend made it four games without a victory.
Midfielder Fletcher confesses that it has been a struggle for the team to adapt to their new 3-4-1-2 formation introduced by Louis van Gaal however the Scot is confident that the side can adjust to the new formation in time.
“It’s mentally challenging but that has always been the case,” Fletcher said when asked about the new formation.
“The players are learning a new system and developing ideas. It is going to make us better players in the long term.
“These things take time and we just have to keep believing in the manager’s philosophy and ideas.
“There are other things that come into it, it’s not just the system, but I am confident we will put things right.”
The total spent by the club so far is upwards of £130million with more additions expected to be made to the squad.
Dutch defender Daley Blind is expected to complete his move before the deadline later tonight.
Fletcher said Van Gaal is entitled to make big changes to the club after their disappointing season last year and their performances so far.
“The manager was very straight and forward with the players and I think the players appreciated that,” Fletcher said.
“You expect that after a disappointing season like last season.”
One positive to take from their weekend’s performance was the introduction of Angel Di Maria.
The Argentine winger, who only landed in Manchester on Tuesday, tested Burnley’s defence with his pace and accurate passes.
Fletcher thinks the £59.7million man will prove to be a top player for the club.
“I expect him to be a great player for United,” said the Scot.
“He is a fantastic player. He showed glimpses of what he has got.
“He is very powerful, dynamic, has an eye for a pass, and has an eye for goal.
“I thought he coped well with everything at Burnley, it’s not an easy introduction.
“He has given everyone a lift. It’s fantastic to have players like that and he will only improve us.”
Main image courtesy of Carl Recine/Action Images, with thanks.
