Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal ‘has a lot of similarities’ to legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson, according to record appearances holder Ryan Giggs.
Not long into his first season in charge, Van Gaal’s United sit fourth in the Premier League after 12 games but are yet to replicate the performance levels of the side during Sir Alex’s 26-year reign.
The Dutchman took the job after Giggs enjoyed a brief spell as caretaker manager, and the 40-year-old assistant boss believes Van Gaal reflects aspects of Sir Alex.
“There are a lot of similarities to Sir Alex. He sets standards and if you drop below then he is not happy,” assistant manager Giggs told BBC Radio 5 live.
“His intensity and preparation reminds me of Sir Alex. He wants the same intensity as if it was a game.
“He demands that in every training session.”
The 62-year-old manager joined United after a successful World Cup in which he guided the Netherlands to third place.
Van Gaal surprised the football world when he substituted keeper Jasper Cillessen with just seconds remaining in their quarter-final against Costa Rica.
However the substitution paid off as Tim Krul saved two penalties to set up a semi-final with eventual runners up Argentina.
After a turbulent start to his United career, the Dutchman’s side moved into the Champions League qualification places with their first away win of the season at the Emirates.
However Giggs believes the club are still some way off runaway leaders Chelsea, who are 13 points clear of United.
“They are head and shoulders above anyone else at the moment,” added the Welshman.
“Their back four has not changed and they have consistency in their team.
“[At United] you are seeing attacking football, us trying to score goals and taking the risks but we have not been able to get any consistency due to injuries.”
Luke Shaw was forced off fifteen minutes into their 2-1 victory at Arsenal adding to a list off defensive injuries that already includes Marcos Rojo, Rafael, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans.
Chris Smalling, who has also bemoaned the club’s injury problems, is the only first choice defender currently available for selection by Van Gaal.
Main image courtesy of BBC via YouTube, with thanks.
