Monday, 20th October, 2014
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal admits he has now learned that he cannot pick only creative players in the Premier League and needs to add a dose of physicality.
Van Gaal saw his side fall behind after just eight minutes against West Brom this evening when Stephane Sessegnon curled the ball home with a well-taken finish from outside the box.
Van Gaal was quickly seen talking to Marouane Fellaini on the bench and drafted the Belgian in for Ander Herrera in the second half.
The Belgian quickly made his presence felt, drawing the visitors level in the 48th minute, showing power and strength throughout, making life uncomfortable for the Baggies defenders.
However, West Brom would not lie down and Saido Berahino broke through the Manchester United defence and slotted the ball past David de Gea in the 66th minute.
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Van Gaal's men kept fighting and a well-placed shot from Daley Blind with just three minutes left ensured the game ended 2-2.
And the Dutchman feels he has learned a vital lesson now.
"After 30 minutes [I chose to bring Fellaini on]", he told Sky Sports.
"I said to him, look at what Ander Herrera is doing because I want you to play, but I put him at the other side because [Angel] di Maria has the crosses for it and he scored at once.
"Herrera played normal, not very good, but normal.
"We also have to look for physical balance and maybe that's our problem.
"I'm a coach who is always thinking about creative players, but in England you need also physical bodies in your team.
"I'm looking for balance."
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