Football purist Wenger sticks up for United boss.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has surprisingly defended Manchester United for reverting to a long ball approach in their recent game against West Ham United, ESPN reports.
SEE ALSO:
Five Liverpool Academy Stars Who Could Be The Next Raheem Sterling Or Jordan Ibe
Usain Bolt Unimpressed By Manchester United Under Louis Van Gaal
Manchester United transfer news
The Red Devils were criticised by Sam Allardyce for their use of Marouane Fellaini as a target man, but Wenger feels it is normal for sides to vary their play, and particularly to revert to these tactics when there is a taller player upfront.
“There was no reason for Van Gaal to defend himself,” Wenger said.
“Players have an intelligence. A team plays naturally to its strong point and an intelligent team knows how to exploit the strong points.
“I don’t think Van Gaal said to them go longer. When they see [Marouane] Fellaini on the pitch, the guy at the back says, ‘Ah, I can kick it to Fellaini.’ Then [Robin] van Persie or [Wayne] Rooney can score the goal. This is normal.”
COMMENTS