New Delhi :
Low-scoring Manchester United need clinical finishers if they want to pose a serious title challenge in the English Premier League, said the club’s former striker Louis Saha.
“They are not scoring but things are coming along. They need players for that. The players upfront are not competing at the right level,” said the 37-year-old Saha on the sidelines of a promotional event for Chevrolet.
With mere 31 goals in 24 matches this season, Louis van Gaal’s side has the lowest scoring tally among the top seven teams in the points table.
Especially at Old Trafford, their home ground, the Red Devils have found the back of the net a mere 15 times in 12 matches. The lack of goals has left supporters frustrated, prompting them to label the Red Devils ‘boring’.
Van Gaal has especially been ridiculed for his defensive style of play and less number of strikes at the goal resulting in seven draws this season.
“They are asked to take shots 30 yards from the goalpost while they should be asked to go near the box. These things need to be changed,” said Saha.
The Dutch coach’s decision to let go of misfiring Argentinian winger Angel de Maria and Mexican Chicharito, who since their exits from Old Trafford seem to have rediscovered their forms for their new clubs, have also added to his woes. However, Sasha was not dismissive of van Gaal and said the Dutch was also making some positive changes in the club.
“He is making tactics to suit the team and (is trying to) get results. He is not doing great but he is not doing bad at all,” said Saha.
Despite his criticism of the Manchester United’s forwards, the French was all praise for his compatriot Anthony Martial, a relatively obscure 19-year-old forward who was brought to the Old Trafford during last summer transfer for an estimated whopping USD 31 million.
Martial has since scored 6 goals in 19 games for United.
“I was not surprised as he was one of the finest talents in Europe for sure. He needs time to get to 20 goals a season. That’s something he needs to work on. Otherwise, he is very consistent, both mentally and physically.”
About France’s chances in the forthcoming Euro Championship 2016, Shah said he’d support the team but was skeptical about its chances to lift the trophy.
“Few good games at group stage would be crucial (for France) as they have a relatively easy group. It will help players in gaining confidence. They have chance but they are not ready (to win the Euro cup),” said Saha.
Batting for more international experience for the Indian footballers, Saha said India needs to be patient while providing top coaching and exposure to its footballers.
Saha, who played for Manchester United for four years from 2004 to 2008 reminisced his time at Old Trafford and said winning the Champions League trophy in 2007-08 was the best moment of his career.
