LVG admits not all players knew United had ten men
Went off injured
By Chris
April 12 2015
Louis van Gaal confirmed that not all of his players were aware that United played the closing stages of Sunday’s 4-2 derby win with 10-men.
With the score at 4-1, Michael Carrick hobbled off with an injury in the closing stages of Sunday’s game.
United had already made all three of their allotted substitutions prior to Carrick’s exit – a decision van Gaal harshly describes as “little bit stupid” after he involved Marcos Rojo, Radamel Falcao and Angel di Maria from the bench.
“I must bring Carrick off the pitch, because he was a little bit injured,” said van Gaal, speaking to Sky Sports after the game.
He added: “Some players didn’t know we played with 10 men,” and admitted it was “difficult” to ensure all players knew of the change in circumstances – though Wayne Rooney and Ashley Young were both aware.
Boasting a numerical advantage, Sergio Aguero grabbed a late goal for the visitors, but United held on for a famous victory, making it six Premier League triumphs on the bounce, and opening up a four-point lead over the bitter Blues.