Man United fan in the stand: Van Gaal has brought confidence back but performances need to improve

After the start to the season that United had experienced, it would’ve taken an optimistic fan to say that at this stage we would be sitting third and just eight points behind leaders Chelsea.
Now, after a run of six consecutive wins culminating in the 3-0 home victory against Liverpool, the Reds are back in the top four.
Louis van Gaal has overseen a remarkable progression in consistency for United, and now we look like a team that could go on a trademark surge during the Christmas period.
Although the results prove that United have been the in-form team in the league, the performances have to be questioned.
In games against Arsenal and Liverpool we gave away numerous opportunities - thankfully, neither team capitalised.
Against Stoke we were a goal-line clearance away from dropping two points and it is baffling how we came away with three points from Southampton away.

The difference between United and those teams, however, is that when we were presented with goal-scoring chances we were clinical and converted them.
We weren’t taking our chances in the opening stages of the season, but now Van Gaal has instilled renewed confidence in the team.
The “never say die” attitude that was so evident during Sir Alex Ferguson’s time at the club appears to have returned.
Players who have been responsible for this run of results, for the most part, have played well.

 
Ashley Young has performed admirably at left-back, Antonio Valencia likewise at right-back, and Robin van Persie has rediscovered his goal-scoring touch.
But we cannot keep relying on playing players out of position and simply out-scoring the opponent – against better teams we will be found out.
I’ve heard fans saying it would be harsh for Van Gaal to drop Young or Valencia when Rafael and Luke Shaw return from injury – which is quite frankly ludicrous.
For United to even cement a top four position, let alone challenge for the title, we need a fully fit squad.
We need strength in depth in all positions throughout the season, and we also need a settled defence.
David de Gea has had to play behind numerous defensive combinations during this season, and for a goalkeeper consistency in defence is vital.
It's no wonder that the Spaniard has been lauded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world after his heroics week after week, given that we cannot seem to stop giving away needless opportunities to our opponents.
I’d like to think that we’ll be able to strengthen our squad in January, but I just can’t see it happening.
Roma’s exit from the Champions League has further fuelled rumours of Kevin Strootman joining, speculation has circled around Diego Godin and his €28 million buy-out clause, and Mats Hummels continues to be linked with a move to Old Trafford.
Out of the three of them I would sign Hummels and Strootman, but which club would realistically sell their star players now?
Roma may be out of the Champions League, but after only signing Strootman last year and with the continued speculation surrounding the Dutchman, a high asking price is likely.
Why would Godin leave Atletico Madrid, who are still challenging for domestic and European honours?
And, although Dortmund are in the middle of a relegation battle in the Bundesliga, now is probably not the best time to let go of arguably their best centre-back.
Whoever United decide to go after you can be sure that we will be held to ransom and expected to part with sizable transfer fees.
For now, the most important aspect for United to focus on is keeping as many players fit and keeping pace with Chelsea and City.
The Christmas fixtures look to be an opportunity to gain maximum points, with away games against Spurs and Stoke arguably the most difficult games.
Van Gaal can marvel at what he has been able to achieve so far with United, but he knows there are still improvements to make if we are to maintain a top four position and possibly challenge for a 21st league title.
Silly errors must be stopped, defensive solidity must return, and our ruthless manner in front of goal must continue.