Shot-shy Reds need a boost

LOUIS van Gaal has reminded his critics that Old Trafford “wasn’t always the Theatre of Dreams.”

United topped the table at the end of September, but their form has dipped recently. Van Gaal’s men have recorded three consecutive 0–0 draws against Manchester City, Crystal Palace and Middlesbrough, who knocked United out of the Capital One Cup on penalties.

If United end with another clean sheet tonight against CSKA Moscow, it will be the first time they haven’t scored in four consecutive games in 23 years.

Van Gaal has reminded doubters that United have not always enjoyed unbridled success: “It is only a moment in the process. We have stood first in the Premier League. Now we have a bad period when you don’t score because football is about scoring goals.”

Midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin could still feature in tonight’s match against CSKA despite missing training for “personal reasons.”

Right–back Antonio Valencia is expected to miss the game with a foot problem.