Once again, flexibility and fluidity can be called into question. Given that the likes of Ashley Young and Antonio Valencia are being given second chances to impress at wing-back, Van Gaal has a whole host of personnel who are willing to give their all for the cause regardless of position. Either wing-back could be pushed higher to peg back the opposition full-backs as wingers, while Danny Welbeck has shown that he is capable of pressing extremely well from a wide position while playing for England - should Van Gaal wants to withdraw a striker somewhat mid-game. Again, creativity from central midfield through either Mata or Herrera will be key to bringing the lone striker into play. Something as plain as a 4-3-3 might not be realistic, but there is basis for the idea to morph from or into the 4-1-2-3 utilised by Van Gaal during his time at Camp Nou. In Michael Carrick or new vice-captain Fletcher, the Man United coach has an anchorman, with either Marouane Fellaini, Herrera or Mata able to provide the forward runs required in support. Both Welbeck and Rooney have been shoe-horned into wider positions when required on international duty, so either Englishman could be asked to work for the collective as inside-forwards, allowing for space for Shaw, Valencia or Rafael to gallop into the vacuums of space left on the flanks.
