United short of strikers after James Wilson loaned out

MANCHESTER, AP:

AS the final whistle blew on Manchester United's fourth goalless draw in its last seven matches, the boos filling Old Trafford were another indicator of disenchantment about the team's playing style.

The bold, attacking approach in the long tenure of Alex Ferguson is nowhere to be seen at United these days, with caution appearing to reign under Louis van Gaal.

Former United midfielder Paul Scholes bemoaned the lack of goal threat, saying United is missing the attacking strength to be a threat in Europe this season. Fans on phone-ins said United had become boring, particularly considering the money the club has spent to restore its fortunes after David Moyes' ill-fated spell in charge.

"Of course (I am worried about the fans)," Van Gaal said yesterday, "because the fans have to be happy. You are playing for the fans, so you cannot deny that.

The shortage of goals came as a surprise when United announced Thursday that youngster James Wilson, one of only three out-and-out strikers in the squad, had joined second-tier club Brighton on loan for the rest of the season.

It leaves United with just Wayne Rooney and Anthony Martial as genuine strikers, and suggests Van Gaal will continue to use midfielders Marouane Fellaini and Memphis Depay as makeshift forwards this season.

One of the reasons Danny Welbeck was allowed to leave for Arsenal last season was because Van Gaal was excited at the progress of Wilson.

Wilson has played two games for United this season, and has scored four goals in 20 games overall.

Still, despite United's issues in attack, the team is second in the Premier League and will go to the top by beating first-place Leicester today.