Manchester United rattle Real Madrid to reach final

With Van Gaal claiming compatriot Van Persie will be not be starting the season until he is fully fit, and Welbeck now a potential injury concern, this could be the Mexican striker’s chance to stake a claim for a starting spot.

In the second half, after Jonny Evans’ departure, Phil Jones, still just 22 years of age, became the senior defender in a back three that also contained youngsters Michael Keane and Tyler Blackett.

Van Gaal still seems to be aware of the need for another experienced option in his backline, though. Commenting after the game: “They [Blackett and Keane] can do the job but they cannot do the job for a lot of matches. They can do it for one match and maybe when you give them more the experience will increase.”

Jones took to his role as mentor well, and put in an excellent shift, as United were rarely troubled at the back. Former Blackpool loanee Blackett looked particularly cool and composed in possession again, increasing speculation he may be kept in the senior squad to provide cover as a genuine left footed central defender and full back.

Young Keane did struggle at times against Bale’s raw pace, though, eventually dragging the rapid Welshman down and conceding a penalty, which the former Spurs star dispatched with ease. However, despite clawing one back, even a cameo from Ronaldo was not enough to rescue a result for the Spanish capital club.

Darren Fletcher also contributed another dominating display in midfield and, along with Kagawa, Young and Hernandez, highlighted the effect of Van Gaal’s methods on players previously believed to be below standard.

Academy star Jesse Lingard also turned in a promising performance when replacing Antonia Valencia as right wing back. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder thrived under the responsibility, and looked to be quite the creative outlet, in what was an unfamiliar role.

United will now clash with Liverpool, who are available at 9/4 to win, in the final. It will no doubt be a stern test for the Red Devils and their new formation, against an opposition who will be determined to take bragging rights back to Anfield.

New boss Van Gaal was still quick to temper expectations, though, playing down the significance of the grudge match: “It’s preparation time. So, also for the opponents its preparation. It doesn’t say anything but it is better to win than lose.”

It will be the Dutch coach’s first experiment against Premier League opposition with United, and the pace of Liverpool on the flanks will surely be a challenge to those deployed in the wing back roles. However, if United can create more chances, like the beautiful opening team goal against Real, fans can have every reason to be confident.