FOUR things we have learnt about Louis Van Gaal:

1. He is not that different from Ferguson.

It didn’t take long for assistant manager Ryan Giggs to draw comparisons between Van Gaal’s standards and principles and those delegated by Ferguson in his era as United boss.

It takes a self-assured strong-willed boss like Van Gaal to understand the disarray that occurred following Ferguson’s exit.

The similarities are uncanny. Complete disregard of the media? Check. Willingness to put any of his players on blast if need be, but defends his team when necessary? Check. Feared? Well look at Fellaini.

2. He is barely phased or overwhelmed with the job at United:

Just like Ferguson, Van Gaal made a very poor start to his tenure in Manchester. But as opposed to finding a scapegoats or remaining gormless at interviews, Van Gaal has always been to quick to highlight the problem instead of waiting for the media locate it and sink their claws into the team.

His honesty has always made him a favourite of the critics, and his demeanour is that of a ‘just another day in the office’ type. He doesn’t simply look to win, he expects and wants to win with pizzazz His self-confidence has rubbed off at Old Trafford – to the staff, fans and players.

3. He is looking for success at United:

Daley Blind, Rojo, Herrera, Di Maria and Falcao – Van Gaal means business.

His team’s recent performances would have given United fans something to smile about and he’s brought a certain arrogance back to English football’s most successful team in recent history. Overcoming opponents and producing results in the face of adversity whilst playing below par and struggling with injuries is something that United fans will remember fondly from their time under Sir Alex Ferguson.

4. He expects patience from the United faithful:

Patience is what Van Gaal has worked towards this season; the United faithful have been through a lot and need reassurance. Van Gaal has offered this whilst acknowledging the scale of the job – his openness about this means that he has gained the trust of the fans.

Van Gaal very much seems like the man with a plan, which looks to stabilise the present whilst cementing the future. His first season will be a good barometer to measure his success for years to come.

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