Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt has dubbed Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal the perfect fit for legendary Sir Alex Ferguson’s enormous boots at Old Trafford.
The ex-player, who is now coaching the United reserve team, described the Dutchman as having a similar ‘aura’ to Ferguson and said when he walks into the building his presence is such that you know who is boss.
The 39-year-old told Manchester Evening News: “He is obviously a very in-control man. He has an aura about him.
“When he walks in the building, you know who the boss is, and I think that is very important.
“We had that with Sir Alex for all those years and I think we have that now with Van Gaal. He walks into the building and he commands your respect.”
Butt, who spent 12 years with the side and was a fan’s favourite , believes his club have landed themselves a hard taskmaster who will not stand for any less than 100% effort and commitment from his players – whom he won instant respect from the moment he arrived.
“All the players look up to him as the leader and that is how it should be.
“From afar, when I’ve looked at him it looks like he takes no messing about and if anyone doesn’t toe the line, I’m sure they will be out of the team.”
Van Gaal could not have made a better start since being instated as United manager last month. He has enjoyed a very successful pre-season tour with the side, completing an unbeaten run of fixtures in the USA including a 3-1 defeat of Champions League winners Real Madrid.
The straight-talking Dutchman has made instant changes to the side including a new formation of 3-4-1-2 which proved a hit during the Devils during pre-season. He has also made the carefully selected new signings of midfielder Ander Herrera and left-back Luke Shaw who will form part of his rejuvenated young squad moving into the season.