• Premier League

Zaha: I can rescue my United career under Van Gaal

ESPN staff
July 31, 2014
Wilfried Zaha impressed during a cameo during Manchester United's pre-season friendly with Inter Milan © Getty Images
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Wilfried Zaha claims he can revive his Manchester United career under new manager Louis van Gaal after the Dutchman's predecessor, David Moyes, gave him "no chance".

Zaha's future at Old Trafford has looked decidely uncertain and Van Gaal omitted the striker from United's first two pre-season matches during their tour of America. However, he impressed during a 45-minute cameo in the 0-0 draw with Inter Milan on Monday and believes he can thrive in the club's new era.

"Last season I had no chance, but this season anything can happen," Zaha said. "It's a clean slate for me. I've worked on aspects of my game and one thing is just keeping it simple. Losing the ball is not going to help your team, so I am trying to change that.

"At Manchester United there are quality players and if you get your chance, you have to take it. Any chance I get I will try and make the most of it.

"You get ups and downs. The season before at [Crystal] Palace was great but last season was a bad one. I have started off fresh this time."

Following his stuttering start under Moyes, the 21 year old recently said his new manager had restored a "nice vibe" at United. Van Gaal, for his part, says Zaha still has a future at the club despite questions marks over his attitude.

"Van Gaal has let me know that he believes in me," Zaha said. "I can't tell what's going to happen with the club in the future, but we have a great manager and I'm sure he will change things here.

"He'll tell you exactly how he wants it. He won't beat about the bush or not tell you anything. He will just tell you, and that helps you instead of isolating you. He will let you know exactly where you are and what you're doing wrong. There was so much pressure on Moyes last season, so I can't really blame him.

"I could have got a better chance, but coming to United brings a load of pressure. To be honest, if you are not the manager's cup of tea, you can't do anything about it. There was nothing I could do about it.

"It was definitely not my attitude, but when things aren't going well, all sorts of stories come out about you. The manager had his way of playing and maybe I just didn't suit it."

Zaha, bought by Sir Alex Ferguson for £15 million from Crystal Palace in January 2013, featured in just four games under Moyes last season and was eventually loaned to Cardiff.

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