Louis van Gaal criticises Manchester United’s inability to score as he says they were ‘not good enough’

The Dutchman's comments followed his side's 1-0 defeat to West Brom

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal (Getty Images)

West Brom midfielder Darren Fletcher thinks the game plan to frustrate Manchester United worked to perfection in the 1-0 win at Old Trafford.

Fletcher, who left Old Trafford for the Baggies earlier this year, oversaw a win which came thanks to Chris Brunt's free-kick, which was deflected in by team-mate Jonas Olsson.

Robin van Persie, making his first start since February 21, then missed a penalty for the hosts shortly after Albion took the lead.

Defeat leaves Manchester United in danger of missing out on an automatic Champions League spot, while West Brom are on a three-match unbeaten run.

"We knew it was going to be difficult," Fletcher told Sky Sports 1. "But everyone defended for their lives. It was fantastic.

"We frustrated them. We always believed we'd score off a chance or set-piece; thankfully that worked today.

"We spoke about trying to win individual battles. Boaz (Myhill) has saved a penalty as well. Sometimes you need that. The game plan to frustrate them and sneak a goal worked."

United manager Louis van Gaal has now seen his side lose three games on the bounce - previous defeats having come at Chelsea and Everton.

However, despite being unable to make full use of their domination on Saturday, Van Gaal felt the Reds could also point to a bit of hard luck.

Robin van Persie reacts after his penalty is saved (Getty Images)

"It's difficult because when you are attacking all of the match and when you are not scoring, then it is very disappointing," the Dutchman said.

"It is, of course, also defending of West Bromwich Albion, also a fantastic goalkeeper today, and (our) finishing was not good enough.

"You can say a lot of things, but I (have) seen a team that fights till the end, that attacks 90 minutes. And one free-kick is enough to beat us.

"You can also say we were a little bit unlucky. But that is not enough. You have to score out of your possibilities. The chances today were great enough for me."

PA