Manchester United hero Paul Scholes blames Louis van Gaal's philosophy for fan criticism

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes thinks Louis van Gaal's style of play, rather his results, is to blame for fans' unhappiness. The Dutchman has come under huge pressure following a string of disappointing results and performances this season, and Scholes thinks Van Gaal's outlook must change if he is to remain in charge.

It has been widely speculated that Van Gaal will be replaced by Jose Mourinho for the next campaign. However, Scholes feels some astute signings and a change in style could help United to bridge the gap between themselves and Premier League table-champions Leicester City.

"I think there's a lot of talent in the squad, it's probably just the way they've been playing that hasn't been entertaining enough," the former United star told Sky Sports. "There are players in the squad who have been at other clubs and have played different ways and can entertain."

Scholes hopes to see an improvement in the signings United made last summer, while he also called on Van Gaal to play a more expansive style. "There's a lot of talent, there are lads who have been there a year now, like Memphis and [Morgan] Schneiderlin, and hopefully we'll be better next year," he said.

"I don't think there's major surgery needed − I think we need a striker and a centre-half and maybe a little bit of creativity in midfield and if we can find that and maybe a different style of playing football, I think United fans will be happy."

Scholes argued United fans would be willing to indulge some of their poor results if the general entertainment level was higher. United have scored just 44 goals in 36 league games this season, the same as Bournemouth.

"I think they'd be happy with this season to be honest, if it was just a little bit more entertaining," Scholes said. "OK you don't want to be finishing fourth, you want to be fighting for the league, but that's just where we're at, at the minute, fighting for Champions League, for fourth spot and in with a chance of winning the FA Cup. Hopefully next year will be different."