Man Utd boss reveals why duo didn't start at Watford and explains 18-year-old's inclusion

Louis van Gaal explains first-team selection at Watford

LOUIS VAN GAAL has explained why he didn't pick striker James Wilson and defender Marcos Rojo in yesterday's defeat of Watford.

 

Wilson was unavailable for the 2-1 win at Vicarage Road after picking up a knock in training and severely lacked match fitness.

Van Gaal instead decided to take 18-year-old academy product Marcus Rashford, who was named in the match day squad for the first time.

 

While jet-lag forced Rojo to the bench following his time with the Argentina squad over the international break.

"Wilson had a swollen knee after training," Van Gaal explained. "I did not play Rojo also because when you have jet-lag you cannot play.

 

James Wilson was unavailable for the trip to Watford

 

Marcos Rojo was brought on against Watford

"Wilson did not play for six weeks, so you cannot play in the Premier League without match rhythm; you have seen with Memphis that in the second half he was less [effective].

The Dutchman added: "I had Rashford on the bench, a fantastic talent, but Wilson has more experience in the league."