Marouane Fellaini: Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says he will play as a striker this season

Toweing Belgian will be playing in advanced position

Maroaune Fellaini scores against Club Brugge last week (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has revealed that Marouane Fellaini, usually deployed as a midfielder, will spend most of this season in an advanced role up front.

United sold Robin van Persie this summer and did not pursue Radamel Falcao after his loan ended, meaning the club only have Wayne Rooney and James Wilson as their strikers.

Fellaini has played in the target-man role before, while he was at Everton.

"He can play as a No 9 and a No 10, and he can also play as a No 6 and No 8," Van Gaal said ahead of the club's Champions League play-off second-leg tie against Club Brugge, which takes place tonight. Fellaini scored United's third in their 3-1 first-leg win last week.

"This year he will play more as a No 9 and No 10 rather than 6 and 8 because there we have other players."

Fellaini says he will have no problems adjusting to the role.

"In the past I have played No 9 and No 10. I have to help the team. I can play there," he said.

"It's not important where I play, the most important thing is to win the game. Of course it's different but I enjoy all the positions I can play in."