Manchester United news: Marc Overmars labels criticism of Louis van Gaal is 'crazy'

Van Gaal's position as United manager has come into much scrutiny

Louis van Gaal looks on from the stands (EPA)

Marc Overmars has defended Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal, saying that it is "crazy" that he has received so much criticism this season.

Overmars's fellow Dutchman Van Gaal's position as United manager has been under much scrutiny this term, with the team falling off the pace in the Premier League as well as being eliminated from the Champions League at the group stage, despite spending £170m on new arrivals last summer.

“It’s crazy to criticise him so much already,” the 42-year-old Ajax director of football told The Sun.

“In football you need patience."

The former Arsenal winger, who won the Premier League with the Gunners in 1998, added: "They are building a new team. Yes, they have spent a lot of money, but leave him to do his job.

“He has had difficult times before in his career, but always comes through.

"He will survive and build a very strong team."

United are next in action against Norwich City on Saturday in the Premier League.