Despite of being undefeated in their last six matches in all competitions, the Red Devils have hardly seemed like a top side and have struggled when playing against teams of a lower stature. They were given a hard time by League Two side Cambridge United in the last round of the FA Cup, after the first match ended in a 0-0 draw. The Red Devils were however able to earn retribution in the replay winning the match by a 3-0 score line.
Van Gaal's tactics and style of play have not been well received by a section of the Man United fans, which also includes former player Paul Scholes who branded United's style of play as "miserable". Van Gaal has dismissed the comments made by the former midfielder and has also admitted that he is yet to find a balance in his side, but has expressed his satisfaction over the recent results.
"I don't worry about it, it's not so interesting I think because he is one of the fans and fans can criticise. I am used to it and I think all the players are used to it because they are not first-time professional football players. Maybe some players are not affected, most of the time it does not affect me or the players," he said.
"I have played now already five or six systems and I am looking still for the balance," he added. "This system is more balanced than normally and I can play with more attacking players.
"In spite of the fact that we are looking for the balance, our results are not bad and our defensive organisation is not bad -- we also score a lot of goals. So, I cannot say that I am very disappointed about that."
Preston on the other hand have won all of their last three matches in all competitions, a run which has enhanced their chances of a promotion from League One this season.
Robin Van Persie could miss Man United's FA Cup fifth round tie, which means that captain Wayne Rooney could be asked to lead the attack for the Red Devils. Van Gaal is also likely to be without both Phil Jones and Daley Blind, with the latter's inclusion in the squad dependent on a late fitness test.
Preston North End vs Manchester United team sheets
Preston North End's lineup: Stuckmann, Clarke, Huntington, Wright, Laird, Humphrey, Welsh, Kilkenny, Gallagher, K. Davies, Garner.
Man United's lineup: De Gea, Valencia, Smalling, Rojo, Shaw, Blind, Herrera, Rooney, Fellaini, Di Maria, Falcao.
Preston North End's bench: to follow.
Man United's bench: Valdes, Evans, McNair, Januzaj, Mata, Young, Wilson.
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