Man United are still in the title race despite EIGHT-POINT gap, insists Louis van Gaal - and Fellaini is undroppable

Marouane Fellaini has become undroppable for Manchester United, according to Louis van Gaal.

Fellaini has emerged as a key man for United, scoring in their 3-0 win over Tottenham and playing a key role in a 2-1 win over Liverpool.

The midfielder continued his good form with three goals in two games for Belgium on international duty, with Van Gaal admitting he cannot afford to drop him.

"When he plays like he is playing now, I cannot change him," said Van Gaal.

"I have heard a lot of stories about him, but from the first training session he did everything I have asked of him.

"He was open and he wants to perform, so I am not surprised [about his form].


"He had an unlucky season last year because he was injured a lot of times and ill a lot of times.

"But when he was fit he has always played for me, more or less.

"I was looking for a balance in the team and he can give that balance."

United are currently fourth, eight points behind Chelsea, with a game in hand.

But Van Gaal believes United can still win the title, against all the odds.

"We can still win the title," said Van Gaal. "Mathematically we can still do it."

Robin van Persie remains sidelined with an ankle injury, but Luke Shaw could return from a hamstring problem for tomorrow's visit of Aston Villa.

Van Gaal said of United's improved form: "You never know we shall be fighting for prizes. When we had 16 points out of out 11 games, there was a lot of criticism I said we will be fighting to the end of the season.

"It's still a rat race. Tottenham and Liverpool are still in it, but we have given them a blow. But we have to play against the first three still, so a lot can happen.

"We are working day in and day out, and we have to see how the players respond. How I train is not easy for players, it's a process.

"Maybe we are in the last step of the process. I hope so. What I have seen in the last five matches, I think so, but we need to continue, because if you lose two games in a row you might be fourth.

"I have thought after the Liverpool game that the international break was not the right moment for us, but I am pleased to see my players in their national teams, confirming our view of the players.

"Every game a player plays can give him confidence. The players need recovery, but with those who could train we gave a very good training session.

"I have a good feeling we can continue this way against Aston Villa, but they are a difficult team - every team in England can beat you.”

Is Marouane Fellaini undroppable?