Football
ESPN staff 9y

Sam Johnstone's agent criticises Man United manager Louis van Gaal

Louis van Gaal is holding back English talent, according to the agent of Manchester United goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.

Johnstone's agent, Jordan Segal, is angry at the lack of playing opportunities afforded to the shot-stopper so far this season.

The 22-year-old, who spent time on loan at Preston last season, is yet to make a first-team appearance for United, although he did feature during preseason.

Van Gaal has picked Sergio Romero as his No. 1 this campaign, overlooking David De Gea amid the uncertainty over his future.

But after the Spain international's transfer to Real Madrid failed to be completed on deadline day, Johnstone is now facing even more competition for places in 2015-16.

Segal said in the Daily Mail: "Sam just wants to play football but Manchester United are holding him back and not even playing him.

"He is a young goalkeeper and it is time for him to play regularly. If that is not at Manchester United, then it has to be elsewhere. This is an example of young English talent being held back by Van Gaal."

Segal added: "The start of the season was the perfect opportunity to give Sam his chance to prove he can play for United. He is ready.

"If they do not want him to play then he needs to move for the sake of his career. He cannot sit on the bench or in the reserves.

"England should have as many goalkeepers as possible to pick from. Given the early progress in his career that is the level he is aiming for. He is not going to get there by not playing."

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