Manchester United: Is Marouane Fellaini the Man to Solve the Reds' Problems?

After a summer spending spree in which they spent big on Angel Di Maria, Ander Herrera and Daley Blind, Manchester United may find itself relying on forgotten man Marouane Fellaini for solid play in the centre of the park.

The Belgian endured a nightmarish first season under ex-boss David Moyes, who essentially gave up on the player towards the end of the season.

While new manager Louis van Gaal has no reason to give him a chance—he's merely been inherited from a previous manager—this lack of connection to the Belgian's spot in United's squad also gives him the freedom to play him while taking less blame.

Moyes constantly looked like an inept manager for splurging on what was a disappointing Fellaini last season. If he performs similarly under Van Gaal, the Dutchman will be cut far more slack, as he wasn't the one who brought him to United.

Fellaini has yet to start, and after forgettable appearances vs. Swansea City and Everton, he wasn't really on anyone's radar as a potentially important player for United. 

That changed against West Bromwich Albion.

The Belgian bruiser replaced Herrera and was given a full half to perform, showing instantly he could break up play in the centre like the Spaniard could not. While Herrera had zero tackles and zero aerial duels won in his one half of action, Fellaini posted three tackles and four aerial duels won. Additionally, he had three clearances, two chances created and a stunning goal within a minute of his arrival into the match. 

Jon Super/Associated Press/Associated Press

Fellaini's inventive, composed and physical play saw him impress many of his former doubters and register as United's highest-rated player from this game. 

While Fellaini's deftly taken goal won't be the expectation every time he steps on the field, he offers defensive solidity in the midfield better than anyone in United's squad, save maybe Blind. 

With Wayne Rooney, Di Maria, Radamel Falcao and Juan Mata on board, no one is doubting the Reds' ability to score goals. Rather, their defense has come under fire, with a leaky back line leading to losses against Swansea City and Leicester City and only two clean sheets in eight EPL matches. 

Van Gaal has recognized this problem, and while Herrera's playmaking presence in the midfield is a luxury, it is unreasonable to expect a team without balance to thrive, as Van Gaal mentioned after Monday's match, per Sky Sports (h/t Squawka): "We have to look for physical balance. I’m a coach who is always thinking in creative players but in England you also need physical bodies in your team and Fellaini is one of these."

After Fellaini's impressive performance vs. West Brom, don't be surprised if his defensive qualities lead him to getting the start against Chelsea and an improved campaign from last year.

Stats and info via WhoScored.com, Squawka, ESPN FC.