As we approach the halfway point of the Premier League season we reflect on the ups and downs, successes and failures of the last five months.

TODAY 

Louis van Gaal appreciates Alex Ferguson’s praise, but admits he will always be under pressure to match the Scot’s achievements at Manchester United.

We played like Christmas turkeys…

Aston Villa 1 Manchester United 1

Louis van Gaal will not make a call on Radamel Falcao’s future until the striker has an extended run in the Manchester United first team.

Another year, another sack of books.

David de Gea grabbed the headlines last weekend after another stunning performance frustrated Liverpool and handed Manchester United three points.

Liverpool: Rodgers’ work is almost complete

Manchester United 3 Liverpool 0

Louis van Gaal watched Manchester United thump arch-rivals Liverpool to strength their grip on returning to the Champions League but claims he is still searching for more from his players.

Nine months after David Moyes controversially, and fatally, claimed Liverpool were ‘favourites’ when they visited Old Trafford in March, Manchester United have finally regained their self respect – and some of their lost stature – with a revenge victory that now puts Brendan Rodgers under the microscope instead.

Leinster 14 Harlequins 13

Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert has vehemently denied accusations that Roy Keane, pictured, created an explosive training ground feud with Gabriel Agbonlahor and clashed with Fabian Delph.

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has confirmed his former assistant Roy Keane did turn up at midfielder Tom Cleverley’s house this week.

Radamel Falcao would love to stay at Manchester United but admits a permanent move to Old Trafford is likely to depend on how much he plays from now until the end of the season.

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge will continue his rehabilitation from a thigh injury in the United States over Christmas.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has dismissed claims of dressing-room unrest as "totally untrue".

Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera has said his "conscience is totally clear" despite being named in a match-fixing probe in Spain.

Sheffield United 1 Southampton 0