Last updated on .From the section Man Utd

United lost on penalties to Middlesbrough in the League Cup on Wednesday

Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes says he "would not enjoy" playing in Louis van Gaal's side.

United lost a penalty shootout to Middlesbrough in the League Cup on Wednesday after a goalless 120 minutes at Old Trafford.

Scholes praised United's defence saying they are "coached brilliantly" but bemoaned the team's style of play.

"There's a lack of creativity and risk," said Scholes, who played 718 games for United.

Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester he added: "It's a team now you wouldn't want to play against because they're tightly organised.

"But it seems he (Van Gaal) doesn't want players to beat men and it's probably not a team I'd have enjoyed playing in."

United are fourth in the Premier League table, two points behind leaders Manchester City, but have now failed to score in their last two games - and Van Gaal has admitted the lack of goals is "a concern".

United have scored 15 league goals this season, the lowest among the top four.

Captain Wayne Rooney, who missed a penalty in Wednesday's shootout, has drawn criticism for his performances this season after just two goals in nine league games.

But Scholes defended his former team-mate, saying any striker would struggle to score in Van Gaal's side.

Paul Scholes made 718 appearances for Manchester United

He added: "The hardest thing to coach is scoring goals and creativity.

"I was at the derby on Sunday and Rooney's movement was brilliant but when he's playing in that team there's no one prepared to pass to him. I think after 20 minutes you'd be tearing you hair out.

"I played with some brilliant centre forwards and I don't think they could play in this team - the likes of Ruud van Nistelrooy, Andy Cole, Dwight Yorke, Teddy Sheringham.

"You don't get crosses into the box or midfielders looking for runs."

Former United team-mate Nicky Butt also backed Rooney, adding: "Wayne has carried the team for a long time and is probably our talisman, our main player.

"When you're the superstar of the team and you're the captain you've got to carry that on your shoulders. He does that without any complaints."