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Marouane Fellaini is not being played in his best position at Manchester United, according to Belgium coach Marc Wilmots.

Louis van Gaal said in August Fellaini would primarily play as a forward this season, however the Belgian has started in attack just three times in a chastening campaign.

Fellaini was sarcastically cheered by United supporters when he was substituted against West Ham and his demotion for the Manchester derby appeared to aid United in their victory.

Wilmots suggested in November that Fellaini, who is expected to line up against Portugal in Tuesday night's friendly, should leave United due to a lack of game-time and has defended his compatriot amid recent criticism.

"I know him by heart," Wilmots told The Times. "In my eyes, he is a box-to-box [midfielder]. He could also play as No. 6 by himself, but not with a partner.

"He has the ability to play on the offensive too, as Everton used him. He is the best goalscorer I have. He is a very good player with a unique profile, but he is a player who must be used taking his qualities into account."

Fellaini's best spell of form for United came as an advanced midfielder in a 4-3-3 formation during their six-game winning run in the spring last year.

The 28-year-old he scored against Tottenham and City and performed commandingly in United's 2-1 win at Liverpool.

Who could replace Van Gaal?