Marouane Fellaini has had his say on a difficult first season at Manchester United, David Moyes, and why he thinks he was an easy target for critics

Fellaini: I was an easy target to blame for Manchester United's season under Moyes

The Belgium international feels his relationship with David Moyes meant that he was an easy target for criticism, and says fourth should be the minimum target this season.

Marouane Fellaini believes he was an easy target to blame for Manchester United’s poor season under David Moyes.

The 27-year-old joined Old Trafford in a £27 million deal from Everton on deadline day in 2013 but struggled to find an influential role in United’s midfield during his debut campaign.

"Last season we didn't play well as a team and it was easy for people outside the club to say it was me because the manager brought me with him, but that was something I had to deal with,” Fellaini told The Times.

"It was a difficult moment because in all my career I hadn't experienced anything like it.

“I learnt a lot. I care about what people have to say, of course, but my concern was for my family, my mum and dad and my brothers, because when [critics] are saying bad things about me, it will have been very hard for them."

Moyes has since taken charge of Real Sociedad and Fellaini believes the Scot should not be tarnished by his record at Old Trafford.

"He didn't have luck when he was in charge at United," said the midfielder. "But that doesn't change the fact he has the quality to succeed."

United finished seventh in the Premier League last season with Moyes sacked after just 10 months in charge. Under Louis van Gaal, the club currently sit third in the table as they attempt to regain Champions League football and Fellaini believes a fourth-placed finish should be the minimum aim.

“Last season was not good enough for Manchester United,” said the Belgium international.

“We know that and we are working hard to put that right. In some ways it is too early to talk about the title because we are still building and it is only December, but we are winning matches consistently again and when that happens your belief grows.

“At the very least we have to be in the top four; we must do that. I wanted this challenge.”