Louis van Gaal praises David

Louis van Gaal admitted man-of-the-match David De Gea had a “big influence” in Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Liverpool in the Premier League at Old Trafford but insisted it was a team victory. The hosts claimed their sixth league triumph in succession with goals from Wayne Rooney, Juan Mata and Robin van Persie, yet it was goalkeeper De Gea who produced the most sparkling performance. The Spaniard denied Raheem Sterling and Mario Balotelli three times apiece with fine saves on a day in which Liverpool could have taken all three points themselves. “You can always say that some players are the most influential in a game and, of course, David De Gea had a big influence,” United manager Van Gaal told Sky Sports. 'In his capacity' “The balls were in his capacity, but he did it very well. I can mention other players who were also very good and had a big influence in this game today.” Victory saw United consolidate third place in the Premier League table and close to within five points of second-placed Manchester City. Although delighted to keep his side’s purple patch going, Van Gaal admitted he was concerned by aspects of his team’s performance against Liverpool.