Manchester United's David Moyes impressed with Shinji Kagawa

Manchester United manager David Moyes has hailed Shinji Kagawa for his performance against Real Sociedad in the Champions League on Wednesday.

The Japanese midfielder has struggled for first-team starts this season for the Red Devils, but was crucial in his side's 1-0 victory in their Group A clash at Old Trafford.

"I thought he was really good," Moyes told reporters. "His effort when we didn't have the ball was fantastic. Everybody tells me [about] his abilities and what he's got and tonight (Wednesday) was the first time I had really seen Shinji.

"Shinji, I thought, played really well tonight. I thought when we put him into the number 10 role, even after he was very good with Wayne [Rooney], and off the left tonight. And he plays off the left for Japan.

"His attitude and his energy were excellent and I was pleased for Shinji. As I said, that was the best I had seen him play since I have taken over."

A second-minute own goal from Sociedad defender Inigo Martinez was enough for United to pick up the three points at home.