Louis van Gaal: 'Rest helped Liverpool'

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has suggested that Liverpool eliminated his side from the Europa League because they had a longer break in between the two legs.

The Reds held their English rivals to a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford to advance into the quarter-finals with a 3-1 aggregate victory, with Anthony Martial's penalty being cancelled out by Philippe Coutinho just before half time.

Jurgen Klopp's side had not played since last Thursday's first leg, whereas the Red Devils faced West Ham United in FA Cup action on Sunday.

"Liverpool had a free week but we had to play West Ham United," the Dutchman is quoted as saying by BBC Sport.

"We also needed a little bit of luck but if you say that as a manager it is not good."

Van Gaal now switches his attention toward Sunday as they prepare to battle neighbours Manchester City.