Louis van Gaal: 'Arsenal game will be like a final'

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has suggested that Monday's FA Cup clash with Arsenal will be like a final.

The two sides meet in the quarter-final stage of the tournament at Old Trafford, with Van Gaal aware that the game represents a big occasion for both teams involved.

"It's a game between two teams of 11 players," Van Gaal told the club's television channel.

"United and Arsenal are placed third and fourth in the league, so it's almost like a final, I think. We have the support of our fans but Arsenal shall bring a lot of fans too.

"Also, Arsenal and United are now in third and fourth place, so it is a big event with two good teams. I hope we can give a fantastic match for the fans."

The last time that the two sides met, United ran out 2-1 winners at the Emirates Stadium in the Premier League.