Louis van Gaal: 'Wayne Rooney, Juan Mata were rested'

Louis van Gaal has confirmed that he decided to "rest" Wayne Rooney and Juan Mata for Manchester United's FA Cup tie away at Cambridge United last night.

There had been suggestions ahead of the clash at the Abbey Stadium, which ended in a 0-0 draw, that Rooney in particular had been carrying a knock.

However, Van Gaal has revealed that the attacking duo were simply given the night off.

"I gave Wayne a rest. He's fit to play, as is Juan Mata. I don't regret leaving them out of the team," he told reporters.

Both players are expected to return to the squad for next weekend's Premier League game against Leicester City.