Louis van Gaal: "We are improving"

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has played down criticism from former midfielder Paul Scholes by insisting that his team have improved this season.

After United's League Cup exit against Middlesbrough made it three games without a win, Scholes said that he would not want to feature in a team managed by Van Gaal.

However, Van Gaal has responded by stating that United have seven more points in the Premier League than they did at the same stage during the 2014-15 campaign, as well as claiming that it will take a third season to complete his work at Old Trafford.

The Dutchman told reporters: "When we shall lose and lose and lose I shall be finished. I know that.

"We are improving. We now have 20 points from 10 games. Last year it was 13. We are in the Champions League. Last year we had 15 injuries. This year we have three. It can't be done in one year, it takes three years.

"If Mr Scholes thinks I go, Mr Scholes is not the responsible man. That is the Glazers and Mr Woodward."

United face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday with the club sitting in fourth spot in the standings.