Louis van Gaal: 'Liverpool could pip us to top four'

Louis van Gaal has conceded that Manchester United left the door open for Liverpool in the race for a top-four finish following today's 3-0 defeat at Everton.

Goals from James McCarthy, John Stones and Kevin Mirallas saw the 12th-placed Toffees humble United and cast doubts on their Champions League qualification bid.

The Reds sit seven points behind Van Gaal's side with a game in hand, and the Dutchman admits that his charges have given 'light to their opponents'.

Asked by reporters if Liverpool were back in contention, he said: "Yes, I have said the same words to the players: 'You give the light to your opponents.'"

United host West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford next Saturday.