Louis van Gaal pleased with Manchester United friendly win over Barcelona

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has admitted that he was pleased at the number of chances his side created in their 3-1 pre-season win over Barcelona.

The Red Devils overcame the Catalan club in the United States thanks to goals from Wayne Rooney, Jesse Lingard and Adnan Januzaj.

"The balance of the team is the most important thing," Van Gaal told the club's official website.

"Last year we won against the Champions League winner, it was Real [Madrid] at that time. Now we win against Barcelona so it is possible, but we also had a bit of luck. Three balls hit the post but I was pleased with our performance.

"Also in the second half, when the youngsters came in, you saw a spirit. We had the same amount of chances as Barcelona and that I like the most today."

The game saw United keeper David de Gea make his first pre-season appearance, as speculation continues to mount over his future at Old Trafford.