Manchester United are still in the Premier League title race, says manager Louis van Gaal.
The Red Devils won 1-0 at Liverpool on Sunday to move back into fifth place, seven points adrift of leaders Arsenal and second-placed Leicester City.
“We have a lot of matches still to go,” said Van Gaal when asked if his side could mount a late charge.
“We have to continue, which is not so easy. But we can do it because we show every week we can do it.”
Listen the best of the action on BBC Radio 5 live
United closed the gap on Arsenal and Leicester after both sides could only draw at the weekend, although third-placed Manchester City and fourth-placed Tottenham picked up maximum points.
“Today is very important because our competitors have lost points,” said the 64-year-old Dutchman.
“The gap is seven points. We can overcome that so that’s what I’m thinking about. ”
Van Gaal has faced criticism from some United supporters for his team’s playing style, with former midfielder Paul Scholes saying they play “negative football”.
But former Netherlands coach Van Gaal watched his side extend their unbeaten run in 2016 after Wayne Rooney’s strike at Anfield.
“We have started the year very good with a lot of wins and I think this game will give a big boost to the players and the fans, and everyone in the environment of Manchester United,” he said.
“I hope we can continue winning – that’s why we are here.”
Defeat leaves Liverpool in ninth position in the top-flight table, eight points adrift of fourth-placed Spurs after just two wins in their past eight league matches.
“The space is big between us and the top four. If we want to get there then we have to win games,” said Reds manager Jurgen Klopp.
“I said a few weeks ago that I’m not interested in thinking about the top four because it doesn’t help.
“We have ambitions in each game, we want to collect points and to take everything we can.”
credit: bbc
