• Football

United form down to Christmas spirit, says Van Gaal

Louis Van Gaal says Manchester United's recent turn in form is down to his squad getting in the Christmas spirit - highlighted by their festive party organised by Wayne Rooney.

The entire United first team, fresh from their fourth straight Premier League win against Stoke, were joined by coaching staff as well as wives and girlfriend at the event on Thursday evening.

Rooney even got up on stage to sing with a live band, coming exactly a month since he joined pop star Ed Sheeran for an impromptu duet in a pub.

My turn to do a song at the @manchesterunited Christmas party!

A photo posted by Wayne Rooney (@waynerooney) on Dec 12, 2014 at 11:26am PST

"It was fantastic,'' Van Gaal told MUTV. "Usually, I don't use words like this, but I think it showed the cohesion in our group from both the players and staff. My wife and I enjoyed it very much.

"The squad is very important, and that's why the timing of our Christmas party was fantastic -- it showed the togetherness in the squad. I think we are in a good position."

Great Christmas night out with all team, staff and partners. Really enjoyed it!

— Wayne Rooney (@WayneRooney) December 4, 2014

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd