• Premier League

De Gea performance 'outstanding', says Van Persie

David De Gea thwarted Raheem Sterling in the first half and then Mario Balotelli in the second © PA Photos

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Manchester United striker Robin van Persie heaped praise on team-mate David De Gea after the goalkeeper produced a man of the match performance in their victory against Liverpool on Sunday.

United put their rivals to the sword with a 3-0 win at Old Trafford but had De Gea to thank after the Spaniard produced a string of fine saves to keep the visitors at bay.

"The fans were brilliant today. Again, they were our 12th man. And again, David [De Gea] was outstanding," Van Persie told Sky Sports.

"He was brilliant - it's not often a team wins 3-0 and the goalkeeper is man of the match. I think Michael Carrick made the difference today, he is so confident on the ball. All of the defenders were calm today."

Van Persie scored his fourth goal in four matches as he swept in United's third following good work from Juan Mata.

Mata had earlier stooped to head United's second goal five minutes before half-time, but the Spaniard appeared to be in an offside position after Van Persie flicked on Ashley Young's cross.

Asked if he had helped the ball on for Mata, Van Persie admitted: "I have to be honest - but you can put that down as an assist!"

Mata added via BBC Sport: "No game against Liverpool is easy but it was massive for us today. We knew it was massive for our supporters - we pressed hard and scored goals so we did well.

"We are scoring a lot and not conceding and we just need to keep going and carry on. In the second half, we played really well and it is a good confidence boost for December. It's a busy month so we have to keep focused, we don't have much time to enjoy the wins."

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge, who is in Los Angeles recovering from his latest injury setback, took to Twitter after the match:

Absolutely gutted for everyone. Woke up and watched the game and it hurts. I'm optimistic though and I hope everyone else feels the same.

— Daniel Sturridge (@D_Sturridge) December 14, 2014

Just know I'm working hard to ensure I'm back healthy. I miss everything about the game. I can't wait to help us be successful. #redordead

— Daniel Sturridge (@D_Sturridge) December 14, 2014

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