• Premier League

Louis van Gaal: Manchester United players 'don't dare' question me

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has told Sky Sports that his players "don't dare" question his methods.

Van Gaal's United claimed an impressive 2-1 win over Liverpool on Sunday as Juan Mata's brace lifted them five points above their rivals.

Speaking before the game, former Netherlands boss Van Gaal commented on his managerial philosophy.

He said: "I always try to be positive to the players as it's always better to give them a compliment and be positive, rather than negative.

"I ask the players what they find, but I have a lot of corrections, but they have to agree with me otherwise they cannot perform at the next time."

Asked whether he accepts his players challenging his decisions, Van Gaal replied: "Most of the players don't dare to do that but when they have good arguments I listen.

"When their argument is better than mine than I'd look at changing my ideas. Which system I play is not interesting, it is the philosophy that is important."

The Dutchman also explained he tends to offer his players only one piece of advice in the dressing room before matches.

He continued: "The team is as a whole, they all sit in front of me and then I say one sentence... 'Show yourself today' or 'No red card because it will be a very sharp duel.'"

"Because I have prepared for the match together with the players already for three or four days. What do I need to say then?

"I want to transfer to the players that they need to think for themselves in the match, they have to decide by themselves. Otherwise they have to wait until half-time so that I can say something.

"I believe that players can read the game, that they have to coach their fellow players."

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