Van Gaal hails exceptional Martial

Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal praised ‘fantastic’ Anthony Martial after his goal was enough to give his side a 1-0 Premier League victory over Everton.

He insisted he has always known the young French striker was an ‘exception’, but warned his players they will be selected on current form, excluding no-one.

He also admitted his side were ‘lucky’ to overcome Everton, opponents he felt were fresher, with United scoring their one goal from only two chances created.

Manchester United now sit fifth in the table, and are now only one point behind Manchester City who hold that fourth Champions League place.

Van Gaal’s side next face second-placed Tottenham, but the Dutchman is still confident as his record against the teams near the top of the table has been impressive.

“I have already said in many press conferences about the way that Anthony Martial is an exception because he has also played every match. To play every match, then you have to be very strong and consistent because every week I shall compare every player with his competitor,” stated Van Gaal.