Van Gaal's Reaction On Moscow Draw

Read what Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal had to say about the Reds' Champions League draw against CSKA Moscow at Arena Khimki...

His summary of the game: "It was a stupid reaction of Anthony [Martial, to give CSKA a penalty], but before that maybe it was offside. From the bench I thought it was, but I don’t know. It’s the first time he’s done it and there always has to be a first time! [Laughs] But for us it was very unlucky because I think we controlled the game. I don’t think we played too fast though in ball possession, it was too slow in the first half. We improved that in the second half and scored a fantastic goal. We could have won but 'could have' doesn't count in football."

On what he said at half-time: "I just gave my advice to the players about how we could win the game because that’s more important than just being angry. A reaction like Martial – yes, it was stupid, but it happens and we are all human beings. Angry is not the right word, maybe disappointed because we were playing too slowly in ball possession. We had a lot but you have to create something from that and we didn’t create much. That’s why I changed the shape and players and I think the second half was a better half and we deserved to draw and maybe also to win."

On what pleased him in the second half: "We played at a higher tempo. We switched the ball from side to side more and that’s also why we got the goal and created more chances and didn’t give too much away."

On forgiving Martial after he netted the equaliser: "Yes of course! [Smiles] He was playing again with a lot of threat to the opponent and he always plays at a certain level, he’s very consistent. For a 19-year-old boy I like that."

On it being an important comeback ahead of derby: "Yes I think that. I can’t complain about the spirit of my team. I am very proud of my players that I can always say that, because last year I said once that it was not good, once. I am always honest, and I say that always to my players in the dressing room. And I can say that to you now because I am honest to you too."

Louis van Gaal was talking to BT Sport and reporters at his post-match press conference.