Van Gaal feels United on course for top four

MANCHESTER, United Kingdom, Nov 9 (BSS/AFP):  Manager Louis van Gaal believes Manchester United's chances of finishing in the Premier League top four remain in their own hands after they returned to winning ways against Crystal Palace.

United recorded a victory for the first time in four attempts, but they made hard work of their 1-0 triumph against a spirited but limited Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Saturday.

"I am happy with the three points and we stay in the race to end in the places that we want to be in," Van Gaal said. "We stay two points behind fourth place. It's in our hands and that's important."

Juan Mata scored the decisive goal in the 67th minute, four minutes after being introduced as a substitute.

The Spanish midfielder's shot from 22 yards was fierce and a slight deflection meant Palace goalkeeper Julian Speroni could not keep it out.

It was Mata's third goal in a campaign of limited opportunities, and the former Chelsea playmaker came close to adding to his tally when he hit the post with three minutes left.

With Marcus Rojo, Rafael, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans all injured and Chris Smalling suspended, Van Gaal was again forced to field an unfamiliar defence.