Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has shed some light on Louis van Gaal's management style at Old Trafford.

The 26-year-old claims that, contrary to popular opinion, the Dutchman is a good communicator and listens to advice from his players.

"He's got his way of working and his philosophy but what people don't see is the communication among the players," said Smalling.

"We have meetings about how we'll press a team or how we'll play a certain player and he listens to the player's opinions."

Much has been said of van Gaal's philosophy this season but according to these comments from Smalling, the experienced coach does see eye-to-eye with his playing group.