Manchester United boss Louis Van Gaal has talked down the significance of David De Gea's stunning performance in the Red Devils' 1-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

The Spanish shot-stopper made a series of impressive saves to ensure the visitors stayed on level terms with the Merseyside club, before Wayne Rooney popped up to score the winning goal 12 minutes from time.

However, Van Gaal insisted De Gea's heroics were the least he expected from his goalkeeper.

"Everybody is saying that [he was man of the match] but so many of the balls he has not stopped, otherwise you don't need a goalkeeper," Van Gaal said.

"I think that's why he is our goalkeeper. I have to say he is always reaching a very high level so I'm very happy but I cannot say he has done a lot.

"He has stopped the balls he has to stop. Maybe that one-hand [save from a Can shot], but I think he has to stop that ball.

"I demand it also of the player, that's why he is playing for Manchester United."