Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar says he owes his career to Bayern Munich coach Louis van Gaal.

Van Gaal signed the goalkeeper, who went on to enjoy glory at home and abroad with Ajax.

"Van Gaal is the biggest influence on my career," Van der Sar said. "He picked me at Ajax ahead of someone who was playing in the national team. He gave me my chance and stuck by me. He was my coach with Ajax and the national team."

Van der Sar also believes the qualities of Van Gaal is behind Bayern's recent improvement.

"Everywhere he goes he brings his own concept," he added.

"Sometimes it takes a little bit longer, it's not always immediate success, but he brings consistency to a club and the way the team plays.

"That takes a lot of work on the training pitch, but I think it's really paying dividends for Bayern. They had a slow start but he's seen them grow."