Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has defended Louis van Gaal's style of football.

Ferdinand believes Van Gaal has merely implemented the tactics that have served him so well throughout his career, and insists the Dutchman can be pleased with how he has improved United overall.

"Manchester United knew what they were getting when they employed Louis van Gaal, so there can be no complaints now,' Ferdinand wrote in his column for The Sun.

'"They knew they were getting a manager who played a precise, possession-based game. It is not a game in the best traditions of Old Trafford.

"He was someone who would stabilise the situation and put the club in with a chance of winning trophies again. That is what he is doing but, no, it is not very exciting."