Daley Blind is convinced he is the right man to play in central defence for Manchester United,.

The Dutch international started the Premier League season alongside Chris Smalling as the Red Devils edged Tottenham 1-0 in Saturday's opener at Old Trafford.

After spending most of last season as a defensive midfielder, Blind is convinced he is smart enough to hold down the centre-back role for Louis van Gaal, keeping Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo out of the starting lineup.

"I've said many times before that I just want to play," he said.

"If you see what everyone can add to the team, then it's a real battle for places and everyone had to fight for a position.

"I got a chance on this occasion and I tried my best. Of course, people always say I don't have the height or the power but I think I'm clever enough and smart enough.

"I think we did well at the back, together with Chris, Luke (Shaw) and Matteo (Darmian), and we got a clean sheet so I was happy."